JACKSON TWP — Lofty expectations sometimes lead to disappointment, but not for the Seneca Valley boys soccer team this season.

The Raiders (12-2, 10-1) wrapped up the Section 2-AAA title earlier this week, the second straight crown for the program.

“Our goal was to win the section,” said senior defender Danny Wallowicz. “We felt that we were the best team.”

The Raiders did have a few holes to fill following last year's 15-3-1 team.

“Going into this year, we knew we had a lot of talent returning,” said veteran coach George Williams. “We felt confident with our attack and our ability to score, but it was our defense that we were a bit unsure about.”

Wallowicz was SV's lone returning starter in the back, but seniors Trent Lang and Ryan Maurer and junior Macen DiPaolo have done an admirable job of filling in the gaps.

“We have a lot of good chemistry on defense,” said Wallowicz. “We understand our roles and do a good job talking with Bryce (Benjamin).

A senior, Benjamin is making the most of his first and only season as the Raiders' starting goalkeeper, totaling 98 saves and just 10 goals against. Benjamin was the backup to Colton Smith last year.

“I want to pitch as many shutouts as I can this season,” Benjamin said. “I have six so far and want to break the school record (11). Other than that, I just want to help the team win.”

“I really admire Bryce for his patience,” said Williams. “Playing behind Colton wasn't easy and he's had a great attitude. He has been outstanding for us.”

Junior Matt Saluga switched from the midfield to a forward position and has been a great catalyst for the offense. He leads the team with 17 goals entering Saturday's game at Bethel Park.

“I don't have as much defensive responsibility as a forward, but I still have to track back a bit,” he said. “Communication with my wingmates (T.J. Turley and Griffin Mathew) has been key.”

“Matt scores at opportune times for us,” said Williams, “but the other forwards and the guys in the midfield (Mike DiMichele, Jorge Olan and Adam Mascio) deserve a lot of the credit. They all work so well together.”

Turley is second on the team with eight goals and has added six assists while Mathew has four goals and six assists.

The Raiders won their first eight games before dropping a 2-0 section decision at North Allegheny Sept. 23.

“We thought that loss could crush them,” added Williams, “but they showed up the very next day focused and ready to go.”

With the section championship secured, the Raiders will now prepare for the WPIAL playoffs. The program has made it as far as the district semifinals on two occasions (2008 and 2011).

Said Saluga, “Our dream is to get to the WPIAL title game and go from there.”

“We have as good a chance to go far in the playoffs as any team we've had,” said Williams.