How alternating games in 2021 helps Oakland goalie Will Palmer in TSSAA soccer playoffs

Despite splitting time at goalkeeper for Oakland's boys soccer team as a junior, Will Palmer was already tested heading into the postseason.

That's why falling behind 1-0 early in Tuesday's Region 4-AAA semifinal against visiting Smyrna didn't faze the senior.

Palmer, who has nine shutouts this season, shut down visiting Smyrna the rest of the way as the Patriots advanced with a 2-1 win.

"Games like that are really tough, especially when you go down 1-0," Palmer said. "It's super frustrating. We felt like we needed to come out with more intensity than we did. We got punished for not."

For Palmer, the pressure of this postseason is likely no more stressful than the one he endured during Oakland's state semifinals run a year ago.

Alternating matches with then-senior Braden Ross, Palmer's turn came during the state semifinals against nationally-ranked Houston, and the game was decided in overtime by penalty kicks. Houston won PKs and ultimately the state title.

"Adversity in the past is what gets you ready for games like this," Palmer said.

Splitting time with Ross last season wasn't a case of Oakland trying to find the right player for the job, it was a matter of having two who were capable.

But Palmer is glad to have the job all to himself this season.

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"It's obviously a lot different," Palmer said. "Splitting time is not ideal, but both of us were ready for the job. It's nice to have the spot to myself."

"We didn't think this would be a challenge for him. ... He wanted the job all along," Oakland coach Jeff Porter said. "Both of them wanted it last year. I feel validated with his play this year, splitting time with he and Braden. He needed experience, and it's paying dividends this year."

Oakland (15-2-2) will play at home (7 p.m.) Thursday in the region final against unbeaten La Vergne, a 5-2 winner over Siegel in the other region semifinal.

That will be a tough chore for Oakland – and particularly Palmer – as the Wolverines' top two scorers have combined for 37 goals.

"They're good," said Porter, emphasizing good. "Their attacking players are phenomenal."

"It's going to be tough," Palmer said. "But we've got to toughen up. That's our game."

Reach Cecil Joyce at cjoyce@dnj.com or 615-278-5168 and on Twitter @Cecil_Joyce.

This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: Oakland soccer: Will Palmer is only goalie starter for TSSAA playoffs