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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Barton becomes player-coach for tonight’s game with Rangers

The Spokesman-Review

First-year Shadow head coach Kieran Barton just can’t stay off the soccer field.

In preparation for tonight’s game at 7:05 against the Abbotsford Rangers, Barton was added to Spokane’s Premier Development League (PDL) roster, meaning he will be eligible to play for the Shadow (3-2-0) as well as perform his coaching duties.

“The fact of the matter is, I played with a few of these guys,” said Barton. “It’s not going to be a surprise to them.”

Barton played for the Shadow in the past (1996, 1998, 2004) and is fifth all-time in assists for the team with 13.

The reason for Barton’s addition to the roster is the absence of center back Austin Washington, who is away at a club regional.

Against Abbotsford, Barton and the Shadow will be taking on a team looking for its first win. The Rangers (0-5-0) have lost twice to Spokane this season.

“At this point in the season we are really focusing on keeping up with Cascade,” said Barton.

Cascade leads the PDL Northwest Division with a 5-0-1 record.