Defending Howard County champion: No. 2 River Hill
The Howard County picture is clear going into the season: It's River Hill and then the rest.
The Hawks, led by the dynamite one-two scoring punch of 2012 All-Metro forwards Sheridan Street (first team) and Alex Hamer (second team), return the brunt of last year's 19-0 team that captured the program's eight state title.
Reservoir coach Josh Sullivan recently put it best: "To beat River Hill, you're going to have to bring your absolute best and hope to catch them off their game some."
There are plenty of quality teams to provide a push. No. 15 Marriotts Ridge has plenty of returning talent, including a gifted goalie in Jenna Bergquist.
Reservoir and Centennial also look formidable. Glenelg, which field a young squad last season, will look to return to prominance with the experienced gained.
Check back later today for breakdowns on girls soccer in the Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland.