Match Reports: Wethersfield Jamboree
The annual Winton, Keane, Bittner Memorial Soccer Jamboree featured some of the most competitive soccer since the Wreckers began attending 14 years ago.
With the addition of Tolland — defending Class M champions — all 3 matches were strong. For Staples, all 3 included good possession soccer, frequent communication, and clear switches of field.
The Wreckers made 2 defensive lapses, and paid for both against Wethersfield. But the blue-and-whites (wearing neon yellow shirts) controlled much of the play, and pressed well.
After his team hit the post twice against Tolland, Anton Mahr delivered a cross-field pass to an onrushing Daniel Reid. His cross from the flank found Josh Berman, for a power-header goal. The upstaters equalized, but the Westporters came back on a feed from Teddy Lawrence to Stephen Rowland. Ry Cohen contributed 2 important saves in goal.
The final match, against prep school stalwarts Kingswood-Oxford, ended 1-0. Lawrence’s throw-in was finished, left-footed, by Timmy Liles low and in the corner.
Staples heeded the coaches’ instructions to play simple, smart, and continue to improve. Their next test comes Monday, against 14-time New York City champion Martin Luther King. Kickoff is 12:30 p.m., at either Staples or the Wakeman turf. A decision will be made Monday morning, depending on weather.
QUICK KICKS: In addition to honoring the 3 Wethersfield players killed on 9/11, tournament organizers celebrated the life of former Staples player Scott Coleman. He was also killed that horrible day, 15 years ago….
The reserves did not let up a goal in 4 matches at the Shelton jamboree. They won 1-0, 1-0 and 3-0, before drawing 0-0 in their final match.
Josh Berman (right) celebrates his header goal against Tolland, with Luca Cocito (center) and some guy’s hand. (Photo/Frances Rowland)
Daniel Reid turns the corner, against defending Class M state champion Tolland. (Photo/Frances Rowland)
Stephen Rowland got the game-winner against Tolland. (Photo/Frances Rowland)
