Match Report: Staples vs. Greenwich

Everyone expected a hot match today between Staples and Greenwich, 2 of the FCIAC’s top preseason favorites.

But no one expected the weather to be hot enough for mid-period water breaks.

The longtime rivals entertained an overflow crowd of over 500 at Loeffler Field. Each side had chances. The Wreckers had an edge in possession and shots on goal (10 to 6). But the Cardinals were dangerous on long balls out of the back. Neither team finished though. The 0-0 draw drops both squads to 2-0-1.

Murilo Moreno, Jaden Mueller, Reese Watkins and Will Adams were the offensive workhorses in the first half. Staples did not execute its game plan as effectively as they hoped; they rushed too many chances, and allowed the visitors too much time and room to slip through on counters.’

The second half — particularly the final 30 minutes — were more to the Wreckers’ style. Matt Jordan added energy, while the back four of Jackson Hochhauser, Jack Foster, Hunter Smith and especially rock-solid Bruno Guiduli tightened things up.

Staples’ best chances came in the 64th minute. A series of bang-bang plays on both sides of the box went unfulfilled, but electrified the crowd.

As the clock ticked down, the blue-and-whites got stronger. But Greenwich’s defense held well.

The Westporters were disappointed with the result. They’d battled for 3 points, and came up short. Their next chance comes Wednesday, against Danbury. Kickoff at Loeffler Field is 4 p.m. FINAL SCORE: Staples 0, Greenwich 0. SEASON RECORD: 2-0-1.

QUICK KICKS: Livestream color commentators were former players Charlie Leonard and Patrick Beusse. Both live now in New York ….

The reserves won a 4-3 barnburner over Greenwich. Matt Shackelford led the way with a hat trick, including 2 clinical finishes. Ethan Cukier got the first goal, on a blast into the top corner. Ben Douglas and Campbell Gerrard commanded the defense, while Chase Watkins was dangerous outside offensively, and Kyle Ambrose held down the middle …

The freshmen shut out Masuk. Goals came from Sebby Cruz, Gavin Gravelle, Aaron Varsov, Zach Gorin, Grant Hill, Luca Caniato, Perrin Root and Colin Stretton. Adding assists were Gravelle (20, Varsov, Gorin, Zac Belzer, Caniato, Jacob Rybchin and Mattias Bassler. On Wednesday they drew 1-1 with Trumbull. Sebi Cruz scored, while coach Elisee Joseph lauded Elliot Nivaud and keeper Andrew Oppenheimer for their play.