Staples vs. Trumbull
Besides last year’ 3-1 early season loss to Trumbull, every Wrecker-Golden Eagle match since 2004 has been decided by 1 goal — or ended in a tie.
Entering today’s game, Staples was 1-2-4 against Trumbull since ’04. The lone win came last year, 1-0 — in overtime — in the FCIAC tournament’s 1st round.
Today’s clash between 6-0-1 Staples and 6-1-0 Trumbull drew an enormous crowd to Loeffler Field. It was the 1st truly “fall” day of the season, and the hosts started out strongly.
Lorenz Esposito sent Max Hoberman in on goal in the 2nd minute. But the visitors countered, and Harry Birch made the 1st solid defensive play of the game moments later.
It was that kind of match. The Wreckers dropped back, ceding ground to the Eagles. But the blue-and-whites also went forward with speed. In the 32nd minute Dylan Evans worked the left side, and found Ben Root.
Root looked to shoot, then dished off to Steve Smith on the right side. The midfielder took a touch, fired low, and found the far side for a well-celebrated 1-0 lead.
There was more action in the 2nd half. Root penetrated well; at the other end, Staples keeper James Hickok tipped a hard shot over the top, saved the ensuing difficult corner kick — and immediately initiated a dangerous counter.
Hickok was called upon again several times. Evans worked the left sideline well; Max Hoberman did the same on the right.
Harry Birch saved on the goal line in the 71st minute; he and fellow defenders Taylor McNair, Jake Malowitz and Alex Tonsberg were bending but not breaking, forcing the Eagles into mostly long shots.
But then Trumbull came down the right side. A burst of speed, a lacing cross from the corner by Yale-bound Keith Bond — and a header by Liam O’Sullivan knotted the score. Just 1:23 remained in the game.
“We’ve proven we can play with the best teams in the league,” said head coach Dan Woog, referring also to last week’s 2-2 draw with Norwalk.
“Now we have to kick it up a notch. Now we have to prove we can beat them.” FINAL SCORE: Staples 1, Trumbull 1. Season record: 6-0-2.
QUICK KICKS: As always happens, the FCIAC produces some upsets in October. Darien suffered its 1st loss today, 1-0 to Wilton. New Canaan tied 1-1 with St. Joseph, which has won just once this year….
Coach Seth Sholes’ junior varsity beat Trumbull 2-0. Jon Denowitz scored on an “amazing” shot from distance, off a clearance of Sam Koenig’s long throw. Ryan Petersen’s hard work produced the 2nd score, assisted by Andrew Travers. Walker Marsh was “a monster” in the middle, with great defense too by Koenig, Greg Shikowitz and Jeff Krieger. Ryan Moran and Jon Osorio combined for the shutout…
The freshmen had what coach Chris O’Dell called an “awesome” 2-2 draw with Ridgefield. The Wreckers dominated the game, with smart play and many opportunities. Nate Argosh nailed a penalty kick; he then tied it with 2 minutes to play in the game. The Tigers scored early, on a penalty kick and breakaway. O’Dell cited Ethan Kobak for his excellent play, and Denzel Robinson for sparking the 2nd-half attack. Earlier in the week the frosh fell 2-1 to Danbury, in a close match. Argosh scored; Jordan McNair played an excellent all-around game, and Andrew Puchala looked strong on defense.
Taylor McNair and Keitih Bond focus on the ball, wherever it is. (Photo by Carl McNair)
Ben Root and Matt O'Brien go head to head. (Photo by Carl McNair)
Terence Gibbons — always intense. (Photo by Carl McNair)
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