Match Report: Staples vs. Central

Last year, Staples followed a bad 1-0 loss to Trumbull with an even worse 3-0 defeat at Central.

This year, the Wreckers again fell 1-0 to the Eagles. But they played the easterners even, shut down their career scoring leader, and only a saved penalty kick kept Staples from a 1-1 draw.

Once again, the next match was against the Hilltoppers.

This time, the blue-and-whites started strong. Just 3:25 in, a quick series of passes ended with Sam Liles assisting on Lefty Penderakis’ tap-in goal.

The Wreckers — with Nick DiMasi attacking strongly, alongside Penderakis, Mauricio Inglada, Wilson Daniels and Brendan Lynch — controlled large portions of the 1st half. But the Bridgeporters’ offside trap stymied them frequently, and Central was dangerous on the counter. Defenders Rob Diorio, Nick Ambrose, Surya Balaji and Gabe Baltierra held tight when they had to.

The 2nd half saw a bit quicker passing from Staples. But they could not get the equalizer.

Finally, just 6 minutes from time, Matthew Tanzer drove a 25-yard free kick over the wall, depositing it sweetly into the far side.

It was a workmanlike win — and payback for last year. Wednesday’s contest at Greenwich (5 p.m.) could be substantially more intense. FINAL SCORE: Staples 2, Central 0. SEASON RECORD: 4-1-1.

QUICK KICKS: Mauricio Inglada earned his first start today, up top. Carter Bassler saw his first varsity minutes as well….

The reserves topped Central 7-1. Alan Fiore had 3 goals, and tore up the field; Lars Djuve added 2, and Haydn Siroka and Benny Feuer (header) netted one each, and all played strongly. Logan Blend showed calm composure in the back. Thomas Corridon got his first start, and played big. Aaron Jaffe also looked strong in his first start.