Match Report: Staples vs. New Canaan
Entering today’s match at Wakeman Field, New Canaan had beaten Staples only 4 times in 78 games, dating back to 1958.
The Rams did not get number 5 today.
Despite the visitors’ skillful play and determined attitude, the Wreckes rode early goals by Greyson Downes and Noah Rossoni, and a late strike by Sebastian Carter, to a 3-0 victory.
The win ups Staples’ FCIAC record to 2-0-0. And it extends their 68-year record to 60 wins, 4 losses and 15 ties against New Canaan.
Today’s contest included the varsity debut of Ryan Allen. The central defender –sidelined since August with a shin injury — stepped into that key role with a strong presence. He partnered well with Thomas Pretty, keeping the Rams from firing a shot until the second half.
In the 13th minute Rosson dished off to Downes, on the left side. He took one touch, then blasted low and hard inside the far post.
Ten minutes later Downes’ shot, from exactly where he had assisted, was saved. Rossoni was right there, to punch the rebound home.
The Wreckers were adept at creating space for each other, They covered for teammates well, and created several good chances.
In the second half Jaden Waldman made a great run through traffic. He fed Rossoni, whose shot caromed off the inside of the post and across the goalmouth.
Downes then found Nico Reyna from the right side. The quad-captain blasted just wide.
Though the Westporters were not as sharp as against Ridgefield in their opening day 7-0 win, they were never really threatened.
Carter — a junior — scored his first varsity goal with 2 minutes to play. It started with Kai Massicott’, and ended with a solid finish up the middle.
Next up for Staples: Westhill. Kickoff is 4 p.m. Wednesday, at Wakeman Field. FINAL SCORE: Staples 3, New Canaan 0. SEASON RECORD: 2-0-0.
QUICK KICKS: On Friday, the freshmen tied New Canaan 1-0. Aaron Lewitton scored, assisted by Ssantiago Rozo.
