Staples vs. Wilton (Game Report) — Photos Added
The last time Staples and Wilton met — last October — the Warriors knocked the Wreckers out of the FCIAC tournament, at Loeffler Field.
This time, again in Westport, in the 2nd game of the season, both squads were coming off opening-day wins. Staples did not pick up where they left off against St. Joseph, banging balls high that Wilton’s defenders simply headed forward.
The guests’ best chance came in the 21st minute, when keeper Noah Schwaeber’s excellent positioning and timing snuffed a near-certain goal.
Seven minutes later, the hosts had their best shot of the half. A free kick at the corner of the box skittered past three Wreckers, then missed high from close range.
In the 35th minute Luca Cocito’s flick sent Patrick Beusse into the box. The Wreckers thought they’d get a hand ball call, but none was forthcoming.
Good movement in the waning minutes augured well for the 2nd half. It began with Josh Berman — playing center back in place of injured tri-captain Andrew Puchala — running forward to earn a corner. The ball found Kenji Goto, whose service to Denzel Robinson’s head was saved excellently by keeper Will De Santis.
Schwaeber again came up big in the 48th minute. But several minutes later — when the Wreckers finally started to find feet — the Warriors pounced. Staples did not double defensively, and Wilton attacked down the left side. Michael Lynch finished, and suddenly the Westporters were down.
Staples made a game of it for the final 20 minutes. Yet the Warriors’ defense was stout, and they applied enough pressure to keep Staples from pushing too many men forward. Gabe Pensak’s long throw with 30 seconds to go was one more good chance — and one more missed opportunity.
“Wilton beat us — and we beat ourselves,” said head coach Dan Woog. “When we play our game, we can play with anybody. Today, we saw what happens when we don’t. Congrats to Wilton — and we hope this is not the last time this year we seen them.” FINAL SCORE: Wilton 1, Staples 0. SEASON RECORD: 1-1-0.
QUICK KICKS: Wilton led in shots, 8-7. Both teams had 3 corner kicks….
The junior varsity lost 2-1 to Wilton. The Warriors scored 10 minutes in off a cross, then got a 2nd in the 65th minute off a counter. A late goal by Rory Steele averted the shutout. Shane Fries, Matteo Broccolo and Kenny Bill stood out for Staples….
The freshmen won their opening match, 4-0 at Wilton. Tyler Wright scored in the 1st minute, then repeated the feat in the opening minute of the 2nd half. Will Birch got goal #3, with Wright completing the hat trick. Timmy Liles owned the right side of the field; Zach Howard starred defensively, and Matt Engler distributed well.
Kenji Goto helps Staples out of danger. (Photo/Kim Lake)
Graham Gudis wards off a Wilton Warrior. (Photo/Kim Lake)
Gabe Pensak owns the right sideline. (Photo/Kim Lake)
