After preserving their undefeated season by tying Newton North 1-1, the Boys Soccer team defeated the Wellesley Raiders by a score of 1-0 last Thursday in Wellesley, thus improving their record to 3-0-1.
In the first half, Walpole and Wellesley played toe-to-toe with each other, neither team willing to give up the first goal. Senior goalkeeper Giorgio Sarkis kept the Rebels in the game with many amazing saves – including a nice clearing save on the first corner kick of the game. The defense lead by senior and junior Captains Matt Lavanchy and Nolan Murray, respectively, were able to aid Sarkis in keeping the game scoreless. Senior Captain Tim Sullivan also had a couple opportunities to put the Rebels on the board, but the Raiders defense held up for the entire first half.
The second half was a different story for the Rebels. They came out guns firing—intent on securing the lead early. Senior forward Conor Murtagh scored his fourth goal of the season in the opening minutes of the second half, putting Walpole up 1-0. When asked how he has scored so many goals this early in the season, Murtagh replied, “It’s not just me who is doing well, it’s a team effort and everyone is pitching in to help the team.” Despite the goal, Walpole’s midfielders continued to possess the ball for most of the game. Sophomore Bobby Ivatts and junior Caleb Cofsky were able to dominate possession and distribute the ball to the Rebel forwards.
Even with the lead, the Rebels continued to press the attack. Late in the game, Sullivan received a great pass from the midfielders and placed a great pass along the edge of the penalty box to junior John Lochead who was able to squeeze off a shot before the Raider defense shut him down. In spite of some missed opportunities, the one goal lead was enough to give the Rebels the win. “We just kept working and it eventually paid off,” said Murray after the game.
The Rebels now look to their next game against the Brookline Warriors. The Warriors are 3-0 this year, so the Rebels expect a good game from a talented opponent.
