In a season filled with as many ups and downs as a world-class roller coaster, Long Branch’s boys’ soccer teams ended its season on a high note. The Green Wave traveled to West Long Branch to visit the Shore Regional Blue Devils, and went home with a 1-0 victory over their cross-town rivals.
"This was a great team effort, with all the seniors playing with a lot of heart for their last game," said Long Branch head coach Jim Cernansky. "I told the kids today before the game, ‘Let’s play a complete game,’ and they did."
When the opening whistle blew, the fans began watching what would become a long, exciting battle. Neither team gained or lost much ground as the Green Wave, and the Blue Devils pulled every trick out of their bags in an attempt to find the back of the net.
"This was a tough game," said Long Branch goalie Eric Nilson. "It’s a great way to finish the season."
At 58:10, Hans Alonso fired a shot at Shore’s net that was deflected by a defender. The ball quickly connected with Jose Rivera, who one-timed the ball inside the near post.
"The goal looked small, and the ball looked big when I saw my opportunity to score," said Rivera. "I’m a defender, so I don’t get a lot of opportunities to score, but it was great to end my career at Long Branch scoring a game winner."
Despite several more solid scoring attempts by both teams, the score stood 1-0 when the final whistle blew. Shore edged its guests in the shooting department with 12, while Long Branch had 10. Both goalies gave impressive performances with Nilson preventing all 12, and Hyndsman, nine.