Downey’s huge goal powers soccer team into CJ 4 semis
By: Rudy Brandl
WEST WINDSOR Kyle Downey wasn’t even a starter when the Hillsborough High boys’ soccer season began. Last Friday afternoon, he became an unlikely hero.
Downey, a sophomore who’s considered a defensive midfielder, made a play that most strikers would envy. He produced the biggest goal of his life to break a scoreless tie and help propel the Raiders to a 2-0 victory over West Windsor Plainsboro South in the Central Jersey Group 4 quarterfinals.
Hillsborough was dominating the second half but unable to put one in the net, which is always a dangerous predicament in soccer where fluke goals have sent home many teams. Downey delivered a rifle shot to make sure the Raiders would play at least one more game.
Downey chased down a free ball in a wide-open space on the right side as WWPS goalkeeper Max Stember-Young charged out. Downey beat the defense to the ball and blasted a perfectly-placed 25-yard shot into the far side netting with 28 minutes remaining in regulation.
"I didn’t even think I was going to make it," Downey said. "I just ran as hard as I could and shot it. I was so happy when I saw it going in."
Hillsborough goalkeeper Zach Zamek, who made a few big saves early to keep the game scoreless, enjoyed watching his teammate some 75 yards downfield.
"Kyle is that kind of player," Zamek said. "He’s explosive. He can do things like that. We’re just lucky he came through today."
HHS head coach Eric Puma has used Downey all over the field but doesn’t expect him to score goals. Downey is more of a rugged, hard-working midfielder who fights for the ball. Friday’s goal gave Downey some much-deserved attention.
"He’s a solid player and he plays wherever we need him," Puma said. "I’m really not surprised. Kyle has stepped up for us in less conspicuous roles. Today, he filled an offensive role."
The Raiders didn’t stop playing after Downey’s goal. They’ve learned about the dangers of letdowns in recent years and made sure the lead was safe this time. In fact, they did even better than that, scoring an insurance goal in the final minute when Chris Sporn blasted a gorgeous left-footed shot into the net from just inside the box.
"I’m particularly proud because we were able to sustain it," Puma said. "That’s even more difficult to do on the road. They were really able to lock the game down."
West Windsor had plenty of support from a vocal home crowd, but that wasn’t the only thing working against the Raiders. Some questionable officiating gave the Pirates advantages, particularly in the second half when the Raiders were playing with the lead. The HHS boys remained calm and played like seasoned veterans.
"They had to rise above a hostile environment, some bad officiating and a very good team at home," Puma said. "Those things can get in your head. The boys did a great job. Give them credit."
The first half was relatively even, but WWPS had more dangerous scoring chances thanks mainly to six corner kicks. Zamek robbed Josh Richards in the fifth minute by tipping away a crisp header. He later made a huge save on Keisuke Murata with a one-handed stab with two minutes remaining in the first half.
"The kid was just right there and I made a reaction save," said Zamek, who made six saves for the shutout.
Zamek also punched out a few long balls and corners that could have produced scoring chances. The first-year varsity keeper just keeps getting better.
"Zach’s really improved in that area," Puma said. "He’s certainly a tall keeper and he’s playing to his strength. He’s brave on set pieces and he was big today."
The Raiders ruled the second half with a 13-6 edge in shots and 5-0 advantage in corner kicks. Zamek wasn’t nearly as busy, mostly because the Raiders controlled the midfield and closely marked West Windsor’s attackers.
"We played with a lot of heart today," Zamek said. "It’s nice playing with other guys who are emotional."
The Raiders were hoping to continue their quest for a sectional title in Tuesday afternoon’s semifinals at top-ranked North Brunswick.

