BOYS SOCCER
By: Tim Falls
At best, the Hopewell Valley Central High School boys varsity soccer team’s game against Steinert provided some valuable experience.
The Spartans defeated the Bulldogs, 4-1, in their Colonial Valley Conference season opener on Friday.
"That was a tough game," said Hopewell coach Ed Gola. "They were pretty solid and I think we were a bit nervous going in."
Experience will be a major facto for Hopewell as the team fields a younger team than it has in the past.
The Bulldogs held Steinert to one goal in the first half and gave up three more in the second half before finally tallying.
"They had the opportunity to get their feet wet," said Gola. "It was tough. We got that game under our belts. Now the guys know what its like to play at this level."
Ryan Brost kept the Bulldogs from being shut out in their opener by scoring on a cross that deflected off a Spartan defender and into the net in the final five minutes of the game.
Hopewell goalie Aaron Utman made nine saves and earned some praise from his coach.
"Aaron Utman played well in goal," said Gola. "Even though he gave up four goals, he kept us in that game."
Gola also pointed out Tyler Cignarella’s efforts at midfield as a bright spot in the loss.
Steinert out shot Hopewell, 16-9. The Spartans’ Billy Baker proved the offensive threat, scoring three goals, while Peter Cosma scored Steinet’s fourth goal.
"The most important thing for us is to be a little more focus and play with a sense of urgency," said Gola. "That’s two things that we were lacking."
Gola said he hoped that lack of urgency and focus was a result of first game jitters and a little experience can sharpen the Bulldogs’ game.
"We need to play with a little more fire," said Gola.