Finally, the losing streak came to an end for the Holmdel High School boys’ soccer team.
Holmdel, which lost in the state group finals three times since 2011, claimed the title when it posted a 4-1 victory over Dover High School in the NJSIAA Group 2 finals on Nov. 19 at Kean University in Union.
Joe Arena, Matthew Leon, Justin Mcstay and Michael Neff all scored for Holmdel. Mcstay and Anthony Arena also recorded assists, while goalie Matthew Lionette had a save in the game.
The Hornets beat Monmouth Regional High School, 6-0, in the Central Jersey, Group 2 finals on Nov. 10 and defeated Delran High School, 3-1, in the semifinals of the Group 2 tournament on Nov. 14.
Holmdel ended the year with a 22-1-1 record and claimed it first state title since it won in 2010. Holmdel had dropped losses in the state finals in 2011, 2012 and 2015.