At 4:00 p.m, the Staples boys’ soccer team competed in their first match of the season against Danbury at Loeffler Field.
When the match started, there was definitely plenty of shouting and communication from the players, which pumped up the team and the audience.
This was such an important match that not only did all the parents come to watch, but the girls’ soccer team took a break from their practice to watch the game as well.
According to number 4, George Kokkalis’14, “We really appreciate our fans. It’s a huge part of what we need to succeed this year.”
To ged rid of any nerves, the players met at the dugout near third base to talk it out and mentally get ready.
Potentially, the strength, intensity, and energy made the nerves unnoticeable.
“One of our strengths today was pressuring the ball as a unit. When done correctly, we’re very dangerous because we have players that have the ability to counter attack with amazing speed,” said Kokkalis.
Unfortunately, there was an injury on the team as number 24, Foster Golberg’14, fell on his knee after a tough tackle.
“It was not a dirty play, it was just an unlucky hit, so I won’t be able to play for a couple of weeks,” said Golberg.
However, despite of any obstacles, Staples fought their way to a score of 2-0.
Joe Pravder’16 scored a header in the first half and later when Graham Gudis’16 took the corner kick, it went to Andrew Puchala’15, who kicked it right into the net for the second goal.
No matter if it was during the beginning or very end of the match, the players were certainly fighting hard the whole time to control and clear the ball.
“They were not slacking off at all, it’s pretty cool,” said Casey Bang’14.
