EHSC BU11 KNIGHTS WIN DIVISION
The East Hampton Boys U-11 Knights have finished their season atop the B league division, finishing undefeated with a record of 4-0-1, and 13 points, edging second place West Hartford by 1 point.
This is the first division title for the BU11 team, but not unexpected. Starting with a core group of players in their third year together, combined with solid off-season acquisitions, the Knights showed their potential early, shaking off the winter rust and finishing second in the Manchester Nutmeg Classic, (losing the title game to Avon 3-1).
Brimming with confidence, the Knights never looked back. They won the first two league games, the most important of which was a come from behind win at West Hartford, 2-1. Two goals by striker Kevin Radavich, the second with 5 minutes to play (assisted by newcomer Owen Wosleger), and diving saves by keepers Ryan Lysak and Ian Reilly perserved the win. The lone tie was against South Windsor, a frustrating game of missed chances, until Alex Basil scored the equalizer with 90 seconds to play, helping to preserve the undefeated season.
Coaches Basil, Reilly, and Winquist attribute the teams sucess to goalkeeping. Ryan Lysak and Ian Reilly were responsible for those duties during the regular season, allowing only 8 goals in 5 games. As coach Basil stated, “The keepers were the key to our success this year, and I think we sometimes forget, as a team, how fortunate we are to have such quality stoppers. We were never out of a game all year.”
Keeper play was reinforced all year with the dominating strength of the (primarily) defensive players, including Cody Bernard, rookie Jarrett Debowsky, Tristan Winquist, and first year player Dalton Wall. The middle of the playing field was controlled by a group of players who can hold their own against any in the league, and proved it week-in and week-out. They are Diego Maurice (one of the most feared defenders in the league), Jason Hoops, Jack Ryan, and Drew Arcidiacono. Wing players Kyle Cutler and Quinn Schrager used their speed and ball handling skills to compliment the attack, presenting multiple problems for the opposing defenders.
Including non-league games, the Knights overall record was 6-3-1, scoring 43 goals, and allowing 21. Congratulations Knights on a great season!