The Garnets had an exciting opener against Eastchester at home September 5, avenging last season’s loss in the Sectional semi-final game.
By Melanie Cane
The Garnets had an exciting opener against Eastchester at home September 5, avenging last season’s loss in the Sectional semi-final game.
Eastchester started the game strong, putting pressure on Rye. Five minutes into the game, the Garnets settled down, gained composure and played with more confidence. On defense, Kerry Lavelle was able to step up the attack and take a shot hitting the cross bar. Shortly afterwards, Christina Benincasa threaded a ball through the defense to her teammate Caroline Hyland, who was able to put the ball in the back of the net. Rye held onto their 1-0 lead for the rest of the half.
The Eagles came out strong in the second half and scored off a corner kick 16 minutes in. They controlled the tempo of the game, but with 15 minutes left in the game, the Garnets found their composure and really worked the ball on the ground. Charlotte Tucci started an attack from the back with a couple of combination plays, finishing off with a good shot on net. Shortly thereafter Lily Friedrich was able to generate some offense from the back of the field. The play ended with a perfect wall pass to Hannah Krapes and a spectacular diving save from the Eagles goalie. With time winding down, it seemed destined to be an overtime game. But with just under a minute left on the clock, Rye’s offense was able to get a cross from Amanda Engles and a deflection to Maggie McDermott who scored in a thrilling finish.
Garnet’s goalie Maddie Eck, had nine saves and the Eagles’ goalie had 13.
Notably, the Boys’ Soccer team was in the stands performing cheers for the girls which they learned on the trip both teams took together at the end of August. After the game, the two teams did a cheer together on the field.
Coach Rich Savage said, “It was a great way to start the season.” And Rye beat Harrison 3-1 September 8th.
