For the third straight game in a row, the Verona boys soccer team had to give their maximum effort until the last second of the game. This time, however, it resulted in a 1-0 win for Verona over Bloomfield on Monday afternoon.
Sophomore goalkeeper Jerry Strippoli recorded a shutout with 11 saves, including a diving stop in the final minutes of the second half to save the game, in what was his second varsity start.
Senior defender Garrett Percevault was a standout performer on Monday, using his height to win headers and strength to thwart Bloomfield breakaways. Senior Cole Smith had the game winner for the Hillbillies in the ninth minute of Golden Goal overtime.
The goal came off a throw in from Michael Daggett. Before the throw, Coach Jack Weber called for the 6’6” Percevault to enter the penalty area with the offense to increase the chances of a Hillbilly getting a head on the ball. This caused the Bloomfield defense to put too much focus on Percevault, leaving Smith open for a header by the back post. It was Smith’s fourth goal of the season and Verona’s fourth goal assisted by a thrower.
Verona’s next game is Wednesday against Montclair Kimberley Academy at Centennial Field.
Photos copyright Andy Yeates. Used by permission.
