Staples Boys Soccer Edges Simsbury 1-0 in Quarterfinal

Steve Smith controls a tough ball against Simsbury. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Carl McNair for WestportNow.com
UPDATE The Staples boys soccer team today defeated Simsbury 1-0 at home in the quarterfinal Class LL (extra large schools) tournament.

The loss of leading scorer Greg Gudis did not deter the team as defender Frankie Bergonzi stepped into the role of goal scorer. The defender power-headed in Jake Krosse’s long throw late in the first half, leading the Wreckers to their victory.

Staples – now 19-2-1 on the year – plays Hall-West Hartford (15-4-3) on Wednesday in the state LL semifinals at West Haven High School at 7 p.m.

This is the Wreckers’ third consecutive trip to the state semis. In 2008, they fell 2-1 to Glastonbury, in overtime. Last year they avenged that loss, beating Glastonbury 3-2. Three days later, the Westporters won the state championship.

Today’s goal – just three minutes before halftime – stood up, thanks to solid defense by Bergonzi, Sean Gallagher, Jake Malowitz, Ben Root, Court Lake and Steve Denowitz.  James Hickok earned the shutout in goal.

Staples’ Brendan Lesch, Jake Krosse, Max Hoberman and Lorenz Esposito continued to attack strongly, keeping the Trojans on their heels for much of the contest. 

Steve Smith and Lars Aanestad added firepower late in the match.

“Everyone had to step it up without Greg Gudis today – and they did,” said head coach Dan Woog.

“I was very pleased with our intelligence, possession, ball work and tenacity. Our guys will savor the victory tonight. 

“And tomorrow we start preparing for Hall.”