The Staples boys soccer quest for another state tournament trophy came to an end today with a 1-0 loss to Farmington.
The LL (extra large schools) state tournament round of 16 match which pitted last year’s finalists saw No. 6-seeded Farmington -– playing at home –- make a first half goal stand up for the win. Staples, seeded No.11, finishes the year with a 13-4-4 record.
The Wreckers made up for a tentative first half with a ferocious second 40 minutes. But they could not break Farmington’s defense. As has been the case all year, the lack of a finisher hurt Staples.
“This game was a microcosm of our season,” said head coach Dan Woog. “Of our 21 games this season, 16 were decided by one goal, or were ties.
“That’s the way our entire year went. t’s a tribute to our guys that they gutted so many of those matches out – and that they fought to the end in this one.
“It’s always tough to lose – especially wearing the Staples ‘S.’ But if your team is any good at all, odds are high you’ll end your season with a loss.
“Only one team finishes as champion. Yet we always set our goals high. If you don’t shoot for the stars, you’ll never hit the moon.
Woog added: “I loved this team. They’re an awesome group of young men. They brought a smile to my face every day. I consider myself very fortunate to have worked with them.”
Couldn’t have been closer. Congratulations on a great season.