The Staples boys soccer team rocked E.O. Smith-Storrs 5-0 today before another raucous Loeffler Field crowd. The win, against a vaunted opponent, vaulted the Wreckers into the state tournament semifinals. 
Nick Kljusev (2nd l.) is congratulated by Alan Reiter, Frankie Rende, Frankie Bergonzi and Drew McNair (hidden) after scoring his first varsity goal today. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Lisa Krosse for WestportNow.com
That match, pitting the third-seeded Wreckers (21-1) against No. 2 Glastonbury (18-0-1) will be played next Tuesday or Wednesday. The site and time will be announced soon.
The quarterfinal win was keyed by three stunning first-half goals. Greg Gudis nailed the first two, both assisted by Mike White. Jairo Alvarado powered in the third, assisted by Alex Hoberman.
After halftime, Staples continued its relentless attack. Nick Kljusev banged in Rem Woodhull’s rebound, while Matteo Marzoli finished the scoring off a feed from Mikey Scott.
“I can’t say enough about all 23 players – they’re warriors,” said head coach Dan Woog. “They dug deep and came out firing against a very good opponent.
“Our guys played with passion and power. They played as a team—and they had fun.”
Woog also praised Staples’ “superfans” who packed the Loeffler Field hill. They chanted, sang and roared their approval, helping propel the Wreckers to victory.
