We are thrilled to report that Senior Tim Alibozek has been awarded a $1,000 Future Leaders Scholarship from the Granite State Games. Tim and a number of other Marauders participated in the Games this summer, and he was one of only four male players from all of the GSG sports to receive this very significant honor.
Tim and seven other Hanover players were part of the Monadnock Region team that won the inaugural gold medal in soccer at the Games. The state was divided into four regions: Lakes, Monadnock, Seacoast and South. The Monadnock team, coached by Lebanon Coach Rob Johnstone, was the class of the tournament and won the gold medal handily.
The application process for the Future Leaders Scholarship was extensive, and we are very proud that Tim was chosen from the pool of applicants. He was awarded his scholarship at a ceremony on Wednesday evening. Tryouts for next year's Granite State Games will be held in June.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Marauders Beat Central 4-1 For a Signature Win
Hosting perennial Division One power Manchester Central in their most important game of the season, the Mauarders overcame an early goal and made it rain on the Little Green, scoring four consecutive times to earn a huge 4-1 win. Hanover's had a number of learning opportunities in the early stages of the season, and they demonstrated that they have grown as a team. They shrugged off the early score, tightened up their defense, and scored some outstanding goals, led by a brace from Senior Captain Jamie Dinulos.
The match didn't begin brightly for the Marauders. Sam Strohbehn nearly scored right off the bat, and the Marauders looked strong in the very early going. But on Central's first foray into Hanover's end, Jackson Schneider got loose in the left corner and centered a ball to the top of the 18, where Little Green All-State midfielder Evan MacDonald had way too much time and space, drilling a shot to the lower left corner to give Central, winners of two of the past four NHIAA D1 titles, a 1-0 lead.
Hanover hardly hesitated, continuing to probe the Central defense. Jake Acker had a good look with his newly-powerful right peg, a Sam Srohbehn corner kick almost got results, and the Marauders actually put the ball into the Central net after a great run by Jamie Dinulos, only to have the goal waved off. Asa Berolzheimer got another chance to practice the free kick that will win a big game down the road, getting too much air this time.
Central didn't have many shots, but they were dangerous. MacDonald got loose at the top of the box once again, and this time Connor Edson made a nice diving save. MacDonald had scored on Edson in last year's loss at Central, and this time around, it was Hanover's senior goalie who would have the last word. Edson was steady and strong all night, handling a number of balls laid back to him with confidence and accuracy. Having held Hanover in the game, he watched the Marauders tie it late in the half.
Substitutes Henry Kahl and Seth Stadheim combined for a score with 5:10 left before the interval.
Asa Berolzheimer started the sequence, controlling the ball at midfield and playing the ball into space for Kahl, zooming in off the right flank, Kahl made a great play to get to the ball before it went over the endline and centered it to a streaking Stadheim, who redirected to ball from the six for his second goal of the year.
It didn't take long for the Marauders to continue their assault in the second half. With only 5:33 elapsed, Asa Berolzheimer got lose on the left side, and crossed the ball to Diuulos, who headed the ball home for a 2-1 lead. It was Jamie's sixth goal of the season, and Berolzheimer's 8th assist.
By now, the Marauders had a stranglehold on the game. The back four was moving the ball decisively, Jonah Levine and Jake Acker were dominating play in the center of the park, and Tim Alibozek was a constant threat up top. Sam Strohbehn was also having his best game of the year, and upped the advantage to 3-1 eight minutes later, taking a short pass from Ian Caldwell on the six year line and converting decisively for his third goal of the year.
Central had no answer for the Marauders. With Caldwell and Sam Pych dominating play in the middle of the park, the Little Green were unable to produce a single shot in the second half, and ended the game with no corner kicks. Edson continued to receive back passes and blast long balls down the field, handling the wet playing conditions with aplomb.
Dinulos put the icing on the cake in the 69th minute, taking a pass from Will Smith and doing his patented tap dance on the baseline, closing on the Central goal and blasting a shot that deflected into the net. The referee, remembering the goals that had been denied earlier in the match, declared that it was not an "own goal", and giving Dinulos the well-earned credit.
The win leapfrogged Hanover over Central and into sixth in the NHIAA Division One standings. The Marauders will need to move up at least two more places to gain their desired second home game in the playoffs, and they have their fate in their own hands, particularly since many of the teams currently ahead of them in the standings will be squaring off against each other in the weeks to come.
Hanover will train for two days and then be hosting Keene on Friday in a 4:00 match.
"We bounced back after a tough 2-1 loss to Bedford on Saturday, we showed resilience and patience when we surrendered an early lead, and closed out the match like pros against a strong and highly-motivated team. This was an excellent result for us," commented Coach Grabill. "We have a lot of work to do, but we can see a lot of progress thus far. We are on schedule and on target to achieve our goal of playing our best soccer when it means the most."
The match didn't begin brightly for the Marauders. Sam Strohbehn nearly scored right off the bat, and the Marauders looked strong in the very early going. But on Central's first foray into Hanover's end, Jackson Schneider got loose in the left corner and centered a ball to the top of the 18, where Little Green All-State midfielder Evan MacDonald had way too much time and space, drilling a shot to the lower left corner to give Central, winners of two of the past four NHIAA D1 titles, a 1-0 lead.
Hanover hardly hesitated, continuing to probe the Central defense. Jake Acker had a good look with his newly-powerful right peg, a Sam Srohbehn corner kick almost got results, and the Marauders actually put the ball into the Central net after a great run by Jamie Dinulos, only to have the goal waved off. Asa Berolzheimer got another chance to practice the free kick that will win a big game down the road, getting too much air this time.
Central didn't have many shots, but they were dangerous. MacDonald got loose at the top of the box once again, and this time Connor Edson made a nice diving save. MacDonald had scored on Edson in last year's loss at Central, and this time around, it was Hanover's senior goalie who would have the last word. Edson was steady and strong all night, handling a number of balls laid back to him with confidence and accuracy. Having held Hanover in the game, he watched the Marauders tie it late in the half.
Substitutes Henry Kahl and Seth Stadheim combined for a score with 5:10 left before the interval.
Asa Berolzheimer started the sequence, controlling the ball at midfield and playing the ball into space for Kahl, zooming in off the right flank, Kahl made a great play to get to the ball before it went over the endline and centered it to a streaking Stadheim, who redirected to ball from the six for his second goal of the year.
It didn't take long for the Marauders to continue their assault in the second half. With only 5:33 elapsed, Asa Berolzheimer got lose on the left side, and crossed the ball to Diuulos, who headed the ball home for a 2-1 lead. It was Jamie's sixth goal of the season, and Berolzheimer's 8th assist.
By now, the Marauders had a stranglehold on the game. The back four was moving the ball decisively, Jonah Levine and Jake Acker were dominating play in the center of the park, and Tim Alibozek was a constant threat up top. Sam Strohbehn was also having his best game of the year, and upped the advantage to 3-1 eight minutes later, taking a short pass from Ian Caldwell on the six year line and converting decisively for his third goal of the year.
Central had no answer for the Marauders. With Caldwell and Sam Pych dominating play in the middle of the park, the Little Green were unable to produce a single shot in the second half, and ended the game with no corner kicks. Edson continued to receive back passes and blast long balls down the field, handling the wet playing conditions with aplomb.
Dinulos put the icing on the cake in the 69th minute, taking a pass from Will Smith and doing his patented tap dance on the baseline, closing on the Central goal and blasting a shot that deflected into the net. The referee, remembering the goals that had been denied earlier in the match, declared that it was not an "own goal", and giving Dinulos the well-earned credit.
The win leapfrogged Hanover over Central and into sixth in the NHIAA Division One standings. The Marauders will need to move up at least two more places to gain their desired second home game in the playoffs, and they have their fate in their own hands, particularly since many of the teams currently ahead of them in the standings will be squaring off against each other in the weeks to come.
Hanover will train for two days and then be hosting Keene on Friday in a 4:00 match.
"We bounced back after a tough 2-1 loss to Bedford on Saturday, we showed resilience and patience when we surrendered an early lead, and closed out the match like pros against a strong and highly-motivated team. This was an excellent result for us," commented Coach Grabill. "We have a lot of work to do, but we can see a lot of progress thus far. We are on schedule and on target to achieve our goal of playing our best soccer when it means the most."
JV Ties Central 5-5 in a Wet, Wild One
The Junior Varsity staged a shootout with Manchester Central on Tuesday at the rain-drenched pasture. The Marauders spotted the visitors a 2-0 lead in the first half, roared back to take a 3-2 halftime lead on a hat trick by David Seigne. A goal by Benny Gantrish gave Hanover a 4-2 lead in the second half, but Central refused to quit and tied the match with a pair of second half goals. Alvaro Cooper gave Hanover the lead once more, but Central had the last word and tied the game as the skies opened up.
The Marauders, who tied Bedford 1-1 on Saturday, will return to action Friday with a home game against Keene.
The Marauders, who tied Bedford 1-1 on Saturday, will return to action Friday with a home game against Keene.
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Hanover Soccer Schedule Sept. 28 - Oct. 5
Mon. Sept. 28 JV, Reserve, Frosh Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Tue. Sept. 29 Reserve, Freshman Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
JV Game vs. Central at Dresden 4:30 p.m.
Varsity Game vs. Central at HHS Turf 6:15 p.m.
Wed. Sept. 30 Reserve Bus Departs 2:00 p.m.
JV, Freshman Training at Dresden 3:15 - 4:45 p.m
Reserve Game at KUA 3:30 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Thu. Oct. 1 JV, Reserve, Frosh Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Fri. Oct. 2 Reserve Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
JV Game vs. Keene at HHS Grass 4:00 p.m.
Varsity Game vs. Keene at HHS Turf 4:00 p.m.
Freshman Game vs. Londonderry at Dresden 4:30 p.m.
Sun. Oct. 4 Varsity Training at HHS Turf 3:30 p.m.
Mon. Oct. 5 Freshman Game vs Bedford at Dresden 4:30 p.m.
Reserve Game vs. Lebanon at Dresden 4:30 p.m.
JV Game vs. Memorial at HHS Grass 4:30 p.m.
Varsity Game vs. Memorial at HHS Grass 4:30 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Tue. Sept. 29 Reserve, Freshman Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
JV Game vs. Central at Dresden 4:30 p.m.
Varsity Game vs. Central at HHS Turf 6:15 p.m.
Wed. Sept. 30 Reserve Bus Departs 2:00 p.m.
JV, Freshman Training at Dresden 3:15 - 4:45 p.m
Reserve Game at KUA 3:30 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Thu. Oct. 1 JV, Reserve, Frosh Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Fri. Oct. 2 Reserve Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
JV Game vs. Keene at HHS Grass 4:00 p.m.
Varsity Game vs. Keene at HHS Turf 4:00 p.m.
Freshman Game vs. Londonderry at Dresden 4:30 p.m.
Sun. Oct. 4 Varsity Training at HHS Turf 3:30 p.m.
Mon. Oct. 5 Freshman Game vs Bedford at Dresden 4:30 p.m.
Reserve Game vs. Lebanon at Dresden 4:30 p.m.
JV Game vs. Memorial at HHS Grass 4:30 p.m.
Varsity Game vs. Memorial at HHS Grass 4:30 p.m.
Thursday, September 24, 2015
Marauders Beat Salem 4-0; Unbeaten Bedford is Next
Hanover's two -week layoff gave the Marauders an opportunity to improve in a number of areas, and Thursday's match with Salem gave the 2.0 version a chance to strut their stuff. They didn't disappoint, beating Salem 4-0 at Merriman-Branch field. The Marauders dominated the match, outshooting the Blue Devils 25-4 and shutting then down defensively.
Hanover took a while to get going, wading through a choppy first ten minutes. Before long, though, the Marauders set their sights on the Salem goal. Jamie Dinulos got the scoring started at the 13:49 mark, taking an excellent lead pass from Sam Strohbehn and finishing crisply for his 4th goal of the campaign. The Marauders continued to click, with Diunulos and Tim Alibozek creating a number of opportunities up top, and Jake Acker and Jonah Leving launching excellent longer-range offerings.
Seth Stadheim, Luke Messersmith, Hanry Kahl and Marcus Helble came off the bench after twenty minutes, and continued to keep the pressure on the Salem defense. Stadheim narrowly missed on a close-range shot, and in the 30th minute, Messersmith was hauled down in the box and Hanover was awarded a penalty kick. Asa Berolzheimer converted the spot kick for his seventh goal of the season. He has now scored in every one of the Marauders' matches.
Four minutes later, with the starters back in the lineup, Hanover's hard work on short corner kicks paid off, with Jamie Dinulos finding room behind a defender on the baseline and feeding a short pass to center back Ian Caldwell, who buried his first goal of the season for a back-breaking lead.
Hanover has a history of strong second halves, and the Marauders wasted no time in the second half keeping Salem back on their heels. Tim Alibozek tallied his first goal of the season with a great individual effort four minutes after the interval, working past two defenders on the left side and then beating a third back at close range, finding room to roof a shot over Blue Devil goalkeeper.
Salem had been held to zero shots in the first half, but to their credit they continued to work hard in the second half, and created some decent if infrequent opportunities. Connor Edson was equal to the task, coming off his line decisively several times to beat Salem attackers to the ball, and handling a few long-range shots to earn his second shutout of the season.
As substitutes began to work their way into the lineup, the quality of play remained high. Henry Kahl had two great shots, blasting the ball off of Salem keeper Drew Hailey's face, and a minute later hitting a long shot off of the left upright. So close! Robbie Murdza continued to challenge opposing defenders, and Dan Healy came very close to scoring on several occasions. One of these came when Griffin Johnson's long-range throw-in seeped through the box, just missing connections with both Healy and Asa Berolzheimer, who also cooked up a few long-range shots that just missed.
The Marauders won't have much time to savor their victory. They'll practice on the turf on Friday, and then buckle up for a Saturday trip to unbeaten Bedford. The Bulldogs are undefeated, and have allowed only two goals in seven matches, amassing a 6-0-1 record. The only blemish on their slate thus far was a 2-2 draw with defending champ Pinkerton, who erased Bedford's 2-0 lead in the last 20 minutes. Bedford is young and highly talented, with three freshmen in the starting lineup. The Marauders have a great history of tight matches with the Bulldogs, and Saturday's match will have a playoff feel. Kickoff will be at 3:00 on the BHS turf field.
Hanover took a while to get going, wading through a choppy first ten minutes. Before long, though, the Marauders set their sights on the Salem goal. Jamie Dinulos got the scoring started at the 13:49 mark, taking an excellent lead pass from Sam Strohbehn and finishing crisply for his 4th goal of the campaign. The Marauders continued to click, with Diunulos and Tim Alibozek creating a number of opportunities up top, and Jake Acker and Jonah Leving launching excellent longer-range offerings.
Seth Stadheim, Luke Messersmith, Hanry Kahl and Marcus Helble came off the bench after twenty minutes, and continued to keep the pressure on the Salem defense. Stadheim narrowly missed on a close-range shot, and in the 30th minute, Messersmith was hauled down in the box and Hanover was awarded a penalty kick. Asa Berolzheimer converted the spot kick for his seventh goal of the season. He has now scored in every one of the Marauders' matches.
Four minutes later, with the starters back in the lineup, Hanover's hard work on short corner kicks paid off, with Jamie Dinulos finding room behind a defender on the baseline and feeding a short pass to center back Ian Caldwell, who buried his first goal of the season for a back-breaking lead.
Hanover has a history of strong second halves, and the Marauders wasted no time in the second half keeping Salem back on their heels. Tim Alibozek tallied his first goal of the season with a great individual effort four minutes after the interval, working past two defenders on the left side and then beating a third back at close range, finding room to roof a shot over Blue Devil goalkeeper.
Salem had been held to zero shots in the first half, but to their credit they continued to work hard in the second half, and created some decent if infrequent opportunities. Connor Edson was equal to the task, coming off his line decisively several times to beat Salem attackers to the ball, and handling a few long-range shots to earn his second shutout of the season.
As substitutes began to work their way into the lineup, the quality of play remained high. Henry Kahl had two great shots, blasting the ball off of Salem keeper Drew Hailey's face, and a minute later hitting a long shot off of the left upright. So close! Robbie Murdza continued to challenge opposing defenders, and Dan Healy came very close to scoring on several occasions. One of these came when Griffin Johnson's long-range throw-in seeped through the box, just missing connections with both Healy and Asa Berolzheimer, who also cooked up a few long-range shots that just missed.
The Marauders won't have much time to savor their victory. They'll practice on the turf on Friday, and then buckle up for a Saturday trip to unbeaten Bedford. The Bulldogs are undefeated, and have allowed only two goals in seven matches, amassing a 6-0-1 record. The only blemish on their slate thus far was a 2-2 draw with defending champ Pinkerton, who erased Bedford's 2-0 lead in the last 20 minutes. Bedford is young and highly talented, with three freshmen in the starting lineup. The Marauders have a great history of tight matches with the Bulldogs, and Saturday's match will have a playoff feel. Kickoff will be at 3:00 on the BHS turf field.
JV Tops Salem 4-0; Turf Training Tomorrow
The Junior Varsity boys showed no ill effects from their long layoff, returning to their home pitch at HHS and defeating Salem 4-0. Benny Gantrish had a hat trick, giving him five goals in his last two games, and Sander Macaulay also scored his fifth goal of the year. Harris LaRock got the clean sheet in goal.
The JVs will gather at Sam Ives' home for a team dinner at 5:00 on Friday, and then return to HHS for a practice on the turf from 8:00 - 9:00 p.m., in preparation for their game against Bedford at Bedford
The JVs will gather at Sam Ives' home for a team dinner at 5:00 on Friday, and then return to HHS for a practice on the turf from 8:00 - 9:00 p.m., in preparation for their game against Bedford at Bedford
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Calendar Turns to Fall; HHS Soccer Still Rocking
We've had a few days of radio silence, but the schedule is heating up again for Hanover soccer, and we are celebrating the change to autumn with some brilliant moments at The Pasture. This post will cover last Saturday's Reserve match with KUA on the turf, Wednesday's classic matchup between the Freshmen and Cardigan Moutain School, and preview tomorrow's JV and Varsity matches with Salem.
Although the Varsity, JV and Freshman teams were exiled last weekend during Homecoming, an annual occurrence, the Reserves snuck onto the turf of Merriman-Branch Field Saturday and played an excellent game against the Kimball Union Reserves. The Marauders put a lot of pressure on in the opening minutes, but KUA weathered the storm and managed to sneak two goals past Jasper Zeng before halftime. Hanover retaliated with a goal by Kaz Matsuoka early in the second half to narrow the score to 2-1, and Arturo Johnson put on a great display of acrobatic goalkeeping at the other end to keep things close. Expat Henry Pletcher glided through the Marauder defense to put KUA up 3-1, and several frantic attempts at the close of the match narrowly missed connecting. This is a good matchup, and shold provide some excellent soccer when these teams clash again next Wednesday.
On Wednesday at the Pasture on a sparkling day for soccer, The Marauder Freshmen hosted their strongest opponent, the Cougars of Cardigan Mountain School. The two sides battled to a 0-0 draw at halftime, and Cardigan scored the only goal of the match on a breakaway early in the second half. Charlie Plottner made a spectacular block to keep Cardigan from scoring again, but Hanover was unable to break through, and dropped a close match that was extremely well-played by both sides.
Hanover will get another crack st Cardigan when they travel to Canaan for a rematch on October 24th. The Freshmen don't play until next Friday, when they host Londonderry. They have a day of on Thursday, and are cordially invited to watch the Varsity home game with Salem.
The Varsity and JV will host Salem on Thursday after a 12-day layoff. Both teams have been working hard in the interim, and will be eager to get back to Division One competition. The Salem Varsity comes into the match with a 4-2 record, although they have lost two matches in a row to Pinkerton and Concord after a 4-0 start. Kickoff for both matches is 4:00. The Varsity and JV will then take to the road Saturday for games at Bedford, playing back to back on the Bedford turf. JV will play at 1:00, and Varsity at 3:00. The bus will leave HHS at 10:15.
Although the Varsity, JV and Freshman teams were exiled last weekend during Homecoming, an annual occurrence, the Reserves snuck onto the turf of Merriman-Branch Field Saturday and played an excellent game against the Kimball Union Reserves. The Marauders put a lot of pressure on in the opening minutes, but KUA weathered the storm and managed to sneak two goals past Jasper Zeng before halftime. Hanover retaliated with a goal by Kaz Matsuoka early in the second half to narrow the score to 2-1, and Arturo Johnson put on a great display of acrobatic goalkeeping at the other end to keep things close. Expat Henry Pletcher glided through the Marauder defense to put KUA up 3-1, and several frantic attempts at the close of the match narrowly missed connecting. This is a good matchup, and shold provide some excellent soccer when these teams clash again next Wednesday.
On Wednesday at the Pasture on a sparkling day for soccer, The Marauder Freshmen hosted their strongest opponent, the Cougars of Cardigan Mountain School. The two sides battled to a 0-0 draw at halftime, and Cardigan scored the only goal of the match on a breakaway early in the second half. Charlie Plottner made a spectacular block to keep Cardigan from scoring again, but Hanover was unable to break through, and dropped a close match that was extremely well-played by both sides.
Hanover will get another crack st Cardigan when they travel to Canaan for a rematch on October 24th. The Freshmen don't play until next Friday, when they host Londonderry. They have a day of on Thursday, and are cordially invited to watch the Varsity home game with Salem.
The Varsity and JV will host Salem on Thursday after a 12-day layoff. Both teams have been working hard in the interim, and will be eager to get back to Division One competition. The Salem Varsity comes into the match with a 4-2 record, although they have lost two matches in a row to Pinkerton and Concord after a 4-0 start. Kickoff for both matches is 4:00. The Varsity and JV will then take to the road Saturday for games at Bedford, playing back to back on the Bedford turf. JV will play at 1:00, and Varsity at 3:00. The bus will leave HHS at 10:15.
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Hanover Soccer Schedule Sept. 21-26
Mon. Sept. 21 Varsity Training at Dresden 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
JV/Reserve/Frosh Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
Tue. Sept. 22 JV/Reserve/Frosh Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Wed. Sept. 23 Concussion Testing for Varsity 2:30 p.m.
JV/Reserve Training at Dresden 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Freshman Game vs. Cardigan - Dresden 4:30 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Thu. Sept. 24 Reserve Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
J.V. Game vs. Salem - HHS Grass Field 4:00 p.m.
Varsity Game vs. Salem - HHS Turf 4:00 p.m.
Freshman Team Day Off
Fri. Sept. 25 Reserve/Frosh Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
JV Team Dinner at Ives 5:00 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
JV Training at HHS Turf 8:0 - 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Sept. 26 JV Game at Bedford - Bedford HS Turf 1:00 p.m.
Varsity Game at Bedford - BHS Turf 3:00 p.m.
JV/Varsity Bus Departs 10:15 a.m.
JV/Reserve/Frosh Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
Tue. Sept. 22 JV/Reserve/Frosh Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Wed. Sept. 23 Concussion Testing for Varsity 2:30 p.m.
JV/Reserve Training at Dresden 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
Freshman Game vs. Cardigan - Dresden 4:30 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Thu. Sept. 24 Reserve Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
J.V. Game vs. Salem - HHS Grass Field 4:00 p.m.
Varsity Game vs. Salem - HHS Turf 4:00 p.m.
Freshman Team Day Off
Fri. Sept. 25 Reserve/Frosh Training at Dresden 4:15 - 5:45 p.m.
JV Team Dinner at Ives 5:00 p.m.
Varsity Training at HHS Turf 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
JV Training at HHS Turf 8:0 - 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Sept. 26 JV Game at Bedford - Bedford HS Turf 1:00 p.m.
Varsity Game at Bedford - BHS Turf 3:00 p.m.
JV/Varsity Bus Departs 10:15 a.m.
Friday, September 18, 2015
NH Edges Vermont 3-2 in a Classic Match
There were a lot of ways in which Friday's annual New Hampshire vs. Vermont intrasquad scrimmag could have been disappointing. It was another hot day at the Pasture at the end of a long, hard week of training, and there were distractions aplenty, not the least of which was Lars Blackmore's spy drone, hovering menacingly over Hanover's sylvan practice pitch.
Every single one of more than 45 Varsity and JV players stepped up, however, and contributed to a scintillating afternoon of soccer. The thrown-together teams played exciting, physical soccer, with New Hampshire emerging as the winner on a late goal by Jack Pattison.
Each team had heroes aplenty. Literally every one of the Varsity regulars, sprinkled nearly equally on each team, played well. All eight defenders were focused and nearly error-free. Both starting keepers came off their lines well and kept passing to the right team. The Vermont attack looked strong, with Sam Strohbehn converting a sweet pass from Asa Berolzheimer after some magic on the baseline. New Hampshire unveiled a new-look offense with five hungry Varsity reserves, and the strike force of Stadheim and Murdza looked dangerous, backed by Griffin Johnson. It was wingers Henry Kahl and Luke Messersmith who joined forces to tie the match, however, with Luke heading home Henry's well-taken corner kick.
More than a few JV players stepped up superbly. Ben Sobel looked good in a starting role. David Seigne and Lincoln Adam were dangerous on the flanks. David Wilson and Alvaro Cooper gave their team valuable minutes while keeping the level of play very high, and the same could be said for Benny Gantrish, who had two great cracks at goal, one foiled by a great save from Patrick Logan.
Jamie Dinulos, hustling out to the Pasture after a harrowing afternoon of Soarthroats tryouts (which actually could/should have been held at the Pasture, so Sam wouldn't space on them), got Vermont back into the lead in the opening minute, taking a sweet lead pass and tucking his shot into the corner of the goal.
The Green Mountain boys were getting great center back play from Lucas Blackmore and Simon Kahan, and looked to get an additional boost from Sander Macaulay, who once again ended up in Lars Blackmore's gallery of interesting poses. Late in the match, though, it was some Messersmioth magic that tied the game for New Hampshire, with Luke getting free on the left flank and depositing his shot into the far side netting.
The game raged past the appointed deadline, the grills started firing up back at the turf, and yet the quality of play continued to rock. With Sam Pych unshackled to run wild and free for the Granite Staters, New Hampshire earned a corner kick, and after the ball pinged around the Vermont box, Jack Pattison, who had played the senior trump card to get forward on the play, was in the right pace at the right time to tuck home the game-winning rebound. Vermont pressed for the equalizer, but the NH defense was equal to the task in front of Owen Brooks, and Sam Pych's counterattack came up empty.
Three tweets. Game over. Good end to a good day. Messersmith took home Man of the Match honors, and both teams, looking forward to a week in which they actually play against another school, called it a night.
Every single one of more than 45 Varsity and JV players stepped up, however, and contributed to a scintillating afternoon of soccer. The thrown-together teams played exciting, physical soccer, with New Hampshire emerging as the winner on a late goal by Jack Pattison.
Each team had heroes aplenty. Literally every one of the Varsity regulars, sprinkled nearly equally on each team, played well. All eight defenders were focused and nearly error-free. Both starting keepers came off their lines well and kept passing to the right team. The Vermont attack looked strong, with Sam Strohbehn converting a sweet pass from Asa Berolzheimer after some magic on the baseline. New Hampshire unveiled a new-look offense with five hungry Varsity reserves, and the strike force of Stadheim and Murdza looked dangerous, backed by Griffin Johnson. It was wingers Henry Kahl and Luke Messersmith who joined forces to tie the match, however, with Luke heading home Henry's well-taken corner kick.
More than a few JV players stepped up superbly. Ben Sobel looked good in a starting role. David Seigne and Lincoln Adam were dangerous on the flanks. David Wilson and Alvaro Cooper gave their team valuable minutes while keeping the level of play very high, and the same could be said for Benny Gantrish, who had two great cracks at goal, one foiled by a great save from Patrick Logan.
Jamie Dinulos, hustling out to the Pasture after a harrowing afternoon of Soarthroats tryouts (which actually could/should have been held at the Pasture, so Sam wouldn't space on them), got Vermont back into the lead in the opening minute, taking a sweet lead pass and tucking his shot into the corner of the goal.
The Green Mountain boys were getting great center back play from Lucas Blackmore and Simon Kahan, and looked to get an additional boost from Sander Macaulay, who once again ended up in Lars Blackmore's gallery of interesting poses. Late in the match, though, it was some Messersmioth magic that tied the game for New Hampshire, with Luke getting free on the left flank and depositing his shot into the far side netting.
The game raged past the appointed deadline, the grills started firing up back at the turf, and yet the quality of play continued to rock. With Sam Pych unshackled to run wild and free for the Granite Staters, New Hampshire earned a corner kick, and after the ball pinged around the Vermont box, Jack Pattison, who had played the senior trump card to get forward on the play, was in the right pace at the right time to tuck home the game-winning rebound. Vermont pressed for the equalizer, but the NH defense was equal to the task in front of Owen Brooks, and Sam Pych's counterattack came up empty.
Three tweets. Game over. Good end to a good day. Messersmith took home Man of the Match honors, and both teams, looking forward to a week in which they actually play against another school, called it a night.
Freshmen Fall 4-3 to Manchester Memorial
Yesterday's report of the Freshman team's victory over Concord referred to the Marauders as "road weary". Although accurate, that label would have been more appropriately applied the Hanover's leg-weary warriors today, as they lost a 4-3 contest to Manchester Memorial.
The season is barely three weeks old, yet the Marauders have already bussed to Portsmouth, Bedford, Exeter, Concord and Manchester. That's a lot of driving! Playing the second of a pair of back-to-back matches, Hanover nursed a lead in the second half but faded down the stretch despite outshooting their hosts by a significant margin.
Elias Zinman gave Hanover a 1-0 lead at the 16 minute mark, with Liam Collins assisting. Memorial scored the next two goals to take 2-1 advantage, but Caleb Benjamin's second successful penalty kick conversion in two days tied the match just before halftime.
Bauti Gallino scored his fifth goal of the season to give the Marauders the lead 17 minutes into the second half, but Memorial tied the game with eight minutes to play and got the game winner in the final minute of the match.
Life on the road is tough: small field, missed opportunities, rough play by the opponents, unsympathetic referees, and just. plain. tired. Hanover kept their composure, though, and heeded Coach Willie's advice to learn from it and come back stronger. Five consecutive home games await, beginning with next Wednesday's challenging match against Cardigan. Come to the Pasture and watch some quality futbol!
The season is barely three weeks old, yet the Marauders have already bussed to Portsmouth, Bedford, Exeter, Concord and Manchester. That's a lot of driving! Playing the second of a pair of back-to-back matches, Hanover nursed a lead in the second half but faded down the stretch despite outshooting their hosts by a significant margin.
Elias Zinman gave Hanover a 1-0 lead at the 16 minute mark, with Liam Collins assisting. Memorial scored the next two goals to take 2-1 advantage, but Caleb Benjamin's second successful penalty kick conversion in two days tied the match just before halftime.
Bauti Gallino scored his fifth goal of the season to give the Marauders the lead 17 minutes into the second half, but Memorial tied the game with eight minutes to play and got the game winner in the final minute of the match.
Life on the road is tough: small field, missed opportunities, rough play by the opponents, unsympathetic referees, and just. plain. tired. Hanover kept their composure, though, and heeded Coach Willie's advice to learn from it and come back stronger. Five consecutive home games await, beginning with next Wednesday's challenging match against Cardigan. Come to the Pasture and watch some quality futbol!
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Varsity and JV Renew Annual NH-VT Rivalry
A tradition dating back more than 10 years will be renewed on Friday when the combined Varsity and JV teams will be divided on the basis of current residence, squaring off in the annual New Hampshire - Vermont game, kicking off at 4:15 p.m. at the Pasture.
Coaches Grabill and and Wanner will lead the NH squad, laden with defensive studs from the Varsity in front of goalkeeper Connor Edson. The VT brain trust, Coaches Osheyack, Walker and Niles, will be pinning their hopes on a studly midfield and a bevy of starting strikers. The classic offense vs. defense matchup will be spiced up by the chess game between coaches as they manage their heavily-laden benches, full of JV stars eager to prove themselves.
Vermont players should come to the game wearing green, and New Hampshire will wear white. The winning team will gain possession of the unique etched crystal Simon Pearce trophy, which will be on display Friday at Ford's desk in the Atrium.
Coaches Grabill and and Wanner will lead the NH squad, laden with defensive studs from the Varsity in front of goalkeeper Connor Edson. The VT brain trust, Coaches Osheyack, Walker and Niles, will be pinning their hopes on a studly midfield and a bevy of starting strikers. The classic offense vs. defense matchup will be spiced up by the chess game between coaches as they manage their heavily-laden benches, full of JV stars eager to prove themselves.
Vermont players should come to the game wearing green, and New Hampshire will wear white. The winning team will gain possession of the unique etched crystal Simon Pearce trophy, which will be on display Friday at Ford's desk in the Atrium.
Freshmen Beat Concord 7-0; Back on the Road Friday
The road-weary Freshmen, virtual strangers to their 7th period teachers, demonstrated nevertheless that playing away games is no big deal, blowing open a close game early in the second half and defeating Concord 7-0. The Marauders led 2-0 at halftime and then scored three times in the first seven minutes after the interval, pulling away for good. Hanover's team defense was good enough for their third shutout in five games, improving their record on the young season to 4-1.
Hanover and Concord battled evenly through the first fifteen minutes, but the Marauders scored an emphatic first goal to establish a lead they never relinquished. Elias Zinman struck a great free kick to the far post and connected with Bauti Gallino, who volleyed it into the goal. Zinman created a killer goal just before the half, giving Hanover a 2-0 advantage when his driven corner kick glanced off a defender and into the net for an own goal.
The Marauders took the initiative early in the second half. Zinman was in the middle of the action again, taking a hard shot that was saved but not controlled. Christo Dragnev pounded the reboind home at the 2:18 mark, and it was 3-0. Exactly a minute later Zinman collected his fourth consecutive assist when the played the ball to Liam Collins on the left flank. Collins drove hard in to the wide open space his good positional play had created, and buried a short range goal to give Hanover a 4-0 lead. Collins collected his second goal of the game four minutes later, heading home a cross from Bauti Gallino.
Will Laycock opened his account at the 14:12 mark, smashing home a rebound from a shot by Nicolas Mayo-Pushee. Most of the players paused after the shot, anticipating a call, but Laycock
intelligently kept going, and collected his first score of the season. Caleb Benjamin finished the scoring with his first goal of the season, converting a penalty kick after he was hauled down in the box.
Hans Williams had an easy time of it in goal, making one save to register his third clean sheet of the season. The back eight of Wittmann, Fenner, Purcell, Rightmire, Li, Plottner, Alibozek and Blackbur, formed an impenetrable wall in front of the Hanover goal, and few shots saw their way through.
There will be no rest for the weary class of '19, as they board another post-6th period school bus on Friday and head for the Queen City to engage the Crusaders of Manchester Memorial High School on the St. Anthony field near the school.
Hanover and Concord battled evenly through the first fifteen minutes, but the Marauders scored an emphatic first goal to establish a lead they never relinquished. Elias Zinman struck a great free kick to the far post and connected with Bauti Gallino, who volleyed it into the goal. Zinman created a killer goal just before the half, giving Hanover a 2-0 advantage when his driven corner kick glanced off a defender and into the net for an own goal.
The Marauders took the initiative early in the second half. Zinman was in the middle of the action again, taking a hard shot that was saved but not controlled. Christo Dragnev pounded the reboind home at the 2:18 mark, and it was 3-0. Exactly a minute later Zinman collected his fourth consecutive assist when the played the ball to Liam Collins on the left flank. Collins drove hard in to the wide open space his good positional play had created, and buried a short range goal to give Hanover a 4-0 lead. Collins collected his second goal of the game four minutes later, heading home a cross from Bauti Gallino.
Will Laycock opened his account at the 14:12 mark, smashing home a rebound from a shot by Nicolas Mayo-Pushee. Most of the players paused after the shot, anticipating a call, but Laycock
intelligently kept going, and collected his first score of the season. Caleb Benjamin finished the scoring with his first goal of the season, converting a penalty kick after he was hauled down in the box.
Hans Williams had an easy time of it in goal, making one save to register his third clean sheet of the season. The back eight of Wittmann, Fenner, Purcell, Rightmire, Li, Plottner, Alibozek and Blackbur, formed an impenetrable wall in front of the Hanover goal, and few shots saw their way through.
There will be no rest for the weary class of '19, as they board another post-6th period school bus on Friday and head for the Queen City to engage the Crusaders of Manchester Memorial High School on the St. Anthony field near the school.
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Freshmen Depart for Concord; Reserves Home Saturday
With the Varsity and JV teams taking the next week off, the spotlight falls on the Freshmen and Reserves. The Freshmen play two matches in the next two days, heading to Concord Thursday and playing at Manchester Memorial on Friday. Dismissal time for both games is after 6th period. The Concord match will be played at Memorial Field in Concord. Directions: Rt. 89 south to Exit 2, right on the ramp on Clinton Street towards Concord. At the first lights, turn left on Fruit Street and the entrance to the Memorial Field parking lot is 300 yards up on the left. The Friday game at Memorial Field is played at St. Anthony Field. Directions tomorrow.
The Reserves, fresh off a high-scoring loss to Pembroke on Tuesday, will host the Kimball Union Academy Reserves on Saturday at 2:00 on the HHS turf field. Please note that we will wear our maroon away uniforms. The Reserves played a sluggish first half and fell behind Pembroke 5-1, with Kaz Matsuoka's goal being one of the few highlights. The second half was a different story. Hanover scored three goals in quick succession, by Joe Zhang, Kaz Matsuoka and Ian Surat-Mosher, assisted by Avery Wallis. Congratulations to Ian for his first career goal! Pembroke scored a pair of late goals, but the Marauders gained a lot of momentum from their second half play.
The Varsity and JV will join forces on Friday and play their annual Vermont-New Hampshire game on Friday at the Pasture. Please note a schedule update for Saturday, Sept 26. The Varsity and JV game times for their matches in Bedford have been changed. The JV will play at 1:00 on the Bedford HS turf field, followed by the Varsity at 3:00 p.m.
The Reserves, fresh off a high-scoring loss to Pembroke on Tuesday, will host the Kimball Union Academy Reserves on Saturday at 2:00 on the HHS turf field. Please note that we will wear our maroon away uniforms. The Reserves played a sluggish first half and fell behind Pembroke 5-1, with Kaz Matsuoka's goal being one of the few highlights. The second half was a different story. Hanover scored three goals in quick succession, by Joe Zhang, Kaz Matsuoka and Ian Surat-Mosher, assisted by Avery Wallis. Congratulations to Ian for his first career goal! Pembroke scored a pair of late goals, but the Marauders gained a lot of momentum from their second half play.
The Varsity and JV will join forces on Friday and play their annual Vermont-New Hampshire game on Friday at the Pasture. Please note a schedule update for Saturday, Sept 26. The Varsity and JV game times for their matches in Bedford have been changed. The JV will play at 1:00 on the Bedford HS turf field, followed by the Varsity at 3:00 p.m.
Monday, September 14, 2015
Marauder Varsity Tops Nashua South 4-1
The Marauders bounced back from a tough loss to Londonderry with an excellent two-way display of soccer on Friday, beating a capable Nashua South squad 4-1. Hanover outshot the visitors 26-6, scored twice in each half, and controlled the game from wire to wire. The Purple Panthers are not a top-tier team, but they have proven themselves capable of beating the big guys. They beat the Marauders 3-1 last year, and already have a victory over defending Division One champion Pinkerton this season.
Hanover was all over South right from the start. Asa Berolzheimer almost stuffed home a Will Smith cross in the first minute, and had two rapid-fire shots blocked in quick succession after a corner kick. The Marauders had six corners in the first half, and most of them were well-taken and dangerous. Jonah Levine was on his game in every way, launching a couple of dangerous shots from the edge of the penalty area and completely owning the air at midfield, keeping the Panthers from sustaining any sort of attack.
Even after they subbed midway through the half, the Marauders continued to be dangerous. Henry Kahl did a nice job with a lead pass to Seth Stadheim which resulted in a shot that forced a good save by South goalkeeper Christopher Jiminez. Luke Messersmith worked loose for a baseline cross from the left side and found Marcus Helble for a close-range shot.
Nashua South spent most of the first half bottled up in their own end, but with the match still scoreless they nearly snatched a lead against the run of play when dangerous striker Mauricio Acevedo got loose for a 15-yard drive that was stopped by a diving save from Patrick Logan, making his first start of the season in goal for the Marauders.
Hanover finally broke through in the 29th minute, taking a 1-0 lead when Sam Strohbehn crossed the ball to Asa Berolzheimer, who dodged a defender with a nice move and buried a close-range shot for his sixth goal of the season. He has now scored in every one of Hanover's games. Twenty-eight seconds later the Marauders scored again, Berolzheimer sent Jake Acker to the baseline, and Acker's "bangu" found Strohbehn alone in front for a 2-0 lead. Just like that, the game was on ice.
A week earlier, Hanover had established a 2-0 lead against Exeter, and despite controlling the second half decisively, they were never able to add to their lead. Against the Purple Panthers, Hanover put the pedal to the metal in the second half, scoring twice more and launching a pair of sensational shots that clanged off the metalwork. After Sam Strohbehn's long-range floater tattooed the crossbar in the early going, Jonah Levine opened his account with a sweet header , converting Berolzheimer's cross off of a short corner kick.
Ten minutes later, Nashua South briefly dampened the mood when the talented Acevedo found a crease in the Marauder defense at the top of the box and hit a great shot that found the corner of the goal, pulling the Panthers within two goals. Hanover redoubled their attack and did an excellent job putting the game away. After being fouled with a cheap shot which should have earned a yellow card, Berolzheimer replied with a screaming shot hard off the upright. With two minutes to play, Hanover's field general went one better, taking a ball to the right baseline and centering the ball to sophomore scoring sensation Seth Stadheim (he's not bad, but the alliteration was totally too tempting) who got his first goal of the season.
The Mauarders now enter a stretch of nearly two weeks without a game, and they are planning to take full advantage with noting less than a second preseason. Hanover will train hard with an emphasis on conditioning, work on tightening up their defense, and polish their restarts until they gleam. The highlight of the first week will come on Friday, when the Varsity and JV squads will combine for the annual NH vs VT match. JV Coach Yosef Osheyack will lead Vermont, and Coach Grabill will try to repeat his New Hampshire squad's lopsided victory of a year ago. Kickoff will be at 4:00 at the Pasture.
Hanover was all over South right from the start. Asa Berolzheimer almost stuffed home a Will Smith cross in the first minute, and had two rapid-fire shots blocked in quick succession after a corner kick. The Marauders had six corners in the first half, and most of them were well-taken and dangerous. Jonah Levine was on his game in every way, launching a couple of dangerous shots from the edge of the penalty area and completely owning the air at midfield, keeping the Panthers from sustaining any sort of attack.
Even after they subbed midway through the half, the Marauders continued to be dangerous. Henry Kahl did a nice job with a lead pass to Seth Stadheim which resulted in a shot that forced a good save by South goalkeeper Christopher Jiminez. Luke Messersmith worked loose for a baseline cross from the left side and found Marcus Helble for a close-range shot.
Nashua South spent most of the first half bottled up in their own end, but with the match still scoreless they nearly snatched a lead against the run of play when dangerous striker Mauricio Acevedo got loose for a 15-yard drive that was stopped by a diving save from Patrick Logan, making his first start of the season in goal for the Marauders.
Hanover finally broke through in the 29th minute, taking a 1-0 lead when Sam Strohbehn crossed the ball to Asa Berolzheimer, who dodged a defender with a nice move and buried a close-range shot for his sixth goal of the season. He has now scored in every one of Hanover's games. Twenty-eight seconds later the Marauders scored again, Berolzheimer sent Jake Acker to the baseline, and Acker's "bangu" found Strohbehn alone in front for a 2-0 lead. Just like that, the game was on ice.
A week earlier, Hanover had established a 2-0 lead against Exeter, and despite controlling the second half decisively, they were never able to add to their lead. Against the Purple Panthers, Hanover put the pedal to the metal in the second half, scoring twice more and launching a pair of sensational shots that clanged off the metalwork. After Sam Strohbehn's long-range floater tattooed the crossbar in the early going, Jonah Levine opened his account with a sweet header , converting Berolzheimer's cross off of a short corner kick.
Ten minutes later, Nashua South briefly dampened the mood when the talented Acevedo found a crease in the Marauder defense at the top of the box and hit a great shot that found the corner of the goal, pulling the Panthers within two goals. Hanover redoubled their attack and did an excellent job putting the game away. After being fouled with a cheap shot which should have earned a yellow card, Berolzheimer replied with a screaming shot hard off the upright. With two minutes to play, Hanover's field general went one better, taking a ball to the right baseline and centering the ball to sophomore scoring sensation Seth Stadheim (he's not bad, but the alliteration was totally too tempting) who got his first goal of the season.
The Mauarders now enter a stretch of nearly two weeks without a game, and they are planning to take full advantage with noting less than a second preseason. Hanover will train hard with an emphasis on conditioning, work on tightening up their defense, and polish their restarts until they gleam. The highlight of the first week will come on Friday, when the Varsity and JV squads will combine for the annual NH vs VT match. JV Coach Yosef Osheyack will lead Vermont, and Coach Grabill will try to repeat his New Hampshire squad's lopsided victory of a year ago. Kickoff will be at 4:00 at the Pasture.
Sunday, September 13, 2015
Freshmen and Reserves Lose at Exeter
The Marauder Freshmen played at Exeter Saturday on yet another turf field, and came up on the short end of a 4-1 decision to a strong, athletic Blue Hawk team. Exeter opened the game strong scoring in the 6th minute. Their player was able to receive and carry the ball trough the center, beating two defenders and finishing near post under the keepeer. However, Hanover would answer quickly with a goal of their own. After playing the ball wide to the left, Liam Collins played a great hard cross on the ground that went toward the back post to find Nico Mayo-Pushee for a tap in. However, the game would not stay locked long as the Blue Hawks continued their pressure up on the Marauder back four. Exeter continued to play a boot ball strategy, finding a stretching forward up against lone backs. Exeter's number 24, a man child who was no shorter than 6'2", was able to win the ball and chip it over for a score. Hanover continued to play a strong possession game through the end of the half, but could not convert on another score before the half to negate the margin.
The Blue Hawks would continue to pressure our defense with their deep driven balls to their stretching forward, number 24. He proved to be a real thorn in our side and scored yet again at the start of the second half to push the lead to two goals. Hanover was not without its chances, though. Christo Dragnev played a great ball to the far post that Mark Ralston-Daniel was just late on. Another chance would come later when Elias Zinman put a ball hard to the left post where Brian Turkington had his first touch bounce high off his foot instead of finding the twine. In addition Hanover would be denied on two advantage plays in the second half. The first was from Bauti Gallino,who was clipped by an on rushing goal keeper, but was denied the chance to run on to the ball while the keep was still on the ground by the 18. The second would be from Nico, who made a great hard challenge splitting two defenders and had a bounding ball between him and the keeper. The Blue Hawks big man would net one last goal in the 65th minute, flicking the ball in a similar fashion to his 2nd goal.
Exeter's size and athleticism would prove too much for the the Marauders possession passing form. The Blue Hawks implementation of a sweeper back also proved difficult for Hanover, who wanted to work the ball through the middle in the attacking third. The Freshman Marauders will continue this tough initial road chunk with two games this week with Concord Thursday and Manchester Memorial on Friday.
The Reserves were missing a number of players, but the warriors who remained played tremendous defense in a 5-1 loss to a strong Exeter JV 2 team. Avery Wallis really kept the back together, and played almost sweeper role of catching anything that went through. Also Wilson Rimberg, despite a bump from the previous game, really stepped in the middle as a holding midfielder. Even though the ball was in Hanover's half a lot, the shots on goal were often forced or from bad angles. Alex Benton was also very solid in the middle. The front duo of Joe Zhang and Arturo Johnson did create headaches for the backline as well.
Hanover scored when the entire team was up and the ball had been crossed in the middle and and neither the goalie or defense was properly clearing and the defense and halfbacks were so preoccupied with them it allowed defender Kezar Berger to drift in to just outside the box. His shot was great. He didn't blast it. He simply placed a low clean shot between a couple defenders and completely away from the goalie. It was Kezar's first career goal. Kudos also to Jasper Zeng, who went the distance in goal and continues to improve in every aspect of his game. The Reserves return to the road on Tuesday, traveling to Pembroke.
HHS Soccer Schedule Sept. 14-19
Varsity, Reserve, Freshman Training
at Dresden 4:00 p.m.
Tue. Sept. 15 Reserves game at Pembroke 4:30 p.m.
Bus Departs 2:30 p.m.
Varsity, JV, Frosh Training at Dresden 4:00 p.m.
Wed. Sept. 16 Varsity Film Session - Room 250 2:15 p.m.
JV/Reserves/Frosh Train at Dresden 3:00 p.m.
Varsity Trains at HHS Turf 7:00 p.m.
Thu. Sept. 17 Freshmen at Concord 4:00 p.m.
Bus Departs 2:00 p.m.
Varsity/JV/Reserves Train at Dresden 4:00 p.m.
Fri. Sept. 18 Freshmen at Memorial (St. Anthony) 4:00 p.m.
Bus Departs 2:15 p.m.
Reserves Train at Dresden 4:00 p.m.
Varsity/JV NH vs. Vermont Game 4:00 p.m.
Sat. Sept. 19 Reserves Game vs. KUA (HHS Turf) 2:00 p.m.
Friday, September 11, 2015
Marauders Sweep a Trio of Home Games
Friday was a productive day for the Marauders, with the Varsity, JV and Reserve teams all playing well and wining at home. The Varsity beat Nashua South 4-1, with Asa Berolzheimer leading the way, scoring the first goal and assisting on two others. Sam Strohbehn had a goal and an assist. Both Jonah Levine and Seth Stadheim opened their accounts with goals, and Jack Acker collected his first assist. Patrick Logan had several saves to earn his first Varsity win in goal. The Marauders are now 3-1-1 on the season.
The Junior Varsity played on their home field at HHS for the first time this year, and beat Nashua South 3-0. Hanover led 1-0 at halftime and pulled away in the second half with two more goals. David Seigne scored twice for the Marauders, bringing his season total to five. Benny Gantrish had his first goal of the season. Somehow Nashua South managed to contain Roger Danilek. Owen Brooks picked up the shutout for the Marauders, who are now 3-2 on the season.
The Reserves, resplendent in their new home uniforms, played steady team defense and emerged with a 2-0 win over the Newport High School Varsity. It's a small school that still does not have NHIAA status for the team, but it's the best they have, and it made for an excellent match. George Geraghty set up Kaz Matsuoka for the first goal, and Hanover led 1-0 at halftime, thanks to the defensive work of Wilson Rimberg and Avery Wallis in front of Arturo Johnson in goal. Jasper Zeng took over as goalkeeper in the second half and showed continued growth, sharing in his first shutout. Hanover's pressure on Newport resulted in a second goal authored by Pierro Mayo, one of several freshmen who contributed strongly. Friday's win was the first for Coach Erik McEwen.
The Reserves and Freshmen will travel to Exeter on Saturday. The bus will leave at 8:30. Both games will be at Exeter High School. It's at 1 Blue Hawk Drive, Exeter, NH 03833 for you GPS folks. Take Rt. 101 West from Rt. 93 in Manchester. Take Exit 8 on Rt. 101, turn left at the end of the ramp, and then right on Rt. 27 as soon as you cross over Rt. 101. You'll see the famous New England Dragway. Follow Rt. 27 for a mile and Exeter High is on the left. It's a little bigger than HHS, as you'll see. The Reserve game is on the field near the HS track. The Freshman game follows the Exeter High JV Football game in famous Bill Ball Stadium, the site of Hanover's 2013 State Championship. Estimated return time is 3:00 p.m. We'll have snacks, but you may want to pack a lunch. We will not stop for fast food.
The Junior Varsity played on their home field at HHS for the first time this year, and beat Nashua South 3-0. Hanover led 1-0 at halftime and pulled away in the second half with two more goals. David Seigne scored twice for the Marauders, bringing his season total to five. Benny Gantrish had his first goal of the season. Somehow Nashua South managed to contain Roger Danilek. Owen Brooks picked up the shutout for the Marauders, who are now 3-2 on the season.
The Reserves, resplendent in their new home uniforms, played steady team defense and emerged with a 2-0 win over the Newport High School Varsity. It's a small school that still does not have NHIAA status for the team, but it's the best they have, and it made for an excellent match. George Geraghty set up Kaz Matsuoka for the first goal, and Hanover led 1-0 at halftime, thanks to the defensive work of Wilson Rimberg and Avery Wallis in front of Arturo Johnson in goal. Jasper Zeng took over as goalkeeper in the second half and showed continued growth, sharing in his first shutout. Hanover's pressure on Newport resulted in a second goal authored by Pierro Mayo, one of several freshmen who contributed strongly. Friday's win was the first for Coach Erik McEwen.
The Reserves and Freshmen will travel to Exeter on Saturday. The bus will leave at 8:30. Both games will be at Exeter High School. It's at 1 Blue Hawk Drive, Exeter, NH 03833 for you GPS folks. Take Rt. 101 West from Rt. 93 in Manchester. Take Exit 8 on Rt. 101, turn left at the end of the ramp, and then right on Rt. 27 as soon as you cross over Rt. 101. You'll see the famous New England Dragway. Follow Rt. 27 for a mile and Exeter High is on the left. It's a little bigger than HHS, as you'll see. The Reserve game is on the field near the HS track. The Freshman game follows the Exeter High JV Football game in famous Bill Ball Stadium, the site of Hanover's 2013 State Championship. Estimated return time is 3:00 p.m. We'll have snacks, but you may want to pack a lunch. We will not stop for fast food.
Thursday, September 10, 2015
Marauders Host Three Home Games
Hanover High (and The Pasture) will be busy on Friday, with three of the four Marauder teams hosting matches. The Varsity will take on Nashua South at Merriman-Branch Field at 4:00, hoping to avenge last year's 3-1 road loss to the Purple Panthers. The JV team will also host Nashua South at 4:00, playing on the HHS grass field.
The Reserve team will host Newport at 4:30 at The Pasture, but before they take the regular practice bus out to Dresden, they will gather on the turf field IMMEDIATELY after school for a team photo. Players should come dressed in white game uniforms. Coach Grabill will be down at the field with uniforms for those who did not receive them at practice today.
The Freshmen, who have no place to practice, won't practice. They are, however, invited to come to the turf field for the Varsity game at 4:00.
The Freshman and Reserve teams will leave at 8:30 on Saturday morning for their games at Exeter.
The Reserve team will host Newport at 4:30 at The Pasture, but before they take the regular practice bus out to Dresden, they will gather on the turf field IMMEDIATELY after school for a team photo. Players should come dressed in white game uniforms. Coach Grabill will be down at the field with uniforms for those who did not receive them at practice today.
The Freshmen, who have no place to practice, won't practice. They are, however, invited to come to the turf field for the Varsity game at 4:00.
The Freshman and Reserve teams will leave at 8:30 on Saturday morning for their games at Exeter.
Freshman Game Thursday is Postponed
Today's Freshman game at Concord has been postponed because of the threat of light rain.
The game will be played next Thursday, Sept. 17 at Concord.
The Freshmen will practice today at Dresden on their regular schedule.
They will depart for Exeter on Saturday at 8:30 a.m.
The snacks for today's game will be carried over to Saturday.
The game will be played next Thursday, Sept. 17 at Concord.
The Freshmen will practice today at Dresden on their regular schedule.
They will depart for Exeter on Saturday at 8:30 a.m.
The snacks for today's game will be carried over to Saturday.
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Hanover Varsity Hammered by Londonderry, 5-1
The Marauders hit a big bump in the road on a sweltering afternoon in Londonderry, conceding an early goal and chasing the game unsuccessfully in a 5-1 thrashing at the hands of a well-prepared and hungry Lancer squad. The host team lead 3-0 at halftime and upped their lead to 5-0 on two gift goals in the second half before Asa Berolzheimer's late tally provided some consolation on a forgettable afternoon.
Hanover was prepared for strong opposition, but got off to a bad start when Londonderry star Nate Gaw found room to settle the ball 30 meters away and chipped the ball over Connor Edson and into the goal for a 1-0 lead. Having conceded a similar goal a week ago in Concord, the Marauders knew that they were capable of rallying, but 14 minutes into the match Londonderry doubled the lead when midfielder Owen Creed outjumped his defender on the end of a long throw into the box and looped a header into the far side of the net.
The rout was on 14 minutes later when the ubiquitous Gaw showed exceptional speed and skill on the right side, racing past two defenders and finding time to slip a shot into the net for a 3-0 lead. It was not a total disaster for Hanover at that point. They avoided the trap of showing anger or frustration or pointing fingers. They stayed together as a team, on the field and on the bench. They worked hard at getting back into the game, and came close on a couple of changes. Jonah Levine had a shot cleared off the line from a corner kick. Sam Strohbehn, Jamie Dinulos, Jake Acker and Seth Stadheim all got good looks at goal. The Marauders didn't fall apart, but Londonderr was good enough to keep them off the board.
The second half showed no less resolve from the Hanover lads, but their spirits were dampened further when two nearly-identical costly giveaways in their end resulted in easy goals for the Lancers.
Hanover got solid work from then bench, with Robbie Murdza showing particularly well, and before the half was done every field player saw some action. Jack Pattison made a nice overlapping run and served a great ball into the box, but the Marauders just missed converting it. The starters were not about to quit, either. Jonah Levine came oh so close with a header on the end of a corner kick. Finally, with less than two minutes to play, Murdza showed excellent touch in penetrating the defense, receiving the ball, and sending Asa Berolzheimer in alone. Asa flipped the ball into the right side netting for his fifth goal of the season. It may have been too little, too late, but it was a big goal.
Breaking the shutout was a nice way for Hanover to demonstrate that they were never willing to quit.
"We got licked today, but we'll be back," commented Coach Grabill. As long as we stay together as a team, we'll find the time to work on correcting mistakes, and striving to improve. We got beaten pretty badly the last time we came down here, and somehow ended up playing in the Championship game by the end of the season. It would be a huge mistake for anyone to count this team out. We'll lick our wounds and learn from what happened to us. We'll be ready the next time we kick off".
Hanover won't have to wait too long, fortunately. They host Nashua South on Friday at 4:00 at Merriman-Branch Field. The Marauders suffered a disappointing loss to the Purple Panthers last year, and will be eager to get back in the win column. Couldn't happen to a better opponent.
Hanover was prepared for strong opposition, but got off to a bad start when Londonderry star Nate Gaw found room to settle the ball 30 meters away and chipped the ball over Connor Edson and into the goal for a 1-0 lead. Having conceded a similar goal a week ago in Concord, the Marauders knew that they were capable of rallying, but 14 minutes into the match Londonderry doubled the lead when midfielder Owen Creed outjumped his defender on the end of a long throw into the box and looped a header into the far side of the net.
The rout was on 14 minutes later when the ubiquitous Gaw showed exceptional speed and skill on the right side, racing past two defenders and finding time to slip a shot into the net for a 3-0 lead. It was not a total disaster for Hanover at that point. They avoided the trap of showing anger or frustration or pointing fingers. They stayed together as a team, on the field and on the bench. They worked hard at getting back into the game, and came close on a couple of changes. Jonah Levine had a shot cleared off the line from a corner kick. Sam Strohbehn, Jamie Dinulos, Jake Acker and Seth Stadheim all got good looks at goal. The Marauders didn't fall apart, but Londonderr was good enough to keep them off the board.
The second half showed no less resolve from the Hanover lads, but their spirits were dampened further when two nearly-identical costly giveaways in their end resulted in easy goals for the Lancers.
Hanover got solid work from then bench, with Robbie Murdza showing particularly well, and before the half was done every field player saw some action. Jack Pattison made a nice overlapping run and served a great ball into the box, but the Marauders just missed converting it. The starters were not about to quit, either. Jonah Levine came oh so close with a header on the end of a corner kick. Finally, with less than two minutes to play, Murdza showed excellent touch in penetrating the defense, receiving the ball, and sending Asa Berolzheimer in alone. Asa flipped the ball into the right side netting for his fifth goal of the season. It may have been too little, too late, but it was a big goal.
Breaking the shutout was a nice way for Hanover to demonstrate that they were never willing to quit.
"We got licked today, but we'll be back," commented Coach Grabill. As long as we stay together as a team, we'll find the time to work on correcting mistakes, and striving to improve. We got beaten pretty badly the last time we came down here, and somehow ended up playing in the Championship game by the end of the season. It would be a huge mistake for anyone to count this team out. We'll lick our wounds and learn from what happened to us. We'll be ready the next time we kick off".
Hanover won't have to wait too long, fortunately. They host Nashua South on Friday at 4:00 at Merriman-Branch Field. The Marauders suffered a disappointing loss to the Purple Panthers last year, and will be eager to get back in the win column. Couldn't happen to a better opponent.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Road-Weary Marauders Survive the Summer Sun
A total of 76 Marauder soccer players took to the road on a sweltering Tuesday afternoon, and everyone survived the experience, although all three teams had disappointing results on the scoreboard.
The Varsity and JV made the long haul to Londonderry and lost tough games to the Lancers. The Varsity was shocked by 5-1 score, giving up a goal in the second minute of play and never finding a way back into the game. Hanover trailed 3-0 at halftime, and gave away two goals on costly errors in the second half before Asa Berolzheimer pulled back a goal in the dying minutes of the game, courtesy of a Robbie Murdza assist.
The JV played a closer game, giving up an early goal and then tying the match on an own goal by Londonderry. The match was tied at halftime and stayed close, thanks to good defense and strong goalkeeping by Harris LaRock. Londonderry went ahead 2-1 and then got a late penalty kick goal to make the final score 3-1. At least Coach Osheyack's pizza scheme worked!
The Reserve team had the biggest adventure, launching their season at Mount Royal Academy in Sunapee despite the challenge of a change in game time, a bus driver too smart for his own good, and the necessity of outfitting more than two dozen players in their new uniforms. Nevertheless, the Marauders played a creditable game against the Mounties, losing 6-3. Kaz Matsuoka (assisted by Tenzing Rumrill), George Geraghty and Joe Zhang got the goals for Hanover, who host Newport at home on Friday and then travel to Exeter on Saturday.
The time change of the Reserve game was a challenge. We only got word that the game time needed to be pushed back because of Hanover bus problems. When we have a same-day schedule change, we'll post it on the blog, knowing that most of you (hopefully) check this every morning, and once a day. We also sent out an e-mail warning. We could have done better by sending directions to Mount Royal, and also anticipating a return time for the bus. We'll do better on this next time. We hope that your sons do their part and communicate with you directly when they learn of a change during school.
Tomorrow seems pretty vanilla, with all four teams practicing. We have listed a time of 3:00 on the blog, which is probably a bit optimistic. The practice bus to Dresden first needs to make a regular school run, and typically gets back to HHS 50 minutes after dismissal. That makes 3:15 a more reasonable start time. We told the JVs 3:30 when they got off the bus this evening after returning from Exeter. We will also be challenged by trying to fit everyone on the practice bus. With three team training, that will be another puzzle. I'll be there to direct traffic and make things work. We are also concerned about the cumulative effects of the heat and sun, and will be sure to have plenty of water and ice available. The Varsity will train at 4:00 on the HHS turf.
Thanks so much for your patience and support!
The Varsity and JV made the long haul to Londonderry and lost tough games to the Lancers. The Varsity was shocked by 5-1 score, giving up a goal in the second minute of play and never finding a way back into the game. Hanover trailed 3-0 at halftime, and gave away two goals on costly errors in the second half before Asa Berolzheimer pulled back a goal in the dying minutes of the game, courtesy of a Robbie Murdza assist.
The JV played a closer game, giving up an early goal and then tying the match on an own goal by Londonderry. The match was tied at halftime and stayed close, thanks to good defense and strong goalkeeping by Harris LaRock. Londonderry went ahead 2-1 and then got a late penalty kick goal to make the final score 3-1. At least Coach Osheyack's pizza scheme worked!
The Reserve team had the biggest adventure, launching their season at Mount Royal Academy in Sunapee despite the challenge of a change in game time, a bus driver too smart for his own good, and the necessity of outfitting more than two dozen players in their new uniforms. Nevertheless, the Marauders played a creditable game against the Mounties, losing 6-3. Kaz Matsuoka (assisted by Tenzing Rumrill), George Geraghty and Joe Zhang got the goals for Hanover, who host Newport at home on Friday and then travel to Exeter on Saturday.
The time change of the Reserve game was a challenge. We only got word that the game time needed to be pushed back because of Hanover bus problems. When we have a same-day schedule change, we'll post it on the blog, knowing that most of you (hopefully) check this every morning, and once a day. We also sent out an e-mail warning. We could have done better by sending directions to Mount Royal, and also anticipating a return time for the bus. We'll do better on this next time. We hope that your sons do their part and communicate with you directly when they learn of a change during school.
Tomorrow seems pretty vanilla, with all four teams practicing. We have listed a time of 3:00 on the blog, which is probably a bit optimistic. The practice bus to Dresden first needs to make a regular school run, and typically gets back to HHS 50 minutes after dismissal. That makes 3:15 a more reasonable start time. We told the JVs 3:30 when they got off the bus this evening after returning from Exeter. We will also be challenged by trying to fit everyone on the practice bus. With three team training, that will be another puzzle. I'll be there to direct traffic and make things work. We are also concerned about the cumulative effects of the heat and sun, and will be sure to have plenty of water and ice available. The Varsity will train at 4:00 on the HHS turf.
Thanks so much for your patience and support!
Reserve Game Time Change
News Flash!
Today's Reserve game has been switched to 5:15 at Mount Royal Academy. The bus will leave at 3:30. There is no need for early dismissal.
Today's Reserve game has been switched to 5:15 at Mount Royal Academy. The bus will leave at 3:30. There is no need for early dismissal.
Monday, September 7, 2015
Marauders on the Road to Londonderry and Mount Royal
Three of the four Hanover teams will be on the road tomorrow, basking in the summer heat. The Varsity and JV will head to Londonderry. Warning! The HHS schedule says the games begin at 4:30. The Londonderry schedule says 4:00. Plan on 4:00. The bus will depart very soon after the end of sixth period. Do not dawdle getting to the bus. We will be very anxious to leave on time.
Both games are at Londonderry High School on Mammoth Road in Londonderry.
The Reserves will open their season at Mount Royal Academy in Sunpee at 4:30. The bus will leave at 2:30. Please go to the start of your seventh period classes and ask for permission to leave. Ask, don't tell. It makes a difference. Reserve players should come to the gym to get uniforms and mouthpieces during Activity Period. That way you will have time to customize your mouthpiece.
Every player is responsible for bringing his own water. We will take measures to counteract the heat, but we cannot provide drinking water for 70-plus players.
The Freshmen will train at The Pasture at 4:15. The practice bus will leave at 3:51. Be sure to check with the driver to make sure you are taking the Dresden bus. Please remember that the Reserve Field Hockey team may also be on that bus. Make this work, and make it routine.
Both games are at Londonderry High School on Mammoth Road in Londonderry.
The Reserves will open their season at Mount Royal Academy in Sunpee at 4:30. The bus will leave at 2:30. Please go to the start of your seventh period classes and ask for permission to leave. Ask, don't tell. It makes a difference. Reserve players should come to the gym to get uniforms and mouthpieces during Activity Period. That way you will have time to customize your mouthpiece.
Every player is responsible for bringing his own water. We will take measures to counteract the heat, but we cannot provide drinking water for 70-plus players.
The Freshmen will train at The Pasture at 4:15. The practice bus will leave at 3:51. Be sure to check with the driver to make sure you are taking the Dresden bus. Please remember that the Reserve Field Hockey team may also be on that bus. Make this work, and make it routine.
Sunday, September 6, 2015
Hanover Soccer Schedule Sept. 7-13
Mon. Sept. 7 JV Training at Dresden (Optional) 10:00 a.m.
Varsity Training at Dresden (Opt.) 4:00 p.m.
Tue. Sept. 8 Reserves get uniforms in gym at Activity Period
Freshman Training at Dresden 4:00 p.m.
Varsity/JV at Londonderry 4:30 p.m.
Bus Departs 2:00 p.m.
Reserves at Mount Royal Academy 4:30 p.m.
Bus Departs 2:30 p.m.
Wed. Sept. 9 JV/Reserves/Frosh Train at Dresden 3:00 p.m.
Varsity Trains at HHS Turf 4:00 p.m.
Thu. Sept. 10 Freshmen at Concord 4:00 p.m.
Bus Departs 2:00 p.m.
JV/Reserves Train at Dresden 4:00 p.m.
Varsity Trains at HHS turf 6:30 p.m.
Fri. Sept. 11 Freshmen No Practice
Reserve Team Photo (HHS turf) 3:00 p.m.
Varsity/JV Games vs. Nashua South 4:00 p.m.
Reserve Game vs. Newport (Dresden) 4:30 p.m.
Sat. Sept. 12 Freshmen and Reserves at Exeter 11:00 a.m.
Bus Departs 8:30 a.m.
Varsity Team Dinner W/Varsity Girls
Sun. Sept 13 Suicide Awareness Walk Departs HHS 1:00 p.m.
Preview for the Week Ahead; Schedule Tonight
There is a busy week ahead for all four Marauder teams. The schedule will be published tonight, but here is a preview: On Monday the Junior Varsity will have an optional practice at the Pasture at 10:00. The Varsity will have an optional practice at the Pasture at 4:00.
The Varsity and JV play at Londonderry on Tuesday at 4:30. The bus will depart at 2:00. The Reserves will play at Mount Royal Academy on Tuesday at 4:30. The bus will depart at 2:30. Reserve players can pick up their uniforms in the gym during Activity Period. The Freshman team will practice at the Pasture at 4:15. The practice bus will leave HHS at 3:51.
Looking ahead, the Freshmen play at Concord Thursday and at Exeter Saturday. The Reserves have a home game Friday against Newport and play at Exeter on Saturday. The Varsity and JV host Nashua South on Friday.
The entire game and practice schedule will be published on Sunday evening. All players are encouraged to participate in the Suicide Awareness Walk on Sunday, Sept. 13. Details:
The 3rd Annual Suicide Awareness Walk organized by Upper Valley Schools will be held on Sept 13, 2015. The walk will start at 1pm in the rear parking lot of Hanover High School, 41 Lebanon St, Hanover, NH. The walk is approximately 6 miles long to end at Colburn Park (Lebanon Green). There will be a Community Celebration immediately following. Register by August 28th to receive a free t-shirt. Pre-registration encouraged, but not required to walk. Anyone is welcome to join us on the day-of, please arrive by 12:45pm.
This walk is geared toward middle and high school students and the adults that love and care for them. Adults, please walk, volunteer or donate.
Questions? Contact Emily Musty @ emusty@sau88.net
Pre-register (by Monday, Sept 7th) to receive a free tshirt (pre-registration is suggested but not required to walk)
https://docs.google.com/a/sau88.net/forms/d/14viBKswiVcbxIBId4VmJToRcOCMnB1AWkmzSICyc-D4/viewform
The Varsity and JV play at Londonderry on Tuesday at 4:30. The bus will depart at 2:00. The Reserves will play at Mount Royal Academy on Tuesday at 4:30. The bus will depart at 2:30. Reserve players can pick up their uniforms in the gym during Activity Period. The Freshman team will practice at the Pasture at 4:15. The practice bus will leave HHS at 3:51.
Looking ahead, the Freshmen play at Concord Thursday and at Exeter Saturday. The Reserves have a home game Friday against Newport and play at Exeter on Saturday. The Varsity and JV host Nashua South on Friday.
The entire game and practice schedule will be published on Sunday evening. All players are encouraged to participate in the Suicide Awareness Walk on Sunday, Sept. 13. Details:
The 3rd Annual Suicide Awareness Walk organized by Upper Valley Schools will be held on Sept 13, 2015. The walk will start at 1pm in the rear parking lot of Hanover High School, 41 Lebanon St, Hanover, NH. The walk is approximately 6 miles long to end at Colburn Park (Lebanon Green). There will be a Community Celebration immediately following. Register by August 28th to receive a free t-shirt. Pre-registration encouraged, but not required to walk. Anyone is welcome to join us on the day-of, please arrive by 12:45pm.
This walk is geared toward middle and high school students and the adults that love and care for them. Adults, please walk, volunteer or donate.
Questions? Contact Emily Musty @ emusty@sau88.net
Pre-register (by Monday, Sept 7th) to receive a free tshirt (pre-registration is suggested but not required to walk)
https://docs.google.com/a/
Saturday, September 5, 2015
Freshmen Swamp Manchester Central 9-0
It's been quite a first week of school for the Marauder Freshmen. Eons ago on Monday they held off the Girl's Varsity in a scrimmage that was valuable in many respects, not the least of which was familiarizing them with the turf playing surface that they'd see twice later in the week. They opened with two grueling road wins on Wednesday and Friday, and dragged themselves out of bed on Saturday morning for their third match in four days.
Manchester Central looked formidable in warmups, but the Marauders jumped all over them, scoring twice in the first few minutes en route to a 9-0 victory. Hanover showed great ball control, deadly finishing, and strong team defense, leading 4-0 at halftime and subbing liberally throughout the contest.
The match was less than a minute old when Hanover was awarded a free kick on the left flank. Elias Zinman hit a long, high shot on goal, and the Central keeper pushed it off the crossbar, where it rebounded straight to Dillon Bradley, who buried the rebound at the right post. A minute later, Lefties Incorporated (Liam Collins and Andy Rightmire) collaborated for a 2-0 lead. Collins slid a pass to Rightmire, who blasted a long shot high into the net. Yikes.
The game settled down a bit, with the back four of Rightmire, Charlie Plottner, Alexander Purcell and Adam Blackburn denying Central space and possession. Midway through the half, Bradley chipped a ball into space for Bauti Gallino at the top of the penalty area, and Gallino finished like a pro for a 3-0 lead. The fourth goal of the half, with less than four minutes to play, was perhaps the nicest of the game. Nico Mayo-Pushee struck a perfectly-hit free kick from the left corner to the far post, and Eli Silovich headed it home with authority.
The Marauders picked up right where they left off at the start of the second half. After Dillon Bradley was fouled in the penalty area, Elias Zinman buried a penalty kick inside the left upright, and the rout was on. Three minutes later Adam Blackburn, a defender with the soul of a striker, found himself in the midst of a goalmouth scrum following a corner kick, and roofed the rebound for a 6-0 lead. Gallino potted his second goal of the match ten minutes later, and then Silovich earned his brace, converting a nice centering pass from Will Laycock on the left side. Nico Mayo-Pushee finished off the scoring with an authoritative blast for the right side.
Hans Williams calmly made four saves for Hanover to earn his second clean sheet of the season, getting nice defensive help from Tyler Wittman, Matt Fenner, Tommy Madden and Gary Li.
After a well-deserved break over the long weekend, the Freshmen will start the week preparing for two challenging games, road games at Concord on Thursday and at Exeter on Saturday. With the other three teams on the road on Tuesday, they'll have the Pasture all to themselves for training. Please take care of all of our new toys out there!
Manchester Central looked formidable in warmups, but the Marauders jumped all over them, scoring twice in the first few minutes en route to a 9-0 victory. Hanover showed great ball control, deadly finishing, and strong team defense, leading 4-0 at halftime and subbing liberally throughout the contest.
The match was less than a minute old when Hanover was awarded a free kick on the left flank. Elias Zinman hit a long, high shot on goal, and the Central keeper pushed it off the crossbar, where it rebounded straight to Dillon Bradley, who buried the rebound at the right post. A minute later, Lefties Incorporated (Liam Collins and Andy Rightmire) collaborated for a 2-0 lead. Collins slid a pass to Rightmire, who blasted a long shot high into the net. Yikes.
The game settled down a bit, with the back four of Rightmire, Charlie Plottner, Alexander Purcell and Adam Blackburn denying Central space and possession. Midway through the half, Bradley chipped a ball into space for Bauti Gallino at the top of the penalty area, and Gallino finished like a pro for a 3-0 lead. The fourth goal of the half, with less than four minutes to play, was perhaps the nicest of the game. Nico Mayo-Pushee struck a perfectly-hit free kick from the left corner to the far post, and Eli Silovich headed it home with authority.
The Marauders picked up right where they left off at the start of the second half. After Dillon Bradley was fouled in the penalty area, Elias Zinman buried a penalty kick inside the left upright, and the rout was on. Three minutes later Adam Blackburn, a defender with the soul of a striker, found himself in the midst of a goalmouth scrum following a corner kick, and roofed the rebound for a 6-0 lead. Gallino potted his second goal of the match ten minutes later, and then Silovich earned his brace, converting a nice centering pass from Will Laycock on the left side. Nico Mayo-Pushee finished off the scoring with an authoritative blast for the right side.
Hans Williams calmly made four saves for Hanover to earn his second clean sheet of the season, getting nice defensive help from Tyler Wittman, Matt Fenner, Tommy Madden and Gary Li.
After a well-deserved break over the long weekend, the Freshmen will start the week preparing for two challenging games, road games at Concord on Thursday and at Exeter on Saturday. With the other three teams on the road on Tuesday, they'll have the Pasture all to themselves for training. Please take care of all of our new toys out there!
Friday, September 4, 2015
Freshmen Beat Bedford 3-2; Host Central Saturday
The Marauder Freshmen continued their hot start to the season with a wire to wire victory over Bedford on Friday afternoon. Shrugging off their second long road trip in three days, Hanover took a 2-0 lead on a pair of goal by Dillon Bradley, the first on a corner kick from Liam Collins, and the second a shot from 25 meters that Dillon lofted over the manchild in the Bedford goal. The Bulldogs pulled a goal back to make the score 2-1, but Nico Mayo-Pushee toe-poked a ball past the keeper for a 3-1 lead. Bedford came within a goal again before the end of the half on a far post conversion, but that was the end of the scoring.
Hanover's defense tightened in front of Sam Gallimore in goal and the Marauders continue to press all over the field, keeping Bedford at bay throughout the rest of the half and putting a bow on a satisfying victory.
There will be little time to savor the win. The Marauders return to action Saturday morning with a 10:00 kickoff at Merriman-Branch Field against Manchester Central. Players should report at 9:00 sharp in white so that they can sit for their team photo. The Breakfast Club!
Hanover's defense tightened in front of Sam Gallimore in goal and the Marauders continue to press all over the field, keeping Bedford at bay throughout the rest of the half and putting a bow on a satisfying victory.
There will be little time to savor the win. The Marauders return to action Saturday morning with a 10:00 kickoff at Merriman-Branch Field against Manchester Central. Players should report at 9:00 sharp in white so that they can sit for their team photo. The Breakfast Club!
Thursday, September 3, 2015
Marauders Win Home Opener Against Exeter 2-0
Hanover played its best soccer of the young season at just the right time, dominating a good Exeter team and earning a satisfying 2-0 win in the home opener at Merriman-Branch Field. First half goals by Jamie Dinulos and Asa Berolzheimer and a stifling defense gave Hanover a well-needed win as they prepared for a showdown next Tuesday with preseason favorite Londonderry.
The familiar surroundings of their home pitch were just what the doctor ordered for the Marauders, who got to work on attacking Exeter right from the start, and enjoyed a one-sided advantage in possession, shots, and corner kicks. Several Hanover attackers had good looks at the goal in the early going, including Jake Acker and Joanh Levine from long range, and Jamie Dinulos, Sam Strohbehn and Seth Stadheim in the goal mouth. Exeter goalkeeper Caden Blazek made one spectacular save on a close-in shot, and Ian Caldwell nearly found the range on a back post header on one of the none corner kicks taken by the Marauders.
Twenty minutes into the match, Hanover broke on top on a great individual effort by Jamie Dinulos, who tallied his third goal of the season after a dazzling run down the left side. The senior striker blew past his defender, cut in front of the goal, and buried a short range shot to give the Marauders a lead they would never relinquish.
Exeter gamely tried to counterattack, but could never establish possession in the Hanover end, thanks to dominating play in the center of the park. Ian Caldwell and Jonah Levin owned every ball in the air, and Asa Berolzheimer's cool field generalship allowed the Marauder to continually cycle and reset their offense. Exeter midfielder Hunter Smith managed to squeeze off a shot while sandwiched between two defenders, but Connor Edson had no trouble making an easy save.
With less than a minute to play, the Marauders connected four straight passes in the Exeter end and took advantage of a great off the ball run by Seth Stadheim to free up junior midfielder Marcus Helble at the top of the box. Helble first a hard ball to the feet of Belolzheimer, who redirected it into the net for a 2-0 lead that would be insurmountable. It was Berolzheimer's fourth goal, and gave him a three-game scoring streak.
Knowing the potential danger of a 2-0 lead, the Marauders started strong in the second half. Timmy Alibozek got loose on a breakaway but Blazek stopped his left-footed bid from ten yards. The Marauders came close a few other times, but what was far more impressive was how well Hanover controlled possession of the ball and kept the tempo high. The back four of Caldwell, Pych, Addison Wanner and Will Smith did a wonderful job changing the point of attack, and staying alert for counter attacks.
Caldwell made the key defensive play of the night for the Marauders, snuffing a close-range shot with a timely tackle in the box. All ball. In the tangle that followed Bucket smooshed poor Connor Edson, who had to leave the game long enough for the reporter to review time-honored euphemisms for being hit below the belt. Patrick Logan, resplendent in canary, popped into the game and made a save on a subsequent shot. Meanwhile, on the bench, a minor miracle: Connor spoke! Many of his teammates had never heard him speak before, and it was kind of unsettling. Sort of like the Tin Man in "Wizard of Oz", although instead of asking for oil, Connor was asking for playing time.
A number of players made strong contributions off the bench to keep the game flowing. Jack Hazard and Casey Starr shone at midfield, and Robbie Murdza was particularly strong up top, making a number of sophisticated runs off the ball.
Hanover now faces a significant challenge in their next match. They travel on Tuesday to play Londonderry, a perennial power that has received a lot of interest in preseason predictions. The Lancers beat Spaulding 11-0 in their only match thus far, and they will be welcoming the Marauders to a field where they have never won. The Marauders will train hard on grass the next few days, and should be ready for their next big test.
The familiar surroundings of their home pitch were just what the doctor ordered for the Marauders, who got to work on attacking Exeter right from the start, and enjoyed a one-sided advantage in possession, shots, and corner kicks. Several Hanover attackers had good looks at the goal in the early going, including Jake Acker and Joanh Levine from long range, and Jamie Dinulos, Sam Strohbehn and Seth Stadheim in the goal mouth. Exeter goalkeeper Caden Blazek made one spectacular save on a close-in shot, and Ian Caldwell nearly found the range on a back post header on one of the none corner kicks taken by the Marauders.
Twenty minutes into the match, Hanover broke on top on a great individual effort by Jamie Dinulos, who tallied his third goal of the season after a dazzling run down the left side. The senior striker blew past his defender, cut in front of the goal, and buried a short range shot to give the Marauders a lead they would never relinquish.
Exeter gamely tried to counterattack, but could never establish possession in the Hanover end, thanks to dominating play in the center of the park. Ian Caldwell and Jonah Levin owned every ball in the air, and Asa Berolzheimer's cool field generalship allowed the Marauder to continually cycle and reset their offense. Exeter midfielder Hunter Smith managed to squeeze off a shot while sandwiched between two defenders, but Connor Edson had no trouble making an easy save.
With less than a minute to play, the Marauders connected four straight passes in the Exeter end and took advantage of a great off the ball run by Seth Stadheim to free up junior midfielder Marcus Helble at the top of the box. Helble first a hard ball to the feet of Belolzheimer, who redirected it into the net for a 2-0 lead that would be insurmountable. It was Berolzheimer's fourth goal, and gave him a three-game scoring streak.
Knowing the potential danger of a 2-0 lead, the Marauders started strong in the second half. Timmy Alibozek got loose on a breakaway but Blazek stopped his left-footed bid from ten yards. The Marauders came close a few other times, but what was far more impressive was how well Hanover controlled possession of the ball and kept the tempo high. The back four of Caldwell, Pych, Addison Wanner and Will Smith did a wonderful job changing the point of attack, and staying alert for counter attacks.
Caldwell made the key defensive play of the night for the Marauders, snuffing a close-range shot with a timely tackle in the box. All ball. In the tangle that followed Bucket smooshed poor Connor Edson, who had to leave the game long enough for the reporter to review time-honored euphemisms for being hit below the belt. Patrick Logan, resplendent in canary, popped into the game and made a save on a subsequent shot. Meanwhile, on the bench, a minor miracle: Connor spoke! Many of his teammates had never heard him speak before, and it was kind of unsettling. Sort of like the Tin Man in "Wizard of Oz", although instead of asking for oil, Connor was asking for playing time.
A number of players made strong contributions off the bench to keep the game flowing. Jack Hazard and Casey Starr shone at midfield, and Robbie Murdza was particularly strong up top, making a number of sophisticated runs off the ball.
Hanover now faces a significant challenge in their next match. They travel on Tuesday to play Londonderry, a perennial power that has received a lot of interest in preseason predictions. The Lancers beat Spaulding 11-0 in their only match thus far, and they will be welcoming the Marauders to a field where they have never won. The Marauders will train hard on grass the next few days, and should be ready for their next big test.
Marauder JV Rallies to Beat Exeter 3-2 in Overtime
The Marauder Junior Varsity used depth and character to rally from a two-goal deficit and beat Exeter 3-2 in overtime on a perfect summer afternoon at The Pasture. Exeter had more than 130 players try out for their four teams, and brought a deep and talented JV "A" team to the beautifully-prepared Pasture pitch. After 15 minutes of back and forth soccer, Exeter jumped on top when Hanover failed to clear a corner kick, and the Blue Hawks scored from the scramble. The visitors then doubled the score with a shot from the top of the box, and the Marauders trailed 2-0 at halftime.
Hanover had also been behind in their match at Concord, but this time they mustered the wherewithal to rally. Sander Macaulay continued his sniping for the Marauders, scoring twice in the second half to tie the game at 2-2. One of the goals was an upper 90 offering from the edge of the penalty area.
Normally JV games just end in ties, but the coaches wanted to play more, and the officials were wiling to stay. Thank you, Brian Benoit (former HHS Reserve Coach) and Kevin Talcott! Ben Sobel broke the tie with a blast into the top corner from the edge of the goalie box, and the Marauders earned their second win of the season. This was a great result, because Coach Callanan HATED ties. He always wanted to play overtime, and would have loved everything about today's game.
Hanover had also been behind in their match at Concord, but this time they mustered the wherewithal to rally. Sander Macaulay continued his sniping for the Marauders, scoring twice in the second half to tie the game at 2-2. One of the goals was an upper 90 offering from the edge of the penalty area.
Normally JV games just end in ties, but the coaches wanted to play more, and the officials were wiling to stay. Thank you, Brian Benoit (former HHS Reserve Coach) and Kevin Talcott! Ben Sobel broke the tie with a blast into the top corner from the edge of the goalie box, and the Marauders earned their second win of the season. This was a great result, because Coach Callanan HATED ties. He always wanted to play overtime, and would have loved everything about today's game.
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Freshmen Open The Season With a 6-0 Win at Portsmouth
The freshman Marauders had a big day between the first day of school and
their first soccer match. After a rousing 2 hour and 15 minute bus
ride, the Marauder boys found themselves in hot 85 degree weather, and
on a turf pitch nearly identical to the one at HHS. Hanover played great
possession soccer from the get-go. It wasn't long before they created
the first scoring chance of the game. Liam Collins took a corner from
the right side which grazed the post and popped up into six yard box, where a
Portsmouth Clipper had the ball hit him in the chest and instinctively
wrapped his arms around it. Hanover was awarded a penalty. It was taken by Andy Rightmire right into the keeper's chest but called back since a
Portsmouth player had crossed over the 18. Elias Zinman would convert
on the re-take of the penalty in the 7th minute. Hanover would continue
the pressure with Bauti Gallino rocking the right post with a blast in
the 10th minute. The Marauders would add another goal by continuing to apply
pressure. After a short goal kick to a defender by the Portsmouth
keeper, Christo Dragnev sent the ball toward the middle with a hard
challenge, where Nico Mayo-Pushee buried it on the right side. Through
the rest of the first half Hanover continued to play its possession
game. The Hanover wing and full backs caught Portsmouth offsides by
keeping flat and not getting sucked back with Portsmouth players making
vertical runs. Portsmouth would have one scoring chance before the half,
and that was broken up by a Gary Li sliding tackle just above the 18, and
keeping a man from making a solid strike with his right.
After having put together an excellent first half, Hanover continued its excellent play in the second half. The Marauders kept pressure in the attacking third and continued to cross balls right in front of the goal mouth. This earned them a corner which Liam Collins again took from the right side. The ball would sail just over the keeper to the far post where Dillon Bradley would put his head on it to the back of the net in the 55th minute. After the restart for the fourth quarter (yes, we played four 20 minute quarters due to the heat), Portsmouth played the ball back, where Christo Dragnev won the ball right above the 18. Christo proceeded to make shot fakes and cut backs and dangled the ball in front of three defensive players. Around six yards above the touch line, he flipped it right over the keeper to the far post where Collins would net it with a header in the 61st minute. The freshman continued to play hard all the way down the bench. After Caleb Benjamin had a shot blocked, Matt Alibozek and Will Laycock applied pressure on the defense. This led to a defensive player putting a small touch on the ball to the keeper, who picked it up, giving us an indirect about level with the six on the right side. Adam Blackburn gave clean pass up to Bauti on the 18 who one timed straight to the back netting in the 75th minute. Portsmouth would try to really push up at the end of the game, and gave some real pressure. After receiving a free kick just above the 18, Hans Williams gave a booming kick that split the Portsmouth center backs and found Matt Alibozek waiting. Matt sprinted with the ball on his foot, taking three touches before being confronted by the keeper around the 18. Matt calm slid it past the goalie, getting a roller across the touch line to finish the scoring in the 78th minute.
Overall it was a total team effort. Success like this does not come from the individuals without having the support of all teammates. Center backs stabilized our back line and distributed the ball well. Wing backs gave tremendous support on outside play in the attacking third. Outside midfielders stayed wide, and played the ball perfectly to the corners. Center midfielders spaced well and swung the ball laterally. Strikers applied pressure and made the defense make mistakes that cost them. Hans Williams was appropriately the loudest person on the pitch yelling away, step, or drop as needed. A great first game, and something to truly build on.
After a day of practice Thursday, the Freshmen return to the road on Friday with a game at Bedford.
Dismissal is AFTER sixth period, not in the middle of it.
After having put together an excellent first half, Hanover continued its excellent play in the second half. The Marauders kept pressure in the attacking third and continued to cross balls right in front of the goal mouth. This earned them a corner which Liam Collins again took from the right side. The ball would sail just over the keeper to the far post where Dillon Bradley would put his head on it to the back of the net in the 55th minute. After the restart for the fourth quarter (yes, we played four 20 minute quarters due to the heat), Portsmouth played the ball back, where Christo Dragnev won the ball right above the 18. Christo proceeded to make shot fakes and cut backs and dangled the ball in front of three defensive players. Around six yards above the touch line, he flipped it right over the keeper to the far post where Collins would net it with a header in the 61st minute. The freshman continued to play hard all the way down the bench. After Caleb Benjamin had a shot blocked, Matt Alibozek and Will Laycock applied pressure on the defense. This led to a defensive player putting a small touch on the ball to the keeper, who picked it up, giving us an indirect about level with the six on the right side. Adam Blackburn gave clean pass up to Bauti on the 18 who one timed straight to the back netting in the 75th minute. Portsmouth would try to really push up at the end of the game, and gave some real pressure. After receiving a free kick just above the 18, Hans Williams gave a booming kick that split the Portsmouth center backs and found Matt Alibozek waiting. Matt sprinted with the ball on his foot, taking three touches before being confronted by the keeper around the 18. Matt calm slid it past the goalie, getting a roller across the touch line to finish the scoring in the 78th minute.
Overall it was a total team effort. Success like this does not come from the individuals without having the support of all teammates. Center backs stabilized our back line and distributed the ball well. Wing backs gave tremendous support on outside play in the attacking third. Outside midfielders stayed wide, and played the ball perfectly to the corners. Center midfielders spaced well and swung the ball laterally. Strikers applied pressure and made the defense make mistakes that cost them. Hans Williams was appropriately the loudest person on the pitch yelling away, step, or drop as needed. A great first game, and something to truly build on.
After a day of practice Thursday, the Freshmen return to the road on Friday with a game at Bedford.
Dismissal is AFTER sixth period, not in the middle of it.
Marauders Host Exeter Thursday, and Start Their Haven Food Drive
The Marauders will host one of their best rivals Thursday when Exeter comes to town. Hanover has only been playing the Blue Hawks in official Division One play for four years, but they have a friendly rivalry that goes further back. The two teams boast the oldest, crustiest coaches in New Hampshire. Coach Grabill began high school coaching in 1973, and coached his first game in New Hampshire two years later. Exeter Coach Jim Tufts has been coaching Varsity Soccer and Ice Hockey continuously at Exeter for 38 years. He's in at least two different Halls of Fame. His teams play hard and fair, and are very welcome opponents. Exeter, we'll remind you, was the last opposing team to set foot on the turf at Merriman-Branch Field. The Hawks lost to Hanover 2-1 in the NHIAA Quarterfinals late last fall on goals by Jake Acker and Seth Stadheim, and they will be eager to return the favor.
The game will kick off at 6:30, and we are asking everyone who comes to the match to bring with them a non-perishable food item (tuna, peanut butter, soup, cereal) or a check for the Haven. Every year we have worked all season to support the Haven's food pantry. Just this morning I took the remnants of our food from yesterday's bus trip to Concord over to the Haven, and the gratitude with which this modest amount was received reminded me of what an impact we can have. Please consider a generous food donation. We'll be collecting at a table right near the Snack Shack, which will be open for business.
The Junior Varsity will host Exeter at 5:00 at the Rt. 5 fields in Norwich. Players can either drive to the game, ride with parents, or take the practice bus which leaves HHS at 3:50. They are responsible for getting themselves home after the game. Reserves and Freshmen will train at 4:00 at Rt. 5, and take the same practice bus at 3:50. Reserves and Freshmen should dress on the far sidelines closest to the Farmer's Market, and leave the benches in the middle alone for the JV players from Exeter and HHS. There will be a return bus to HHS at 5:30. (Just enough time to do your homework at the school and then stay for the Varsity game!
The game will kick off at 6:30, and we are asking everyone who comes to the match to bring with them a non-perishable food item (tuna, peanut butter, soup, cereal) or a check for the Haven. Every year we have worked all season to support the Haven's food pantry. Just this morning I took the remnants of our food from yesterday's bus trip to Concord over to the Haven, and the gratitude with which this modest amount was received reminded me of what an impact we can have. Please consider a generous food donation. We'll be collecting at a table right near the Snack Shack, which will be open for business.
The Junior Varsity will host Exeter at 5:00 at the Rt. 5 fields in Norwich. Players can either drive to the game, ride with parents, or take the practice bus which leaves HHS at 3:50. They are responsible for getting themselves home after the game. Reserves and Freshmen will train at 4:00 at Rt. 5, and take the same practice bus at 3:50. Reserves and Freshmen should dress on the far sidelines closest to the Farmer's Market, and leave the benches in the middle alone for the JV players from Exeter and HHS. There will be a return bus to HHS at 5:30. (Just enough time to do your homework at the school and then stay for the Varsity game!
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Varsity Battles Concord to a 2-2 Draw
Hanover traveled to Concord on Wednesday and engaged the Crimson Tide in pitched battle which ended in a 2-2 draw. Concord jumped in front in the ninth minute and held the lead until Asa Berolzheimer scored on a sweet header early in the second half to tie the match. Although the Marauders controlled most of the game after the interval, the Crimson Tide re-took the lead, and held on until Berolzheimer's penalty kick tied the match again with three minutes to play in regulation. The two tired teams battled through twenty minutes of golden goal overtime, but the score remained at 2-2. It was an exciting match with moments of brilliance, tainted a bit by physical play and disappointing officiating. In the end, the teams agreed that both teams had showed the capability to be playing late into the playoffs, and perhaps meeting again to resolve the deadlock.
Both teams were feeling each other out in the early stages of the game when Concord scored a shocking goal to snatch a 1-0 lead. Crimson Tide goalkeeper Dylan Thomson, who had already demonstrated a very powerful downfield kick, was given a chance to take a free kick fifteen yards inside his half of the field. He hit a long, high shot that sailed into the Hanover end, screaming out of the high, blazing sun, and carried over Connor Edson and under the bar for a 1-0 lead. The goal energized an already highly-motivated Concord team, which continued to carry an edge on play, led by a strong performance by midfielder Luck Ndahigwa, a native of the Congo who had returned to Concord High after a year with the Seacoast Academy team. Striker Jacob Silverstein almost doubled the lead with a hard shot that hit squarely off the upright. Hanover showed a few signs of life, and earned a free kick at the edge of the Tide box. Asa Berolzheimer's ensuing shot was snuffed by the wall, and the half ended with the home team holding the lead.
Hanover had a chance to collect themselves at halftime, and they took full advantage. The Marauder offense clicked into high gear, and threatened several times before being gifted a chance to tie the game with a dubious penalty kick. The soccer gods correctly directed Berolzheimer's spot kick off of the crossbar, and Hanover was left to find a more legitimate way to tie the match. The wait wasn't long. Adam Pikelney got room on the right flank and centered a ball into the Tide box, and Berolzheimer launched a wonderful header past Thomson to tie the match. It was Pikelney's third assist of the season.
Hanover continued to press, but Concord stayed dangerous, and on one of their few forays into the Marauder end the Tide un-tied the match in the 62nd minute when defender Liam Bennett curled out of the corner and hit a left footed shot into the upper right corner of the Hanover net. This would be a true character test for the Marauders, and they were equal to the task. Hanover got a lift from several subs on a very hot afternoon. Casey Starr worked free for a dangerous shot that forced Thomson to make an excellent save. A few minutes later, Seth Stadheim hit a shot that was headed for a certain goal until Thomson denied him with a desperate dive. Hanover kept pressing, and as time ran down they mounted a furious flurry of shots, one of which was clearly handled by a defender on the ground.
The Marauders were awarded another penalty, and this time Berolzheimer made good, blasting the ball past the the talented but demonstrative Thomson to knot the game. Hanover actually had one more good chance before overtime, but the clock ran out, and the two teams tried to regroup for 20 minutes of golden goal overtime. Hanover had the better of the play in the first overtime, with Ian Caldwell making a dangerous run into the box, only to come up just a bit short. Coach Grabill went with fresh legs to start the second overtime, and the move almost paid off when Griffin Johnson found himself open at the far post and on the end of a cross. His header just glanced off the post, however. Neither team had much of a chance in the waning minutes, which featured several dangerous fouls by the host team.
There will be much to learn from this early-season showdown between playoff contenders. Both teams missed plenty of scoring opportunities, and there will be players on both teams who will want to atone for mistakes in execution and attitude. Hanover was given two yellow cards, and although it can be argued that neither one was justified, it's nevertheless a sobering total. In the 39 games played by Hanover in 2013 and 2014, they collected a grand total of three cards. So, there's room for improvement.
Luckily, opportunity is knocking. On Thursday night, the Marauders will welcome Exeter High School, another legitimate title contender, to Merriman-Branch Field for a 6:30 kickoff. Interestingly, this is the second game in a row between Hanover and Exeter on the turf. Hanover's last home game in 2014 was a thrilling quarterfinal victory over the Blue Hawks that propelled them to the semifinals. Now Exeter is back, fresh off a season-opening 6-0 victory. They will be leaded and eager to make a statement. Fortunately, Hanover has a pretty good record in night games at home. Be sure to bring your friends!
Both teams were feeling each other out in the early stages of the game when Concord scored a shocking goal to snatch a 1-0 lead. Crimson Tide goalkeeper Dylan Thomson, who had already demonstrated a very powerful downfield kick, was given a chance to take a free kick fifteen yards inside his half of the field. He hit a long, high shot that sailed into the Hanover end, screaming out of the high, blazing sun, and carried over Connor Edson and under the bar for a 1-0 lead. The goal energized an already highly-motivated Concord team, which continued to carry an edge on play, led by a strong performance by midfielder Luck Ndahigwa, a native of the Congo who had returned to Concord High after a year with the Seacoast Academy team. Striker Jacob Silverstein almost doubled the lead with a hard shot that hit squarely off the upright. Hanover showed a few signs of life, and earned a free kick at the edge of the Tide box. Asa Berolzheimer's ensuing shot was snuffed by the wall, and the half ended with the home team holding the lead.
Hanover had a chance to collect themselves at halftime, and they took full advantage. The Marauder offense clicked into high gear, and threatened several times before being gifted a chance to tie the game with a dubious penalty kick. The soccer gods correctly directed Berolzheimer's spot kick off of the crossbar, and Hanover was left to find a more legitimate way to tie the match. The wait wasn't long. Adam Pikelney got room on the right flank and centered a ball into the Tide box, and Berolzheimer launched a wonderful header past Thomson to tie the match. It was Pikelney's third assist of the season.
Hanover continued to press, but Concord stayed dangerous, and on one of their few forays into the Marauder end the Tide un-tied the match in the 62nd minute when defender Liam Bennett curled out of the corner and hit a left footed shot into the upper right corner of the Hanover net. This would be a true character test for the Marauders, and they were equal to the task. Hanover got a lift from several subs on a very hot afternoon. Casey Starr worked free for a dangerous shot that forced Thomson to make an excellent save. A few minutes later, Seth Stadheim hit a shot that was headed for a certain goal until Thomson denied him with a desperate dive. Hanover kept pressing, and as time ran down they mounted a furious flurry of shots, one of which was clearly handled by a defender on the ground.
The Marauders were awarded another penalty, and this time Berolzheimer made good, blasting the ball past the the talented but demonstrative Thomson to knot the game. Hanover actually had one more good chance before overtime, but the clock ran out, and the two teams tried to regroup for 20 minutes of golden goal overtime. Hanover had the better of the play in the first overtime, with Ian Caldwell making a dangerous run into the box, only to come up just a bit short. Coach Grabill went with fresh legs to start the second overtime, and the move almost paid off when Griffin Johnson found himself open at the far post and on the end of a cross. His header just glanced off the post, however. Neither team had much of a chance in the waning minutes, which featured several dangerous fouls by the host team.
There will be much to learn from this early-season showdown between playoff contenders. Both teams missed plenty of scoring opportunities, and there will be players on both teams who will want to atone for mistakes in execution and attitude. Hanover was given two yellow cards, and although it can be argued that neither one was justified, it's nevertheless a sobering total. In the 39 games played by Hanover in 2013 and 2014, they collected a grand total of three cards. So, there's room for improvement.
Luckily, opportunity is knocking. On Thursday night, the Marauders will welcome Exeter High School, another legitimate title contender, to Merriman-Branch Field for a 6:30 kickoff. Interestingly, this is the second game in a row between Hanover and Exeter on the turf. Hanover's last home game in 2014 was a thrilling quarterfinal victory over the Blue Hawks that propelled them to the semifinals. Now Exeter is back, fresh off a season-opening 6-0 victory. They will be leaded and eager to make a statement. Fortunately, Hanover has a pretty good record in night games at home. Be sure to bring your friends!
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