Toby Morollo
Sports Reporter
On Saturday the Newton South boys’ soccer team tied Newton North in a back and forth 1-1 game, clinching a playoff spot in the MIAA State Tournament for the first time since 2010.
With minimal chances for both teams, the game was scoreless for the first half after a strong initial attack from North in the first ten minutes of the game. Soon after, South settled into the game and took control for the rest of the first half.
In the second half, the boys pushed North’s solid defense and were able to score, with a goal by junior captain Alec Szwarcewicz assisted by Nathaniel Ervin. In the closing parts of the game, the boys were anxiously holding onto their lead to pick up the point they needed for a playoff spot.
Senior Goalie Dan Epstein credited the team for coming together to produce a great team goal
“In the second half we came fired up and continued our momentum, and managed to get a great team goal” Dan Epstein said.
North’s offense was pushing for a late goal, putting high pressure on South’s defense for the remainder of the game. Soon enough they were able to break through and score the tying goal, with ten minutes left in the second half.
Needing at least a tie, the boys played a defensive game to keep it 1-1. Strong defense from juniors Noah Whiting and Bennett Walkes, as well as goalkeeper Dan Epstein, prevented another goal.
“We were just trying to hold on to the tie, trying to keep the ball in their half as much as possible,” senior Noah Gans said.
The Lions finished off the final minutes of the game maintaining possession and halting North’s offense to clinch the playoffs.
Making the playoffs has been a challenging task for the boys, but all season the team has been working harder than ever.
For senior captain Peter Stephens the moment was symbolic of a season of hard work.
“We are so happy and have worked so hard for this moment,” senior captain Peter Stephens said.
Only one other boys soccer team has made it to the playoffs in Newton South history, making this a truly special accomplishment for the program. South proved to the DCL what they were capable of and now await the playoffs.
Gans concluded, “we have faced adversity and yesterday was a testament to our ability to overcome obstacles and work together to make a common goal successful. Now it’s time to surprise a few teams.”
