NJ.com West Orange hands Newark Academy its first loss of year in dramatic fashion

Despite playing 90% of the game, Rayel was a force all over the field. Defensively, he set the tone with his presence and ability to not only control our defense but also was able to transition the ball so that we could control possession. Offensively, he was able to move the ball around and occupy a majority of Newark Academy’s attention so that others could score.

Talk about throw back players, Verrick proved to be just that. Verrick played through a nagging injury not only help defensively but to also score the game tying goal with 1 minute remaining.

Fighting thru illness is a very difficult task to accomplish but Remy did just that. Remy led us offensively once again with 3 goals and 1 assist, despite being home with a fever 24 hours earlier. He willed himself to remain a force with his timely ability to gain control of critical ground balls.

One of the most dominant LSM performances one could ask for. Ryan dominated the entire game from the initial face-off to the final horn as he helped control the tempo and physicality of the game. Our physical presence was the key in handing Newark Academy their first defeat of the season, and Ryan was a huge part of that.

What else can be said about Mr Rodas-Reyna that we haven’t said before. Watching his goalie development right before our eyes Nicolas not only stepped up to be our goalie this season and despite never playing before he has proven to be one of the best goalies in the area.

Tyrone “Tizzy” was an impact player from the initial face off to the final defensive stand. Tyrone used his aggressive style of play to help us gain offensive possession, which led to our comeback , while at the same time being a focal point of our zone defense.

We’re so glad to have Jake back in the lineup, any time you are missing a majority if your offensive fire power somewhere someone has to step up. By hitting the game winning goal with just 26 seconds, “Big Jake” proved to be that guy. In only his second game back from injury, Jake shook off the rust and helped propel us to victory with his pin point passing and timely goals.