Ballston Spa 7-0-1 to Begin Season
BALLSTON SPA – The Ballston Spa boy’s soccer varsity team has served notice that they intend to be a force this season.
“We’ve got 23 seniors on our roster, it’s very deep.” Coach Garry Preece said. “They’ve got a very high skill level, and, because they have played so much together, a very good level of communication with each other.”
Indeed, crisp passing and a stout defense, anchored by goalie Rylie Hall, have been hallmarks of their play this season. Heading into Thursday’s matchup with Shenendehowa, the Scotties are undefeated, with a record of 7-0-1, with seven straight victories and three consecutive shutouts: Versus Troy (4-0) on September 10), at Columbia (5-0) on September 12, and a 1-0 shutout versus Colonie on September 15.
Coach Preece described the match against Colonie as “… a big win. Colonie has 17 seniors on their roster, and one of the top goalies in section 2, as well as other top prospects. It was a tough battle, a very physical game.”
“It showed that our kids are in great shape. That, combined with a deep roster, we were able to overcome having one of our top players (Griffen MacWatters) sitting out for this one.” Coach Preece said
The win over Colonie was the fourth shutout this season for Ballston Spa, and this does not include a scoreless tie that they had to begin the season against Shaker on August 27. Their first shutout (2-0) of the season was recorded at a September 1 match at Niskayuna.
Ballston Spa’s other victories were registered against Proctor of Utica (2-1) on September 1, Saratoga Springs (5-2), both at home, and a win (2-1) against Albany on September 8 at Bleeker Stadium.
Overall, the Scotties have scored 21 goals in their eight games to begin the season, while surrendering a paltry four!
Coach Preece declined to name any particular team that might present a challenge to Ballston Spa’s undefeated record, stating “there are many fine teams in the Suburban Council.” He did say that he was looking forward to the match against Bethlehem on Tuesday, October 6 under the lights (7 p.m. start) during Homecoming Week. But he left no doubt that he was proud of his squad and its future prospects. “I’m looking forward to a great season.” He said.
UPDATE:After this story went to press, Ballston Spa visited Shenendehowa on Thursday afternoon and posted it's 8th win of the season with a 2-1 victory. Despite a 0-1 deficit at the half, the team bounced back to tie the game with 32:41 remaining in the second half.
Colby Obrecht finished a deflected cross for the equalizer. After dominating play for the majority of the second half, Connor Defilippis found the back of the net with a free kick with under a minute remaining. The team played hard despite the heat and improves to 8-0 for the season.
