Monday’s Schedule & Scoreboard – 10/03/22

Today’s games are listed below.

Boys Soccer
North Attleboro, 0 @ Foxboro, 1 – FinalFoxboro broke into the win column, riding a first half goal to pick up two points against visiting North Attleboro. After a nice defensive play in the midfield by junior Ryan Flaherty, the Warriors were able to push forward into the attack. A nice run from senior Joel Gygi down the left side resulted in a cross that was parried by the keeper but right to senior Alex Penders, who blasted a low shot into the net for the lone goal of the game in the 23rd minute.

Attleboro, 1 @ Sharon, 1 – FinalAttleboro took the lead in the first half but Sharon found a late equalizer to split the points. Esvin Morales scored off of an assist from Alex Vecchioli in the first half, and the Bombardiers carried that lead late into the game before Sharon’s Adam Eastman headed in a cross with five minutes left to tie it.

Taunton, 3 @ Oliver Ames, 8 – FinalOliver Ames had an offensive outburst to the tune of seven half goals on its way to a win over visiting Taunton. Sophomore Casey Milliken had a first half hat trick and capped OA’s scoring with his fourth goal in the second half. Andrew Martins added a first half brace (both assisted by Ryan Linhares), Mirray Dasilva had a goal and an assist, and Jason Zalis netted his second goal of the season in the win.

Milford, 9 @ Stoughton, 1 – FinalMilford’s offense was clicking on all cylinders in a big win on the road at Stoughton. Eduardo Santana had a big day with a first half hat trick, twice hooking up with Jonny Castro and one assist from John Borges. Castro had a third assist in the opening half, setting up Arthur Tome — who finished with a brace and two assists. Nate Dinis (from Nick Ribeiro), Marcello Alves (from Miguel De Olivera), Danny Da Silva, and Andre Baiano also scored for the Scarlet Hawks.

Franklin, 1 @ Mansfield, 0 – FinalFranklin scored the lone goal of the game just past the midway point of the second half to earn a hard-fought two points on the road against a tough Mansfield squad. Andrew O’Neill was there to pounce on the rebound of a shot from Will Kryzak in the 63rd minute for the lone goal of the game. “Mansfield really made us work for this one,” said Franklin head coach Fran Bositis. Mansfield applied a lot of pressure over the final 15 minutes but couldn’t find the equalizer. Mansfield coach Steve Sheridan praised his defense, highlighting strong performances from Brendan Flynn and goalie Liam Doyle.

King Philip, 3 @ Canton, 5 – FinalClick here for a Photo Gallery from this game.Jake McCabe recorded a second half hat trick to lead Canton to an important two points against visiting King Philip. McCabe had an assist on Canton’s opener, just three minutes in, using a clever touch on a near post run to set up freshman Vlad Francoeur for an open night right in front. The Warriors leveled the match just under 10 minutes later as Andrew Seropian played a great through ball to Matt Crago, who tucked a shot past the keeper in the 12th minute. The Bulldogs went back ahead in the 29th minute as sophomore Owen Morrissey notched his first career goal by heading in a cross to the far post from senior Carson Eagles. In the second half, McCabe scored twice inside the first 15 minutes, racing onto a ball over the top and beating the keeper 1-v-1, and then off of a deflected throw-in in the 54th minute to make it 5-1. King Philip scored twice in the final 10 minutes, first off of a deflection for a goal to Deven Patel, and then in the final moments when junior Keagan Fletcher played classmate Jack Morgan through for a breakaway.




Girls Soccer
Sharon, 5 @ Attleboro, 1 – FinalClick here for a Recap and Photo Gallery from this game.

Canton, 0 @ King Philip, 3 – FinalElla Pisani scored a brace and the KP defense was able to quiet Canton’s potent attack to pick up an impressive win and move alone into first place in the Kelley-Rex division. Addisyn Lamothe-Vaughn tapped in a corner, assisted by Kylie Menendez, in the 28th minute for what turned out to be the game-winner. Pisani would add a pair of second half goals to seal the win. The first came with 19 minutes to play, taking a pass from Menendez and firing a shot over the keeper from 25 yards. With two minutes left, Pisani tapped in a perfect cross from Heidi Lawrence. Lauren Casper got the clean sheet in net, making five saves. KP coach Gary Pichel made a point of praising his back line, Grace Lawler, Rihanna Mason, Rylie Wesley, and Lamothe-Vaughn for its play in the shutout.

Foxboro, 1 @ North Attleboro, 1 – FinalNorth scored in the closing seconds to rescue a point against Foxboro. Trailing by a goal late, Emma Pratt scored the equalizer on a rebound after a cross from Kaitlyn Joyce. The Warriors had the majority of possession throughout and took the lead when Neve Taylor found the back of the net from a Lindsey Resnick assist.

Mansfield, 0 @ Franklin, 0 – FinalMansfield and Franklin were unable to find the back of the net and settled for a point apiece in a hard-fought game. Franklin coach Tom Geysen said that it was evenly matched and well-played by both teams, while Mansfield coach Kevin Smith said there was a playoff intensity to the match. Mansfield keeper Olivia Salisbury made four saves to earn her fifth clean sheet.

Stoughton, 4 @ Milford, 3 – FinalStoughton rallied from a three-goal deficit and Makenzie O’Connor scored with just two minutes to play to secure a dramatic come-from-behind victory. Ava Baglione scored twice and Dani Atherton added a third to put the Hawks into a 3-0 lead. Shayla Ford scored once to get back within two before halftime and then added her second to make it 3-2 after the break. Bianca Casna tied the game for the Black Knights, before O’Connor, who also had an assist, fired in the winner.

Oliver Ames, 6 @ Taunton, 1 – FinalJenna Gilman scored twice to lead OA to a big road win Emma Gavin, Mary Cross, Jolie Diaz, and Laney Carroll each added one for Oliver Ames in the win while Lucinda Li Cotter had three assists and Sophia Byron had one Jenna Nelson and Ali Manson also added strong performances for the visitors. Juliana Matos scored Taunton’s lone goal on an assist from Emily Calderon and keeper Ashlyn Hebert made eight saves. Taunton coach Dan Borges was happy with his team’s effort and aggression in the second half and the way the Tigers kept fighting despite being behind.








Field Hockey
Sharon, 0 @ Attleboro, 7 – FinalJunior Siobhan Landers scored a hat trick and senior Marley Young had three assists as Attleboro rolled to a big win at home. Landers scored a trio of goals, including one on a stroke, senior Jordan Mooney added a pair of goals, and both sophomore Nora Desrosiers and junior Bailey Ellis scored once in the win. Senior Alyvia Bessette also had an assist while sophomore Siany Ortez recorded the shutout in net.

Foxboro, 3 vs. North Attleboro, 1 – FinalFoxboro junior Mary Collins scored twice and added an assist on the third as the Warriors earned a hard-fought win over North Attleboro. Jenny Gallagher opened the scoring for Foxboro on a pass from Collins, who then scored back-to-back goals for the Warriors. Mia Dinunzio and Mya Waryas had the assists on Foxboro’s second goal while Val Beigel and Dinunzio notched assists on the third tally. Beigel had a standout performance in the midfield for Foxboro while Waryas and Collins both played well offensively.

Mansfield, 0 @ Franklin, 4 – FinalFranklin scored twice in the second quarter, and then once in each the third and fourth, to pick up a win over visiting Mansfield. After a scoreless first quarter, the Panthers got on the board just over midway through the second when Haley Wernig buried an unassisted goal. The Panthers doubled their lead with a minute left in the half as Sydney Rogan set up Kaitlyn Carney to make it 2-0. In the second half, Wernig got her second (from Chloe Essam) with less than a minute left in the third, and Payten Crandall made it 4-0 (from Carney) less than two minutes into the fourth. Devon Barry had the shutout in net for the hosts.

Stoughton, 1 @ Milford, 0 – FinalStoughton returned from a trip to Milford with its first win of the season, recording a 1-0 victory over the Scarlet Hawks. Carly Sanda scored for the Black Knights, converting a pass from Katherine Giroux. Kerry Driscoll and Cat Melo played excellent defense throughout the game to help seal the win for the Black Knights.

Canton, 5 @ King Philip, 2 – FinalDeadlocked at 2-2 at halftime, Canton used a strong second half to secure a key win on the road. Freshman Carolyn Schiavo had a hat trick to pace the offense while Audrey Koen and Ellie Bohane each scored once for the Bulldogs. Abby Macdonald and Mara Boldy (from Kelly Holmes) scored first half goals for King Philip.

Oliver Ames, 2 @ Taunton, 0 – FinalClick here for a Photo Gallery from this game.Oliver Ames scored once in each half to emerge from a defensive battle with Taunton for the win. Erin Cottam scored both goals for the Tigers with Julia Maclaine recording the assist each time. Olivia O’Rourke had the shutout in net for the visitors.




Volleyball
Canton, 0 @ King Philip, 3 – FinalKing Philip took care of business, earning a three-set sweep of visiting Canton (25-9, 25-14, 25-15). The Warriors continued to play well at the net with a balanced attack: senior Emily Sawyer (two blocks) had 11 kills while classmates Sami Shore (two aces) Ahunna James (nine digs), and Olivia O’Neil (five digs) each chipped in with six kills apiece. For Canton, Sally Hoban and Fatima Sidibay played well at the net while Kelly Schiavo and Zoe Scibelli played good defense.

Mansfield, 0 @ Franklin, 3 – FinalTaylor Lacerda and Makayla Kuykendall both had strong games as Franklin notched another 3-0 win (25-17, 25-17, 25-22), this time against a solid Mansfield squad. Lacerda had 11 kills in the win, adding five digs, a block, and an ace while Kuykendall recorded 16 digs, six kills, and four aces.

Foxboro, 2 @ North Attleboro, 3 – Final

Stoughton, 3 @ Milford, 1 – FinalStoughton notched one of its best wins of the season, going on the road and grabbing a 3-1 win over the Scarlet Hawks. Patrik Oliveira anchored the defense for the Black Knights with 12 digs.

Oliver Ames, 3 @ Taunton, 1 – FinalOliver Ames bounced back from a close first set loss to win three straight, taking a 3-1 decision (22-25, 25-7, 25-20, 25-21) over Taunton. Junior Sarah Hilliard continued her strong play at the net with 21 kills and three aces, sophomore Clare Kavoulis had 39 assists, Maddie Homer added 17 digs, Courtney Raymond chipped in with eight aces and five kills, and Addyson Smock finished with six kills and four blocks.

Sharon, 1 @ Attleboro, 3 – FinalAfter splitting the first two sets, Attleboro took two in a row to fend off a stiff test from visiting Sharon, 3-1 (25-8, 21-25, 25-13, 25-17). Julia Leonardo led the offense with 16 kills, nine digs, and two aces, Ellie Shelton added seven kills, and Addie Shelton chipped in with six kills and four aces. Natalie Brojek orchestrated the offense with 30 assists and added five kills as well.

Golf
Taunton @ Attleboro, 2:20

Franklin, 145 @ Oliver Ames, 144 – FinalThe battle of the top two teams lived up to the hype as Oliver Ames earned a one-stroke win over Franklin in a non-league clash between division leaders. The Tigers’ top four of senior Michael McGinnis, senior Daniel Paul, junior David Rodgers, and junior Sean Kearns all shot a 36 at their home course of Pine Oaks for the win. Franklin’s Tyler O’Brien and Jack Hagerty shared medalist honors, both firing a round of 34.

Sharon, 188 @ Mansfield, 160 – FinalDrew Urban fired a medalist round of 38 to lead Mansfield to a win and a season-sweep of now division rival Sharon on the links at Norton Country Club. Nate McClean added a 39 in the win, Jason Friedman finished with a 41, and Hayden O’Connor rounded out the scoring with a round of 42 for the Hornets.

Milford, 168 @ King Philip, 151 – FinalSenior co-captain Gavin Croke shot an even par round of 35 to earn medalist honors and King Philip took down visiting Milford at Wentworth Hills. Croke had birdies on two and six in his medalist round. Ethan Sullivan added a 38 for KP while Cam Hasenfus, Jason Silva, and Evan Regan all came in with a 39.

Canton, 160 @ Stoughton, 173 – FinalCanton hit the road and came back home from Easton Country Club with a win over Stoughton. Brendan Tourgee earned match medalist honors, leading the way for the Bulldogs with a 38. Huck McCready added a 40 in the win and both Matt Anderson and Gavin McMahon shot a 41. Stoughton’s Mason Page and Colby Strunk each shot a 41.

2022 Hockomock League Girls Soccer Preview

2022 Hockomock League Girls Soccer Preview
Franklin will be one of the top teams in the league again this season. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)

By HockomockSports.com Staff

2022 Hockomock League Girls Soccer Preview

Attleboro

2021 Record: 10-8-2
2021 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Round of 32
Coach: Steve Santos
Attleboro ended its long wait for a return to the postseason in 2021 and head coach Steve Santos is hoping that success will breed more winning for the program. The Bombardiers will have a strong foundation this season because of a big senior class and experience across the pitch. If Attleboro can overcome some early season injuries and illnesses, they could be in the mix for another postseason spot.

With 34 goals as a team last year, Attleboro wasn’t one of the league’s most prolific attacking groups, but the Bombardiers have talented players who can make an impact in the final third. Junior Jamie Davies had a breakout sophomore year with nine goals and two assists and will be expected to lead the line this fall. Senior midfielder Kahlan Gray, who is dealing with an injury, can add to the attack either in the center of the field or out on the wing and freshman Tatum O’Brien is a newcomer to the lineup that has a good soccer IQ and will provide playmaking from the center of the pitch. Sophomore Tatum Leahy will give the team a boost after a year on JV.

The Bombardiers are going to be experimenting with defensive groups early in the season. Senior Emily Dunlea is a versatile player who can impact play no matter where she slots in and could be used in the defense at the start. Senior Ella Stromfors is battling illness but will give the team good experience and aggressiveness in the back line and junior Bethany Alves had an impressive sophomore season at the back and can also step into midfield. Junior Presley Biller will also add depth in the defensive unit. Senior Alexis Campbell is back in goal and her composure and vocal leadership will be important to keep things organized while the team gets healthy.

“We’ve had a good preseason,” Santos said. “We have a lot of seniors who are a good group of friends who all look out for each other. We had a good season and now they expect more this year. We want to not just get into the tournament, but win a couple of games.”

Canton

2021 Record: 6-7-5
2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32
Coach: Idris Senyonjo
Canton battled through injuries for much of last season, but the Bulldogs were able to rally and made a playoff push. Entering his third season as coach, Idris Senyonjo has a roster filled with players that understand his style of play and he believes that the Bulldogs will be ready to push on and challenge the top teams in the division.

Senior midfielder Emily McCabe had a breakout season in 2021, becoming the team’s leading scorer and playmaker, and her leadership will be a key to the team’s success this fall. Senior Han Hong and sophomore Paige Sullivan add more experience in the center of the pitch. Up front, sophomores Emma Cahill and Caira McKinney (who missed last season with an injury) will be the top forward options.

Defensively, the Bulldogs graduated several starters, but seniors Kristine Keefe and Sarah Dempster are back and will provide the foundation for the back line. Junior Ava Gilmore is a versatile player who can help out in the midfield or drop into the defense, giving the Bulldogs options in the lineup. Junior Mekhala Costello took a year off to shine on the golf course, but she is back on the pitch this fall and is another dynamic player who can line up in multiple spots.

“Yes we have had multiple players graduate over the past couple of years but this is the first time in my tenure that most of the players from last year will be returning and my hope is that it brings a sense of continuity going into this season,” said Senyonjo. “The best we can do now is prepare to the best of our ability and we will be taking it game by game.”







Foxboro

2021 Record: 16-2-4
2021 Finish: Reached Div. 3 Final Four
Coach: Jen Lippolis
Despite an injury to All-American Kailee McCabe, Foxboro made a historic run to the Div. 3 state semifinal last fall, and the Warriors will try to use that experience to put together another tournament run this season. In addition to the graduation of McCabe, who set a program record with 32 goals in 2021, the Warriors will also be making a change on the sideline with assistant Jen Lippolis taking over for Katie Stalcup.

Foxboro will be young this season but many of those players got valuable experience last fall. Seniors Lauren Miley and Jaclyn Vecchione will be back in the middle of the pitch this season, as junior Erin Foley will be moved further forward to try and bolster the attack. Sophomore Neve Taylor had a strong rookie campaign and will step into a bigger midfield role this year, while senior Grace Riley will give the Warriors a boost when she returns from a preseason injury.

The Warriors were known as an attack-minded team last season, but the defense was excellent, allowing only 20 goals in 22 games and recording three clean sheets in the tournament. Junior sweeper Lindsey Resnick will be back in the heart of the defense and sophomore Sophia Auclair is coming off an impressive freshman season. Sophomore Maddy Luck is another young defender who should be ready for a big step up in responsibility this season. Foxboro should be strong in goal with senior Maddie Maher joined by junior Allie Sougaris, fresh off her playoff heroics.

“We’re excited to be back on the soccer field,” Lippolis said. “We are a young team this year. With the leadership of our returning varsity players, we’re excited for a fun, competitive season.”

2022 Hockomock League Girls Soccer Preview

Franklin

2021 Record: 14-2-2 (Kelley-Rex champion)
2021 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Round of 16
Coach: Tom Geysen

In 2021, under interim coach Jodi Klein, Franklin continued its success in the Kelley-Rex winning a second straight league title. Head coach Tom Geysen is back on the sidelines this fall and the Panthers have a lineup loaded with experience that looks ready to make a challenge for a three-peat.

Defense has long been a strength for the program and last year was no different. The Panthers allowed only 11 goals in 18 matches and bring back one of the league’s top center back pairings. Senior Norah Anderson is a four-year starter in defense and she will be partnered by junior Maddie Horton, who had a breakout sophomore campaign. Junior Rachel Welch will be back in goal behind them and has proven to be one of the league’s top shot-stoppers. Junior Lily Deforge is a versatile player who can also help out at the back.

The Franklin attack took a big step forward last year. Junior Anya Zub moved from the wing to center forward and the reigning HockomockSports.com Underclassman of the Year put together a 20-goal season. Sophomore Kelly O’Connor was a breakout star on the wing who could take over a game. There were a few graduations in the midfield, but seniors Bridget Leo and Avery Greco can control the game in the center of the pitch and create scoring chances for the forward group.

“They have worked incredibly hard all year and done all the things necessary for success,” Geysen said. “All that is left is putting it all together on the field.”




2022 Hockomock League Girls Soccer Preview

King Philip

2021 Record: 12-7-1
2021 Finish: Reached Div. 1 Round of 16
Coach: Gary Pichel
Despite being very young in 2021, King Philip was in contention for the Kelley-Rex title until the final weeks of the regular season and took highly ranked Bishop Feehan to overtime in the Round of 16. With a more experienced roster this year, the Warriors will be looking to take the next step and get back on top of the division for the first time since 2019 and make a deep tournament run.

The Warriors were the third-highest scoring team in the league last year with 57 goals and offense should be a strength again with senior Ella Pisani back to run things in attack. The team’s leading scorer in 2021, Pisani had 19 goals and eight assists last fall and she will be the focal point on offense. KP has talent on the wings that can take advantage of any space defenses leave open. Junior Eilish McGowen and sophomores Danielle Lomuscio and Mikayla Thompson have the pace and skill to create scoring chances as well. The forward line is also boosted by the return of junior forward Heidi Lawrence and senior Danielle Gresham will shore up the midfield.

The defense has plenty of experience from last season. Senior Grace Lawler will be the leader of the back line and continues to be called upon to mark the opposition’s top attacker. Junior Rylie Wesley and sophomores Rihanna Mason and Addisyn Lamothe-Vaughn give KP a lot of athleticism in the defensive third of the field. There will be experience in net as well with the return of senior Lauren Casper and junior Makenna Norrman, who both saw action in 2021.

“I am really looking forward to competing this season with all the great Hockomock teams,” said KP coach Gary Pichel. “We were very young last year. With a year under our belt, we should see improvements across the board in every facet of our game.”

2022 Hockomock League Girls Soccer Preview

Mansfield

2021 Record: 12-5-1
2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 16
Coach: Kevin Smith
Mansfield was in the running for the Kelley-Rex title into the final weeks of the regular season and this year the Hornets will be hoping that their first fall in the Davenport will feature a similar title challenge. With a young roster that features four freshmen and four sophomores, the Hornets will be relying on the upperclassmen to keep the team heading in the right direction in what promises to be a very competitive division.

The Hornets are without their top three scorers from last season (Tarynn Smith, Katie Miller, and Gabby Smith) so there will be room for other players to step in and provide an attacking threat. Senior forward Olivia Homsi will lead the line and junior Carly Devine is a skilled forward who can play up top or just behind the strikers, while senior Abby Jean gives Mansfield speed on the wing. Senior Bridget Hanley is coming off a breakout season in a holding midfield role and could be asked to get forward a little more this season to help support the offense.

Defense was a significant strength for the Hornets last year, allowing only 17 goals in 18 games, including a shutout of Canton in the opening round of the playoffs. Junior Kara Santos is back for her third year in the heart of defense and, although she will have her third center back partner in three years, gives the Hornets a strong foundation. She is also the team’s top returning scorer with seven goals and is a threat on any set piece opportunity. Senior goalie Olivia Salisbury has become one of the league’s top shot-stoppers. They’ll provide vocal leadership for the younger players at the back.

“We have a very young team with many first-year varsity players,” said Mansfield coach Kevin Smith. “We will be leaning on our seniors and returning players to provide leadership as we grow as a team.”

2022 Hockomock League Girls Soccer Preview

Milford

2021 Record: 3-14-1
2021 Finish: Missed postseason
Coach: Lou Colabello

Milford is coming off a three-win season in 2021, but the Hawks are hoping that an influx of young talent from a successful JV team will help them climb the league standings and make a playoff push. The Hawks have 10 seniors and have added seven freshmen who can contribute right away in their first varsity seasons.

The key for Milford this season will be the play of leading scorer Dani Atherton. The four-year starter has been the focal point of Milford’s attack since she jumped on the team and this year head coach Lou Colabello is counting on a move to outside midfield to give her more chances to get on the ball and run at defenders. Freshman Ava Baglione will step in up top and there is hope she can add firepower to the Hawks’ attack. Sophomore Paige Caldon had a good season in attack as a freshman and this year will drop back to help out in the center of the pitch.

Senior Serena Borges will be moved further up in midfield so that she can produce more in the attack, but classmate Brooke Ferreira will be pushed from midfield to the back line to cover for preseason injuries. Ferreira will be joined by senior Evalysse Pierce, who is coming back from an injury that kept her out of last season. Freshman Kayleigh Tourtellot is another rookie who should be ready for the physical test of the Hockomock League, while classmate Chloe Murdock will step between the pipes after a strong season as an eighth grader on JV.

“It’s a fun team,” Colabello said about the mix of veterans and talented newcomers. “There is a lot of talent there. We’re deeper than we were last year. We’ll hold our own. We’re hoping to get out of the blocks well and build some confidence.”




North Attleboro

2021 Record: 8-10-2
2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 32
Coach: Geoff Burgess
North Attleboro is making the move back to the Kelley-Rex division this fall and the Rocketeers will be turning to a familiar face on the sidelines, as Geoff Burgess moves back to the girls’ program after coaching the boys for the past few seasons. After graduating 12 players, North will have a lot of new faces implementing a new style this season.

Up top, North will be counting on senior Emma Pratt. After scoring nine goals last year, Pratt is the team’s top returning scorer and will be counted on to give the Rocketeers the firepower to compete with the league’s best. Senior Caroline Ferrin will be one of the key playmakers in the center of the pitch and will help Burgess bring in a more possession-based approach.

The North boys have been known as a strong defensive team and Burgess will hope that solidity carries over to his work with the girls as well. Senior Haley Sinacola will be the team’s leader at the back. Sinacola was the team’s MVP last season and gives North a strong foundation in the defensive third, as well as a constant threat on set pieces. Senior Maddie Ferrin is back in goal for the Rocketeers and adds experience to the back line.

“Lots of changes to the team, the philosophy and the style of play,” said Burgess. “We are still learning about ourselves and who we can be this season. We are going to try and possess the ball and build attacks rather than kick and chase.”

2022 Hockomock League Girls Soccer Preview

Oliver Ames

2021 Record: 14-2-2 (Davenport champion)
2021 Finish: Reached Div. 2 Round of 16
Coach: Britt Sellmayer
Even after graduating 10 players from last season, Oliver Ames looks prepared to defend its Davenport division title. Many of the younger players got experience on the pitch in 2021 and could be poised for big years as they step into larger roles.

OA was second in the league with 68 goals last year and the attack will continue to utilize the speedy wings that have become a signature of the Tigers’ style. Junior Lucinda Li Cotter and senior Jenna Gilman will continue to provide width and service into the box. Senior Carly Gibson will move into the forward line to give additional creativity in the final third.

The midfield will continue to be strong, physical, and direct. Senior Mary Cross will move forward from defense and give leadership in the middle of the field. Sophomore Emma Gavin impressed during her rookie season and gives another weapon in the midfield. Seniors Sophia Byron and Molly Capace will be leaders in a back line that allowed only 11 goals in 18 games last year. Sophomore Taylor deVos is a versatile player who can line up on the wing or at outside back. Sophomore Janiya Matier will be the team’s new keeper this season.

“Even graduating seven senior starters (10 total) we feel we have a competitive team returning this year,” said OA coach Britt Sellmayer. “The key will be returning taking on larger roles and new players having an impact for a successful season.”

Sharon

2021 Record: 3-14-1
2021 Finish: Missed postseason
Coach: Catherine Sullivan
Sharon went through a tough 2021 season, with only three wins, but the Eagles are another team returning the bulk of its roster, and the experience that they have from back to front promises the potential for more positive results in 2022.

The key for Sharon will be senior Sofia Goclowski. The team’s top playmaker, Goclowski is a back-to-box midfielder who will contribute on both ends of the field and, as she continues to develop her finishing, could be ready to lead the Sharon attack. The Eagles will also lean on a pair of underclassmen in the forward line. Sophomore Autumn Simon, who also played in goal last season, makes good runs behind the back line and is one of the team’s top returning scorers. Freshman Jessica Li is an exciting newcomer that will add speed and athleticism on the wing.

Defense will be bolstered by the return of senior Sally Brouhard. After missing all of last season with an injury, Brouhard provides reliability in the back line and is a leader that will keep things organized. Senior Carly Pinnix is another technically proficient midfielder that gives Sharon composure in the midfield and can jump into the attack when she gets the chance.

“With so many returning varsity players, we have strength across every line this season and we have the potential to be very good,” said Sharon coach Catherine Sullivan. “We will need to stay focused and committed to continuous improvement if we are going to be competitive in the challenging Hockomock, but I am excited to see what this talented group can do together.”

Stoughton

2021 Record: 3-15-0
2021 Finish: Missed postseason
Coach: Jon Grant
Stoughton had three wins in 2021, but the Black Knights also displayed potential for a brighter future with a host of underclassmen that looked ready to start competing with the top teams. Former boys coach Jon Grant has taken over the girls’ program this season and he will be focusing on the defensive side of the ball, hoping to shore things up at the back to help secure more positive results.

The Black Knights should be dynamic in the final third this season. Senior Shayla Ford is back for her fourth varsity season and her speed and ability to find space make her a constant threat to the opposition defense. Sophomores Makenzie O’Connor and Bianca Casna both had strong freshman seasons and can cause problems with the ball at their feet. Sophomores Morgan Cook and Emma Tran showed good chemistry in the midfield last year and will help provide the killer pass to the forwards.

After allowing 86 goals last year, defense will be a priority for the Black Knights this year and there were several players who will be leaning on the valuable experience they got in 2021. Senior Sabrina Rodrigues will add a veteran presence, while junior Ally Lada and sophomore Lauren Mitchell will anchor the middle of the back line. Junior Katrina Varnum is a vocal leader in goal.

“This season we are focusing on team and individual defending,” said Grant. “I’m excited to watch this group grow throughout the season and compete in such an extremely competitive league. Everything I’ve thrown at them so far has been received positively. This group is very coachable and has such a passion to learn and get better.”

2022 Hockomock League Girls Soccer Preview

Taunton

2021 Record: 2-15-1
2021 Finish: Missed postseason
Coach: Danny Borges
Taunton is coming off a difficult 2021 season, after just two wins, but there is optimism in the squad with many younger players gaining valuable experience last season. The Tigers will have a new face on the sideline this fall, with Dan Borges taking over. Although new to the Hockomock, Borges spent 34 years as the coach of the boy’s team at Coyle-Cassidy and he is excited about the progress the team has made in picking up his system in the preseason.

Goals were hard to come by at times last season, as Taunton scored only 14 overall and just eight in league play. Senior midfielder Emily Calderon returns to be the team’s primary playmaker and will be counted on to get the Tigers moving upfield into the attack. Junior forwards Jenna Pereira and Ava Alves will be the main targets up top, as Taunton is looking to add more firepower at that end of the field.

On the other side, the Tigers have a question mark in goal with several younger players looking to replace Izzy Anslow, who was impressive between the sticks for the past couple of seasons. Senior Christina Da Costa and junior Cali Melo will give Taunton athleticism and leadership in the back line to try and shore things up and limit the opposition.

“Our team spirit is high, the girls have been working very hard and adjusting to a new game model,” Borges said. “I believe we have a good mix of experience and youth, and we hope to be more competitive in the traditionally strong Hockomock League.”

KP Gets the Crucial Bounce to Edge Out Mansfield

King Philip Girls Soccer
KP freshman Mikayla Thompson (24) celebrates with her teammates after scoring an early goal against Mansfield, which turned out to be the game-winner. (Josh Perry/HockomockSports.com)

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MANSFIELD, Mass. – When Mansfield and King Philip square off on the pitch, it is inevitable that the game will be close, physical, fast-paced, and usually come down to a single bounce of the ball in either direction.

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On Monday night under the lights at Alumni Field, it was the Warriors that got the bounce. Morgan Norrman was able to chase down a long ball over the top, getting enough on it to push it into the path of freshman Mikayla Thompson to apply the finish. Despite Mansfield pressure throughout the second half, particularly on set pieces off the left foot of freshman Gabby Smith, Thompson’s goal held up and KP moved back into first place in the division with a 1-0 win.

“Another Mansfield/KP classic,” said KP coach Gary Pichel after the game. Mansfield coach Kevin Smith agreed. He said, “It was one heck of a game. There is a lot of talent in this league. Great coaching, great players, and the atmosphere was great.”

Pichel added, “We got the first bounce and I was looking for more bounces in the second half. I thought my keeper was outstanding. She came out and made some fantastic plays under pressure. It was a battle of the midfields again, like it usually is with us, and we were just lucky to get the right break at the right time.”

The goal came against the run of play, as the Hornets started brightly. A loose ball in the box gave the hosts two chances to put the ball on target but freshman defender Rihanna Mason, just called up from the JV team, was back on the line to block both efforts. In the 11th minute, Olivia Homsi cut inside from the right wing onto her left foot, but her shot was right at KP keeper Lauren Casper.

Although it was Mansfield that started on the front foot, in the 12th minute it was KP that was ahead on the scoreboard. A long ball over the top put the Mansfield back line under pressure. Normann gave chase and managed to squeeze between the defender and keeper Olivia Salisbury. A toe poke pushed the ball past the onrushing goalie and Thompson kept running to be there for the tap in into an empty net.

It was a first half of few clear-cut chances. Smith, the freshman defender, had a go from 25 yards on a free kick but sent it over the bar. Another Smith free kick in the final minute was only partially cleared and Carly Devine had a half-volley from the edge of the box that also went high.

Mansfield continued to put pressure on the KP defense, but the Warriors held firm with Casper controlling the penalty area, Grace Lawler sweeping up behind the back line, and Rylie Wesley holding up well as the Hornets consistently went down her wing.

“They were picking on our left side,” Pichel explained, “but Rylie played like it was our strong spot. She fought tooth and nail. It was a good battle. She held them off.”

Tarynn Smith had a chance early in the second half, but Casper was able to tip it over her head and then catch. Another cross from the right nearly picked out Smith at the back post, but again the keeper was in the way. Gabby Smith had another good look with a free kick on the right corner of the box and the shot curled inches over the bar.

The Warriors were trying to get forward quickly. Freshman Dani Lomuscio had a solid game in the midfield, sending angled balls out to the wings. It was her through ball that sent Ella Pisani clear down the right channel. KP’s leading scorer put her shot on target but Salisbury was able to palm it over the bar.

It was a rare chance for the visitors. The Mansfield defensive pairing of Smith and Kara Santos managed to repel most of KP’s attacks and leave Salisbury largely untroubled in goal.

“Except for that one long, over the top ball, we clamped down on them really well,” Smith said. When asked about the free kicks from his freshman center back, Smith added, “She’s learning and she’s growing. Her set piece delivery is fantastic.”

As the second half wore on, spurred on by a large crowd on both sides, the game became more frenetic. Mansfield continued to press, trying to avoid a second straight defeat. Devine sent in a low corner from the left that Smith volleyed just wide at the near post. Smith fired in a long free kick that was headed straight across goal. Anna Darlington met it at the far post, but the angle was tight and she only found the side netting.

Smith continued to play provider out of the back. Her ball over the top gave Darlington something to chase. The senior was able to get a toe on it at the edge of the box, but Casper was out quickly and smothered the shot.

It looked like the Hornets may have equalized with four minutes to go. Smith’s free kick was caught by Casper in traffic, but then the ball popped loose and went across the line. Celebrations were immediately cut short, as the official blew for a foul on the keeper.

Smith said, “We found a lot of space between their lines, we were playing quickly, we were finding gaps in their back line and credit to their keeper and their back line, I thought Grace Lawler had a great game, every time we got close they just had that last little touch.”

King Philip (4-1-0) will try to remain unbeaten in league play when it hosts Sharon on Wednesday. Mansfield (2-2-0) hosts Stoughton, trying to end its two-game skid.

Click here for a photo gallery from this game.