Chapman Goals Send Holmdel Boys Varsity On To Sectional Finals

Photo: For Holmdel: #14 Hunter Chapman

For the fourth time in five years, the Holmdel boys varsity team will be playing in the Central Jersey sectional finals. The Hornets recorded a big win today, by beating Bordentown 2-1, in sudden death overtime, in the Central Jersey Group II semi-finals game to advance.

It was a nail biter for Holmdel fans, as the two teams finished the first half locked in a scoreless tie. But it wasn’t for Holmdel’s lack of trying or lack of possession. The Hornets dominated the first half and kept Bordentown’s keeper Dino Gromitsaris under constant pressure. But, Holmdel came into the game today knowing that Gromitsaris had a reputation for being a strong keeper and he did not disappoint. He was able to put up 18 saves during the game to keep Holmdel out of the back of the net.

Holmdel came out a little flat to start the second half, and Bordentown was able to take advantage of that let down and convert off a free kick just outside the 30 yard line to get on the scoreboard first. But, Holmdel Coach John Nacarlo was able to keep his team focused and composed and 5 minutes later, Holmdel equalized on a goal by junior Hunter Chapman, assist by senior Gino D’Agostino. Holmdel continued to dominate after scoring their goal, but despite the pressure, could not connect again before the end of regulation. Meanwhile, the amazing play by Holmdel’s back 4, Nicolas Zolofra, Eric D’Aleo, Brian Healy and Tom Rogan, gave Bordentown very little chance to get to their goal. Holmdel’s defense has been a big part of the story in the second half of the Hornet’s season.

Overtime began the way regulation ended, with heavy pressure on the Bordentown keeper. Overtime is two 10 minute periods with the first to score winning. Holmdel kept pressing forward, with midfielders Menos Hiras, Rob Ceriello and Nick Chrystal doing a good job of controlling the middle. That pressure led to a Bordentown turn over out of bounds. Sophomore Brendan Wall, Holmdel’s go to guy for throw in’s, was able to place the ball perfectly, throwing it about 30 yards right into the center of the box. There, Chapman, was able to get a foot on it and slide it through the scrum right into the net. It was a busy night for Chapman, as that overtime score was his second goal of the game.

Holmdel’s victory tonight advances them to the Central Jersey Group II Sectional Finals against #13 Governor Livingston High School, from Union, NJ. Governor Livingston upset the #1 seed Point Pleasant Boro earlier today to earn a trip to Holmdel to play the #7 seeded Hornets. That game will be at 2 pm this Thursday at Bob Roggy Memorial Field at Holmdel High School.

The fans will be out in full force this week. Tuesday at 4 pm the girls square off in their own semi-final game for their chance to follow the boys to the sectional finals as they play against Bordentown at 4 pm at Bob Roggy Memorial Field at Holmdel High School.

Please come out and support both teams this week. Be loud, wear blue. Hornets Pride. See you there.