UPDATE: Gov. Livingston Blanks Dayton in Boys Soccer 2-0

(Story written by team dad Jeff Bamundo)

Yesterday’s game between Governor Livingston and Jonathan Dayton was billed as a battle of two 12-win teams.  A simple storyline at the outset, but a few twists and turns made this much more than that by the time it was finished.

Both teams faced the challenge of playing on GL’s natural grass field – the old Varsity soccer field nicknamed “The Hill”.  And at times it felt like they were playing on one – having to negotiate their way up and down the pitch on an uneven terrain.

GL seemed to have a better time of handling and controlling the ball with junior Sweeper Mike Bamundo saying “We did a better job of possessing, despite the field conditions, and made the most of our chances.” 

Indeed, the final score line of 2-0 reflected that fact that GL looked more the threat to score all game long. 

And it was once again junior Julian Light who was the spark for the offense on the day, scoring his third goal in the past two games and assisting on the other – a well-taken header by junior Anthony Oliveira on a cross from the end line after some hard work by Light to get it there. 

Freshman Mike McKenna had already assisted on Light’s first half goal that gave GL a 1-0 lead in what was turning out to be a very physical match-up.  There were a number of contentious fouls, resulting in the need for a couple of yellows to be dispensed, as neither team was willing to give in or give up.

But it was Light who was the imposing figure on the day – not just because of his goal and assist, but due to his work rate and the advantage he enjoyed whenever he left the ground to contest for a ball in the air.  Getting him back from the injured list is something akin to a pro team getting a free agent:  He is fresh and hungry and helping his teammates at just the right time in the long campaign.

To be sure, there was solid support from senior midfielders Louie Marke, Jeramey Robbins and stopper Kyle Morris, but the play of Light stood out on the day.

Jon Robbins turned away all 6 shots he faced and improved his season total to 8 shutouts in GL’s 13th win (13-1-1), while Dayton left the game with a 12-3-1 record on the year.

The only blemish on the outcome was a late game injury to junior Right Back Torben Halvorsen who will miss today’s 6:00 kick-off at New Providence.  He is a critical component of a solid back four which makes up Coach Bruno Somma’s defense, a definite worry with States scheduled to begin next Tuesday, November 1st.

The Highlanders lone loss coming at the hands of Linden in the county tournament. Light and Mike McKenna added assists versus Dayton.