Down to the Wire, Aces Prevail Over Parkland, 1-0

In a game that seemed destined to stay even, the Lower Merion boys varsity soccer team found hope with a last minute goal to defeat Parkland High School, 1-0, and remain undefeated and untied on the young season.

The teams played even throughout the first half of the game on Saturday, Sept. 11. Neither side was able to put together meaningful scoring chances and test the other's goalkeeper. Both teams moved with the ball well, but the defenses ruled the pitch.

A scary moment came early in the game for Lower Merion, when senior Mike Lemmick was struck in the head with the ball. Lemmick went to the ground and showed signs of dizziness. According to league rules, any player that shows signs of a concussion must leave the game and is barred from reentry until cleared by a physician. With none on hand, Lemmick was forced to watch the game from the sidelines.

Lower Merion's Nate Dehl also spent time off the field in the first half, pulled for five minutes after being shown a yellow card.

When the Aces took the field in the second half, it was like a new game. The team played with renewed intensity under head coach Nico Severini's encouragement. A number of chances were deterred by Parkland's still excellent defense, and a failed penalty kick for Lower Merion added to the frustration.

As the minutes of the second half ticked toward the close, it looked like there might be a 0-0 draw.  Then with just three minutes left in the match, the Aces put together a scoring opportunity and senior Sasha Stefavi slipped one past the Trojan's keeper who had been stalwart all day – the Aces first and only goal. 

Ace's goalie Jon Greelich deflected a shot in the final minute to preserve the shutout and secure the 1-0 win.