Peter Conway
Staff Writer
On Wednesday the boys soccer team competed in their second round of playoffs against Saint John’s Prep and fell short 2-0. The Ghosts entered the playoffs as the the number eight seed and today lost to the number four seed. Now, the season is over.
Saint John’s fans lined the fence of the pitch and filled the stands. Class had just got out and this is where they came. It was intimidating for some Westford parents as they straggled in the stands and tried to fend for themselves.
The game was off, and the ball began to move quickly. Westford and Saint John’s were fierce in their attempts, acknowledging the importance of the game.
An early rush by Saint John’s Prep sent Sam Brewer, senior goalie, diving to his right to break up the offensive drive. The momentum shifted in the Prep’s favor as they put the the pressure on Brewer and his defense.
The defense grinded out as long as they could until a ball was rocketed in front of the net on a corner kick. One of the opposing players pushed from the ground and whipped his leg over his head to redirect the floating ball past Brewer. The bicycle kick left the fans in awe as the Saint John’s players celebrated on the field. 12:16 left in the first, it was 1-0 SJP.
Westford Academy demonstrated their willingness to compete as they defended the net for the rest of the half. Senior Eashan Jani had two consecutive stops on fastbreaks. He used his speed to catch the break and force the ball off of the opposing player’s course.
Westford was eager to create offense heading into the second half but was shut down on several opportunities. The Ghost had the chances, but the luck just was not there for them.
Ten minutes into the second half SJP scored again. The goal was initiated by a free kick, that was then headed high for an easy tap in by the goalscorer. Saint John’s Prep 2-0.
Westford was not convinced that the game was over. They persisted with their offensive attempts. Arman Almaisan, sophomore, had multiple strong rushes with the ball but unfortunately was unable to put the ball in the net.
The Ghosts’ season came to an end with their 2-0 loss, and now must look forward to next year’s season.
