Mattice Scores in OT to Give MCS Sectional Win

Photos by Bob Roney

MIDDLEBURGH - Third-seeded Middleburgh held off a determined Hartford squad Friday to win in overtime at home in the Class D quarterfinal.

Hartford played tough defensively and were strong on 50/50 balls, but the Knights found a way to win in the end. Hartford came close, hit the crossbar and post and keeper Robbie Narzymski turned away a breakaway for MCS.

The Knights mounted several good attacks, but could not get the ball past Hartford keeper Daman Duhame until the extra period.

With about five minutes left in the first overtime, Connor Mattice was able to come up the right side and hit a shot from about 25 yards to secure the win for Middleburgh.

This was a hard fought battle and both sides showed effort and determination.

Middleburgh and Hartford team captains and coaches getting instructions from the officials.

Middleburgh's Liam Delaney bringing the ball up field. Being defended by Hartford's #10.

Middleburgh's #1, Trey Ruise, getting a pass from a teammate and going up field. A Hartford defender is trailing the play.

Middleburgh's #5, Jakob Lloyd and #2, Billy Martinez double team Hartford's #7 to take the ball away.

Middleburgh's #25, Connor Mattice taking ball passion away from Hartford's #11.

Middleburgh's #5, Jakob Lloyd prepares to clear the ball up field.

These Middleburgh ball boys did a great job of getting out of bounds ball back in play. By keeping balls ready for play at all times keeps a soccer game rhythm going.

Hartford's #7 is shown receiving a pass from a teammate. Middleburgh's #25, Connor Mattice is defending the play.

Middleburgh's Sal Fileccia Jr. taking a goal kick.

Middleburgh's #5, Jakob Lloyd and Hartford's #15 scramble for a loose ball.

Middleburgh captain JJ Narzymski and a captain from Hartford getting ready for the coin toss to start the overtime period and getting instructions about rules.

Middleburgh players celebrate a goal by Connor Mattice in the first overtime period to win the game. Connor is pictured in the middle of the photo being congratulated by #2, Billy.