The Freshmen will have the day off Tuesday, and resume training the rest of the week. Friday's practice is from 3-4:00 on the HHS Turf.
Monday, September 30, 2019
Sunday, September 29, 2019
Freshmen Beat Concord 3-2; Best Game of the Year
The Marauder Freshmen played their best game of the year on Friday, bouncing back from a disappointing loss to Central to rally and beat an equally strong Concord team 3-2. Jack Gardner scored twice and assisted on a goal by Jack Stadheim to power the offense, and goalkeeper Ty Nolon backed up a strong team defensive effort with his usual calm, efficient goalkeeping.
The game didn’t start well for Hanover. Six minutes into the match, the defense was moving in slow motion as a Concord player waltzed out of the corner and played the ball to an unmarked teammate in front of the Marauder goal for an all-to-easy 1-0 lead. Concord featured featured several very skilled players up top, and three of the biggest players they had encountered all year. We’re talking towering over Gil Gordon big. They also had two players who could send throw-ins into the box on the fly. Hanover pulled it together defensively, but they could not muster much offense until the Marauders subbed, and the duo of Ian Smith and Simon Taenzer showed everyone how it could be done, slicing through the Concord midfield like a hot knife through butter. They and several players off the bench did a great job stabilizing the game. Kudos to Will Taylor, Gil Gordon, Theo Joseph and Alex Brackett, among others. Ty Nolon made several good saves and one exceptional one to keep his team in the game.
Several starters slipped into the game near the end of the half, and with three minutes to go the Marauders tied the match when Jack McGrath won the ball deep in his own half and sent a well-timed ball to Jack Gardner, who raced into the Concord end, held off a pursuing defender, and drilled the ball in to the Crimson Tide net.
Hanover played superbly in the second half. The back line of Owen Smith, Ethan Munson, Wyatt Scam Forbush, Wyatt Sklarin, Jackson Watts, Tom Mosdal and Kevin Choi held their line consistently all day, forcing the skillful by tactically naïve Concord strikers offsides eight times on the afternoon. McGrath, Stazdheim, Taylor and Alex Brackett did a wonderful job at midfield, actually switching the point of attack several times. The match swung back and forth, but Hanover’s depth and effort swung the game. Taenzer and Smith again led the charge. With 12 minutes left, Taenzer, a skillful free kick artist, drilled a corner kick into the box, and Smith timed his run perfectly, met the ball on the fly and drilled it over the bar. It was a harbinger of things to come. Concord was dangerous on the counter attack. Once again the Marauder defense made several key plays. They drew several more offsides calls, and made clutch one on one plays, such as when Tom Mosdal contested a header in the box, denying a dangerous shot and looking like an EPL defender. Minus the shades.
With six minutes to play, Concord gave away an unnecessary corner. “Punish them!” growled Coach Grabil on the bench, as always a comment directed to the acolytes on the bench, and not to the players on the pitch. Always better if they are left to their own devices, for better or worse. This time it was sublime. Jack McGrath took the subsequent corner, driving it perfectly, and Gardner met it at the back post. He’s been working on that. Even better, Gardner and his cohorts knew not to stop playing. Two minutes he broke into the box again and his a shot that forced the Concord goalie to make a spectacular save. He spilled the rebound just a bit, but it was long enough for Jack Stadheim, who had started his run even before there was a loose ball to contest, ghosted into the box and tipped the ball into the net. Hanover’s lead was not safe. Concord kept bushing, and finally beat the offside trap with half a minute to play. Their nimble number fifty made a great run on his breakaway and pulled back a goal. Fortunately, the Marauders killed the remaining 23 seconds, and the whistle cruelly concluded a well-devised Cam Bonner breakaway.
It was a great team victory, and was good reinforcement for the excellent training the boys have received over the past two weeks from Assistant Co0ach Chris Dawes. The young Marauders will have a week of training before their next game, a home match with Merrimack on the 7th.
Game and Practice Schedule Sept. 30 - Oct. 4
GAME AND PRACTICE SCHEDULE SEPT. 30 – Oct. 4
Monday, Sept. 30
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields/Huntley
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Freshmen, JV1, JV2 Practice at Dresden
5:00 – 6:30 p.m. Varsity Practice at Dresden
Tuesday, Oct. 1
1:30 p.m. Dismissal/Departure for JV2 to BG
2:00 p.m. Dismissal/Departure for JV1/Varsity to Alvirne
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Practice for Freshmen
4:00 p.m. JV2 Game at BG
4:30 p.m. JV1 and Varsity Games at Alvirne
Wednesday, Oct. 2
2:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
3:00 – 4:30 p.m. Practices JV1, JV2, and Freshmen – Dresden
7:15 – 9:00 p.m. Practice for Varsity – HHS Turf
Thursday, Oct. 3
2:30 p.m. Dismissal/Departure for JV1 and Varsity to Memorial
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Practices for Freshmen, JV2
5:00 p.m. JV1 and Varsity Games at Manchester Memorial
Friday, Oct. 4
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
3:00 – 4:00 p.m. Practice for Freshmen
4:30 p.m. JV2 Home Game vs. Sunapee – HHS Turf
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. JV1 Practice - Dresden
6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Varsity Practice – HHS Turf
Thursday, September 26, 2019
Friday Update - No JV2 Practice
Fresh off of Thursday's 6-2 victory over Fall Mountain on the soggy turf at The Pasture, the JV2s get a day off on Friday. No practice. They will be back to work on Monday, preparing for Tuesday's road game at Bishop Guertin.
Marauders Top Concord 2-1 in The Rain
Two days after their scintillating victory over Central, the Marauders survived a soggy slugfest with a determined Concord squad, breaking a 1-1 tie with 12 minutes to play on Charlie Adams' 12th goal of the season.
It would be hard to say that Hanover had a hangover, given that they marched straight down the field 53 seconds after the opening kickoff and took a 1-0 lead on an Amane Matsuoka goal, assisted by Eli Stack. Eli played Amane into space on the left side of the penalty area, and he beat Concord goalkeeper Abbas Abdulrahman with a nice left-footed finish. Charlie Adams had a dangerous bid seven minutes later that was saved by the Tide keeper, and at the 14 minute mark Stack turned Matsuoka loose again Wirth a carbon-copy pass, only two watch Amane flick the ball wide of thee post.
Coming of an impressive 5-1 win over Windham, Concord showed their poise with two dangerous shots by striker Alasdair Ferrier, who mad beaten Hanover with a goal last year, and midfielder Mosi Masimango. Blake Palmer ripped a dangerous blast midway through the half, and shortly afterwards Matsuoka had yet another scoring bid, forcing Abdulrahman to make a good save. Concord nearly tied the match with 10 minutes to play in the half, hitting a close-range shot that hit the football crossbar. Concord was coming too close for comfort.
The Marauders started the second half on the front foot, as Blake Palmer forced a near-post save on a dangerous opportunity. Concord responded almost immediately, as Ferrier hit the crossbar nearly scored again, this time bouncing his shot off of the soccer crossbar. Eli Stack nearly gave Hanover a two-goal lead five minutes in, missing a close-range shot just wide of the upright, and then putting a shot over the bar from six years out.
Both teams were frustrated by what they saw as inconsistent officiating, and each side claimed legitimate calls for penalties. The Marauder managed to maintain their composure, but the same could not be said for the Tide, who saw two yellow cards.
Free kick master Charlie Adams saw a bid from outside the penalty area cleared off the goal line by a defender stationed on the post with 20 minutes to play, and shortly afterwards the Marauders really rued all of the missed opportunities when Concord tied the match on a bad-angle shot by Faisal Abdullah that deflected off of a defender and found the far side netting. The Tide then almost took the lead, as a drive off a short corner by Aleho Cacernes sailed over the bar.;
This would have been a great opportunity for Hanover to panic, but such was not the case. The Marauders put their heads down and went to work. With 12 minutes to play, they found pay dirt when midfielder Eric Ringer sent a long ball into the box that connected with Adams, who settled the ball, beat a defender, and slotted it home to regain the lead. Hanover kept coming. Hard-working Henry Aspinwall created an opportunity for Stack, whose far post shot sailed wide.
Concord had one more opportunity, and it was a good one. Mercurial midfielder Duvan Morikawa-Montenegro found space and time on the left side on a quick counter, but was foiled by Marauder keeper Joey Perras, who made a spectacular diving save to preserve the win.
It wasn't pretty, but the win gave Hanover a 7-1 record halfway through the season, and jumped them into second place in the Division One standings behind frontrunner Bedford. "We'll try to learn some lessons from this," commented Coach Grabill. "We got a result, but we need to do better." They will have that chance on Tuesday, when the travel to Hudson to face a surprising Alvirne team, enjoying their best season in years.
It would be hard to say that Hanover had a hangover, given that they marched straight down the field 53 seconds after the opening kickoff and took a 1-0 lead on an Amane Matsuoka goal, assisted by Eli Stack. Eli played Amane into space on the left side of the penalty area, and he beat Concord goalkeeper Abbas Abdulrahman with a nice left-footed finish. Charlie Adams had a dangerous bid seven minutes later that was saved by the Tide keeper, and at the 14 minute mark Stack turned Matsuoka loose again Wirth a carbon-copy pass, only two watch Amane flick the ball wide of thee post.
Coming of an impressive 5-1 win over Windham, Concord showed their poise with two dangerous shots by striker Alasdair Ferrier, who mad beaten Hanover with a goal last year, and midfielder Mosi Masimango. Blake Palmer ripped a dangerous blast midway through the half, and shortly afterwards Matsuoka had yet another scoring bid, forcing Abdulrahman to make a good save. Concord nearly tied the match with 10 minutes to play in the half, hitting a close-range shot that hit the football crossbar. Concord was coming too close for comfort.
The Marauders started the second half on the front foot, as Blake Palmer forced a near-post save on a dangerous opportunity. Concord responded almost immediately, as Ferrier hit the crossbar nearly scored again, this time bouncing his shot off of the soccer crossbar. Eli Stack nearly gave Hanover a two-goal lead five minutes in, missing a close-range shot just wide of the upright, and then putting a shot over the bar from six years out.
Both teams were frustrated by what they saw as inconsistent officiating, and each side claimed legitimate calls for penalties. The Marauder managed to maintain their composure, but the same could not be said for the Tide, who saw two yellow cards.
Free kick master Charlie Adams saw a bid from outside the penalty area cleared off the goal line by a defender stationed on the post with 20 minutes to play, and shortly afterwards the Marauders really rued all of the missed opportunities when Concord tied the match on a bad-angle shot by Faisal Abdullah that deflected off of a defender and found the far side netting. The Tide then almost took the lead, as a drive off a short corner by Aleho Cacernes sailed over the bar.;
This would have been a great opportunity for Hanover to panic, but such was not the case. The Marauders put their heads down and went to work. With 12 minutes to play, they found pay dirt when midfielder Eric Ringer sent a long ball into the box that connected with Adams, who settled the ball, beat a defender, and slotted it home to regain the lead. Hanover kept coming. Hard-working Henry Aspinwall created an opportunity for Stack, whose far post shot sailed wide.
Concord had one more opportunity, and it was a good one. Mercurial midfielder Duvan Morikawa-Montenegro found space and time on the left side on a quick counter, but was foiled by Marauder keeper Joey Perras, who made a spectacular diving save to preserve the win.
It wasn't pretty, but the win gave Hanover a 7-1 record halfway through the season, and jumped them into second place in the Division One standings behind frontrunner Bedford. "We'll try to learn some lessons from this," commented Coach Grabill. "We got a result, but we need to do better." They will have that chance on Tuesday, when the travel to Hudson to face a surprising Alvirne team, enjoying their best season in years.
JV1 Beats Concord 4-3, Record Now 7-1
The JV1 squad overcame the rain and a determined Concord team, getting a game-winner from Pierce Hamlin at the death of the match to break a 3-3 tie and emerge with a 4-3 triumph. Coach Willie Johnson's crew is now 7-1 on the season.
Hanover had several early chances, and following a good save off his line by goalkeeper CJ Wheelan to thwart a Concord bid, the Marauders went on top 1-0. Neal Montibello started the play with a throw-in to Mitch Aspinwall, who crossed the ball to Pierce Hamlin, open at the far post to slot the ball home. Monday through the half, Concord tied the match when Jack Ross' clearance attempt on a corner kick spun into the net. Wheelan came off his line again to deny a Tide one on one, preventing them from taking the lead.
The Marauders went on top 2-1 ten minutes into the second half, with Eric Tysinger finishing off a nice buildup from Mitch Aspinwall and Zane Schiffman. Shortly after Aspinwall forced the Concord keeper to make a diving save, Hanover increased the lead to 3-1 when Jack Ross headed home a corner kick from Derek Lacy.
Concord refused to fold, and pulled a goal back on a counter attack, shortly after Wheelan had denied them with a diving save. As the clock ticked down, the Tide tied the match at 3-3 when their talented striker went all Isak and drilled the entire Marauder team. With overtime looming, however, Pierce Hamlin ripped home the game winner, sending the rain soaked fans home happy. Both of them.
Hanover had several early chances, and following a good save off his line by goalkeeper CJ Wheelan to thwart a Concord bid, the Marauders went on top 1-0. Neal Montibello started the play with a throw-in to Mitch Aspinwall, who crossed the ball to Pierce Hamlin, open at the far post to slot the ball home. Monday through the half, Concord tied the match when Jack Ross' clearance attempt on a corner kick spun into the net. Wheelan came off his line again to deny a Tide one on one, preventing them from taking the lead.
The Marauders went on top 2-1 ten minutes into the second half, with Eric Tysinger finishing off a nice buildup from Mitch Aspinwall and Zane Schiffman. Shortly after Aspinwall forced the Concord keeper to make a diving save, Hanover increased the lead to 3-1 when Jack Ross headed home a corner kick from Derek Lacy.
Concord refused to fold, and pulled a goal back on a counter attack, shortly after Wheelan had denied them with a diving save. As the clock ticked down, the Tide tied the match at 3-3 when their talented striker went all Isak and drilled the entire Marauder team. With overtime looming, however, Pierce Hamlin ripped home the game winner, sending the rain soaked fans home happy. Both of them.
Wednesday, September 25, 2019
Marauder Tripleheader set for Thursday
With a little fall of rain in the forecast, three Hanover teams will host home games on Thursday. With no lightning in the forecast, there is no need to worry about cancellation or postponement. We will all play Thursday, rain or shine. The JV2 squad will host Fall Mountain at Dresden at 4:30, and the Varsity and JV1 will entertain Concord at 4:00 on the Grass Field at HHS (JV1) and the Turf (Varsity).
If the rain looks serious (forecast to start at about 2:00, and move through relatively fast), we'd be happy to borrow some pop-up tents at any of the three venues, with the following understanding: if there is a tent on the Hanover side, there also needs to be one on the visiting side. If there are two tents, one on each side. If there are three, one on each side and one in the middle. And so forth. We do not (and never have) taken care of ourselves and ignored our guests. Every player, whether playing or practicing, is encouraged to bring a small garbage bag to stash personal equipment (gear bag, shoes, etc.). Actually, that garbage bag should always be stashed in every player's equipment bag, in case rain pops up out of nowhere, which hasn't happened since yesterday.
Please try and bring a food donation (or a check) for The Haven Food Pantry. There will be a donation box near the Snack Shack at the Varsity game. Checks for the Haven are tax deductible. Remember, we have a donor who has promised to match every gift. Let's maximize our impact!
If the rain looks serious (forecast to start at about 2:00, and move through relatively fast), we'd be happy to borrow some pop-up tents at any of the three venues, with the following understanding: if there is a tent on the Hanover side, there also needs to be one on the visiting side. If there are two tents, one on each side. If there are three, one on each side and one in the middle. And so forth. We do not (and never have) taken care of ourselves and ignored our guests. Every player, whether playing or practicing, is encouraged to bring a small garbage bag to stash personal equipment (gear bag, shoes, etc.). Actually, that garbage bag should always be stashed in every player's equipment bag, in case rain pops up out of nowhere, which hasn't happened since yesterday.
Please try and bring a food donation (or a check) for The Haven Food Pantry. There will be a donation box near the Snack Shack at the Varsity game. Checks for the Haven are tax deductible. Remember, we have a donor who has promised to match every gift. Let's maximize our impact!
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Marauders Top Unbeaten Manchester Central 4-3 in Epic Match
Tuesday's game against undefeated Manchester Central in Manchester's historic Gill Stadium presented the Marauders with a huge challenge. The Little Green, D1 finalists last year, had beaten Hanover twice: a 1-0 defeat at Merriman-Branch Field, and a 4-0 drubbing in the NHIAA semifinals. The last time the Marauders had visited Manchester, they were dismissed 5-1. Central is always loaded with talent, well-coached, confident and aggressive. Coach Chris LaBerge is a Hall of Fame.
Given that contest, it was reasonable to expect that the Marauders looked at this game as a measuring stick. Hanover is good, and improving, but two weeks ago they were brushed off by Bedford. Now, they has a chance to measure their progress. What resulted was an epic contest, full of drama and passion, and Hanover's thrilling 4-3 victory made a statement. Charlie Adams scored twice in the second half to break a 2-2 tie, and the Marauders played just enough defense to emerge with a hard-fought win against their biggest rivals.
If the Marauders were intimidated by the task in front of them, they didn't show it at the start of the match. They took firm control of the match, launching six shots and a number of corner kicks, carefully controlling the call for long stretches, despite Central's skill and work rate. Amane Matsuoka got the first good look early in the game, stealing a lazy square pass but shooting wide of the goal. Off of a short corner kick, Blake Palmer hit a short into a crowd in front that deflected into the arms of Little Green goalkeeper Alex Walker. Eight minutes in, Adams left his first calling hard, hitting a long, hard line drive that was snared by Walker before it tucked under the crossbar. Eight minutes in, Eric Ringer, as he does regularly, lofted a cross-field pass to Matsuoka on the left flank and the speedy senior hit a chip shot that beat Walker but died at the far post and was cleared away. Four minutes later, Adams broke into the box and his a hard shot that was saved by Walker. For the Marauders to dominate so much and have nothing to show would have been dangerous, but fortunately the next shot by Hanover was a screamer from outside the box by Ringer that tucked into the extreme upper 90 for a 1-0 lead.
Central finally recorded their first shot 20 minutes into the half, a dangerous close-range bid by Central Captain Sam Latona, but it was blocked by his Marauder counterpart Kyle Doucette. A minute later, Joey Perras made the best save of his career, diving full extension to his left and deflecting a shot by Latona that was labeled for the corner. Central was now one the front foot, and at 22:13 they tied the match when the ever-dangerous Sam Assantha took advantage of a turnover at midfield, racing into the box and winning a one on one battle with Doucette before depositing the ball into the left corner of the goal from close range. Two minutes later, Central took the lead. After a rec league call provided Central with a quick break into the Hanover end, Rahul Drupka hit a hard cross into the box. As he moved to play the ball, Kyle Doucette slipped and fell, and the ball his his upraised arm squarely. It was an easy call for a penalty kick, and Latona expertly converted the spot kick.
It would have been so easy for Hanover to lose complete control of the match at this point, but the gritty Marauders dug in and regained their composure and their effectiveness. Matsuoka responded with a dangerous shot, and Adams hit a free kick that was saved by Walker. With less than eight minutes remaining in the half, the Marauder clawed their way back into the match after Blake Palmer's hard shot from a short corner with Adams found its way into the back of the net to tie the match 2-2, It was the senior winger's fourth goal of the season, and none have been more important than this one.
Hanover emerged from halftime eager to go back to work, and full of confidence. They continued their patience in their own end, possessing with quick passes and forcing the Little Greenb strikers to chase the ball fruitlessly. After two good looks, the Marauders were awarded a free kick at the top of the Central box, in almost the same spot that Adams had used to launch a sweet upper 90 shot in Hanover's Homecoming win against Portsmouth. He went one better this time, hitting a sensational shot that bent into the upper left corner, giving the Marauders a 3-2 lead. The Hanover bench erupted. How good, and how important was this goal? It actually elicited a modest celebration from Adams, something almost never seen from the phlegmatic midfielder. What a goal!
Eight minutes later, Adams scored a critical insurance goal, stripping a dumbfounded defender of the ball and cooly walking in on Walker , tucking the ball into the corner for a 4-2 lead. The Marauders weren't done. Blake Palmer nearly added to the lead with a shot ticketed for the lower left corner from the edge of the box. Central wasn't done, either, Brendan Brigham, in for Dylan Kotlowitz at right back, won a crucial one on one battle in the shadow of the Hanover goal. Doucette and Judd Alexander locked down the the center of the Hanover defense, when any slight misplay would have handed the Little Green a goal. With barely ten minutes remaining, Central grabbed a lifeline when Assantha, one of the most dangerous strikers in New England, raced through the midfield and found enough room to launch a shot to the far corner, pulling a goal back and guaranteeing a chaotic final ten minutes. Hanover bent but never broke. Joey Perras was huge in the Marauder goal, buying critical time and space with several long punts, and battling for an airborne 50-50 ball that left two Little Green strikers sprawling. Noah Pikielny, in for a cramping Evan Nichols and isolated on the left side, made several big-time tackles. The Marauders did a great job at midfield through Adams, Ringer, Latham Allison and Toño Correa, holding the ball and eating up crucial seconds. As timer ticked down, Central had one final free kick, but their bid went for naught, and Hanover celebrated as though they had won a critically important match. They had.
Film study will remind the Marauder that they are still a work in progress. There is much they can do to improve, particularly in the area of communication. They also have a vitally important game almost immediately, a home match with Concord at 4:00 on Thursday. Seemingly having a down year, the Crimson Tide sent shock waves into Division One on Tuesday, burying highly-regarded and undefeated Windham 5-1. A semifinalist last year, Concord will provide a stern test. Hopefully the Marauders will understand how dangerous this game is, and respond accordingly.
Thursday's match is also a great opportunity to continue their effective season-long mission to solicit food for the Haven Food Pantry. An anonymous donor has offered to match every food item donated. This is huge. How cool would it be to double our donations? Please, please consider bringing contributions. Tell you what. Here's another offer: You know how much this means to me. So I'm offering to match any cash donation for food. C'mon, people. Hand me a check, and I'll match it. Double dog dare you. Food, checks, whatever. Let's get it done in every respect on Thursday.
Given that contest, it was reasonable to expect that the Marauders looked at this game as a measuring stick. Hanover is good, and improving, but two weeks ago they were brushed off by Bedford. Now, they has a chance to measure their progress. What resulted was an epic contest, full of drama and passion, and Hanover's thrilling 4-3 victory made a statement. Charlie Adams scored twice in the second half to break a 2-2 tie, and the Marauders played just enough defense to emerge with a hard-fought win against their biggest rivals.
If the Marauders were intimidated by the task in front of them, they didn't show it at the start of the match. They took firm control of the match, launching six shots and a number of corner kicks, carefully controlling the call for long stretches, despite Central's skill and work rate. Amane Matsuoka got the first good look early in the game, stealing a lazy square pass but shooting wide of the goal. Off of a short corner kick, Blake Palmer hit a short into a crowd in front that deflected into the arms of Little Green goalkeeper Alex Walker. Eight minutes in, Adams left his first calling hard, hitting a long, hard line drive that was snared by Walker before it tucked under the crossbar. Eight minutes in, Eric Ringer, as he does regularly, lofted a cross-field pass to Matsuoka on the left flank and the speedy senior hit a chip shot that beat Walker but died at the far post and was cleared away. Four minutes later, Adams broke into the box and his a hard shot that was saved by Walker. For the Marauders to dominate so much and have nothing to show would have been dangerous, but fortunately the next shot by Hanover was a screamer from outside the box by Ringer that tucked into the extreme upper 90 for a 1-0 lead.
Central finally recorded their first shot 20 minutes into the half, a dangerous close-range bid by Central Captain Sam Latona, but it was blocked by his Marauder counterpart Kyle Doucette. A minute later, Joey Perras made the best save of his career, diving full extension to his left and deflecting a shot by Latona that was labeled for the corner. Central was now one the front foot, and at 22:13 they tied the match when the ever-dangerous Sam Assantha took advantage of a turnover at midfield, racing into the box and winning a one on one battle with Doucette before depositing the ball into the left corner of the goal from close range. Two minutes later, Central took the lead. After a rec league call provided Central with a quick break into the Hanover end, Rahul Drupka hit a hard cross into the box. As he moved to play the ball, Kyle Doucette slipped and fell, and the ball his his upraised arm squarely. It was an easy call for a penalty kick, and Latona expertly converted the spot kick.
It would have been so easy for Hanover to lose complete control of the match at this point, but the gritty Marauders dug in and regained their composure and their effectiveness. Matsuoka responded with a dangerous shot, and Adams hit a free kick that was saved by Walker. With less than eight minutes remaining in the half, the Marauder clawed their way back into the match after Blake Palmer's hard shot from a short corner with Adams found its way into the back of the net to tie the match 2-2, It was the senior winger's fourth goal of the season, and none have been more important than this one.
Hanover emerged from halftime eager to go back to work, and full of confidence. They continued their patience in their own end, possessing with quick passes and forcing the Little Greenb strikers to chase the ball fruitlessly. After two good looks, the Marauders were awarded a free kick at the top of the Central box, in almost the same spot that Adams had used to launch a sweet upper 90 shot in Hanover's Homecoming win against Portsmouth. He went one better this time, hitting a sensational shot that bent into the upper left corner, giving the Marauders a 3-2 lead. The Hanover bench erupted. How good, and how important was this goal? It actually elicited a modest celebration from Adams, something almost never seen from the phlegmatic midfielder. What a goal!
Eight minutes later, Adams scored a critical insurance goal, stripping a dumbfounded defender of the ball and cooly walking in on Walker , tucking the ball into the corner for a 4-2 lead. The Marauders weren't done. Blake Palmer nearly added to the lead with a shot ticketed for the lower left corner from the edge of the box. Central wasn't done, either, Brendan Brigham, in for Dylan Kotlowitz at right back, won a crucial one on one battle in the shadow of the Hanover goal. Doucette and Judd Alexander locked down the the center of the Hanover defense, when any slight misplay would have handed the Little Green a goal. With barely ten minutes remaining, Central grabbed a lifeline when Assantha, one of the most dangerous strikers in New England, raced through the midfield and found enough room to launch a shot to the far corner, pulling a goal back and guaranteeing a chaotic final ten minutes. Hanover bent but never broke. Joey Perras was huge in the Marauder goal, buying critical time and space with several long punts, and battling for an airborne 50-50 ball that left two Little Green strikers sprawling. Noah Pikielny, in for a cramping Evan Nichols and isolated on the left side, made several big-time tackles. The Marauders did a great job at midfield through Adams, Ringer, Latham Allison and Toño Correa, holding the ball and eating up crucial seconds. As timer ticked down, Central had one final free kick, but their bid went for naught, and Hanover celebrated as though they had won a critically important match. They had.
Film study will remind the Marauder that they are still a work in progress. There is much they can do to improve, particularly in the area of communication. They also have a vitally important game almost immediately, a home match with Concord at 4:00 on Thursday. Seemingly having a down year, the Crimson Tide sent shock waves into Division One on Tuesday, burying highly-regarded and undefeated Windham 5-1. A semifinalist last year, Concord will provide a stern test. Hopefully the Marauders will understand how dangerous this game is, and respond accordingly.
Thursday's match is also a great opportunity to continue their effective season-long mission to solicit food for the Haven Food Pantry. An anonymous donor has offered to match every food item donated. This is huge. How cool would it be to double our donations? Please, please consider bringing contributions. Tell you what. Here's another offer: You know how much this means to me. So I'm offering to match any cash donation for food. C'mon, people. Hand me a check, and I'll match it. Double dog dare you. Food, checks, whatever. Let's get it done in every respect on Thursday.
Freshman Practice Update
the Freshmen will practice on the turf Wednesday RIGHT after school until 3:30.
Monday, September 23, 2019
JV1 Rallies to Beat Portsmouth 4-1 on Homecoming
Although it took them a while to get going, the Marauder JV1s earned a solid 4-1 victory over Portsmouth on Saturday at The Pasture, far from the riotous Homecoming action back at the high school.
Hanover had several good looks in the early going. Zane Schiffman hit a low shot just to the right of the post 15 minutes into the game. Shortly afterwards, an indirect kick in the box after a back pass to the keeper was picked up (no-no), and Hanover had a good restart opportunity. Portsmouth outhitting defended well, though, and Mitch Aspinwall's shot was deflected over the bar. Schiffman and Aspinwall were back at it right away, and a deflected shot by Zane just missed the mark. Another dangerous cross by Aspinwall off of a corner made connections with Jack Ross' head, but the ball was cleared off the line by a Clipper defender. Pierce Hamlin hopped on the rebound, but his shot was gobbled up by the goalkeeper. Against the run of play, Portsmouth got on the board first at the fifteen minute mark when a bouncing ball through the middle took some deflections and fell to a Portsmouth attatcker, who neatly tucked the ball in the back off the net. Hanover had one more good look before the interval. Owen Stannard played the ball to Oscar on a free kick, and he tapped it along to Isak Larusson, who struck the ball just over the crossbar.
Trailing 1-0 at the half, Hanover got right to work in the second half. Zane Schoffman launched a ball over the bar just after the resumption of play. Just a minute later, Palmer Okai played a beautiful ball over the top to Schiffman, who clinically slid the ball past the Portsmouth keeper to tie the game. The Marauders almost took the lead three minutes later when Eric Tysinger one-timed a ball to Schiffman, whose shot was grabbed and held by the Clipper keeper. Fifteen minutes into the half, some of the best passing of the season resulted in a Goalazo by Pierce Hamlin, who started the sequence with a pass to Aspinwall, who slid it to Schiffman on the wing. Schiffman's low, hard pass through the six yard box made its way back to Hamlin, who controlled the pass and sent a powerful shot into the side netting for a 2-1 lead. Hamlin collected the second half of his brace two minutes later, taking a pass from Aspinwall and ripping a shot from well outside the 18 that dipped just under the crossbar for a 3-1 lead.
With ten minutes to play there was some more good combination play that all out resulted in another Hanover goal. Isak Larusson surprised everyone by dribbling through the entire Portsmouth team and creating a one on one with the Portsmouth goalie. He attempted a cheeky pass to Oscar, who when into a slide to get the ball, which just slid by the right post. Five minutes from time, Schiffman completed his brace, taking a beautiful crossing ball from Derek Lacy at the back post and beating a taller defender with a header to make the score 4-1. The game ended with a dramatic play from keeper turned scoring threat CJ Wheelan, who zeroed in on a goal kick from Jack Maynes, nearly heading the ball over the center back. The ball fell to the defender's feet, and CJ turned to tackle him. The defender decided to make an immediate clearance, and blasted a ball that traveled three yards before it hit poor CJ in the face. As he sank to his knees with the wild applause of the Hanover bench ringing in his ears, he demonstrated his resilience, mental toughness, fortitude, spunk, moxie, chutzpah, courage, and presence of mind to regain his feet and stagger to the bench to join the handshake line. The JV1s now head to Manchester and Livingston Park, ready to take on a talented Manchester Central squad.
Hanover had several good looks in the early going. Zane Schiffman hit a low shot just to the right of the post 15 minutes into the game. Shortly afterwards, an indirect kick in the box after a back pass to the keeper was picked up (no-no), and Hanover had a good restart opportunity. Portsmouth outhitting defended well, though, and Mitch Aspinwall's shot was deflected over the bar. Schiffman and Aspinwall were back at it right away, and a deflected shot by Zane just missed the mark. Another dangerous cross by Aspinwall off of a corner made connections with Jack Ross' head, but the ball was cleared off the line by a Clipper defender. Pierce Hamlin hopped on the rebound, but his shot was gobbled up by the goalkeeper. Against the run of play, Portsmouth got on the board first at the fifteen minute mark when a bouncing ball through the middle took some deflections and fell to a Portsmouth attatcker, who neatly tucked the ball in the back off the net. Hanover had one more good look before the interval. Owen Stannard played the ball to Oscar on a free kick, and he tapped it along to Isak Larusson, who struck the ball just over the crossbar.
Trailing 1-0 at the half, Hanover got right to work in the second half. Zane Schoffman launched a ball over the bar just after the resumption of play. Just a minute later, Palmer Okai played a beautiful ball over the top to Schiffman, who clinically slid the ball past the Portsmouth keeper to tie the game. The Marauders almost took the lead three minutes later when Eric Tysinger one-timed a ball to Schiffman, whose shot was grabbed and held by the Clipper keeper. Fifteen minutes into the half, some of the best passing of the season resulted in a Goalazo by Pierce Hamlin, who started the sequence with a pass to Aspinwall, who slid it to Schiffman on the wing. Schiffman's low, hard pass through the six yard box made its way back to Hamlin, who controlled the pass and sent a powerful shot into the side netting for a 2-1 lead. Hamlin collected the second half of his brace two minutes later, taking a pass from Aspinwall and ripping a shot from well outside the 18 that dipped just under the crossbar for a 3-1 lead.
With ten minutes to play there was some more good combination play that all out resulted in another Hanover goal. Isak Larusson surprised everyone by dribbling through the entire Portsmouth team and creating a one on one with the Portsmouth goalie. He attempted a cheeky pass to Oscar, who when into a slide to get the ball, which just slid by the right post. Five minutes from time, Schiffman completed his brace, taking a beautiful crossing ball from Derek Lacy at the back post and beating a taller defender with a header to make the score 4-1. The game ended with a dramatic play from keeper turned scoring threat CJ Wheelan, who zeroed in on a goal kick from Jack Maynes, nearly heading the ball over the center back. The ball fell to the defender's feet, and CJ turned to tackle him. The defender decided to make an immediate clearance, and blasted a ball that traveled three yards before it hit poor CJ in the face. As he sank to his knees with the wild applause of the Hanover bench ringing in his ears, he demonstrated his resilience, mental toughness, fortitude, spunk, moxie, chutzpah, courage, and presence of mind to regain his feet and stagger to the bench to join the handshake line. The JV1s now head to Manchester and Livingston Park, ready to take on a talented Manchester Central squad.
Road Trip Results: JV2 Rolls, Freshmen Lose 3-0 to Central
Two Marauder teams hit the highway on Monday, and encountered disparate results. The JV2s crammed into a bus with the Reserve Girls and headed north to Woodsville, a team that had tied two weeks ago. This time around Hanover rolled, earning a decisive 7-0 victory. Captain Henry Bernard, whose skill and had work earned him a varsity cameo last Saturday, had a brace, and five other Marauders tallies single goals: Asa Wise, Roan Downard, Aidan Tomlin, Eli Bush, and Jacob Rimberg. Archer Judd, stepping into the goal to replace an injured Jackson Fisher, earned his first career shutout. Fisher, remade as a field player, was a force with who to be reckoned. The JV2s return to action on Thursday, hosting Fall Mountain.
The Freshmen headed south to the Big City, playing the impressive Manchester Central frosh at Livingston Park. The Marauders had a number of golden opportunities in the first half, and the game was scoreless at the interval. The talented Little Green took control in the second half, punishing every mistake and imposing themselves for a 3-0 victory.
The Marauders started the game on the front foot, and quickly earned a corner kick. Jack McGrath sent a dangerous ball to the back post, and Jack Gardner's glancing header skimmed by the far post.
Fifteen minutes into the match, McGrath broke in alone on the Central goal, but pulled his short just wide of the post. Marauder keeper Ty Nolon kept the match scoreless with a great point blank save, and watch the rebound shot pushed just wide of the goal. Central had a number of dangerous, talented players, and in several instances only their tendency to earn offsides goals prevented the4ir from scoring.
Some hard work at midfield by Jack Stadheim gave him a chance with a clean breakaway, but he push his shot just wide of the 1goalpost. Ruh Ro. When you're 0 for Jack, it's only a matter of time that you will rue the missed opportunities. Hanover also hit a speed bump late in the first half when it was discovered that at least three of them had neglected to bring their mouthguard. One was sent off, and the others took a set, unable to get into the game. Maybe this wasn't an immediate game changer, but it signaled a troubling lack of readiness and responsibility.
Whatever the precipitating factors, Central now had control of the game. Ty Nolon again bailed his teammates out with a great point blank save. Stadheim made a dazzling recovery run to block a Central player's breakaway bid, and the half ended scoreless.
The field tilted in Central's favor in the second half. Hanover had them them off the hook in the first half, and the Little Green took full advantage. Ian Smith made a nice block on a dangerous scoring attempt, but fifteen minutes into the half a ball was played through the Marauder box and toward the endline. Ty Nolon got off his line quickly to get to the 50-50 ball, but the Central striker got to the ball first and slid a bad angle shot into the vacated goal. Two minutes later Central's skilled and delicate #9 roasted a Marauder defender and made no mistake on his hard shot, and the Little Green were up 2-0. Hanover didn't give up, getting good play from midfielders Soren Stettenheim, Simon Taenzer and Will Taylor, but it was Central who got the final goal a good shot from the corner of the 18 with 10 minutes left to play.
The Marauders will have three days to synthesize why they learned before they host Concord on Friday at Dresden.
The Freshmen headed south to the Big City, playing the impressive Manchester Central frosh at Livingston Park. The Marauders had a number of golden opportunities in the first half, and the game was scoreless at the interval. The talented Little Green took control in the second half, punishing every mistake and imposing themselves for a 3-0 victory.
The Marauders started the game on the front foot, and quickly earned a corner kick. Jack McGrath sent a dangerous ball to the back post, and Jack Gardner's glancing header skimmed by the far post.
Fifteen minutes into the match, McGrath broke in alone on the Central goal, but pulled his short just wide of the post. Marauder keeper Ty Nolon kept the match scoreless with a great point blank save, and watch the rebound shot pushed just wide of the goal. Central had a number of dangerous, talented players, and in several instances only their tendency to earn offsides goals prevented the4ir from scoring.
Some hard work at midfield by Jack Stadheim gave him a chance with a clean breakaway, but he push his shot just wide of the 1goalpost. Ruh Ro. When you're 0 for Jack, it's only a matter of time that you will rue the missed opportunities. Hanover also hit a speed bump late in the first half when it was discovered that at least three of them had neglected to bring their mouthguard. One was sent off, and the others took a set, unable to get into the game. Maybe this wasn't an immediate game changer, but it signaled a troubling lack of readiness and responsibility.
Whatever the precipitating factors, Central now had control of the game. Ty Nolon again bailed his teammates out with a great point blank save. Stadheim made a dazzling recovery run to block a Central player's breakaway bid, and the half ended scoreless.
The field tilted in Central's favor in the second half. Hanover had them them off the hook in the first half, and the Little Green took full advantage. Ian Smith made a nice block on a dangerous scoring attempt, but fifteen minutes into the half a ball was played through the Marauder box and toward the endline. Ty Nolon got off his line quickly to get to the 50-50 ball, but the Central striker got to the ball first and slid a bad angle shot into the vacated goal. Two minutes later Central's skilled and delicate #9 roasted a Marauder defender and made no mistake on his hard shot, and the Little Green were up 2-0. Hanover didn't give up, getting good play from midfielders Soren Stettenheim, Simon Taenzer and Will Taylor, but it was Central who got the final goal a good shot from the corner of the 18 with 10 minutes left to play.
The Marauders will have three days to synthesize why they learned before they host Concord on Friday at Dresden.
Sunday, September 22, 2019
Marauders Strike Early to Beat Portsmouth For Homecoming
Hanover's sense of timing has rarely been better, as the Marauders struck early in each half and controlled the match when it counted, beating Portsmouth 5-2 in a Homecoming Saturday matinee.
Blake Palmer and Amane Matsuoka each scored inside the first five minutes of the match, and did so within 21 seconds of each other, to wrest control of the match. Charlie Adams added his ninth goal of the season 57 seconds into the second half, and that was all the Marauders needed. They added second half scores by Eric Ringer and Pat Osborn to give them a 5-0 lead before two late Portsmouth goals made the game appear closer than it was. Hanover is now 5-1 on the season, heading into a big showdown at Manchester Central on Wednesday.
The well-coached Clippers looked strong in the opening minutes, controlling the ball in the Hanover defensive end, and forcing several corner kicks that the Marauders were able to defend. Suddenly, though, two lightning strikes put Hanover in complete control. Dylan Kotlowitz got things started, stepping at midfield to win a ball, and sending a ball between two defenders. Eli Stack made a great run to beat two defenders to the ball, and his shot was saved by Portsmouth goalkeeper Elliot Miles. The rebound came straight to Blake Palmer, who lashed it inside the left post for his third goal of the season. Almost immediately after the kickoff, the Marauders doubled the score. Eric Ringer hit a long serve to Amane Matsuoka on the left flank. Amane beat his defender, stealing his soul, and hit a hard shot inside the near post, the senior winger's first score of the season.
Portsmouth stayed composed, and shortly afterwards were denied on a great scoring bid when Marauder goalkeeper Andrew Enelow raced off his line and made a dope save, stretching out at the top of the box to block a dangerous shot. Marauder Captain Kyle Doucette made a number of excellent plays on defense, using speed, sure tackling and smarty positioning to deny a number of Portsmouth opportunities.
Hanover soon asserted themselves in the Portsmouth end, creating a number of excellent scoring chances. Matsuoka threaded a nice pass to Eli Stack, and the speedy senior broke in alone, only to be snuffed on a nice save from Miles. At the 20-minute mark, Stack had another good looks, moving to his right before ripping a hard shot that was foiled by a sweet Miles dive. Seven different Hanover players had at least one shot, and the first half stats showed the Marauders with a 14-2 shot advantage.
If there was any suspense in the contest, it was ended before the first minute after the interval was over. After a long throw by Eric Ringer, Miles bobbled the ball and dropped it at Charlie Adams' feet, giving him an easy goal. It was the 50th career goal for the All New England midfielder, tying him with Eric Jayne for the all-time Hanover career lead. Jayne, a part-time Marauder coach, was open hand to congratulate Adams, who last season broke Jayne's career points record.
Hanover kept the pressure on Portsmouth. Doucette, a force in the defensive end, got forward on an Adams corner kick and headed the ball over the bar. Adams had four more shots, but at the 53-minute mark it was Ringer who found the mark. Matsuoka made a great baseline run and dropped the ball back to Eric, who finished clinically for his first career goal. Seven minutes later, senior Pat Osborn became the third Hanover player on the day to open his account, tucking home a far post finish on a free kick by Adams, who collected his sixth assist of the season. Osborn kept working, adding two more shots in quick succession.
Leading 5-0 with 20 minutes to play, the Marauders remained in control, although they conceded two inconsequential but frustrating goals, one coming after a missed tackle in the defensive end, and one after an intercepted goal kick that resulted in a point blank shot.
Hanover's next match is a challenging one, a road trip to Manchester's Gill Stadium for a Tuesday night matchup against unbeaten and top-ranked Manchester Central. The Little Green beat the Marauders twice last season, a 1-0 regular season defeat, and a 4-0 loss in the NHIAA semifinals.
Motivation should not be a problem. Hanover has made a lot of progress, and this match will be an excellent measuring stick. These are the matches that make all of the work worthwhile.
Blake Palmer and Amane Matsuoka each scored inside the first five minutes of the match, and did so within 21 seconds of each other, to wrest control of the match. Charlie Adams added his ninth goal of the season 57 seconds into the second half, and that was all the Marauders needed. They added second half scores by Eric Ringer and Pat Osborn to give them a 5-0 lead before two late Portsmouth goals made the game appear closer than it was. Hanover is now 5-1 on the season, heading into a big showdown at Manchester Central on Wednesday.
The well-coached Clippers looked strong in the opening minutes, controlling the ball in the Hanover defensive end, and forcing several corner kicks that the Marauders were able to defend. Suddenly, though, two lightning strikes put Hanover in complete control. Dylan Kotlowitz got things started, stepping at midfield to win a ball, and sending a ball between two defenders. Eli Stack made a great run to beat two defenders to the ball, and his shot was saved by Portsmouth goalkeeper Elliot Miles. The rebound came straight to Blake Palmer, who lashed it inside the left post for his third goal of the season. Almost immediately after the kickoff, the Marauders doubled the score. Eric Ringer hit a long serve to Amane Matsuoka on the left flank. Amane beat his defender, stealing his soul, and hit a hard shot inside the near post, the senior winger's first score of the season.
Portsmouth stayed composed, and shortly afterwards were denied on a great scoring bid when Marauder goalkeeper Andrew Enelow raced off his line and made a dope save, stretching out at the top of the box to block a dangerous shot. Marauder Captain Kyle Doucette made a number of excellent plays on defense, using speed, sure tackling and smarty positioning to deny a number of Portsmouth opportunities.
Hanover soon asserted themselves in the Portsmouth end, creating a number of excellent scoring chances. Matsuoka threaded a nice pass to Eli Stack, and the speedy senior broke in alone, only to be snuffed on a nice save from Miles. At the 20-minute mark, Stack had another good looks, moving to his right before ripping a hard shot that was foiled by a sweet Miles dive. Seven different Hanover players had at least one shot, and the first half stats showed the Marauders with a 14-2 shot advantage.
If there was any suspense in the contest, it was ended before the first minute after the interval was over. After a long throw by Eric Ringer, Miles bobbled the ball and dropped it at Charlie Adams' feet, giving him an easy goal. It was the 50th career goal for the All New England midfielder, tying him with Eric Jayne for the all-time Hanover career lead. Jayne, a part-time Marauder coach, was open hand to congratulate Adams, who last season broke Jayne's career points record.
Hanover kept the pressure on Portsmouth. Doucette, a force in the defensive end, got forward on an Adams corner kick and headed the ball over the bar. Adams had four more shots, but at the 53-minute mark it was Ringer who found the mark. Matsuoka made a great baseline run and dropped the ball back to Eric, who finished clinically for his first career goal. Seven minutes later, senior Pat Osborn became the third Hanover player on the day to open his account, tucking home a far post finish on a free kick by Adams, who collected his sixth assist of the season. Osborn kept working, adding two more shots in quick succession.
Leading 5-0 with 20 minutes to play, the Marauders remained in control, although they conceded two inconsequential but frustrating goals, one coming after a missed tackle in the defensive end, and one after an intercepted goal kick that resulted in a point blank shot.
Hanover's next match is a challenging one, a road trip to Manchester's Gill Stadium for a Tuesday night matchup against unbeaten and top-ranked Manchester Central. The Little Green beat the Marauders twice last season, a 1-0 regular season defeat, and a 4-0 loss in the NHIAA semifinals.
Motivation should not be a problem. Hanover has made a lot of progress, and this match will be an excellent measuring stick. These are the matches that make all of the work worthwhile.
Monday Schedule Update
There are two changes to the Monday training schedule:
JV1 will practice on the HHS Turf from 3:30 - 5:00.
Varsity will practice on the turf from 6:15 - 8:00. Do not start warming up until a coach lets you on.
Girls soccer will be finishing up, and PERHAPS we can start our warmup at 6:15.
JV2 and Freshmen will both be dismissed at 2:00, AFTER the end of 6th period. If you have not contacted your 7th period teach, please do so as early Monday as possible. I will have away jerseys for JV2 players who did not get them Friday, and for the Freshmen who were promised Size L to replace their XL away gear.
JV1 and Varsity be dismissed at 2:00 on Tuesday, and travel on the same bus. Please inform your teachers.
JV1 will practice on the HHS Turf from 3:30 - 5:00.
Varsity will practice on the turf from 6:15 - 8:00. Do not start warming up until a coach lets you on.
Girls soccer will be finishing up, and PERHAPS we can start our warmup at 6:15.
JV2 and Freshmen will both be dismissed at 2:00, AFTER the end of 6th period. If you have not contacted your 7th period teach, please do so as early Monday as possible. I will have away jerseys for JV2 players who did not get them Friday, and for the Freshmen who were promised Size L to replace their XL away gear.
JV1 and Varsity be dismissed at 2:00 on Tuesday, and travel on the same bus. Please inform your teachers.
Friday, September 20, 2019
Game and Practice Schedule Sept. 23-27
HANOVER HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER
GAME AND PRACTICE SCHEDULE SEPT. 23-28
Monday, Sept. 23
2:00 p.m. Dismissal/Departure for Freshmen to Central
2:00 p.m. Dismissal/Departure for JV2 at Woodsville
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. JV1 Practice at HHS turf
4:00 p.m. JV2 Game at Woodsville
4:30 p.m. Freshman Game vs. Man. Central at Livingston Park
6:15 - 8:00 Varsity Practice - HHS Turf
6:15 - 8:00 Varsity Practice - HHS Turf
Tuesday, Sept. 24
2:00 p.m. Dismissal/Departure for JV1/Varsity to Central
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Practices for JV2 and Freshmen
4:30 p.m. JV1 Game vs. Central – Livingston Park
6:30 p.m. Varsity Game vs. Central – Gill Stadium
Wednesday, Sept. 25
2:15 - 3:30 p.m. Freshman Practice at HHS Turf
2:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
2:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
3:00 – 4:30 p.m. Practices for JV1, JV2
6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Varsity Practice – HHS Turf
Thursday, Sept. 26
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Practice for Freshmen -
4:00 p.m. JV Home Game vs. Concord – HHS Grass
4:00 p.m. Varsity Home Game vs. Concord – HHS Turf
4:30 JV2 Home Game vs. Fall Mountain 4:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 27
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Practice for JV1 - JV2 day off
4:30 p.m. Freshman Home Game vs. Concord
7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Varsity Practice – HHS Turf
Freshmen, We Have A Problem
We accept the fact that students learn from their errors, and our job across all curricular and extracurricular activities is to provide feedback, and guidance, and occasionally enact consequences.
On Tuesday, a number of freshman soccer players were causing a disturbance as they waited for the team bus right outside the SAU 70 Administrative offices at the high school. An administrator came out to speak to them. They were disrespectful. The staff summoned Athletic Director Megan Sobel, who spoke to the boys, confirming that they were soccer players. Megan then contacted me and I spoke with her on Thursday. I then spoke to some of the players as they waited for the Wednesday bus, and then to the entire team on Wednesday prior to the game. I made it clear that this behavior cannot be repeated, and why. I also made it clear that bystanding players had the opportunity to help keep their teammates in line.
Today, I was pulled aside by a HHS staff member who told me that this behavior was repeated on Thursday: noise, blocking the sidewalk, leaving a great deal of litter. The SAU administrator who is most upset about this is the one who has the power to curtail or eliminate the practices busses for freshmen altogether.
I will speak to the team when I see them next, but damage has been done. I can understand and tolerate frisky behavior after school. But to have this happen a day after a specific and stern warning is troubling. I am going to move to protect the vital practice bus service provided by the school. Going forward, the only waiting spot for the freshmen is in front of the school, near the flagpole. Under no circumstances can any soccer players wait or idle near the SASU office. I will also be reviewing the surveillance film footage of the area. It's well-covered by cameras, as you would expect. I will investigate the possibility of parent chaperones during the 45 minutes between the end of school and the bus departure time. In this instance I am not going to waste my time depending on the maturity or reliability of the players. They will. have other opportunities to demonstrate proper behavior, but this situation will be remedied in other ways. I am afraid that the tentative plan for ice cream after the Central game is not appropriate at the point.
On Tuesday, a number of freshman soccer players were causing a disturbance as they waited for the team bus right outside the SAU 70 Administrative offices at the high school. An administrator came out to speak to them. They were disrespectful. The staff summoned Athletic Director Megan Sobel, who spoke to the boys, confirming that they were soccer players. Megan then contacted me and I spoke with her on Thursday. I then spoke to some of the players as they waited for the Wednesday bus, and then to the entire team on Wednesday prior to the game. I made it clear that this behavior cannot be repeated, and why. I also made it clear that bystanding players had the opportunity to help keep their teammates in line.
Today, I was pulled aside by a HHS staff member who told me that this behavior was repeated on Thursday: noise, blocking the sidewalk, leaving a great deal of litter. The SAU administrator who is most upset about this is the one who has the power to curtail or eliminate the practices busses for freshmen altogether.
I will speak to the team when I see them next, but damage has been done. I can understand and tolerate frisky behavior after school. But to have this happen a day after a specific and stern warning is troubling. I am going to move to protect the vital practice bus service provided by the school. Going forward, the only waiting spot for the freshmen is in front of the school, near the flagpole. Under no circumstances can any soccer players wait or idle near the SASU office. I will also be reviewing the surveillance film footage of the area. It's well-covered by cameras, as you would expect. I will investigate the possibility of parent chaperones during the 45 minutes between the end of school and the bus departure time. In this instance I am not going to waste my time depending on the maturity or reliability of the players. They will. have other opportunities to demonstrate proper behavior, but this situation will be remedied in other ways. I am afraid that the tentative plan for ice cream after the Central game is not appropriate at the point.
Thursday, September 19, 2019
Please Read This Blog Post
Dear Players and Parents -
I have asked (and sometimes assume) that everyone check this blog every day. There are some times when this doesn't happen, and that's just as much this editor's fault as any. If the headline suggests that the sole focus of the post is a sub varsity game report, it's easy to skip it unless you are directly involved with that team. Several times this fall I have added updates regarding schedule changes at the tail end of a post, and I can understand how these get missed, especially when I don't flag them in the headline. I always update the weekly schedule, by far the most visited and re-visited post every week.
There's no game report today, but I have several updates I would like everyone to know about. Hence, todays headline. I am going to publish the weekly schedule tomorrow, and hope to move the traditional Sunday publication date up by a day or two, to facilitate planning. There are a lot of games next week, and each of the four teams will be away either Monday or Tuesday. That will require some advance planning over the weekend.
JV2 will travel to Woodsville on Monday, leaving after the end of sixth period. That will require all players to check in with their seventh period teachers FRIDAY to alert them. This also holds true for the Freshmen, who leave Monday for their game against Manchester Central after sixth period. They must also check in with their 7th period teachers on Friday.
Friday's agenda for JV2 at their usual 4:00 training time at Dresden will be getting their white road uniforms. If all goes well, we may also be able to distribute JV2 practice shirts. The Freshmen are off Friday, but I have several game jerseys to give to players (Alex, Soren), replacing their XLs with Ls. We can do that during my office hours in the gym during Activity Period.
The Freshmen (on Monday) and JV1s (on Tuesday) have games at Livingston Park in Manchester. That's a mile south of Exit 9S on Rt. 93. Just follow Rt. 3 south and look for Livingston Park on the right. Just across the street from Livingston Park is the Puritan Restaurant, home of the best homemade ice cream in NH. JV1 players who choose to go home with parents on Tuesday (instead of staying for the Varsity game at Gill stadium - we're all on one bus again) should stop at the Puritan for a cone or a shake. On Monday, I am considering a team stop at the Puritan. If we do, it'll be my treat (small cone).
The next games on the schedule are Saturday's Noon Homecoming contests for the Varsity and JV1 against Portsmouth. The JV1 game is at Dresden, with the hope that the wider field and better surface will contribute to a more attractive game. The Varsity game is on the turf, and once again I am plaintively asking that all players and spectators (especially you, freshmen) will bring non-perishable food items for The Haven. We will also be collecting food for the Haven on Thursday when Concord comes to town, and we have one Varsity parent who has offered to match every donation. Hello? Can you see where this might lead?
Today was a perfect training day for me. I got to interact with each of our four teams. The JV1, JV2 and Freshmen all trained at Dresden at 4:00. (along with the Reserve girls - it's amazing to stand back and watch 100 players working at the same time). Newly-named assistant coach Chris Dawes trained the Freshmen, Willie Johnson trained the JV1s, and I worked exclusively with the JV2s. Before we began, I spoke briefly with all three teams about our program policy with regard to charitable works. We try to do a good bit of this, perhaps more so on the Varsity level. Hence, food donations to the Haven. In October, the Varsiity will be hosting a Grassroots Soccer benefit game (October 8 vs. Timberlane. More on that soon). Leading up to Sunday, October 6th, we are inviting all players to participate in the CROP Hunger Walk. This fundraising walk (2.5 miles on Oct. 6th in Lebanon) raises funds to fight hunger both locally and worldwide. This year, most of the funds will be directed to food relief in the Bahamas, still recovering from the disastrous Hurricane Dorian. You can expect more information and some handouts on that soon.
After the Dresden sessions were done I swung back to the HHS turf for Varsity training. This amazing group of 26 has been working incredibly hard. They are regarded as one of the top three programs in the state. (We play consensus #2 Central on Tuesday omg their home turf). They get along extremely well with each other, and are capable of creating some beautiful soccer. Come see for yourselves on Saturday at Noon. Did I mention that you could bring some food for the Haven?
I have asked (and sometimes assume) that everyone check this blog every day. There are some times when this doesn't happen, and that's just as much this editor's fault as any. If the headline suggests that the sole focus of the post is a sub varsity game report, it's easy to skip it unless you are directly involved with that team. Several times this fall I have added updates regarding schedule changes at the tail end of a post, and I can understand how these get missed, especially when I don't flag them in the headline. I always update the weekly schedule, by far the most visited and re-visited post every week.
There's no game report today, but I have several updates I would like everyone to know about. Hence, todays headline. I am going to publish the weekly schedule tomorrow, and hope to move the traditional Sunday publication date up by a day or two, to facilitate planning. There are a lot of games next week, and each of the four teams will be away either Monday or Tuesday. That will require some advance planning over the weekend.
JV2 will travel to Woodsville on Monday, leaving after the end of sixth period. That will require all players to check in with their seventh period teachers FRIDAY to alert them. This also holds true for the Freshmen, who leave Monday for their game against Manchester Central after sixth period. They must also check in with their 7th period teachers on Friday.
Friday's agenda for JV2 at their usual 4:00 training time at Dresden will be getting their white road uniforms. If all goes well, we may also be able to distribute JV2 practice shirts. The Freshmen are off Friday, but I have several game jerseys to give to players (Alex, Soren), replacing their XLs with Ls. We can do that during my office hours in the gym during Activity Period.
The Freshmen (on Monday) and JV1s (on Tuesday) have games at Livingston Park in Manchester. That's a mile south of Exit 9S on Rt. 93. Just follow Rt. 3 south and look for Livingston Park on the right. Just across the street from Livingston Park is the Puritan Restaurant, home of the best homemade ice cream in NH. JV1 players who choose to go home with parents on Tuesday (instead of staying for the Varsity game at Gill stadium - we're all on one bus again) should stop at the Puritan for a cone or a shake. On Monday, I am considering a team stop at the Puritan. If we do, it'll be my treat (small cone).
The next games on the schedule are Saturday's Noon Homecoming contests for the Varsity and JV1 against Portsmouth. The JV1 game is at Dresden, with the hope that the wider field and better surface will contribute to a more attractive game. The Varsity game is on the turf, and once again I am plaintively asking that all players and spectators (especially you, freshmen) will bring non-perishable food items for The Haven. We will also be collecting food for the Haven on Thursday when Concord comes to town, and we have one Varsity parent who has offered to match every donation. Hello? Can you see where this might lead?
Today was a perfect training day for me. I got to interact with each of our four teams. The JV1, JV2 and Freshmen all trained at Dresden at 4:00. (along with the Reserve girls - it's amazing to stand back and watch 100 players working at the same time). Newly-named assistant coach Chris Dawes trained the Freshmen, Willie Johnson trained the JV1s, and I worked exclusively with the JV2s. Before we began, I spoke briefly with all three teams about our program policy with regard to charitable works. We try to do a good bit of this, perhaps more so on the Varsity level. Hence, food donations to the Haven. In October, the Varsiity will be hosting a Grassroots Soccer benefit game (October 8 vs. Timberlane. More on that soon). Leading up to Sunday, October 6th, we are inviting all players to participate in the CROP Hunger Walk. This fundraising walk (2.5 miles on Oct. 6th in Lebanon) raises funds to fight hunger both locally and worldwide. This year, most of the funds will be directed to food relief in the Bahamas, still recovering from the disastrous Hurricane Dorian. You can expect more information and some handouts on that soon.
After the Dresden sessions were done I swung back to the HHS turf for Varsity training. This amazing group of 26 has been working incredibly hard. They are regarded as one of the top three programs in the state. (We play consensus #2 Central on Tuesday omg their home turf). They get along extremely well with each other, and are capable of creating some beautiful soccer. Come see for yourselves on Saturday at Noon. Did I mention that you could bring some food for the Haven?
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
Freshmen Outscored by Cardigan 5-4; Thursday Game Postponed
The only match on the schedule for Wednesday was a home match for the Freshmen, who will undoubtedly be disappointed to have held 3-1 and 4-2 leads in the second half over the Cardigan Mountain School before coming out on the wrong end of a 5-4 decision. Despite the loss, there were plenty of mitigating factors that will help the frosh take a lot of positives from the match.
Hanover started well, shaking off a staggered warmup to start off well. After a stretch of back and forth play in which the talented Cardigan team showed plenty of firepower, Jack Gardner staked the Marauders to a 1-0 lead with a now-patented breakaway. Cardigan responded with a lot of pressure, but rookie goalkeeper Cam Bonner did an excellent job coming off his line, snuffing out several Cougar scoring bids.
Hanover was playing Cardigan evenly, and got a good scoring bid when Gilbert Gordon hit a high shot over the. Hanover was getting good midfield play from Jack Stadheim and Jack McGrath, the latter connecting well with teammates, eschewing hero ball.
Cardigan tied the score on a gift goal, when several Hanover clearing attempts failed, and an accidental hand ball gave the the Cougars a penalty kick. Ty Nolon reacted well, and got his hands on the well-taken spot kick, but it oozed into the net. Jack Gardner got a few minutes at the end of the half, and gave Hanover the lead, scoring his second goal on a......wait for it..........breakaway. The lead could have been larger, but the half ended after the Marauders had been awarded a corner kick. Tells you everything you need to know.
Hanover's lead increased to 3-1 at the start of the second half, when a good play resulted in an own goal by Cardigan. Gardner made a great pass across midfield to August Krawitt in the corner, and Augie drove a dangerous ball into the box. A clearing attempt by a Cougar defender spun into the net, and Hanover had a seemingly safe lead.
Cardigan pulled a goal back on a long free kick from midfield that gave a streaking forward an easy cutaway, but the Marauders responded with a nice passing play from Krawitt to Gardner to Stadheim, who buried the ball for a 4-2 lead.
The next 10 minutes were not Hanover's best, as they surrendered three goals and the lead. A botched clearance, a goal that may well have been offside, and a poorly-defended corner kick resulted in a 5-4 disadvantage that could not be overcome.
Here's the thing: The headline say "outscored", not "beaten". Cardigan took what they were given, but they didn't exactly carve up the Hanover defense. If the Marauders can learn from their missteps and continue to improve, the loss will have been worth it. That's particularly the case since there is a rematch down the road, at Cardigan, on their Parents' Weekend. Circle the date.
Thursday's game with Concord has been postponed until Friday, Sept. 27, so the Marauders will go back to work with a 4:00 training session with Coach Chris Dawes. They will have Homecoming Friday off, and are warmly invited to Saturday's Noon Varsity encounter with Portsmouth, heavily laden with non-perishable food items for The Haven. Hear me, frosh? Please bring food for a very good cause.
Hanover started well, shaking off a staggered warmup to start off well. After a stretch of back and forth play in which the talented Cardigan team showed plenty of firepower, Jack Gardner staked the Marauders to a 1-0 lead with a now-patented breakaway. Cardigan responded with a lot of pressure, but rookie goalkeeper Cam Bonner did an excellent job coming off his line, snuffing out several Cougar scoring bids.
Hanover was playing Cardigan evenly, and got a good scoring bid when Gilbert Gordon hit a high shot over the. Hanover was getting good midfield play from Jack Stadheim and Jack McGrath, the latter connecting well with teammates, eschewing hero ball.
Cardigan tied the score on a gift goal, when several Hanover clearing attempts failed, and an accidental hand ball gave the the Cougars a penalty kick. Ty Nolon reacted well, and got his hands on the well-taken spot kick, but it oozed into the net. Jack Gardner got a few minutes at the end of the half, and gave Hanover the lead, scoring his second goal on a......wait for it..........breakaway. The lead could have been larger, but the half ended after the Marauders had been awarded a corner kick. Tells you everything you need to know.
Hanover's lead increased to 3-1 at the start of the second half, when a good play resulted in an own goal by Cardigan. Gardner made a great pass across midfield to August Krawitt in the corner, and Augie drove a dangerous ball into the box. A clearing attempt by a Cougar defender spun into the net, and Hanover had a seemingly safe lead.
Cardigan pulled a goal back on a long free kick from midfield that gave a streaking forward an easy cutaway, but the Marauders responded with a nice passing play from Krawitt to Gardner to Stadheim, who buried the ball for a 4-2 lead.
The next 10 minutes were not Hanover's best, as they surrendered three goals and the lead. A botched clearance, a goal that may well have been offside, and a poorly-defended corner kick resulted in a 5-4 disadvantage that could not be overcome.
Here's the thing: The headline say "outscored", not "beaten". Cardigan took what they were given, but they didn't exactly carve up the Hanover defense. If the Marauders can learn from their missteps and continue to improve, the loss will have been worth it. That's particularly the case since there is a rematch down the road, at Cardigan, on their Parents' Weekend. Circle the date.
Thursday's game with Concord has been postponed until Friday, Sept. 27, so the Marauders will go back to work with a 4:00 training session with Coach Chris Dawes. They will have Homecoming Friday off, and are warmly invited to Saturday's Noon Varsity encounter with Portsmouth, heavily laden with non-perishable food items for The Haven. Hear me, frosh? Please bring food for a very good cause.
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Marauders Beat Undefeated Keene 4-0 On Adams Hat Trick
Hanover played a complete game on Tuesday, beating a solid (and undefeated) Keene team 4-0 to improve their record to 4-1. A solid team defense spearheaded by Captain Kyle Doucette and goalkeeper Joey Perras earned the first clean sheet of the season for the Marauders. Captain Charlie Adams had a hand in all four goals, setting up Blake Palmer for the game winner and then scoring his second straight hat trick in the second half.
It didn't take Hanover long to get started, despite their patient buildup which allowed them to possess the ball for long stretches. Four minutes into the match, Adams controlled the ball inside midfield and penetrated to the right side before slipping the ball to Palmer on the flank. Blake closed and hit a hard shot which was saved by standout Keene keeper Charlie Zwierzchowski. He pounced on the rebound and rammed it home for his second goal of the campaign.
Hanover continued to probe the hard-working Keene defense, and look for the second goal. Palmer and Amane Matsuoka were dangerous on the flanks, and rookie center back Evan Nichols got forward on a corner and hit his first shot of the season over the bar. Might not be his last. Adams got loose at the top of the box and left a calling card, hitting a screamer over the bar. Latham Allison had a look from the same spot that was blocked. Keene was able to penetrate to the top of the Hanover defensive third, but all of their shots were long range and easily handled by Perras.
As has been their custom, the Marauders emerged from the halftime huddle and went right to work, doubling the score 4:30 after the interval. Adams sprinted to midfield and hit a long, accurate pass to Matsuoka on the left side. Amane closed into the box, held the ball into the right moment, and slid the ball into Adams' path for an effortless finish.
Ten minutes later, an innocuous call at the top of the Keene box gave Adams a chance to tee up a free kick and drive it upper left corner where the cobwebs collect for a 3-0 Marauder lead. By now, waves of subs were able to gobble up some precious minutes. Jackson Lake was camped on the sidelines ready to relieve Adams (3-0 lead, two goals, no need to run it up) with 11 minutes to play when an amazingly good buildup got the ball to Henry Aspinwall, who squared to to Adams for his second hattie in two games.
Next up for the Marauders is a Homecoming home game on Saturday at Noon on the turf. And if you're still reading, please actually bring food for the Haven. Yes, you. Did we mention that the Freshmen should wear Maroon for their home game Wednesday against Cardigan.
It didn't take Hanover long to get started, despite their patient buildup which allowed them to possess the ball for long stretches. Four minutes into the match, Adams controlled the ball inside midfield and penetrated to the right side before slipping the ball to Palmer on the flank. Blake closed and hit a hard shot which was saved by standout Keene keeper Charlie Zwierzchowski. He pounced on the rebound and rammed it home for his second goal of the campaign.
Hanover continued to probe the hard-working Keene defense, and look for the second goal. Palmer and Amane Matsuoka were dangerous on the flanks, and rookie center back Evan Nichols got forward on a corner and hit his first shot of the season over the bar. Might not be his last. Adams got loose at the top of the box and left a calling card, hitting a screamer over the bar. Latham Allison had a look from the same spot that was blocked. Keene was able to penetrate to the top of the Hanover defensive third, but all of their shots were long range and easily handled by Perras.
As has been their custom, the Marauders emerged from the halftime huddle and went right to work, doubling the score 4:30 after the interval. Adams sprinted to midfield and hit a long, accurate pass to Matsuoka on the left side. Amane closed into the box, held the ball into the right moment, and slid the ball into Adams' path for an effortless finish.
Ten minutes later, an innocuous call at the top of the Keene box gave Adams a chance to tee up a free kick and drive it upper left corner where the cobwebs collect for a 3-0 Marauder lead. By now, waves of subs were able to gobble up some precious minutes. Jackson Lake was camped on the sidelines ready to relieve Adams (3-0 lead, two goals, no need to run it up) with 11 minutes to play when an amazingly good buildup got the ball to Henry Aspinwall, who squared to to Adams for his second hattie in two games.
Next up for the Marauders is a Homecoming home game on Saturday at Noon on the turf. And if you're still reading, please actually bring food for the Haven. Yes, you. Did we mention that the Freshmen should wear Maroon for their home game Wednesday against Cardigan.
JV1 Beats Keene 3-1, Now 4-1
Hanover's JV1 squad overcame an early deficit and a number of frustrations and distractions to earn a scrappy 3-1 victory over Keene on Tuesday, improving their record ton 4-1. The match began inauspiciously for the Marauders, as a missed tackle at the 18 in the fourth minute allowed a Keene striker in along, and the locals trailed 1-0. It could have been 2-0 a few minutes later, but Tom Lyons swept in and made a saving tackle to keep Keene's lead at one.
The Marauders settled into the match and came close to tying things in the 25th minute when a good buildup gave Jack Ross the chance to rip a shot over the bar from 25 yards out. A free kick opportunity created the opening for Hanover to tie the game in the 25th minute. A cheeky quick restart to Jack Ross sent him into a wall of defenders, and when the bvall eventually fell to Oscar, he made no mistake and leveled the score at 1-1.
It took Hanover a while to work their way into the second half. Jack Maynes was called on to make a one on one save, and a few minutes later a comical call in the box gave Keene a golden chance that was skied over the bar.
The Marauders went ahead in the 62nd minute on a free kick by Mitch Aspinwall, and Derek Lacy put the icing on the cake with a left footed blast on a counterattack after a failed Keene free kick.
Hanover's next home game will move to the spacious confines of the Dresden Pasture on Saturday, a homecoming match at 12:00 Noon.
HEY FRESHMEN! WEAR MAROON UNIFORMS FOR THE CARDIGAN GAME WEDNESDAY. TAKE THE PRACTICE BUS AT 2:45, OR GO HOME AND GET TO THE FIELD BY NO LATER THAN 4:00.
The Marauders settled into the match and came close to tying things in the 25th minute when a good buildup gave Jack Ross the chance to rip a shot over the bar from 25 yards out. A free kick opportunity created the opening for Hanover to tie the game in the 25th minute. A cheeky quick restart to Jack Ross sent him into a wall of defenders, and when the bvall eventually fell to Oscar, he made no mistake and leveled the score at 1-1.
It took Hanover a while to work their way into the second half. Jack Maynes was called on to make a one on one save, and a few minutes later a comical call in the box gave Keene a golden chance that was skied over the bar.
The Marauders went ahead in the 62nd minute on a free kick by Mitch Aspinwall, and Derek Lacy put the icing on the cake with a left footed blast on a counterattack after a failed Keene free kick.
Hanover's next home game will move to the spacious confines of the Dresden Pasture on Saturday, a homecoming match at 12:00 Noon.
HEY FRESHMEN! WEAR MAROON UNIFORMS FOR THE CARDIGAN GAME WEDNESDAY. TAKE THE PRACTICE BUS AT 2:45, OR GO HOME AND GET TO THE FIELD BY NO LATER THAN 4:00.
Monday, September 16, 2019
JV2 Wins Twice, Now 3-0; Tuesday Update
The Marauder JV2 squad is off to a hot start, with wins on Friday and Monday. Last Friday, Hanover beat Woodsville 4-2. On Monday afternoon, the Marauders beat Bishop Guertin 5-2, with goals by Roan Downard, Pierce Seigne, Henry Bernard and Ruslan Henry.
Here is the detailed account of the Woodsville game by Coach Erik McEwen:
Here is the detailed account of the Woodsville game by Coach Erik McEwen:
"It was a warm Friday afternoon as the players took to the field. From the outset it was apparent that the team had been playing together for the past few weeks. The passing and chemistry was noticeably improved. This resulted in dominant possession by Hanover and a quick goal where Anthony Maynes got the ball in the eighteen and calmly laid it off to an on rushing Pierce Seigne who put it past the goalie for his first goal of the season. A second goal came about due to constant pressure in the midfield where Eli Bush won the ball in the Engineers half and unleashed a shot that flew into the crossbar and went straight down into the goal for his first goal as well. The half was far from over and Woodsville answered on a counter and found the back of the net. Hanover stayed in the game as well and kept playing hard. Simi Obamsawin playing in the new role of outside midfielder managed to get pass through to Pierce who once again found the back of the net. There was also some strong play from Hanover with Mitchell Rowley locking down the right side as well as Ayaan Ahmad making good strike on frame with his left foot.
The second half opened up with a bit wider attack which did produce some chances, but also left Marauders a bit more open. Woodsviile took this opportunity to get down the field and place a ball in the box where it was deftly one touched into the corner beyond the reach of Jackson. It was a back and forth game, but Hanover once again showed resolve and the seniors strung together an attack starting with Archer Judd who found Eli Bush on a throw-in, who then deftly threaded the ball through to Henry Bernard. Henry was taking shots and threatening all afternoon and finally found the back of the net for his first goal of the season as well. The defense showed organization and pressure, and AJ Ristino played a key role as wingback, centerback, and a relentless holding midfielder to keep the Engineers in check. Jackson Fisher was impressive as well and continues to show a growing confidence in the net."
Tuesday, schedule includes a pair of practices and a pair of home games. Both JV2 and Freshman teams will train at their regular 4:00 times. CoachYosef Osheyack will be running the JV2 session, and we are pleased to announce that newly-signed Assistant Coach Chris Dawes will be training the Freshmen. CoAch Dawes is well-known throughout Upper Valley soccer circles, and was an integral part of the Lightning staff for several years. He'll be working twice a week with the freshmen, training them on Varsity game days when Coach Grabill is otherwise engaged.
Hanover's JV1 and Varsity squads will host Keene at 4:00 Tuesday, on the HHS grass and turf. We will be collecting food from the Haven Food Pantry. Players for all four teams are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to school. The price of admission to the gym for Activity period: A can of soup or a jar of peanut butter. The collection bin will then reside on the bench by the trophy case all day. Please help us reach our goal of a ton of food by the end of the season. 200 pounds and counting so far!
Sunday, September 15, 2019
Game and Practice Schedule - September 14-21
HANOVER HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER
GAME AND PRACTICE SCHEDULE SEPT. 14-21
Saturday, Sept. 14
11:00 – 12:30 Sub-Varsity Practice on HHS turf
Monday, Sept. 16
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields/Huntley
4:30 p.m. JV2 Home Game vs. Bishop Guertin
4:00 – 5:30 Freshman scrimmage at Huntley
5:30 – 7:00 p.m. JV1 Practice at HHS Grass
6:00 - 7:30 p.m. Varsity Practice – HHS Turf
Tuesday, Sept. 17
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Practices for JV2 and Freshmen
4:00 p.m. JV1 and Varsity Games vs. Keene – Turf and Grass
Wednesday, Sept. 18
2:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
3:00 – 4:30 p.m. Practices for JV1, JV2
4:30 p.m. Freshman Game vs. Cardigan Mt. at Dresden.
4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Varsity Practice – Dresden
Thursday, Sept. 19
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Practice for JV1, JV2, Freshmen
6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Varsity Practice - HHS Turf
6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Varsity Practice - HHS Turf
Friday, Sept. 20
3:45 p.m. Busses depart for practice at Dresden Fields
4:00 – 5:30p.m. Practices for JV1, JV2, Varsity
Freshmen boys – No Practice
Saturday, Sept. 21
12 Noon Varsity Home Game vs. Portsmouth – HHS Turf
12 Noon JV1 Home Game vs. Portsmouth - Dresden
Saturday, September 14, 2019
Freshman Schedule Changes Set Up a Busy Week; Schedule Highlights
Fresh off a spirited optional practice on the HHS Turf on Saturday morning, the Freshman team will rest on Sunday before a busy week ahead.
On Monday, the team will take a bus from HHS at the regular time, but go to Huntley Meadow for a 4:30 scrimmage with the Lightning U14 team. Players will need to be picked up any Huntley after the scrimmage, or arrange their transportation. Players will wear white/gold practice uniforms.
The team will train at Dresden on Tuesday. On Wednesday, the Freshmen will host a game with Cardigan Mountain School at Dresden at 4:30. The team can either take the regular practice bus to Dresden at 2:45, or go directly home after school and be dropped off at Dresden no later than 3:45.
Hanover will wear maroon.
On Thursday, the Freshmen will host a game with Concord at 4:30 at Dresden. They will all take the regular practice bus, and wear Maroon. There is no Freshman practice on Friday.
The JV2 squad hosts Bishop Guertin on Monday At Dresden at 4:30
The JV1 team hosts Keene on Tuesday on the HHS Grass field at 4:00. The JV1 game on Saturday at Noon has been moved from the HHS grass to Dresden. Perhaps a team Homecoming picnic afterwards?
The Varsity hosts Keene on Tuesday on the HHS Turf at 4:00. We will be commenting non-perishable food items for the Haven Food Pantry. They host Portsmouth on Saturday at Noon on the HHS Turf.
On Monday, the team will take a bus from HHS at the regular time, but go to Huntley Meadow for a 4:30 scrimmage with the Lightning U14 team. Players will need to be picked up any Huntley after the scrimmage, or arrange their transportation. Players will wear white/gold practice uniforms.
The team will train at Dresden on Tuesday. On Wednesday, the Freshmen will host a game with Cardigan Mountain School at Dresden at 4:30. The team can either take the regular practice bus to Dresden at 2:45, or go directly home after school and be dropped off at Dresden no later than 3:45.
Hanover will wear maroon.
On Thursday, the Freshmen will host a game with Concord at 4:30 at Dresden. They will all take the regular practice bus, and wear Maroon. There is no Freshman practice on Friday.
The JV2 squad hosts Bishop Guertin on Monday At Dresden at 4:30
The JV1 team hosts Keene on Tuesday on the HHS Grass field at 4:00. The JV1 game on Saturday at Noon has been moved from the HHS grass to Dresden. Perhaps a team Homecoming picnic afterwards?
The Varsity hosts Keene on Tuesday on the HHS Turf at 4:00. We will be commenting non-perishable food items for the Haven Food Pantry. They host Portsmouth on Saturday at Noon on the HHS Turf.
Friday, September 13, 2019
Marauders Explode For a 6-1 Win at Merrimack
How would Hanover respond to last Tuesday's disappointing loss to Bedford? They had played well enough to understand that they could have been better. They put their heads down, had two good days of training, and shook off the cobwebs with a solid 6-1 victory over Merrimack at the very familiar (for some) GPS facility in Bedford.
Although focusing on possession was the goal for Hanover, they took the suspense out of the match two minutes into the game, when Charlie Adams sent an angled pass into the box for Eli Stack, who finished expertly for his second goal of the season. Eight minutes later, Stack returned the favor, making a baseline run from the right side and pulling the ball back for Adams, making the score 2-0. Adams hit the post with a shot at the 15-minute mark
Hanover's edge in play was significant. They held the ball for long stretched, patiently playing in all directions, and switching the point of attack from side to side. By the end of the half, they held a 17-0 edge in shots. This was somewhat of a surprise. Merrimack had beaten BG 3-1, not too far removed form Hanover's 4-1 win over BG. They had lost to Bedford 3-0, a respectable score. So when Latham Allison nudged in a Charlie Adams free kick at the far post for a 3-0 lead just 17 minutes into the game, it was noteworthy.
The Marauders did some significant substituting after the midway point of the half, but on a warm afternoon that only increased Hanover's edge, and they notched the nicest goal of the game at the 25-minute mark. The ball was played into the right corner to Amane Matsuoka, who had switched positions with Blake Palmer minutes earlier. Matsuoka found Eli Stack in front of the net with a centering pass, and Stack deftly slid the ball for Adams, who had an easy shot for his second goal of the afternoon.
Hanover had a number of other good looks. Palmer had a shot headed off the line, David Stoffel had a pair of long ranger offerings, and Nathan Subrahmanian was point blank but his shot never found the target. With five minutes to go in the half, Will Blinkhorn his a hard shot the deflected off a defender and found the back of the net. Hockey studs Toño Correa and Brendan Brigham celebrated what they were sure was a goal for their brother, but alas, the soccer scoring rules properly credited it as an Own Goal. Those same rules awarded him an assist, however, as a consolation prize. Joey Perras nearly collected an assist when his long goal kick connect with Charlie Adams on the break. It was ruled offsides, which Associate Head Coach Sam Farnham correctly pointed out to the official, who immediately and good-naturedly admitted his mistake.
Sternly warned to started the second half as though it was scoreless, the Marauders immediately surrendered a goal to Merrimack, combining a bad pass with a shoddy tackle, creating time and space for Carter Sherman to score. Unfazed, Hanover continued to apply pressure on Merrimack with a number of players, eventually using all 24 field players and giving them decent minutes. Kyle Doucette forced a nice save with a strong shot following a corner kick. Blake Palmer and Alex Stevens almost created a spectacular goal, with Palmer's volley from sweet Stevens cross hitting the crossbar and sailing away.
Merrimack was fighting hard to get back into the game, but the Hanover defense was solid. Joey Perras made a dope catch of a corner kick in traffic, and then made a wonderful diving save to his left on a dangerous shot. Merrimack was awarded a free kick right at the edge of the box, and the wall did a great job blunting the attack, with Evan Nichols taking one for the team. Brendan Brigham also absorbed a hard shot in his own end, although it was friendly fire from Doucette.
Hanover continued to have an edge in possession and play. Jackson Lake had three looks, and forced a great save with one shot headed for the corner. Subrahmanian had another good opportunity, and Henry Aspinwall had a dangerous shot opportunity blocked. The last goal of the match went to Charlie Adams, who completed a hat trick with a shot from the 18. It was his fifth of the season.
The Marauders will enjoy a weekend off, and then begin preparing for a solid Keene team. Hanover beat the Blackbirds in a preseason match, but this one will be for keeps, and the Marauders will need to continue to make progress as they grow together as a team./
Although focusing on possession was the goal for Hanover, they took the suspense out of the match two minutes into the game, when Charlie Adams sent an angled pass into the box for Eli Stack, who finished expertly for his second goal of the season. Eight minutes later, Stack returned the favor, making a baseline run from the right side and pulling the ball back for Adams, making the score 2-0. Adams hit the post with a shot at the 15-minute mark
Hanover's edge in play was significant. They held the ball for long stretched, patiently playing in all directions, and switching the point of attack from side to side. By the end of the half, they held a 17-0 edge in shots. This was somewhat of a surprise. Merrimack had beaten BG 3-1, not too far removed form Hanover's 4-1 win over BG. They had lost to Bedford 3-0, a respectable score. So when Latham Allison nudged in a Charlie Adams free kick at the far post for a 3-0 lead just 17 minutes into the game, it was noteworthy.
The Marauders did some significant substituting after the midway point of the half, but on a warm afternoon that only increased Hanover's edge, and they notched the nicest goal of the game at the 25-minute mark. The ball was played into the right corner to Amane Matsuoka, who had switched positions with Blake Palmer minutes earlier. Matsuoka found Eli Stack in front of the net with a centering pass, and Stack deftly slid the ball for Adams, who had an easy shot for his second goal of the afternoon.
Hanover had a number of other good looks. Palmer had a shot headed off the line, David Stoffel had a pair of long ranger offerings, and Nathan Subrahmanian was point blank but his shot never found the target. With five minutes to go in the half, Will Blinkhorn his a hard shot the deflected off a defender and found the back of the net. Hockey studs Toño Correa and Brendan Brigham celebrated what they were sure was a goal for their brother, but alas, the soccer scoring rules properly credited it as an Own Goal. Those same rules awarded him an assist, however, as a consolation prize. Joey Perras nearly collected an assist when his long goal kick connect with Charlie Adams on the break. It was ruled offsides, which Associate Head Coach Sam Farnham correctly pointed out to the official, who immediately and good-naturedly admitted his mistake.
Sternly warned to started the second half as though it was scoreless, the Marauders immediately surrendered a goal to Merrimack, combining a bad pass with a shoddy tackle, creating time and space for Carter Sherman to score. Unfazed, Hanover continued to apply pressure on Merrimack with a number of players, eventually using all 24 field players and giving them decent minutes. Kyle Doucette forced a nice save with a strong shot following a corner kick. Blake Palmer and Alex Stevens almost created a spectacular goal, with Palmer's volley from sweet Stevens cross hitting the crossbar and sailing away.
Merrimack was fighting hard to get back into the game, but the Hanover defense was solid. Joey Perras made a dope catch of a corner kick in traffic, and then made a wonderful diving save to his left on a dangerous shot. Merrimack was awarded a free kick right at the edge of the box, and the wall did a great job blunting the attack, with Evan Nichols taking one for the team. Brendan Brigham also absorbed a hard shot in his own end, although it was friendly fire from Doucette.
Hanover continued to have an edge in possession and play. Jackson Lake had three looks, and forced a great save with one shot headed for the corner. Subrahmanian had another good opportunity, and Henry Aspinwall had a dangerous shot opportunity blocked. The last goal of the match went to Charlie Adams, who completed a hat trick with a shot from the 18. It was his fifth of the season.
The Marauders will enjoy a weekend off, and then begin preparing for a solid Keene team. Hanover beat the Blackbirds in a preseason match, but this one will be for keeps, and the Marauders will need to continue to make progress as they grow together as a team./
JV1 Bounces Back to Beat Merrimack 3-1
Following Tuesday's tough 2-0 loss to Bedford, JV1 Coach Willie Johnson made a few tweaks, and the Marauders responded with a quality 3-1 win over Merrimack on Friday at the GPS fields in Bedford. Hanover began the game with a stretch of sustained possession, and nearly got on the board in the 11th minute when a Jack Ross free kick connected with Murphy Hunt, whose volley was wide.
The Marauders took a 1-0 lead after 27 minutes when Oscar dribbled into a good shooting position and beat the keeper with a shot at the near post. Eight minutes later Hanover doubled the lead when Zane Schiffman's cross from the right flank found Pierce Hamlin at the six yard box for a clinical finish.
Schiffman's switch to right wing was one of several successful switches. Mitch Aspinwall played well at center midfield, and received plaudits from the opposing coach. Derek Lacy was dangerous on the left wing. Teddy Ruth was a force in the middle of the park with good tackling, and his cameo on right wing set up an excellent goal. Mathias Einarsson settled in well at left back, stepping well to contain the ball in the attacking zone. Thomas Glass made several excellent recovery runs, and closed the first half with some good tackles.
Hanover started the second half well, and had had several great scoring bids denied by the Merrimack goalkeeper. In the 55th minute, Zane Schiffman cut into the middle of the field and struck a dangerous left-footed shot that forced a miracle save. Ten minutes later, Oscar had a great strike from the 18 that was denied by another excellent save. Five minutes later, Murphy Hunt was cleaned out at the 18, but play continued.
With five minutes to play, a couple of bad bounces allowed Merrimack to pull a goal back, nut Hanover responded in the right way, oppressing forward instead of circling the wagons. Teddy Ruth's pass from the right wing found Owen Stannard at the top of the box. Owen stole a defender's soul with a pullback move and drilled a left-footer into the top right corner.
There will be one casualty as a result of the Hanover victory: Oscar has pledged to shave his moustache. The less-hirsute Marauders will host Keene on Tuesday on the HHS grass.
The Marauders took a 1-0 lead after 27 minutes when Oscar dribbled into a good shooting position and beat the keeper with a shot at the near post. Eight minutes later Hanover doubled the lead when Zane Schiffman's cross from the right flank found Pierce Hamlin at the six yard box for a clinical finish.
Schiffman's switch to right wing was one of several successful switches. Mitch Aspinwall played well at center midfield, and received plaudits from the opposing coach. Derek Lacy was dangerous on the left wing. Teddy Ruth was a force in the middle of the park with good tackling, and his cameo on right wing set up an excellent goal. Mathias Einarsson settled in well at left back, stepping well to contain the ball in the attacking zone. Thomas Glass made several excellent recovery runs, and closed the first half with some good tackles.
Hanover started the second half well, and had had several great scoring bids denied by the Merrimack goalkeeper. In the 55th minute, Zane Schiffman cut into the middle of the field and struck a dangerous left-footed shot that forced a miracle save. Ten minutes later, Oscar had a great strike from the 18 that was denied by another excellent save. Five minutes later, Murphy Hunt was cleaned out at the 18, but play continued.
With five minutes to play, a couple of bad bounces allowed Merrimack to pull a goal back, nut Hanover responded in the right way, oppressing forward instead of circling the wagons. Teddy Ruth's pass from the right wing found Owen Stannard at the top of the box. Owen stole a defender's soul with a pullback move and drilled a left-footer into the top right corner.
There will be one casualty as a result of the Hanover victory: Oscar has pledged to shave his moustache. The less-hirsute Marauders will host Keene on Tuesday on the HHS grass.