The Bromfield boys varsity soccer team, trying to continue its winning trend this fall season, put that goal into motion this past week, beating larger school opponents North Middlesex and Groton-Dunstable, both 1–0.
The Trojans were supposed to open their season against Division II powerhouse Nipmuc, but due to hurricane weather the game had to be postponed. This set the stage for a home opener against the North Middlesex Patriots, whom the Trojans defeated 3–0 last year en route to the state championship. The Patriots, however, had other thoughts in mind this season and prepared themselves well for the offensive firepower of the Trojans. Bromfield dominated possession early, with senior captain Greg Wenger causing problems with his speed and skill on the right side, sending a crossing ball in front of goal that was nearly put in by junior star Cody Osgood.
The Trojans dominated possession in the midfield, with senior captain Scott Nussdorfer, and outside midfielders Jon Alexander, Jeff Messina, and junior transfer Brandon Tomm. Tomm nearly got on the board early with another picture-perfect cross from Wenger on the left side, sending a crushing volley off the crossbar and over the goal roughly 15 minutes into the first half. The Trojan offense continued to knock on the door but failed to capitalize on numerous opportunities in front of goal. At the half, the score was 0–0.
The second half was more of the same for Bromfield, but again defense was the mainstay for both sides. Junior Ben Landry and senior sweeper Kevin Molinaro stifled all attempts at goal through nearly perfect defensive effort. The Patriots rarely sustained possession throughout the game, and goalkeeper Caleb Frost had few difficult saves to make. Bromfield finally broke the deadlock on a through pass to Osgood, who slotted a low shot into the corner to take a 1–0 lead. That goal proved to be all the Trojans would need, as they ground out the final 15 minutes of the second half with gritty defense and possession.
“We definitely played well overall,” said Nussdorfer. “But we need to play better in the future.”
The team then traveled to Groton-Dunstable to play its Division I rival Crusaders under the lights. The Crusaders were charged and ready to go from the start, dominating possession with their physical play and aggressive defensive pursuit. Junior Derek McCaffrey controlled play in the midfield for Groton, sending through passes to the outside midfielders, who sent dangerous balls into the Bromfield defensive box. Keeper Caleb Frost was up to all challenges, however, stifling goal-line and outside shots alike to keep the score at 0–0. The Trojans went into the half having had few offensive opportunities and sustained control of the ball.
The second half was a turnaround for the Trojans as they began to break down the Crusader defense. Finally, Scott Nussdorfer threaded a one-touch pass through to Osgood, who took a few dribbles into the box and placed a shot inside the far post, leaving the Groton goalkeeper no chance. Following the 1–0 lead, Groton pressed back on the attack in an attempt to tie the game, but again the Bromfield defense held tough under the leadership of Molinaro. Juniors Landry and Zach Clements, as well as senior stopper Connor Davy, played composed, tough defense throughout the game, making it difficult for Groton to get good opportunities at goal.
The Trojans look to continue their streak against rivals Tahanto and Parker next week.
