The Bromfield varsity boys soccer team shut out rival Sutton 1–0 Saturday night, Oct. 7. The under-the-lights event, a first for a home game at Harvard Park, drew a large crowd that witnessed Bromfield’s victory against Sutton. The single goal of the game was scored by junior Charlie Pappas with an assist from senior Jack Armstrong 15 minutes into the second half. Senior Austin Franklin made six saves to guarantee a Bromfield win.
Sutton has a history of playing rough and received two yellow cards during the game. Despite this physical play and the challenge of playing its first evening game at the Bromfield track, the team pulled out a strong win. Tom Hill, the coach of Bromfield’s team, said, “I think it went very well under these conditions. In the dark it was tough for both teams. I think we played well.”
Despite some areas of low visibility due to the temporary lighting rented for the event, the evening seemed to be a success. (See letter to the editor, “Under the lights: Need more cowbell,” on page 2). The lights had been acquired and paid for by Bromfield Principal Scott Hoffman. The night began with the singing of the national anthem by junior Phoebe Clark. The Trojan mascot, as well as the Hildreth Husky, was present, rooting the team on. Over the cheers of fellow teammates following the game, co-captain Armstrong described how it felt to play before the nightime crowd: “It was so much fun … It was awesome to have the whole community come out and watch us. It was something really special, something all of the seniors, everyone, will remember.”
The team, strong to begin with, has improved in several aspects. According to Hill, “We’re starting to put more shots on goal … a little better offense.” The team’s top scorer, senior Ryell deRuijter, has been out with a concussion for two and a half weeks, missing four games prior to Saturday’s game. This weakened the team’s offense, Hill said.
After the game, the team’s record was 7–0 in the Mid-Wach League Division D, where Bromfield remained in first place. The Trojans were next scheduled to play Maynard Tuesday at home, and Groton-Dunstable Regional High School Friday, Oct. 13, in Groton.
Fiona Morrison is a Bromfield sophomore.
