Hollis Brookline’s girls soccer team fell to Hanover October 30, ending their season. In a tight 2-1 contest, the Marauders emerged victorious, moving on in the tournament, while the Cavaliers saw their season come to a close. Despite Hanover being the eighth seed in comparison with HB as the number one, only one loss separated the two teams in the regular season. HB knew the game would be close as they faced the Division II’s reigning champions of the past two seasons.
Hanover’s offense started off the game aggressively, and for much of the first half the ball remained on HB’s side of the field. The Cavs’ defense was up for the task, however, as they met the Marauders’ challenge, holding them scoreless for much of the first half. With 7:42 remaining, Hanover broke the deadlock, putting the first goal on the board, and taking control of the game 1-0. HB didn’t let the goal deter them, and fought on the rest of the half. When the clock ran out, the score remained 1-0.
The Cavaliers opened up the second half ready to take control of the game. Their offensive attack appeared sharp and held possession of the ball for much of the beginning of the half. Despite this, a penalty kick by the Marauders increased the deficit to 2-0. Even though Hanover’s lead increased, the Cavs’ offense continued to put pressure on Hanover. Their hard work eventually paid off, as a penalty kick by Magnolia Moskun ‘17 put the Cavaliers on the board with 22:53 remaining.
As the clock continued to wind down, HB rattled off more shots on goal, coming close to tying the game with 4:27 remaining in what turned out to be a very impressive save by Hanover’s goalie. For the remainder of the game the Cavaliers continued their search for the game tying goal. But as time expired, the Marauders held onto their lead, and won the game. It was a hard fought game, and the Cavaliers left everything they had on the field. Reaching the quarterfinals, claiming the number one seed, and finishing the regular season 13-3, Hollis Brookline has nothing to hang their heads over.
The Hanover Marauders move on to face the fifth seeded Oyster River in the semi-finals. Second seeded Bow and third seeded John Stark are the other teams that remain in the hunt for the championship.