Gateway’s Eli Jameson (1) dribbles the ball as Jeff Hockenberry (2) attempts to move in on the play Thursday at Westfield North Middle School. (Photo by Chris Putz)
WESTFIELD – Three different players scored to lead the Gateway Regional High School boys’ soccer team past St. Mary’s 3-0 Thursday at Westfield Middle School North.
Gateway’s Justin Edinger broke the scoreless tie in the 13th minute on a pass from Curtis Dowers. Calvin Dowers scored 16 minutes later on a dish from Josh Baillargeon. Zack Mackechnie tallied the final Gators’ goal with about four minutes remaining in the game. Jake Merritt assisted on the play.
“We try to take control of the game early when we can,” Gateway coach Tim Gamble said. “I think we did that today.”
Gateway improved to 6-3-3 with the victory, and remains focused on improving with the postseason just around the corner.
“We have to have a bit more poise against tournament caliber opponents,” coach Gamble explained. “We’ve got tenacious attitude, our spirit is good, and we are willing to get every ball. We just have to find what to do with it.”
Gateway goalie Mike Arel (3 saves) earned a shutout. St. Mary goalie Bryce Kibbe finished with 14 saves.
Ludlow 2, Westfield 0
Westfield fell behind 1-0 early, but waged an even battle throughout until host Ludlow squeezed an insurance score with about one minute remaining.
