MANCHESTER – The Manchester Township Middle School Boys Soccer Team captured a thrilling 1-0 victory over Barnegat, securing the Shore Conference title for the first time in 20 years.
This hard-fought win marks a historic achievement for the program and a proud moment for the school community.
Coach Michael Salle said, “the Boys Soccer Team defeated Barnegat 1-0 to win the White Division in the OCIAL. The lone goal was scored by Atlas Lewis Gordon on a breakaway play. It was a very tight defensive game. The boys finished their undefeated season with a record of 6-0-2.”
“The boys had tied both Plumsted and Barnegat in their previous matchups and needed to win their last two games against Plumsted and Barnegat to win the division. They defeated Plumsted last week 2-1 and then it came down to the battle to win the conference/division,” Coach Salle added.
He noted that the team had “improved over the course of the season, showed tremendous heart, and never gave up on themselves or each other. It was great to see them believe in themselves and one another and come together as a team to accomplish their goal of winning the conference title.”
“It’s the first time the Boys Soccer Team has won the conference title in 20 years and I am very proud of them,” he said.
“We are incredibly proud of our middle school boys’ soccer team for this remarkable accomplishment,” Superintendent Diane Pedroza said. “Winning the Shore Conference title for the first time in two decades is a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and the outstanding support of their coaches and school community.”
“This victory is such an exciting moment for our school,” Principal Anthony Giaconia said. “Our student-athletes have shown tremendous heart, discipline, and sportsmanship throughout the season. Bringing home the Shore Conference title after 20 years is something our entire community can celebrate and take pride in.”
