New England Champions (Photos, Video)

Junior Chris Miao scored twice in the last 35 seconds, netting the second goal with 4 seconds remaining, to lead Deerfield to the New England Championship on Saturday. For the third time in four years, Deerfield and Choate met in a thrilling final. Choate, which had upset Exeter in the other semifinal, started strongly and led 5-2 in the second quarter, but Deerfield kept its poise and started to apply more defensive pressure. With Campbell Johnson sometimes drawing three defensive players, his teammates had to score from the perimeter, and Miao, Jack Vallar, and Jamie Pielock all made key shots. Vallar’s goal finally tied the game late in the fourth quarter, setting up a tension-filled final two minutes in which three goals were scored. Juniors Chris Miao and Austin Bridges were named to the all-tournament team. Senior Richie Beaumont was named the all-tournament goalie, and Johnson garnered the MYP Award. Deerfield finishes the year 15-1 in the league and 17-4 overall. See the action in an excellent video provided by parents, or view the photo gallery. [External Links]     Share your congratulations in the comments below!

Categories: Athletics
Tags: new englands, water polo