For a final friendly match, Deerfield Academy faced South Kent School at an early hour an in a steady rain. The first 40 minutes of the match demonstrated some of the offensive optimism the players have for our team this season. We made many good runs, played precise balls, and had a few good looks on the goal. At the other end, Owen Babb held court and was a strong communicator with his team, encouraging strong defensive play and also smartly distributing the ball when it came into his possession.
In the second half, South Kent had a few good looks in the first 20 minutes, but these opportunities were foiled by great goaltending from Gianluca Simonelli and Jackson Glazier’s presence in the air, knocking balls away from danger. Just around the 70-minute mark, Alexander Salvo placed a ball with pace, and with his left foot, to the right side of South Kent’s goalie, giving Deerfield the lead with just under 10 minutes left. Deerfield worked hard to retain the lead, and did so, winning the match with a score of 1-0, and demonstrating that the team is ready to play. The Deerfield Academy team travels to Avon Old Farms (CT) on Wednesday, September 10, for its first season match.