It’s not every day a high school boys soccer game in early October on a Tuesday night draws a packed crowd. However, it’s not everyday that two of the most storied programs in New Jersey soccer history face off in one of, if not the biggest rivalries in the state. Another chapter was added to the extensive record books of battles between the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Raiders (10-0-2, 4-0 UCC – Watchung) and Westfield Blue Devils (5-5-2, 3-1-1 UCC – Watchung) on Tuesday, Oct. 7, as SPF emerged victorious 1-0.
“Playing Westfield is always electric,” senior center back Ryan Watt told The Fanscotian. “It’s this feeling you can’t describe, there’s nothing like it.”
In the 15th minute of the second half, senior forward Jayvon Young found junior Jack Tse one-on-one with the goalkeeper, who was able to put the ball in the back of the net.
“My mind went blank,” Tse said. “I heard the crowd and ran over with Jayvon [Young] to celebrate.”
Tse’s strike was one of few shots on goal SPF had in the game, as both the Blue Devils and Raiders had their focus set defensively for most of the matchup. Despite the strength of both defensive sides, Tse was able to break through to push SPF ahead.
“We didn’t get many shots up in the first half, so we just tried to get the ball through them later on,” Tse said.
The Raider backline along with senior goalkeeper Shawn Guzman stopped countless Westfield attacks, making it hard for shots to be put on goal. Watt and fellow senior Bradley Pearce, junior Colin Kochanowicz and sophomore Michael Di Iorio, halted Westfield forward senior Sam Judka from breaking through towards the goal, making it challenging for the Blue Devils to comeback.
“We were prepared and able to stop their attacks during the game,” Watt said.
Despite his 6’2” frame, SPF was able to quiet Judka the whole contest with Di Iorio keeping him under wraps when given the ball. Guzman was called into action numerous times on Tuesday night, stepping in on corner kicks and pouncing on loose balls inside of the box.
Looking away from the play on the pitch, Raider Nation was in full effect under the bright lights, packing the stands and cheering loudly after major plays. For Watt and the Raiders, the energy the student section brought was transferred onto the field as motivation.
“[The nation] provides that extra boost,” Watt said. “Whether you get turf burn or feel hurt, they lift you up no matter what.”
SPF will continue their undefeated campaign this coming Thursday, when they will face off against Summit at home in another county matchup.
“We have to make sure we stay focused and keep the energy going through the rest of the week,” Tse said.
