The Verona High School boys soccer team began its season yesterday with an exciting 2-1 overtime victory against Montville.
Despite controlling much of the first half, Verona entered the break down 1-0 after Montville scored just before halftime.
Both teams struggled in the second half to take advantage of scoring chances and it looked like Montville would be victorious. Then, with five minutes left in regulation, Verona defender Charlie Pepe made an overlapping run down the sideline and crossed a beautiful pass into forward Brian Cleaver, who one-timed a shot from 15 yards out into the back of Montville’s net.
Regulation ended 1-1 and the teams had to continue their battle in overtime. During the second overtime period Verona midfielder Dean Rizzi took a free kick from about 40 yards from Montville’s goal. His long arcing shot glanced off a Montville defender’s head and into Montville’s net for an own goal that won the game for Verona.
Keeper Joey Farmer made 2 saves for the Hillbillies.
Photo credit: Alastair Halliday
