It was a do or die game for both the Franklin D. Roosevelt High School and Wallkill boys soccer teams Saturday in Highland, with a trip to the Mid-Hudson Athletic League tournament on the line.
Soccerball
Tied at one in overtime, Wallkill’s Sean Cray was able to find the back of the net, giving the Panthers a 2-1 win and the elusive spot in the MHAL tournament. Wallkill, which improved to 12-3, will now meet Red Hook at 5 p.m. Tuesday in the semifinals. Following that game, on the other side of the bracket, Spackenkill and Rhinebeck will meet in their semifinal game at 7 p.m.
The MHALs are taking place, oddly enough, at Roosevelt in Hyde Park. And although the Presidents just missed the chance of competing in the tournament — literally in their own backyard — coach Brandon Opitz credited both teams on a well-played game.
“I thought we came out pretty strong,” said Opitz, whose Presidents fell to 9-6. “Obviously it’s a tough loss, especially in a playoff setting. I couldn’t have asked for a better performance. Hats off to Wallkill, they played outstanding as well.”
Brandon Gracias scored Roosevelt’s lone goal, off an assist by Jair Cruz. Opitz now plans on giving his team a few days off before sectional play begins.
“I want them to clear their heads,” Opitz said. “Give them a fresh start. We’re definitely going to have to work on some things and reset our focus on playing tough in sectionals, and winning every round.”
A.J. Martelli: amartelli@poughkeepsiejournal.com, 845-437-4836, Twitter: @AJM_PoJoSports