C H A M P I O N S ! ! !
The Staples Wreckers defeated the Blue Wave of Darien Tuesday night in Wilton to bring home the FCIAC Championship trophy and medals in a thrilling overtime victory in the rain. Led by Tourney MVP Sofia Hidalgo Schioppa who scored both the tying goal with seconds left on the clock, and then reached down deep to score the winning goal with just over a minute left in the overtime period. The Wreckers broke a 6 game FCIAC title streak by Darien and the Wreckers team was absolutely joyful!
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.comClick on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The field was dry until about 7:00 when the rain began to fall, first lightly, then harder creating a challenging situation in the intense play. Coach Ian Tapsall told WestportLocalPress, "Staples had their hardest game of the season so far against, as usual, their biggest rival Darien. After surrendering their 1-0 lead in the second half, Darien went ahead with 1:30 left in the game. Taking the ball straight from the half way line Staples managed to earn a penalty corner with 18 seconds left. Sofia Fidalgo scored to tie it up!"
"With 1 minute left in the first OT Sofia then took the ball 45 yards unopposed to slot home a reverse stick shot to win the game ! Stunning turn around and the most exciting game witnessed."
Photos above show Fidalgo’s winning goal pass between the legs of Darien’s goalie and the joyful Staples players mobbing her!
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Above, left, Staples Principal Stafford Thomas braved the rain, watching the entire game with visible concern as Darien refused to yield. Players on the bench hold hands and cross their fingers for a Staples corner attempt. The dramatic last minute goal by Fidalgo began a frenzied celebration as the team ran to their bench to join Coach Tapsell.
There were hugs all around as the team met mid-field to receive their championship medals, and hoisted the plaque posing for cameras. At right, Principal Thomas took a moment for a pic with MVP Sofia Fidalgo Schioppa and he Mom Lorena making the point that The Wreckers were #1!
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
One of the moments the Staples Wreckers had been working for all season. Next stop, CIAC State Tournament.