Opening Day
Andover, MA - The Big Blue opened its season on Smoyer field on a perfect sunny day against Belmont Hill, a side that fought for 90 minutes. On the day, Big Blue played an excellent team fútbol, and the score is a testament to that effort. Paul Gichana ('25) opened the season scoring for the Big Blue after receiving a beautiful cross from Ellis Denby ('24). Denby would add the second of the day after an incredible individual effort that saw him pass three defenders and finish with a powerful shot that hit the left post and in. Rafiq Kasumov ('25) would continue the scoring off a corner kick taken by Ellis Denby. At the half, the score was 3-0 for Andover. In the second half, Belmont Hill started with a high press that took the Big Blue some time to figure out, but the boys in Blue did an exceptional job of adjusting and finding the open man, which led to Paul Gichana scoring his second of the day. The assist came via Alex Coman ('24), who delivered a dime of a pass from almost half field. Paul Gichana continued his incredible play by returning favors as he assisted Zane Matraji's ('24) first-season goal. Zane collected a pass from Gichana at the top of the 18-yard box and hit a low hard shot that beat an outstretched Belmont Hill keeper. On the day, the backline led by Garrett Holman ('24) and Tegan Doll ('23) was sensational and only allowed three shots in the afternoon. The play from Oliver Buckhoff ('24) and Spencer Madge ('25) was spectacular as it gave the team a different dimension of attacking and defending. Jack Alexander ('25), in goal, collected his first clean sheet of the season after making three key saves to keep the visitors off the scoresheet. Overall, Big Blue started the season on Smoyer on as good of foot as one can.
Next, we are on the road to play New England powerhouse Milton Academy. We hope to receive your support there.