The Nipmuc boys soccer team proved Saturday November 10 it doesn’t matter what number you are seeded; it’s all about how you play each game. The Warriors were 14th seeded entering the division tournaments and won it all claiming the title of Central MA Division 3 Champions after defeating the 4th seeded Douglas team 1-0 in the finals.
The only score of the game was made by Senior TJ Mulgrew who was playing with a 101 fever and strep throat. The goal was made about 27 minutes into the first half. Junior Brandon Esker made an amazing corner kick to TJ who buried it giving Nipmuc the 1-0 lead over Douglas. Nipmuc was able to hold on to their lead with a strong defense. Goalie Junior Sam Manning preserved the shutout for the Warriors. Manning and the Warriors have not allowed a goal in any of the tournament games.
During the award presentation the MIAA representative joked “Bill Leaver’s program has been here so many time we may just have to re-name this Leaver Field.” The Nipmuc soccer program is well-known for dominating the sport although this year many did not believe this team would make it to finals, let alone states. Metrowest Daily News headed their story “Warriors keep unlikely boys soccer run alive.”
The Central MA Division 3 Champion Warriors are now 11-7-4 and will take on the Western Division 3 Champion Orioles of Belchertown in the state semifinals Tuesday at Nashoba Regional High School at 7 pm.
Enjoy the photos from yesterdays game – click to enlarge
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UPTON DAILY 