Kingston, NY — Stockade FC mounted an intense comeback attempt in the final minutes in front of 970 supporters at Dietz Stadium, but ultimately came up short in the NPSL season opener.
The first Starting XI saw debuts for numerous present and former Marist Men’s Soccer players as Demarre Montoute, Albion Bacaj, Andre Cutler, Brandon Scoffield, Antek Sienkiel and Stef Copetti were all called upon by Jamal Lis-Simmons.
Scott Zobre opened the scoring for Stockade FC just 11 minutes into the match when he took advantage of a Hartford mistake in the back, and slotted home the early lead.
Through the first 45 minutes, Stockade FC control the majority of chances as the attacking group of Zobre, Vinny Colantuono, Copetti and Sienkiel found opportunities to extend the halftime lead.
Ultimately, Hartford City came out of the break in a fury with an immediate response from Alec Hughes who finished off a swift piece of counter attacking play only 45 seconds into the half.
Tim Ennin would give Hartford the lead in the 65 minute off a set piece where he was able to turn and strike to beat Lorenzo Nunez’s frame.
Stockade FC would not go quietly into the night. An extremely talented and youthful set of reserves entered the fray and peppered the Hartford back line for the final 15 minutes of play but were unable to find an equalizer.
Among the debuts on the night included Daniel D’Ippolito and Bennett Leitner from the defending NYS Class A Champions, Somers High School. In addition, debuts for Zach Rabadi of John Jay High School, Dillion Kelly of Beacon High School and Joe Holder of Warwick High School brought the total to 11 debutants on the evening.
Stockade FC falls to 0-1 (W-L) on the year and will have an opportunity to bounce back next Saturday, May 14 as the squad travels to Syracuse to meet one the newest conference foes.
