Allowing two back-to-back goals early in the first half was not the way the Blue Devils intended to start their game against St. Joe’s. They fought to stay in the game but could not escape from the 4-1 loss that awaited them.
Westfield has had a tiring week with games stacked on top of one another and the lack of energy showed on the field. The ball was mainly staying on Westfield’s defensive end, with very few scoring opportunities in the first half.
In the first five minutes of the game, St. Joe’s was able to score two goals, both off corner kicks. Junior Reean Dias said, “I think in the run of play, we were good. But on corner kicks and free kicks, we just have to stay with our men. Giving up four goals is not acceptable, it’s too much.”
There were moments of possibilities with Westfield advancing up the field, but all were stopped by the defense and the keeper. “There were always these little positive moments, just not enough together or not enough for longer stretches,” said head coach Eric Shaw. “We’re looking for longer periods of better soccer, better ability and better fights.”
Despite the rough start, Westfield was able to hold St. Joe’s to only two goals for the rest of the first half. Even with lockdown defense, the offense did not have many opportunities to take a shot, and when they did, they were unsuccessful.
The Blue Devils did not gain any energy after halftime. Four minutes into the second half, St. Joe’s scored again to make it a 3-0 lead.
After this goal, Westfield started to take more shots in an attempt to get themselves back in the game, but St. Joes’ keeper and defense held them off. But the Blue Devils got a chance to get themselves on the scoreboard when senior Jake Russell was fouled inside the box.
Senior and co-captain Sam Judka took the penalty kick and scored the only goal of the night. “I’m glad we got the opportunity to score, but it just wasn’t enough and we have to improve going forward,” said Judka.
They continued to fight but could not seem to find the net again. After another goal from St. Joe’s, making the score 4-1, Westfield took the loss and will prepare for their next game. “Monday, we will be going over what we think they’re good at and certainly getting a little bit more aware of what we can do better against their style and how we can expose their weaknesses,” said Shaw.
Westfield will play rival Scotch Plains Fanwood on Tuesday at 6:30 pm, looking to come out with a win in preparation for the County Tournament.
