Delmarva Christian boys’ soccer ends season with title game loss
Picking up the program’s first semifinal win and appearing in the ESIAC championship for the first time, the Delmarva Christian boys’ soccer team made considerable strides in the 2024 season.
Unfortunately, the Royals lost 5-1 in the title game to a talented, experienced Worcester Prep team.
“We created our chances, we fought, we played hard and we worked for it,” Royals coach Luke Shiderly said. “It’s something special when you get to see that.”
The Mallards struck first, 47 seconds into the first half, and doubled their lead with 12:30 to go in the opening 40 minutes. Royals keeper Isaiah McCluskey helped spark the Royals two minutes into the second half with a brilliant save.
Keeping the momentum on their side and the pressure up, Delmarva Christian captain Jay Parrish earned a penalty just four minutes later. The sophomore showed why he was named the 2024 ESIAC Player of the Year by converting from the spot to slice the Mallards’ lead in half.
“Jay finally got his number called for it on the on the PK, and we knew he was gonna put it in,” Shiderly said.
A boost in the Royals’ play and confidence was noticeable, but the veteran Worcester Prep team withstood the shooting barrage that followed. The Mallards scored three in a row to seal the game and claim the 2024 ESIAC boys’ soccer tournament title.
“Wednesday was our second playoff game in school history that we won – first semifinal game we've ever won,” Shiderly said. “This is the first finals game we've ever been a part of.”
Delmarva Christian finished its season 7-10, and according to players and coaches, the squad believes the foundation has been laid for many more firsts in the coming years.
