Sussex Academy soccer tames the Wildcats 3-0

The Sussex Academy soccer squad moved to 4-0 on the season with a 3-0 shutout of Delmar Sept. 17 at home. 

The Seahawks and Wildcats played tough back-and-forth action in the first half. Junior Liam Stegall broke through for the first goal of the game at the 30-minute mark. It was his second score of the season. George Sapna had the helper.

“All of the space I had around me came from my teammates’ movement and opening it up for me,” said Stegall. “That’s how we get our goals. Getting into the box and getting the ball behind the defense is how we get tap-in goals like mine.” 

Andres Romero-Nieto took a Sapna pass and put it behind Caleb Ritchey for the second goal at the 51-minute mark. The final tally came from Chase Ballinger when he sped through the Wildcats’ defense and scored past Ritchie at 77 minutes. It was the first goal for Ballinger.

The Seahawks outshot the Wildcats 8-3 and forced nine penalty corners to the Wildcats’ one.

Carter Norton picked up his fourth shutout, making three saves. Delmar keeper Caleb Ritchey stopped five scoring attempts.

“I think the boys have grown a lot in these first four games,” said Sussex Academy coach RJ Dina. “They’ve shown a ton of maturity to defend on one end and create chances on the other. It’s always important to come out against a division opponent and perform the way we have. We have 17 goals in four games. It’s a testament to their maturity and experience.”

So how can the Seahawks keep their swarming defense and powerful offense train rolling?

“I think for us, it’s important to take one day at a time. Focus on winning the day, perfecting our craft and getting better each day,” Dina said.