Solidifying a three game winning streak, the Ocean Lakes (OL) varsity boys soccer team dominates in a 2-0 senior night win against Granby.
The team started off strong with an almost all senior line up. The Dolphins held possession of the ball in the first half of the game with seniors and captains Taden Domanski, Anthony Liberatore and Kaden Pratt controlling the midfield and back line. The seniors have played an active role in unifying the team and posing as strong role models throughout the season, according to sophomore goalkeeper Drew Halter.
“The seniors and captains have really helped lead the team and welcome new players with their friendly nature and their ability to organize and support the team,” Drew said.
While the defense and midfield controlled the ball for most of the first half, the action kicked off in the 36th minute when Anthony soared over Granby’s back line off of junior Jeffrey Paul’s corner kick to score a header goal, giving the team a 1-0 lead and concluding the first half. Senior David Suiter took the pitch as the starting goalkeeper, later switching to play in the field.
“Going into senior night, my main goal was to make sure it was a memorable game for each and every senior,” senior Anthony Liberatoire said. “It was a great way to end the regular season.”
The team did not back down in the second half, keeping momentum and denying Granby of any counter attacks. Junior Jeffrey Paul and seniors Gian Marrero and Tucker Gates were strong offensive forces, allowing the Dolphins to maintain offensive control.
In the 57th minute, sophomore Lukas Leach cracked a banger from just outside the 18-yard box, sending the ball right over the Granby goalkeeper and extending their lead to 2-0.
Throughout the rest of the match, Granby was unsuccessful in any goal scoring attempts against the Dolphin’s defense. Sophomore Drew Halter took over as goalkeeper in the second half, with both goalies earning a shutout.
“From my point of view at center back, I see improvements every game from taking less touches on the ball to better communication and teamwork,” Anthony said. “These are the things that have earned us the ranking we currently hold in the Beach.
This win secured their ranking of No. 2 in the Beach District, according to MaxPreps.
The Dolphins will face the Falcons of Cox High School in the district quarter finals on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
While the Dolphins ended the season off on a high, they will be preparing for the postseason playoffs, focusing on communication and recovery improvements.
“On the field, our communication tends to be quiet at times. Being able to talk and communicate with each other on the field is a vital skill all teams need,” Drew said.
