Nov 04, 2021
Thompson Boys Soccer Starts Season with Four Wins
By Les Pierce
Niko Vrban (left) and Luke Strada battle for the ball in the Cedar Drive game.
The Thompson Middle School boys’ soccer program has consistently enjoyed success in recent years, posting a 27-3 record over the prior three years. The Lions have started the 2021 campaign with four victories in as many outings, suggesting the trend will likely continue.
The season was kicked off with an overwhelming 6-1 road win over Bayshore Middle School. Niko Vrban paced the offense with a pair of goals. Also finding the net were Luke Strada, Mason Petke, Jack Cohen and Liam Wheeler. Credited with assists were Joey Velardi, Phillip DaCosta and Joey Fielding.
Thompson continued on the road with a 4-0 downing of Hazlet. Cedar Drive Middle School, of Colts Neck, was hosted in the home opener, with a 5-1 victory the result. The squad then blanked Neptune by a 6-0 tally for the fourth win of the campaign.
Leading the offense thus far this season are Strada and Vrban with five goals each and Petke with four. Goalie Carson Perry anchors the defense and has two shutouts to his credit.
“This is a talented and competitive group of boys who challenge each other and strive to be the best,” stated fourth-year Head Coach Brittany Williams. “They love to have fun and make each other laugh, which is important especially during these times. Their comradery shines through both on and off the field, from their song playlists on the bus to the way they move as a unit on the field. There is an obvious bond that sets them apart from the rest, and I am proud to be their coach.”
Williams’ career record at Thompson stands at 31-3. Serving as team captains are Fielding, Petke and Matteo Gallina.
