NEW CANAAN–Patience pays off.

Noah Rossoni’s authoritative rebound goal in the 60th minute sparked Staples to a 1-0 win last night, at New Canaan’s Dunning Field.

The Wreckers were seldom threatened, in the physical but fairly-played contest. Though it took them three-quarters of the match to score, they were poised throughout. They stuck to their game plan, and, after it worked, they fended off a vigorous fight from the Rams.

In his debut for Staples, coach Liam Witham started nine seniors and two juniors — both of whom (Rossini and keeper Jack D’Amore) saw substantial time last year. Their experience paid off, with early domination.

In the first minute Rossini stole a pass, and shot just wide. Brendan Allen headed a corner kick past the far post. Rossini, Josh Whitaker, Gabe Duque and Ford Epstein combined well up front, while Drew Hill commanded midfield, backed by Adriano Carpi. Defenders Dylan Shackelford, Gabe Hellmann and Spencer Girling won the air game, while also playing confidently out of the back.

New Canaan’s excellent keeper kept the game close — and a superb header off the line by a defender denied a dangerous chance off Whitaker’s corner kick.

Greyson Downes ripped the Wreckers’ best shot of the first half. The junior — who returned to the squad after a year in the MLS Next academy league — was also saved well in the second half.

Staples’ patience continued along with the scoreless draw. New Canaan picked up the pace and began playing with confidence.

The Westporters found the net with just 20 minutes remaining. Whitaker’s low, hard blast was saved well — but not held. The ball bounced directly to Rossoni, perched in front. He fired first time, and the blue-and-whites had the goal they’d worked hard for.

The Rams conceded nothing. But the Wreckers kept them at bay, for a solid start to the season.

In high school soccer, matches come quickly. Staples’ home opener is Thursday (4 p.m., Wakeman Field) against Brien McMahon. They’re back at Wakeman on Saturday, for a non-league encounter with Enfield. Kickoff is at noon.