Staples tri-captain Cormac Mulvey patrols the back line during the Wreckers’ season-opening victory Wednesday. / Photos by Mike Beebe 

WESTPORT — When Gabe Duque scored just 1:28 after the opening whistle, it looked like the Staples boys soccer team would roll all over New Canaan.

But this is the FCIAC. Anything can happen.

And it did. Despite advantages in both team and individual speed, and good tactical awareness, the Wreckers could not add a second or third goal, in the season opener for both teams Wednesday at Wakeman Field.

Slowly, the Rams clawed their way back into contention. They picked up a loose ball and equalized, with just 15 minutes left to play.

Zach Beebe, a Wreckers tri-captain, goes stride for stride with a visiting New Canaan player.

But this is the FCIAC. Anything can happen.

Six minutes later, Dylan Shackelford roared forward, and found Brendan Allen. The fellow junior turned and fired. His goal — low and into the corner — gave Staples the lead again.

New Canaan did not give up. The final nine minutes were back and forth. 

Then, with 13 seconds to go, Gabe Hellmann laced a free kick from just outside the penalty area, giving the Wreckers a 3-1 lead, with breathing room for the final moments.

The 1-0-0 Westporters take to the road Friday. Kickoff at Brien McMahon in Norwalk is 4 p.m. (Game schedules are subject to change; click for the latest CIAC updates.)

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