Back row (L-R) Ella Williams, Sophie Anderson, Lily Harrington, Riley Chlupsa Front row (L-R) Romy Nusbaum, Jess Leon, Ava Ekholdt, Sabrina Didner
Senior Day! Back row (L-R) Ella Williams, Sophie Anderson, Lily Harrington, Riley Chlupsa Front row (L-R) Romy Nusbaum, Jess Leon, Ava Ekholdt, Sabrina Didner

WESTPORT — Spirits and tensions were high Tuesday at Staples Field Hockey’s Senior Day.

Wreckers have had what most would consider a very good season; they headed into the game 5-1-1. But, as the reigning state champions for the past four seasons, any blemish on their record indicates some softness. And their opponents were long-time FCIAC rivals Greenwich.

Romy Nusbaum - Photo Shelly Burger Sports
Romy Nusbaum – Photo Shelley Burger Sports

The tension didn’t dissipate throughout the first half, as both squads defended their goals perfectly.

But Staples racked up three goals early in the second half. Midway through the third quarter, Jess Leon shot and scored the game’s first goal.

Lily Harrington - Photo Shelly Burger Sports
Lily Harrington – Photo Shelley Burger Sports

Great ball movement led to a goal by Jess Leon midway through the 3rd quarter.  With the quarter about to expire, Tyla Ozgen scored the Wreckers second goal off a pass from Jess Leon.

Staples continued to move the ball well, leading to a penalty shot and goal by Emma Nahon in the first minutes of the 4th quarter.  

Greenwich scored twice late in the game, the second goal squeaking through Staples defense with less than a minute left, Staples was able to hold their lead.

Jess Leon - Photo Shelly Burger Sports
Jess Leon – Photo Shelley Burger Sports

Staples (6-1-1) next plays at Fairfield Ludlowe Friday at 5 p.m.