The Kits dominated possession Tuesday evening against Maine East, securing a 3-0 victory in their first playoff game of the season. While some opportunities went unfinished, Evanston managed to score three goals and kept a clean sheet on defense. With the win, the Kits advanced to 16-1-3.
“We’re a hard team to beat, and we left them scoreless, which was our objective,” said Senior Captain Orlando Tobin.
From the first whistle, it was clear the Kits were in control, not allowing Maine East a single chance at goal. However, for the first 20 minutes, the challenge was finding the back of the net as nerves were running high. Crosses flew into the box, but no one could quite connect until senior attacker Joseph Sargent made a strong run down the sideline before delivering a perfect ball for senior Cristiano Hamer, who tapped it in for the opening goal. The half ended 1-0 leaving the Kits hungry to extend their lead.
“Heading into the playoffs, we have to play with confidence. We’ve all got what it takes, we’re all skillful, and when we combine that with confidence, it’s like magic,” Tobin added.
That confidence was evident as the second half began. The Kits found combinations through the midfield and on the wings, but finishing continued to be an issue. Tobin took matters into his own hands, drilling a shot into the top right corner of the net with an assist from senior Iyanu Jolaoluwa. The electric goal had the stands roaring and Maine East silent.
With five minutes remaining, senior John O’Carroll assisted junior Lukas Fox, who faked out the goalkeeper and calmly slotted the ball home, sealing the 3-0 win.
While the first playoff victory was exciting, the team and Head Coach Franz Calixte remain focused on what’s ahead.
“One game at a time. Right now, we’re focused on Saturday,” Calixte said.
As the team prepares for their last home game of the season, the Kits look to carry their momentum into the Regional Finals which will be on Saturday at 5 PM. The Kits will take on the winner of Taft vs. Niles North as they aim to put on one last show at home.
