Holmdel Boys Soccer Captures First SCT Title

The Holmdel High School Hornets captured their first Shore Conference Tournament title in boys soccer thanks in large part to Anthony Arena, who scored a tournament final record five goals en route to a 7-1 victory over fifth-seeded Ocean Township.

The Hornets, who have secured the top seed in the Central Jersey Group 2 tournament, have since picked up victories over North Star Academy and Johnson. Justin Mcstay starred in their 10-0 first-round victory over North Star, leading the Hornets attack with a hat trick. Jack Giamanco scored two goals and five other Hornets added a goal each. Michael Neff racked up two assists. It was their staggering tenth shutout victory of the season.

Six Hornets scored in their 6-1 quarterfinal victory over Johnson on Nov. 3, including Arena, Mcstay, Neff, Nick Guga, Matthew Leon, and Jack Russo.

Arena, a junior, leads the Hornets this season in both goals (31) and assists (22). His goal total for the season is the program record for goals in a season. Mcstay (25), Matthew Leon (14) and Cyrus Darvish (12) all have also recorded double-digit goals for the Hornets. Mcstay (17) and Leon (14) join Arena as the trio of Hornets with double-digit assists. Senior goalkeeper Matthew Lionette has 50 saves.

The Hornets suffered their only loss of the season on Oct. 7 to Pingry, a school located in Bernards Township, 1-0, on the road.

The Hornets, who are now 19-1 on the season, look to continue their quest for a Central Group 2 title on Nov. 7 when they take on the winner of No. 12 Bernards/No. 13 Matawan at Holmdel High School in the semifinals.

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