By PAUL GOTHAM
WEST SENECA, N.Y. — Chris Keller and John Mahoney both thought of individual family members.
Moments after the Churchville-Chili boys’ soccer team clinched its first trip to the state semifinals, player and coach talked about the inspiration they derived from those around them.
Keller talked of being able to follow in his dad’s footsteps.
“It’s an unreal feeling,” Keller said after the Saints (17-1-2) 2-1 victory over Section VI champion Clarence (18-2-0) in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) Class AA Far West Regional championship, Saturday at West Seneca West High School. “My dad was a state winner (with Voorheesville in 1990) when he was a kid, so it’s been on my bucket list to go. Hopefully, we can do something with it.”
VIEW MORE PHOTOS FROM LAURA ACCIAIO.
The senior midfielder connected on the go-ahead goal with 33:43 remaining in regulation.
“I just saw Luke (teammate Lucas Cariola). We made eye contact. They kept getting sucked over, and I found the back post. See ball. Hit ball. Put it in.”
The goal was his 12th of the season.
“He’s been such a special player for us for four years,” Mahoney said. “He’s been to three (sectional) finals. To do this with him scoring is everything”
The win came two years after C-C dropped a 3-0 decision to the same Clarence program in the state quarterfinals.
That game was less than three weeks after the passing of Mahoney’s mom, Monette.
“Just being here after two years ago when my mom had passed. It was whole different experience tonight. It was worth every blood, sweat and tear we’ve given over the years.
“Last time, we were so excited after winning sectionals. That was so draining after beating Spencerport. After my mom, it was just hard. We were all in this time. We were all present physically, mentally and emotionally.”
The teams traded penalty kicks in the first half and went into the break level at one.
“They were bringing it in the second half,” Mahoney said of Clarence. “At the same time, I don’t think we gave up a lot of clean chances.
“It helps having some of these guys who were here two years ago. Having that experience and being calm.”
Mason Simmons made seven saves in the win.
Bryce Wolf drew the foul that resulted in a penalty kick for Churchville. Braden Naujokas converted to stake the Saints to an early lead.
Clarence’s Gabe Gerbetz leveled the match.
Churchville will play Cornwall Central (IX) in the semis. That game is scheduled for next Friday, 3:15 p.m. at Middletown High School.
*Article has been updated.
Leave a Reply