Andrew Xavier (4) unleashes a boot up field on a free kick. Photos by Mike Flanagan.
By Mike Flanagan
Hometown Weekly Sports Editor
The Xaverian Brothers High School varsity soccer team hosted arch rival and perennial Division I North powerhouse St. John’s Prep last Thursday afternoon at the Hawk Bowl.
Entering at 1-4-1, the Hawks were in serious need of a win in order to keep pace with SJP, as well as the remainder of the Catholic Conference (BC High, St. John’s, Catholic Memorial, Malden Catholic). Meanwhile, a win by the Prep would put the Eagles (6-2-1) a full five games ahead of the Hawks in the standings.
Early on, both teams struggled to generate much offense. In fact, not a single shot was put on the frame during the entirety of the first half. The best chance of the half came with about 11 minutes to play when Prep’s Cole Blaiser came bursting down the wing and put a cross towards the net. Olin Day and a host of Hawks were there to break up the pass, but the ball kicked right to an awaiting Kaie Bolger. Thankfully for the Hawks, Bolger’s shot sailed up and over the net. The game remained scoreless at the half.
The second half saw the Hawks up their intensity and more aggressively attack the center of the field. Despite the uptick in pressure, Xaverian was unable to generate a quality shot on goal. Thankfully for the Hawks, the defense did its part and also held St. John’s Prep from the scoreboard. The clock hit zeroes and the teams came away with a point apiece in a 0-0 draw.
For funny and incisive sports analysis as well as video highlights of games, follow Mike Flanagan on his personal Twitter and Instagram handles @flano0.
