By Lesley Graham
Ocean City got it’s redemption Thursday afternoon. The Red Raiders avenged last year’s loss to Clearview, winning 3-1, taking home the South Jersey Group Three Title.
“We used last year’s feelings to fuel this year’s game. It’s exciting seeing all of the hardwork the kids have put in come to fruition,” exclaimed Head Coach Kelsey Mitchell.
Ocean City saw evenly dispersed scoring with Sophia Gresham, Tara McNally and Molly Reardon each telling a goal for the Red and White. Reese Bloomstead, Chloe Prettyman and Jaclyn Charbonneau all contributed an assist on the day. Maddie Kahn had eight saves in the game. Grace Trovato scored the lone goal for Clearview.
It was a 1-0 game early, with Ocean City opening up the scoring within the first five minutes. Both teams then settled into a rhythm with the remaining 25 minutes in the half going scoreless.
After the halftime, Ocean City once again scored quickly on a corner. Tara McNally navigated the ball through traffic to find the back of the cage on an assist from Chloe Prettyman.
The passing through the midfield was crisp and clean allowing for Ocean City to get great looks on cage with Molly Reardon getting a ball from Jaclyn Charbonneau to make it 3-0.
The Red Raiders played a bit more defense than it’s been used to giving up five defensive corners to Clearview, which they converted into a goal with 12 minutes remaining in the half. Thanks to great heads up defense from Meredith Moon and the rest of the squad, Ocean City was able to keep Clearview off the scoreboard for the remainder of the game.
The win moves Ocean City one step closer to the State Title, which they last won in 2016. The Red Raiders are now 19-3-1 on the season and looking for more. Ocean City will now play on Tuesday evening, opponent and site to be determined.
