Mariner rallies to beat Sussex Academy 3-1

A day after their respective high schools engaged in a tense match in Lewes, Mariner Middle School and Sussex Academy Middle School met on the pitch in Georgetown.

On paper, it was a game like any other, but in the community, the victor would claim bragging rights over their rival for a full year.

Sussex Academy opened up the scoring after both teams generated chances. Eighth-grader Channing Smith’s work rate on 50/50 balls, the press and counter helped the Seahawks stay on the brink of a goal for the early part of the first half. Mariner’s back line continued to hold strong each time. 

Smith finally broke through the defense and found himself just inside the box facing the net to his left. As the Mariner defense closed in, Smith opted for power over finesse and drilled the ball into the back of the net. An elated Seahawks team celebrated its 1-0 advantage, but work still needed to be done.

Mariner’s counter and wing play began to cause troubles for Sussex Academy’s back line. Mariner chances became more threatening and shots were getting closer. Shortly after Mariner went down, the Vikings seized on a counter opportunity and Rylan Esparza scored to tie the game 1-1. The teams took the draw into the half.

As the second half began, momentum appeared to be on the Vikings’ side and the playmaking that led to the tying goal ramped up even more. Mariner’s second goal was scored by Billy Petrone and despite gaining the lead, Mariner remained aggressive in their counter and press. Sussex Academy struggled to keep the ball out of its half and quality chances in its defensive third became routine as the minutes dwindled down.

The Seahawks’ John Lovellette compiled 11 saves in the match as the barrage of shots continued. The Vikings' third goal secured a brace for Esparza and a 3-1mvictory over its rival neighbor.

Mariner will host Milford at 4 p.m., Monday, Oct. 16, while Sussex Academy hosts Magnolia Middle the same afternoon.