The newly formed Hopewell Valley Surge got off to a marvellous start in their first ever game with a resounding 7-1 victory over North Hunterdon Reyna on Sunday. From the start, the Hopewell boys showed great application, working hard to create a number of opportunities. The first goal was quick in coming, with Ben Schragger hustling well to win the ball, then firing in from the edge of the penalty box.
As the Surge got to grips with the game, two more goals quickly followed in the first quarter, with Alex Van Stekelenborg finishing off good work from Matt Semple, and then a great dribble down the right from Jimmy Wilson allowed Van Stekelenborg to sneak in front of the Hunterdon keeper for his second. Surge finished the half pushing forward, with a smart goal line saving denying Schragger, before he then finished off some good midfield work from Kyle McCarthy by scoring from a narrow angle.
At the start of the second half, Hunterdon fought to get back in the game, quickly netting a goal, and then hitting a post from a free-kick. But the Surge moved up a gear, and started to display some attractive passing moves. Steven Logan, Robbie Carrier and Johnny Weeks combined well, followed by a clever move up the left wing by Weeks and Craig Persing.
As Hunterdon tired, Surge took control, with Jamey Cane hitting the post on a breakaway. Despite some excellent and brave goalkeeping from the Hunterdon keeper, Surge were able to add three more goals, Schragger pouncing on a loose goal kick, Kenny Smart stabbing home the ball from a corner-kick, and then Schragger finishing off some excellent approach work from the Surge midfield.
A winning start, and a very optimistic outlook for the Fall season. More photos here...