‘A team I want to play for:’ D-R boys soccer hoping experience, camaraderie equal success

Dighton-Rehoboth Boys Soccer: Experience Key to Success

North Dighton

In 2021, Dighton-Rehoboth boys soccer had an extraordinary run, reaching new heights in program history. Led by the deadly goal-scoring duo of Kevin Smith and Reece Cordeiro, and supported by a talented group of underclassmen, the Falcons went unbeaten for 23 matches between the Fall II 2021 and Fall 2021 seasons, claiming the South Coast Conference title both times. Despite falling 2-1 to Cardinal Spellman in the Elite Eight of Division 3, the team left a mark.

Fast forward two years, and those underclassmen are now the senior leaders, eager to leverage their talent and experience for a successful tournament run this fall. “We have high expectations for these boys,” said Falcons coach Mike Morgado. “They work hard in training and have a wealth of experience. We emphasize the fleeting nature of time, so we want these players to seize the moment because opportunities are limited.”

Leading the squad on and off the pitch are senior captains Matt Suprenard and Kristoff Trond, both four-year varsity players who gained significant playing time as sophomores. They credit their growth as players to the influence of past teammates. “Facing off against those guys during practice, they pushed us to become the best versions of ourselves,” said Suprenard. “Their commitment and dedication molded us into who we are today. Now it’s our turn, and we hope to live up to their legacy and perhaps surpass it.”

With a roster consisting of 10 seniors and 10 juniors, the bond between the players is strong. “When I’m with the coaches and my teammates, there’s a unique vibe,” added Trond. “We have great camaraderie, play well together, and function as a cohesive unit. It’s been an incredible four years.”

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“They’re phenomenal captains,” praised Morgado. “They motivate the team not only during games but also in training. Their influence keeps everyone in check, and they excel at this responsibility.”

The Falcons recently drew a non-league match against Durfee, finishing with a 1-1 scoreline. After conceding an early goal, D-R equalized in the 43rd minute through senior forward Liam Hannon, who capitalized on a rebound off the crossbar. “Scoring that goal felt amazing, particularly after going behind,” said Hannon. “It reinvigorated the team, and we approached the rest of the game with renewed determination. I spotted the opportunity, seized it, and it paid off.”

Junior goalkeeper Brennan Silva played a crucial role in the match, making 11 saves, including a crucial late save. Silva, a three-year varsity member, shared that going down a goal motivates him to work harder and prevent further setbacks. “When I make a mistake, it bothers me, but it usually takes one save to regain my focus and rhythm,” explained Silva. “Once I’m in the flow, it feels like I can make save after save, and I push myself harder than before the goal.”

While satisfied with the draw, the Falcons acknowledge the need to convert draws into victories as the regular season nears its end. Morgado believes in his team’s ability to achieve just that. “I think this is a crucial point in the season,” he emphasized. “We often talk about finishing strong rather than how we begin. We must embark on a winning streak and secure three points in each match.”

The players feel that they’re hitting their stride at the most opportune moment. “We’re starting to find our rhythm,” shared Silva. “Our confidence is building. After the loss to Old Rochester, we were disappointed, but our draw against Somerset Berkley exhibited our dominance. This match further solidified our belief in our ability.”

“We’ve faced a few setbacks this season with canceled games disrupting our momentum,” added Hannon. “But considering the circumstances, we’ve fared well, and I firmly believe we have the potential to achieve much more.”

The upperclassmen core couldn’t ask for a better group of teammates to accompany them on this journey. “This team gives me the motivation to show up and give my all every day,” said Supernard. “I show up for them, and they work hard for me. It’s a mutual exchange of effort.”

Contact our sports reporter Cameron Merritt at [email protected]. Follow him on X for updates: @CamMerritt_News.

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This article was originally published on The Taunton Daily Gazette: Dighton-Rehoboth boys soccer hoping experience helps yield success