F

Morristown East scored all four of its goals in the first half of a 4-0 shutout win over rival West.

The ‘Canes, now 3-1-1 (1-0 District 2-AAA), opened district play with its second straight win over the Trojans, and the first for first-year coach Mike McDonald.

Goalkeeper Manuel Juarez opened the game with a goal to spark the East attack.

“A special mention to Manuel Juarez who opened the scoring,” McDonald said. “That was a key moment for us and for our goalkeeper to score the first goal was pretty incredible and motivated the whole squad. Manuel had a great game.”

Sebastian Martinez, Jillian Rangel, Chris Cortez followed suit and scored goals for the ‘Canes.

“I was very proud of our East squad,” McDonald said. “We have found a style of play that fits our field, and simplifies the game whilst making it more difficult for our opposition. We haven’t been fast starters this season but we conquered that in this game. Playing with width and intelligence whilst mixing our game up by playing in the pockets, also.”

Other standouts for McDonald’s squad included Yael Cruz and William De Leon in the midfield.

“Yael Cruz won Man of the Match whilst displaying a dominant midfield performance with William De Leon both on and off the ball,” McDonald said. I was particularly proud of our squad for handling the emotion of playing a rival and the importance of the occasion.

The two sides tied in JV action, 3-3, with Samuel Perez scoring a pair of goals for the ‘Canes.

Samuel Perez deserves a special mention also for scoring 2 outstanding goals in the JV game. Anthony Ramos scored the goal of the night with a technically superb finish.”