Lexington, Massachusetts (November 18, 2018) – On Sunday, The 7th seeded Lexington Christian Academy Lions, took the field at Worcester Academy in Worcester, MA defeating the #1 seed, the Hoosac Owls, to take the title of New England Prep School Athletic Conference Class D Champions.
Senior captain Ben Mollenhauer said on Friday, “This is going to be quite a story when we win on Sunday.” And he was right! This was more than your typical semifinal and final game series. The NEPSAC semifinal game was moved to Saturday instead of Friday due to inclement weather. The Lions beat Brimmer & May 2-0 in the semifinals on Saturday night at 7pm, and moved onto the finals for a 9:00am game Sunday morning; 2 games in 12 hours.
The Lions came out with high energy, and took the lead in the first half with a goal by captain Julius Swaim, assisted by Ben Mollenhauer. Less than two minutes later, the Owls scored a goal to tie the game 1-1. LCA Athletic Director, Scott Stevens said, “The boys did not allow that goal to discourage or deflate them. They responded well.” LCA goalkeeper Noah Levitz made some key saves to keep the game tied in the first half.
The scheduling caught up to them, and it was clear the Lions were tired in the second half. The team played hard, but their heart and determination is what shone in the second half. Play after play, this team never gave up. The game remained tied with two minutes to go in regulation time.
The Lions were able to push forward and received a corner kick. Julius Swaim played a terrific ball to the back post, to Ben Mollenhauer, who headed the ball home for the victory. Phillip Elliott, Trey Baskett, Joey Hickey, and Zack Tucci are among the players who brought some much needed energy off the bench to help carry the team to their triumph.
“All season, on and off the field, these boys have showed incredible class and maturity,” said Scott Stevens. At the end of the game, amidst the celebration of hundreds of fans, you could find three LCA players across the field consoling the goalie of the opposing team. That is true sportsmanship.
The fans were electric. The sidelines were packed with LCA students, alumni, friends and family all cheering on the Lions. The Lions definitely had the home field advantage! The fans were engaged with the team, and the team was engaged with the fans. It was a sight to see!
