UPDATE: In a thrilling semifinal match, No. 9 Delbarton stunned Bergen Catholic with a 2-1 victory, advancing in the NJNPA Tournament held in Oradell. The decisive play came from Peter Wynne, who scored the go-ahead goal in the 74th minute.
The action kicked off early as Liam Murphy put Delbarton ahead just six minutes into the first half, capitalizing on a setup from Owen Miller. This early goal set the tone for an intense match. Bergen Catholic equalized in the second half, but Wynne’s late strike turned the tide in favor of Delbarton.
Delbarton’s defense, led by goalkeeper Vain Swamy, held strong, with Swamy making critical saves to secure the win. Meanwhile, Bergen Catholic’s John Coleman recorded three saves in a valiant effort but could not prevent the loss.
This victory propels Delbarton into the finals against top-seeded St. Benedict’s, who dominated Seton Hall Prep with a commanding 5-1 scoreline in their semifinal. The final match is scheduled for Thursday, and it promises to be a fierce rematch, as last season St. Benedict’s defeated Delbarton 4-0 in the same tournament.
Delbarton is seeking redemption, having not claimed the Non-Public A section title since 2018, when they triumphed over Seton Hall Prep in a nail-biting 3-2 shootout. With three finals appearances since then, the stakes have never been higher.
Fans and players alike are eagerly anticipating the final, which could prove pivotal in establishing Delbarton’s legacy in New Jersey soccer. The atmosphere is expected to be electric as both teams vie for the championship title.
Stay tuned for more updates as Delbarton prepares for this crucial showdown against St. Benedict’s!
