 It was a storybook ending for Bermudian footballers James Morrison and James Cooper, who played pivotal roles in The Taft School's stunning 2-1 victory over Milton Academy in the NEPSAC Class A Soccer Championship. This thrilling upset saw Taft, ranked #3, dethrone the undefeated #1 ranked Milton Academy in a rematch of last year's final.
The atmosphere was electric as the two rivals clashed in a battle for New England prep school supremacy. Milton drew first blood, striking early with a goal in the 3rd minute. Taft, facing an uphill battle, dug deep and displayed incredible resilience, defending resolutely for the next 72 minutes while searching for an equalizer.
Enter James Morrison. With 25 minutes left on the clock, Morrison entered the fray, injecting a spark of energy into the Taft attack. Playing on the right wing, he tormented the Milton defense with his pace and trickery. Then, with just 15 minutes remaining, Morrison produced a moment of magic. Receiving the ball on the edge of the box, he unleashed an audacious chip that sailed over the outstretched arms of the Milton goalkeeper and nestled into the back of the net. The Taft supporters erupted in jubilation as Morrison's wonder-strike brought them level.
But Morrison wasn't done yet. Ten minutes later, he found himself in the thick of the action again, drawing a foul in the box after a dangerous cross. The referee pointed to the spot, and Taft had a golden opportunity to take the lead. The penalty was calmly converted, sending the Taft faithful into a frenzy.
The final five minutes were a nail-biting affair as Milton threw everything forward in search of an equalizer. But Taft, inspired by Morrison's heroics, held firm, repelling wave after wave of attack to secure a historic victory.
James Cooper, playing as a striker, was a constant threat to the Milton defense throughout the match. His tireless running, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing kept the Milton backline on their toes, creating space and opportunities for his teammates.
This victory was especially sweet for Morrison and Cooper, who had tasted defeat in the previous year's final against Milton. Their determination to avenge that loss was evident in their performance, as they led Taft to an unforgettable championship triumph.
Adding to the celebrations, another Bermudian, Ayden Gardener, saw his Suffield Academy team claim the Class B NEPSAC title. Although Gardener was sidelined with an injury sustained in the quarter-finals, his contributions earlier in the tournament were instrumental in Suffield's championship run.
The results highlight the incredible talent and impact of Bermudian footballers on the American prep school scene. Morrison, Cooper, and Gardener have made their mark, inspiring young athletes in Bermuda and beyond.
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