A Game of Grit, Grace, and Glory!

This afternoon’s match between the Martlets and Deerfield was one of the most thrilling contests I’ve ever witnessed in the JV soccer division. It was a truly chatoyant display of skill and spirit; a game that shimmered with energy and emotion from start to finish.
 

The Martlets began with commanding control of the field, their passing and sharp coordination keeping Deerfield on the defensive. That dominance soon paid off when Ava Aponte ’28 scored a beautiful opening goal, perfectly set up by Eliza Reilly '27. In midfield, Lily Pokorny '28 was extraordinary, orchestrating plays with precision and composure. Alongside her, Margaux Walter ’27, Eliza Lane, and Lexie Willis formed a solid line that kept Deerfield’s attacks at bay. Toward the end of the first half, Deerfield managed to equalize with a goal that was initially disallowed. Only for the referee to reverse his decision moments later, leaving our team in confusion. 

The second half began much like the first: with the Martlets asserting their superiority. The unstoppable Ava Aponte struck again, this time from a clever assist by Piper Lundi ’26. Eleven minutes before the final whistle, Piper herself delivered an anthological goal; a stunning strike from Margaux’s assist that put the Martlets ahead 3–1. But soccer, in its illogical logic, had other plans. Within ten minutes, Deerfield clawed back with two long-range goals that left our goalkeeper with no chance. The final whistle blew on a 3–3 draw, a result that felt bittersweet yet deeply affirming. 

After a string of losses against Deerfield, the Martlets broke the spell today. They played with heart, unity, and undeniable brilliance. 

Though the scoreboard read 3–3, the Martlets walked off the field as victors in courage, teamwork, and pride, a testament to the beauty and unpredictability of the game we love.

The Grit and Grace Award goes to Lily Pokorny, Abbey Cirelli ’27, and Giana Monaco ’27 for their tenacity and unwavering spirit throughout this palpitating game.