Martlets Fall to Granby

The Quad Squad traveled across town lines for a Wednesday afternoon match against Granby High School’s freshman squad. The Martlets competed hard for all 80 minutes in a back-and-forth contest, but ultimately fell to the Bears 3-2. Westminster took control of the game early when speedy strikers Tim Donohue ‘27 and Ethan Villacis ‘27 collaborated on a beautiful goal in the game’s third minute. Ethan crossed the ball from the left side and Tim powered through two defenders to drive the ball into the back of the net. From there, the Martlets lost momentum and struggled to keep it on the Bears’ side. Keeper Ethan Hernandez ‘27 made some athletic saves, but ultimately Granby’s consistent pressure led to two goals in the final minutes of the first half. The Martlets came out of halftime energized and eventually the Villacis-Donohue duo worked together for another goal twenty two minutes into the second frame–this time with Villacis netting a stellar shot from the top of the box off of Donohue’s pass. A few minutes later, Granby capitalized on a corner kick and took the lead. While the Martlets fought hard until the final whistle, they fell just short of scoring a tying goal. Auggie Jiranek ‘27 played stellar defense, yet again, in the backline and Cayden Cramer ‘27 and Brooks Berthiaume ‘27 were especially tough and active in the midfield. The Martlets were disappointed by their first loss of the season, but proud that they competed with fortitude and great sportsmanship against a skilled opponent. They will get back to work on Thursday and Friday to prepare for Saturday’s away match at Avon Old Farms.