Martin's six-point day leads Bridgton past Milton

Ethan Martin, (South Burlington, VT) who played a hand in every Bridgton goal, capped a two goal, six point game with two second-half markers, as Bridgton got by Milton Academy 4-3.

Playing short handed for the entire first half, including having a forward in goal, the Wolverines were able to jump out to a 2-0 lead in the first ten minutes. In the third minute Dave Roberson (Fareham, England) buried a shot from 25 yards out off of a full volley clear from the Milton defense. Martin, collected the assist on the play. Just seven minutes later, Martin fed Steve Palumbo (Kingston, NH) who found the back of the net to give BA an early 2-0 lead. However, the Wolverines would allow Milton to climb back into the game, tying the score 2-2 at the half. Coach Mellon said of the first half, "once we got a lead, we sat back and allowed Milton to take advantage of our inexperienced goalie."

In the second half BA was at full strength, and Ethan Martin in the 60th minute found the back of the net on a pass from Ronaldo Vieira (Framingham, MA) who had returned to his usual forward position from playing keeper in the first half. Martin scored what would be the eventual game winner in the 80th minute on an assist from Omar Khartabil (Hampstead, NH).

Speaking of Martin's game Coach Mellon said, "It was a much needed game for Ethan, who has had some trouble finishing, it was a good game for his confidence, because he is a big part of our offense. It was great to see Steve (Palumbo) score today as well, because he has been having trouble finding his shots, and going forward will be a very important player for us."

With a few days before the Black and Grays' next game, it allows Mellon to focus on what he calls, "the tasks at hand, including individual aspects, and coming together on the pitch as a team."

The Bridgton Academy Wolverines have their home opener Sunday at 2:00 PM against Winchendon School, for the Traditions Cup, which Winchendon currently holds. Bridgton will look to recapture the Cup as Winchendon has outscored BA 14-1 in the last two meetings.