LAWRENCE TWP. — The Notre Dame High School varsity boys’ soccer team secured a 2-2 tie against Toms River North on Saturday, March 15, 2024, at Mike Perone Field. In a match marked by resilience and strategic adjustments, Nick Angiolino demonstrated his commitment to the team by shifting from midfield to defense in response to an injury that sidelined senior fullback Jayce Palumbo.
Angiolino’s transition helped stabilize the defense after Notre Dame lost a two-goal halftime lead. Despite the strong defensive efforts, the Irish could not find the net again, resulting in their second tie of the week. Head coach Bryan Fisher described the game as a missed opportunity for his team, which now holds a record of 11-1-2 for the season.
The match began favorably for Notre Dame, which took a commanding lead early on. Senior forward/midfielder Luca Ercolano opened the scoring with a goal at 17:36 left in the first half, assisted by senior back Riley Miracola. Shortly before halftime, senior forward/midfielder Kole Feltes added another goal, putting the Irish up by two.
However, the Mariners, currently at 4-6-5, responded effectively after the break. Junior goalkeeper Gavin Stryker made a crucial impact, stopping 15 shots and delivering long goal kicks that energized his teammates. Just two minutes into the second half, Stryker’s punt found junior forward Manuele Lubrano, who scored the first goal for Toms River North.
With 15:35 remaining in regulation, Stryker again facilitated a goal, this time assisting Josh Girtain for his first varsity goal, drawing the match level at 2-2. Angiolino, recognizing the shift in momentum, returned to reinforce the defense, ensuring that no further goals were conceded.
“We had chances. We just didn’t connect,” Angiolino remarked after the match. His defensive adjustments were pivotal in preventing further damage, allowing Notre Dame to maintain a tie rather than suffer a defeat. Junior goalkeeper Anthony Merluse also contributed significantly, making eight saves throughout the match.
Reflecting on the outcome, Angiolino expressed optimism about the team’s future. “We have to take the rest of this weekend to learn and reflect. I’m really excited about what lies ahead.” Looking forward, the Irish face challenging matches against West Windsor-Plainsboro South and Steinert, with the Colonial Valley Conference Tournament and the New Jersey State Interscholastic Tournament approaching.
As a senior, Angiolino feels an increased sense of responsibility. “As a senior, I feel I have more accountability for the team, especially in a situation like today,” he noted, highlighting his leadership role during the season’s demanding stretches.
The match concluded with a final score of Toms River North 2, Notre Dame 2, reflecting both teams’ efforts and the competitive spirit of high school soccer.
