The Rye Boys Soccer team found a way to extend their winning streak to five games on Friday, September 18, as they defeated Suffern 2-1. Rye struggled to establish themselves in a difficult road environment, but a late goal lifted them to a tight victory.
“We’re pleased to get a hard fought win on the road against a team that was committed to defending from start to finish,” head coach Jared Small told MyRye.com after the victory. “The tough grass surface favored the opposing team, but I liked our second half adjustments and love that we found a way to win when presented with challenging conditions and an increasingly confident Class AA opponent.”
Harrison Zimmer cleaned up loose trash inside the 18 to break the ice in the second half after a scoreless first. Suffern managed to tie the score with just under six minutes to play. With a draw looking certain, Rye delivered on a set piece to jump back in front in the 77th minute.
Sam Collins won a series of challenges near midfield and drew a foul 50 yards from the goal to set up the chance, which Christian Hofmann delivered. Connor Dehmer, Felix Wismer, and others challenged for the soaring attempt. Ultimately, the ball was hit with such force that it took a high bounce and looped over the goalkeeper’s head for the winning goal. Although not pretty, no Garnet player, coach, or fan could complain.
Rye battled hard on defense all night long, although they ceded their first goal of the season. Their midfielders also worked hard to control the center of the pitch.
“Mack Keenan put in a strong second half shift in the center of the midfield, making a few timely tackles and winning a big dual in the box just moments before Zimmer scored,” Small told MyRye.com. “In addition, Peter Wilmot continued his fantastic form, doing the dirty work in the center of the midfield and dictating the pace of the game with his poise on the ball.”
After a total team effort, Rye is now 5-0 to start the 2026 campaign. They will look for win number six on Tuesday, September 22, against Walter Panas. The contest begins at 7:00pm at Nugent Stadium.
