Bethlehem boys’ soccer etched its name into history Sunday, claiming the program’s first-ever state championship with a commanding 5-0 victory over Vestal at Middletown High School. The Eagles dismantled the Section 4 representative in the Class AA final, capping a season defined by defensive resilience and offensive precision. Senior Lennon Mane, who had already scored the golden goal in Saturday’s double-overtime semifinal win over Churchville-Chili, delivered a masterclass performance, scoring one goal and providing two assists to lead the charge.
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The offensive explosion was fueled by senior Ayaz Sajid, who converted both of Mane’s assists into goals, while Ishan Chatur and Luke Tatro added second-half strikes to extend the lead. Behind the net, junior goalkeeper Parker Mooney anchored the defense, recording his seventh consecutive shutout and 16th clean sheet of the season. Coach Brian Spina, who famously asked Mane if he wanted “more” before the final, praised the team’s execution, stating, “I think this was some of the best soccer I’ve seen these boys play.”
This victory marks a historic milestone for the Section 2 program, which had never previously captured a state title. Sajid credited the team’s adherence to Spina’s game plan for the dominant result, noting, “We know how good we can be when we play our roles.” The Eagles’ ability to maintain their defensive integrity while unleashing a potent attack in the final underscores their status as the new state champions, ending their season with a perfect blend of tactical discipline and individual brilliance.
Source: Yahoo Sports
