Delbarton soccer shattered a historic barrier on Nov. 9, defeating St. Benedict’s Prep 2-1 in double overtime to secure a spot in the NJSIAA Non-Public A North sectional final. The victory marks the first time the Gray Bees have lost to an NJSIAA member school since October 22, 2016, snapping a 57-match winning streak that had dominated the regional landscape since November 2023. Sophomore Cortland Martin was the decisive factor, scoring his second goal just 52 seconds into the second extra period to silence the St. Benedict’s faithful and propel the Green Wave forward.
Green Wave end 57-game Gray Bees streak with dramatic double-overtime thriller
The match was defined by resilience and a shared team mantra that Delbarton players repeated in the locker room and on the field throughout the grueling contest. Despite facing a top-tier opponent known for its relentless pressure, the Green Wave maintained their composure through two overtimes, proving their mental fortitude under high-stakes conditions. This tactical discipline allowed Delbarton to outlast the Gray Bees, marking only their third victory over St. Benedict’s in the last ten meetings and highlighting a significant shift in the regional power dynamic.
With the win, the 20-1-1 Delbarton squad advances to host No. 3 Seton Hall Prep on Nov. 12 for the sectional title. This will be the Green Wave’s third consecutive appearance in a sectional final, but notably the first time they will compete on home turf and without the looming shadow of St. Benedict’s. Martin’s surge in form, including four goals in his last two matches, provides Delbarton with the offensive spark needed to challenge for the trophy in front of their own supporters.
Source: Yahoo Sports
