Saugus nets a big win in Swampscott

SWAMPSCOTT — A battle to the final whistle ended with Saugus’ boys soccer team coming to Blocksidge Field and defeating Swampscott, 2-1, on Wednesday.

You could say, Saugus was motivated. That’s because the Sachems lost, 3-2, to the Big Blue earlier in the fall.

Looking to bounce back, call it a mission accomplished.

“We play much better against tough teams and these guys didn’t want to lose today,” said Saugus coach Guillermo Sepulveda. “Last time we lost to Swampscott, it was a sweet mistake that we made in front of the goalie and we were not going to let that happen today.”

Saugus came out strong with a quick goal from captain Xavier Martinez. From there, the first half was a defensive showing on both sides. Massimo Pagliocco of the Sachems made some strong saves to keep things in his team’s favor, while Swampscott goalie Charlie Ulberg wasn’t too shabby, either.

Johny Castillo Avila gave Saugus a 2-0 cushion in the second half, but Swampscott played true to its name and didn’t give up. In the final five minutes of regulation, Milad Sassin delivered a much-needed goal after a beautiful pass from George Spellios.

“I thought we matched their energy level in the second half, but we were a little sluggish in the first half,” said Swampscott coach Adam Bailey. “I thought Saugus played really well.”

When asked about a message to his team moving forward, Bailey was quick to respond.

“Remember how it feels and use that to motivate you in the future,” he said.

As for the winning team, Sepulveda was happy to see contributions from a handful of his players.

“Ryan Benhalima played lockdown defense. The whole front line, because they were moving the ball to the sides and attacking, Xavier Martinez made plays happen,” Sepulveda said. “He makes them happen and our captain, Abraham Costa, with his first goal of the season. It’s not that he doesn’t play; he does everything else except score because he’s one of the leaders of the team.”

Swampscott will travel to Danvers on Friday for a 5:30 p.m. tilt, while Saugus visits Beverly at 4:30 p.m. the same evening.

Owen Finn is a student at Endicott College studying journalism

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