Lower Merion boys soccer team captures District 1 4A championship

The Lower Merion High School boys’ soccer team captured the PIAA District 1 4A title Nov. 5, defeating Conestoga 1-0.

For the Aces (20-1), the top seed in the District 1 4A tourney (the Pioneers were the No. 2 seed), the outcome was a reversal of last year’s District 1 4A championship final, in which Lower Merion lost to Conestoga, 1-0.

“This was a very well-played game, with two very good teams giving it their all for this championship,” said Lower Merion boys’ soccer head coach Nico Severini. “Conestoga is very well coached and prepared and we knew that it was going to be a tough game. I truly also believe that this is a reflection of the strength of our Central League and all of its teams. Our players played phenomenally and stood by our mantra of ‘Team Together’ and I am very proud of the team.”

The lone goal was scored in the first half by senior Sam Nyenka, with an assist from senior Drew Davis. Lower Merion junior goalie Crosby Johnson had a great save in the first half to keep the shutout intact.

“We played a quick rhythm game, with a lot of attacks in various ways,” said Severini. “Senior center backs Mori Rothman and Thanos Danillidis came up with a few huge plays that helped the team as well as some nice plays from junior wide back Jude Vaughan and senior wide back Liam Clifford. Senior midfielders Justin Poles and Joaquin Jenkins provided very solid midfield play and were assisted by senior wide midfielders Elliot Holl and Jack Forman, who made some very nice passes and crosses.