SPS travelled to Saxtons River, VT to take on a skillful side in the Vermont Academy Wildcats.   The Big Red pressed early and forced the VA defense into several mistakes.  A flick header from Will Iller '26 to the head of Pat Cooley '25 went inches wide just three minutes into the game.  VA showed their ability to attack as they took the ensuing goal kick the length of the field in four touches and took a shot that glanced off the post and safely into the hands of keeper Leo Colinet '27.  VA had several more quality chances and were stymied by Colinet each time.  For the Big Red Charlie Hepp '25 earned a pair of quality chances that forced the Wildcat keeper into some quick saves as the half wore on.  With six minutes to play in the half a red card was issued and the Big Red would play the rest of the game with ten men.  Unfortunately, for SPS, VA used the extra space and with three minutes had taken a one goal lead.  The half would end with the score 1 – 0 to the hosts.
 
The second half saw VA keep the ball with their numerical advantage.  They were able to add a second goal to their tally on a thru ball and that would be it. SPS worked hard to keep their shape and play smart defensively.  Colinet made several big time saves midway through the half to keep the game tight.  With just six minutes to play SPS earned a corner kick.  Asun Zhu '26 played a super ball into the back.  With the keeper unable to control it, Alexander de Burgh Codrington '28 had a great chance and the rebound fell to an attacking AJ Zoltowski '27 whose strike required a super save to lock down the VA victory.  The Big Red battled hard and never gave up.  Well done.
 
The squad plays their final game of the season at the home of the Brewster Bobcats on Saturday.  Finish strong.  A nod to the Big Red JV squad who beat VA 4 – 2 this afternoon and is now on a three game win streak.  
 
Go Big Red!