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The Governor Livingston boys soccer team is finding its rhythm at precisely the right moment. After battling injuries, illness, and constant lineup changes throughout September, the Highlanders earned one of their biggest wins of the season Tuesday night, defeating No. 11 ranked Scotch Plains-Fanwood 1-0 under the lights.

The victory capped Highlander Week and provided a significant boost of confidence as the team heads into the second half of the season.

A Late-Game Winner

Kalon Saenz scored the game-winner with three minutes remaining, sending a low free kick into the far post from just outside the penalty area. The goal exemplified the kind of clinical finishing the team has been working to develop as the season progresses.

For coach Kevin Fontana, the victory was another example of the perseverance his team has demonstrated through a challenging first half of the season.

“Our team has been playing really well so far this season despite what our record is,” Fontana said. “Our players are playing some brilliant soccer and control games with our possession and passing.”

Overcoming Significant Adversity

The Highlanders have faced extraordinary challenges. Four players have been sidelined with mono, three more have suffered season-ending injuries, and another dealt with a concussion, in addition to the typical injuries that come with a long season.

The adversity has required constant adaptation. Players have been asked to change positions, sometimes during games and sometimes from one game to the next.

“They have continued to fight and give all they have for the team,” Fontana said. “Their perseverance is what has stood out the most this season.”

Players Stepping Up

The adversity has created opportunities for players throughout the roster to take on larger roles.

Captains Derek Zanko and Aayan Maharjan have anchored the defense at center back. Four-year varsity player Matt Gross has continued to deliver strong performances despite the physical demands of the season. Michael Anthenelli, after scoring the game-winning goal against Dayton, has provided steady midfield presence while playing five different positions.

Alex Sokolnicki, the team’s starting striker, moved to center back when Zanko was sidelined with illness, helping limit opposing attacks. Sammy Bartiromo shifted from midfield to right back after Jacob Gross suffered a season-ending ACL injury, becoming a major asset with his work rate, defense, and ability to push forward.

Sophomore goalkeeper Nicky Woodard has stepped into the starting role and made key saves to keep the Highlanders in games. Against Scotch Plains-Fanwood, he recorded a shutout.

“The bench players have been amazing so far this season,” Fontana said. “Some have turned into starters and others have stepped into larger roles and played some serious minutes to help our team keep going.”

The result has been a deeper team, something Fontana believes will benefit the Highlanders as the season progresses.

Building on the Victory

While the Highlanders have shown they can compete with top teams, Fontana said the next step is converting more of their opportunities into goals.

“Going forward, we need to continue to find goals and score when we have our opportunities,” he said. That was an area the team identified as a preseason goal and remains a focus heading into the second half.

The win over Scotch Plains provides momentum heading into the Union County Tournament, where the Highlanders hope to make a deep run. The team also faces a conference matchup with Rahway and several challenging games remaining before the NJSIAA State Tournament.

Gov. Livingston will compete in the Central Jersey Group 2 section, which Fontana expects to be another difficult test.

One Game at a Time

Despite the challenges, Fontana said the team’s goals remain unchanged: compete at a high level and advance deep in both the Union County Tournament and sectional tournament.

The approach remains simple—focus on the next game.

“You have to be in it to win it,” Fontana said. “Each time we are in a game, we are focused on giving it our all to come out on top.”

Ultimately, the goal is to win championships. The Highlanders believe their ability to compete regardless of circumstances gives them a chance.

“We believe that in any given game we can win because of how hard we compete,” Fontana said.

With more players returning from illness and injury, the Highlanders are hoping Tuesday’s victory is the beginning of a late-season run. Fontana also had a final message for Highlander fans: Come out and watch the remaining home games to support the team’s playoff push.

FAQ

Q: How did Governor Livingston defeat the ranked Scotch Plains-Fanwood team?

A: Kalon Saenz scored the game-winning goal with three minutes remaining, sending a low free kick into the far post from just outside the penalty area. Sophomore goalkeeper Nicky Woodard recorded a shutout to preserve the victory.

Q: What challenges has the Governor Livingston boys soccer team faced this season?

A: The team has dealt with significant adversity: four players sidelined with mono, three suffering season-ending injuries, and one dealing with a concussion. Players have had to change positions frequently, sometimes during games, requiring constant lineup adjustments.

Q: Who are the team leaders and standout performers?

A: Captains Derek Zanko and Aayan Maharjan anchor the defense at center back. Michael Anthenelli has played five different positions; Alex Sokolnicki moved to center back when needed; Sammy Bartiromo shifted to right back and become a defensive asset. Goalkeeper Nicky Woodard has made key saves despite being a sophomore in a starting role. Four-year varsity player Matt Gross continues delivering strong performances.

Q: What is the team’s focus moving forward?

A: Coach Fontana emphasized the need to convert opportunities into goals, continuing the team’s preseason focus on finishing. The team aims to compete at a high level in the Union County Tournament and advance deep into the NJSIAA State Tournament (Central Jersey Group 2).

Q: What does Coach Fontana say about the team’s chances?

A: Fontana believes the team can compete in any game because of how hard they compete. Despite the challenges, he expects the team’s ability to adapt and persevere will benefit them as more players return from injury and illness.