Minutemen end Hoban's 17-match unbeaten streak

RICHFIELD -- Most teams might have been unnerved having to play a district title match without one of its top strikers.

Not at Revere (14-2-3), where depth might be this team's great attribute.

After a scoreless first half, the Minutemen pounded two goals in the final 26 minutes to overcome Archbishop Hoban (14-2-3) on Saturday afternoon to win the Brunswick Division II title at Pappano Stadium.

In an anticipated matchup of two of the state's top-10 squads, Revere was without sophomore scoring threat Colin Romisher, who was ill.

The grueling match was decided on goals by juniors Constantine Antonas and Nick Gallo. Senior Andy Harding assisted on the first and sophomore Max Palazzo had the helper on the second.

Revere senior Ryan Hoffner pitched a shutout in goal with three saves.

"I call it a tough physical match," Revere coach Sandor Jakab said. "They came ready to play as did we. I think in the end, our ability and our fitness paid off for us. We settled down. We stay calm and composed after missing some chances we thought we should have had and guys came through for us. They were composed in the box and when the opportunity arose, they beat a very good goalkeeper twice."

The North Coast League champion Knights saw their 17-match unbeaten streak halted. Hoban had not lost since a season-opening 2-1 setback to St. Edward. Hoban keeper Ryan Christensen is thought by many to be the top goalkeeper in Summit County.

Hoban was limited to six shots on goal with no corner kick opportunities.

Revere features nine seniors on its roster and the fifth-ranked Minutemen next play fourth-ranked Bay Village Bay on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at 7 p.m., at Rocky River High School.