By, Jack Karp

Five first-half goals powered the Lancers past the Technology Panthers in the Preliminary Third Round of the Essex County Tournament.

The Lancers were able to dominate possession throughout the game with goals from Adrian Grzelinksi, Advay Chamoli, Hriday Dabhi, and Jacob Lowenthal (2), while also shutting down the Panthers defensively, allowing minimal shot attempts. Assists were provided by Christian Deleon, Reece Melamad, Alan Yaari (2), and Hriday Dabhi (2). Goaltender Ricky Romero contributed three saves in the win.

“We combined passes well…we had good through balls…and overall we were just linking up well,” Lancer Midfielder Hriday Dabhi said after the game.

Technology has struggled this season, owning a 3-12 overall record, and will not qualify for the Essex County Tournament following today’s defeat. Despite their challenges, the Panthers have had some bright moments, including a season-high 7 goals in a win against Newark Global Studies on October 7th, as well as stringing together back to back victories for the first time this season before falling in Livingston. Luis Rivera is in his third season as head coach of the Panthers.

Despite the Lancers winning four out of their last six contests, they have also struggled to find consistency this season, with an overall record of 4-8 (last in the American Division). 

The Lancers will hope to use this commanding victory as a catalyst for the remainder of the season.

“We were together as a team, communicated well, and were able to lock up the middle of the field so they didn’t have any clear opportunities to shoot. I think this win raises the team morale and hopefully…push forward to beat Columbia,” Lancer Defender Brayden Hammer said about today’s win.

Led by head coach Robert Rubinetti, Livingston will take on a familiar foe, 7th seed Columbia, in the First Round of the Essex County Tournament on Thursday, October 17th in Maplewood.