Bordentown’s Rosina Shines with Two Goals in 3-1 Win

UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, Bordentown’s Cole Rosina scored twice, leading the Scotties to a decisive 3-1 victory over Westampton Tech on October 17, 2023. The match, held in Bordentown, showcased the fierce competition between two Burlington County Scholastic League division champions.

The game was scoreless at halftime, but the second half exploded with action. Rosina, demonstrating remarkable skill, netted both goals within a critical stretch, giving Bordentown a crucial lead. Coach Mike Brennan remarked, “I think we calmed down on the ball and we started to think faster,” highlighting the team’s shift in focus after a challenging first half.

Rosina’s first goal came in the 51st minute, following a corner kick from Marco Carlini that slipped through the hands of Westampton Tech keeper Viggo Wronski. Rosina’s quick thinking led to a shot on goal, emphasizing his determination: “I was just thinking ‘on frame.’ Everything. On frame,” he said.

However, Westampton Tech struck back just under 11 minutes later. Tristen Dickerson’s long throw-in found Youssou Diop, who skillfully volleyed the ball past the Scotties’ defense, leveling the score at 1-1.

With the game hanging in the balance, Bordentown’s Tyler Kunkel nearly regained the lead in the 64th minute, but Wronski delivered an incredible save. Moments later, Rosina sealed the deal with his second goal from a restart, putting Bordentown back in front with just over 5 minutes remaining.

Kunkel then added to the scoreline just two minutes later, capitalizing on a defensive error to net his 13th goal of the season. He expressed his confidence: “I knew once we scored that first goal, they would keep coming. We’re a hard-working team. And once we get that motivation to keep going, it just keeps coming to us. Goal after goal.”

With this victory, Bordentown improved to 13-1 overall, reaffirming their championship status in the BCSL Patriot Division. Conversely, Westampton Tech, despite their 13-4 record and being champions of the BCSL Freedom Division, faced a setback against a formidable opponent.

“They are a legit good South Jersey team,” said Coach Brennan. “I think they don’t get some of the respect they deserve because their schedule limits them.”

Westampton Tech’s Coach Shane Lesher acknowledged the team’s progress: “We have a little bit more talent than in years past, and they’ve definitely bought into a system. They believe in themselves, they want to win and they want to play games like this.”

As the season progresses, both teams are set to continue their quest for excellence in high school soccer. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for upcoming matchups that promise to deliver more high-stakes action.