For The Dialog
MILLTOWN – Salesianum, the top-ranked boys soccer team in Division I, and St. Mark’s, seventh in Division II, played a spirited contest Thursday night at St. Mark’s. Junior midfielder Jason Blackwell scored on a penalty shot in the 70th minute for the game’s only goal in a 1-0 Sallies win.
After a quiet first half, the game took on a physical tone in the second, as six yellow cards were given out, including one for each coach. The Sals’ score came after Blackwell streaked down the right side and was taken down in the box, setting up the penalty kick. He was forced to wait a few minutes before finally taking the shot because of discussions with the officials.
“It didn’t bother me,” Blackwell said. “I knew where I was going with the kick.”
St. Mark’s put on some pressure after the goal, as junior Chris Ludman got two shots on goal, including a header that was stopped.
Salesianum (7-3-1) outshot St. Mark’s, 15-5, and had five corner kicks to the Spartans’ two. Thomas Gibb was credited with 10 saves for St. Mark’s; Gavin Campbell picked up four for Salesianum.
The Sals are in a stretch playing four games in eight days against teams that are a combined 37-3-1. They are back on the pitch Saturday at 1 p.m. at home vs. Appoquinimink.
“This is why I came here to play. It helps us in the tournament,” Blackwell said.
St. Mark’s (6-4) hosts Wilmington Charter on Tuesday at 3:45 p.m.
