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The girls' soccer Passaic County high school championship game turned into a defensive-minded contest. Each team managed only a single goal over 100 minutes of play, concluding with a share of the sports title after overtime between Wayne Hills and Clifton.
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This was a tale of two halves that saw Wayne Hills dominate the first half and Clifton the second. Both teams had very good chances to get on the board. The Patriots asserted themselves on the first half controlling and moving the ball well. Only eight minutes in Christie Cherup scored off a well placed corner kick. Wayne Hills looked like they were on their way to their first soccer championship since 2005.
Clifton had other ideas and came out more determined in the second half. The Mustangs took the game over with their physical play and grit. The pressure was relentless keeping Wayne Hills pinned on their half of the field and in the 23rd minute they tied the game. A cross to Megan Ferrara deflected in off a defender, giving Clifton a well deserved goal.
From this point forward the game was evenly played with the slight edge to Clifton. However, regulation time ended and we were heading to overtime. Both teams played hard in overtime, both wanted to score and be crowned champs. But at the end both ended up sharing the title.
It's the second time in three years the Mustangs have shared the county crown--they did so with Wayne Valley back in 2007. Both squads now turn their focus toward the New Jersey state tournament which begins November 2nd. -- Emir Liguori for Jersey Sports Now
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