Top-seeded Guilford reached the Southern Connecticut Conference boys' soccer finals as expected, shutting out No. 4 Branford 3-0. The Indians did not get the rematch they probably hoped for against Amity, though.
The defending champion Spartans were knocked off by Fairfield 3-0 in penalty kicks. Prep's freshman goalkeeper, Will Steiner, not onlyt came up big in PKs, but also stopped Amity forward Kevin Howard on two one-on-one attempts.
This should be an interesting final, but Guilford is the favorite and is likely to prevail. Game time is Thursday at 7:30 at East Haven High.

In the girls' semis, Cheshire eliminated Wilbur Cross 2-1. Not only did the Governors lose, but one of their top scorers, Andreana Thomas, went down with what looked like a serious leg injury. She was transported to Yale-New Haven Hospital. Her soccer season is likely over and depending upon how serious the injury is, so could the start of the basketball season. She is the starting point guard at Hillhouse and as a sophomore, helped lead the Academics to the Class L state championship.
In the other semi, Hand eliminated Mercy in penalty kicks to remain unbeaten at 16-0-1.
Hand beat Cheshire in both regular-season matchups. You can bet Cheshire is itching to get a measure of revenge on the defending champions. Can Cheshire get an early lead. then rely on its defense. This game is likely headed to overtime - and maybe to penalty kicks.
Game time is Thursday at 5:30 at East Haven.

See you all there...