Nipmuc girls’ soccer started its season on the right foot Wednesday, beating Wayland 4-0 in a statement shutout that showcased the Warriors’ balance from back to front. Nipmuc’s defense hounded Wayland all game, limiting chances and allowing Caylee Smith to record her first clean sheet when called upon. Offensively, Anya Montano had herself a game, netting a hat trick and adding the assist on Lilly Pereira’s goal.
This result followed another win, a 2-0 triumph over Hopedale on Friday, giving the defending champs a 2-0 start to the season. That continuity should please a team that captured the No. 4 seed in D3 last year and then went on the run that culminated in a title, including a notable 1-0 upset of Medfield in the championship. Facing D2 playoff competition in Wayland, Nipmuc still looked noticeably a step ahead.
The Warriors will return home for their first game in front of their fans tomorrow at 4 PM against Douglas, a program that held the top seed in the D5 bracket last season. Expect Nipmuc to look for another strong statement as they defend the banner.
