Read about six graduating senior standouts
Hornell – 1, Livonia – 1
From Hornell High School Athletics,
The Hornell Red Raiders battled the state power Livonia to a 1-1 tie Thursday night. The Raiders will go into sectional play with a record of 10-3-1, placing them as the #3 seed in Section V, Class B behind Mynderse (15-1-0) and Livonia (14-1-1).
With just under 24 minutes left in the first half, Jack Emo got a foot on the ball at midfield, and a breakaway run resulted in a shot to the back of the net at the 10 yard line for the first score of the night. Livonia connected in the second half off a direct kick with 31 minutes remaining in the game.
Both teams battled in overtime without being able to score. Senior goalie, Davin Oyer, played an incredible game with 9 saves. Hornell’s defenders, Gennaro Picco, Cody Cardamone, Andrew Davis, and Demayne Dixon were fantastic, holding the Bulldogs – who average 5.5 goals per game and had outscored their opponents 83 goals to 8 – to just one goal on the night.
Red Raider coach Jim Tobin was very pleased with his team’s overall play and perseverence. “This game will be a great momentum builder for sectionals,” he commented.
Before the game, Hornell recognized the team’s seven seniors and their many years of play on the field.
Jack Emo #3 (Captain) – The New York State First Team All-Star will end his high school career as Hornell’s all time leading scorer. Coach Jim Tobin reflects, “Jack is without a doubt the best player Hornell has ever had. With all of his accolades, the best is Jack’s character off the field.” Jack plans on continuing his soccer career in college while majoring in electrical maintenance.
Gennaro Picco #1 (Captain) – Gennaro will be a 3-time Livingston County All Star and will end his high school career playing varsity for the Red Raiders for four years. “He is one of the best all-around players we have had in Hornell,” said coach Tobin. “His athleticism will be counted on during sectionals.” Gennaro plans on attending college in the fall to major in biology.
Eric Ross #16 (Captain) – Eric gives his team 100% effort everyday, even after battling through a number of injuries this season and last. Coach Tobin reflects, “Eric’s rule as striker or midfielder has been exceptional. We look forward to his presence in sectionals.” Upon graduation, Eric is looking into military service and welding.
Davin Oyer #00 (Captain) – After missing several games due to an ankle injury the second game of the season, Davin has been a powerhouse in the goal for the Red Raiders. Davin has a “never give up” attitude, and Coach Tobin describes his work ethic as “second to none.” “Davin has battled a number of injuries to become one of the top goalies around,” said Tobin. “We look forward to many big saves in sectionals.” Davin plans on attending Alfred State College to major in Financial Planning next fall.
Andrew Davis #17 – Andrew spent the majority of his youth on the football field but gave soccer a try during the 2021 COVID year that split soccer and football into two different sport seasons. Fortunately for the soccer program, Andrew decided that the soccer field is where he wanted to be. “Andrew has been one of our strongest defenders this year,” said Jim Tobin. “His positive attitude has been a great influence on our youngers players.” Andrew’s future plans are undecided at this time.
Spencer Hopper #21 – Spencer has been a solid player for the Hornell Red Raiders for a number of years. Unfortunately, he has also battled a number of injuries the last few seasons. “Spencer was a big contributor earlier in the season,” commented Tobin. Spencer is recovering from a mid-season injury that sidelined him for several games, and coach is anticipating big things from him in sectionals. Spencer plans to attend the United States Air Force Academy for Aerospace Engineering and looks forward to training to be a pilot in the future.
Kevin Regan #17 – Always putting the team first, Coach Jim Tobin reflects, “Kevin has been dedicated to the soccer program for years. He has been a reliable defender.” Although Kevin has primarily been a defender for the Hornell Red Raiders, he has willingly stepped in to a midfield or offensive position when needed. Kevin plans to attend St. John Fisher University next fall and major in nursing.
Sectional play begins next week. Tune into Peish Sports on YouTube to catch the Hornell Red Raiders during post season play! Final sectional seeding takes place Monday, but it looks as though the Raiders will be hosting the #14 seed in the pre-quarter final round next Wednesday at Maple City Park.
