Griffin Roach (2019) finishes up decorated career at BU

Ever since Griffin Roach was in elementary school, he had visions of playing D1 Soccer in college. With the support of his family, he became that rare student athlete who set a very high goal at a young age and then put in the work needed to make that goal a reality. After a very successful high school career with the Bulldogs, Griffin went on to play for Boston University where he had an amazing five-year (Covid) career, culminating in a historic season this past fall for the Terriers. 

The 2023 season saw Griffin play a huge part in arguably the most successful season in BU Men's Soccer history. The team won the Patriot League title- both in the regular season and the conference tournament- an unprecedented accomplishment. The team ultimately fell to Syracuse in the NCAA tournament. The Orangemen were defending National Champions so no shame in that!

Griffin had a very successful rookie season for the Terriers back in 2019 before the Covid outbreak and a coaching change provided some pretty big changes and challenges. Griff battled through- as he does with anything- and emerged from mid-college-career uncertainty to finish off with historic seasons in 2022 and 2023. 

Check out this list of accolades earned by Griffin during his time as a Terrier.  If you don't just scan this list, but really read it, you will be amazingly impressed by the level of success Griffin really achieved. 

• 2023 College Soccer News All-America Third Team
• 2023 United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-America First Team
• 2022 United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-America Third Team
• 2023 ECAC Defensive Player of the Year
• 2x Patriot League Defensive Player of the Year (2022, 23)
• 2023 United Soccer Coaches All-Atlantic Region First Team
• 2022 United Soccer Coaches All-Atlantic Region Third Team
• 2x All-ECAC First Team (2022, 23)
• 2x All-Patriot League First Team (2022, 23)
• 5x Patriot League Defensive Player of the Week (10/17/22, 10/24/22, 11/1/22, 9/4/23, 10/2/23)
• 3x Patriot League Academic Honor Roll (2019, 21, 22)

Griffin is one of the all-time Bulldog greats, currently sitting in a tie for 5th place on the all-time scoring list here at CHS (32g, 20a- 52pnts).   But beyond that, he is one of our finest role models.  His work ethic is 2nd to none.  His success at BU is a direct result of the work he put in- much of which happened with nobody watching.  

Griffin had this to say about his college soccer journey and the role CHS Soccer played-

"Playing soccer at Canton High School provided me the ability to play for a storied high school program. Canton High taught me all about pride, hard work, and team comradery. Learning these qualities at a young age allowed me to excel at Boston University." 

CLICK HERE for Griffin goal clip

We are so proud of Griffin!

Four Dogs set to Captain 2024 team

The CHS Boys Varsity Soccer Team is excited to announce the naming of our captains for the 2024 season- Max Eagles- '25, Owen Morrissey- '25, Vlad Francoeur- '26, and James Howard- '26. All four of these young men are wonderful role models.  All four earned Honor Roll status during the first academic term this year. 

This quartet takes the leadership reigns from Matt De Vito, Zaza Francoeur, Connor Harney and Nick Ruggeri, who have all joined the ranks of CHS Boys Soccer alumni!

Max Eagles

The four new captains have a big task ahead of them as they look to lead the team in bouncing back from a frustrating 3-11-4 campaign this past fall. The combination of two seniors and two juniors is designed to help next year's young team build strong culture and to encourage more off-season work. 

Max Eagles- Class of 2025

Max has been around Canton Soccer for his entire life. Max really found his groove this past season as a permanent fixture on the right side of the Bulldog lineup. By season's end, he was really making a big difference in all facets of the game. His older brother Carson captained the 2022 team and it is now Max's turn to inspire and lead his teammates.

His teammates felt he would be a great captain because of his care, intensity, and love of the game. 

Vlad Francoeur

Vlad Francoeur- Class of 2026

Vlad has made quite an impact in the Bulldog attack over the past two seasons notching 7 goals and adding 4 assists during his 9th and 10th grade seasons. A natural striker- who has bounced around outside of his natural #9 position quite a bit his first two seasons- Vlad is poised to have a big season in 2024.

He plays his club soccer for Seacoast United and will be working hard this spring to take his next step as a goal-scorer. His older brother Zaza was a captain of this past season's team. 

His teammates felt he would be a great captain because of his voice, passion and commitment to training. 

James Howard

James Howard- Class of 2026

James emerged this fall as a dominant force in the Bulldog midfield.  His ability to dominate the air while also maintaining possession for his teammates separated him from many of his peers this season. Two consequential head ball goals during the 2nd half of the season really highlighted his growth. James is a very hard worker in practices.  He has a great will to win and to compete. He is a poised yet passionate competitor who demands the most of himself and his teammates. 

His teammates felt he would be a great captain because he is a GREAT soccer player, who knows the game, and cares greatly about what the next two years of our program are going to look like. 

Owen Morrissey

Owen Morrissey- Class of 2025

The heart and soul of our central midfield over our past 30ish games, Owen has been the one consistent force in that area of the field during that stretch. A true Bulldog, Owen has shown that he is willing and committed to doing whatever is necessary during season and on game day, to help his team succeed. Adding the element of a dominating off-season of training and hard work is the final remaining piece to Owen leading his team to great heights during his senior season.

Owen was a unanimous choice of his teammates to be a captains. Just some of the reasons his teammates gave as to why they felt he would be a great captain were- He fights. He cares. He will hold us to a high standard. He knows the game and he pushes you to be better. 

If these four young men work together and commit to success, there is little doubt that CHS Boys Soccer will have a great fall in 2024!

Three Dogs honored by Hockomock

Big shoutout to three of our Boys Varsity Soccer players for recently being honored by the Hockomock League. 

Zaza Francoeur and Nick Ruggeri were selected as Hockomock League All-Stars. while Brennan Vallely received Honorable Mention. 

Francoeur- a senior- led the 'dogs in scoring this season, posting 6 goals. He served as captain of the team and lead this group with class and positivity. 

Ruggeri- also a senior- was the Bulldogs keeper all season long. He kept the team in many games throughout the season with brilliant goalkeeper performances.  Also a captain, Ruggeri's passion for the sport is unmatched. 

Vallely- just a freshmen- played virtually every minute of every game as a center-back for the 'dogs. His ability to neutralize our opponent's transitional play was sublime, while his vision on either side of the ball is exceptional. His future is bright!

Season update- 9/21/23

The Bulldog Boys Soccer team has played well and been competitive in each of the past three games since opening the season with a 1-0 win over North Attleboro, but the results have not followed suit.

Canton 1, Sharon 1 at CHS on Sept. 12th

Dogs struck first with a goal by Zaza Francoeur but the Eagles netted a goalazoo to earn the draw. 

Canton 0, Taunton 1 at CHS on Sept. 14th

Dogs had a great night playing some of their best soccer of the young season but could not find the net and allowed a lone goal to determine the game. 

Canton 1, Stoughton 2 at SHS on Sept. 19th

The Dogs walked through the first half, ultimately surrendering two goals before waking up in the 2nd frame- playing some great soccer and cutting the lead in half on a Zaza Francoeur goal with five minutes to play. Some late pressure almost resulting in the game-tying goal but the game ended in a tough loss. 

Things don't get any easier as the squad travels to Milford Friday. 

Dogs start season with big road win

The CHS Boys Varsity Soccer team took to the field at North Attleboro Thursday night with a whole new look- 7 new members of the starting line-up from the 2022 seaason. The team certainly had some uneasiness to start, but settled down throughout the game and ultimately took home a hard-fought 1-0 win. 

Despite losing sophomore James Howard to a knock on the ankle just 15 minutes into the game, the 'dogs figured some things out and battled the senior-laden Red Rocketeers for 80 minutes. The goal came midway through the 2nd half when freshman Sam Siegal attacked a head ball in the box and sophomore Vlad Francoeur nailed a side-volley just inside the far post on a beautiful finish. 

Too many great performances to acknowledge but shoutouts to Miles Jereb, Brennan Vallely and Matt De Vito who were very efficient in the back in front of keeper Nick Ruggeri. Those four were critical to the clean sheet. 

The 'dogs host Sharon and Taunton next week on Tuesday and Thursday night respectively. 

Important Meeting for those looking to Join CHS Boys Soccer

We are excited to be hosting an informational meeting for any CHS student looking to join the Boys Soccer program in the fall. 

All of the info you need for the meeting can be found on the flyer found at the link below. 

CLICK HERE for a flyer 

Bousquet stepping down

Coach Bonnie
Bousquet

It is with mixed emotions that we announce that CHS Boys Soccer JV Coach Bonnie Bousquet is moving on from her coaching duties to focus on other professional endeavors at CHS.

Coach Bousquet has been one of the longest serving JV coaches (if not the longest serving) in our program's history.  She joined our Bulldog staff as a first year teacher/coach in 2017 and has dedicated the past six autumns to working with our JV Boys Soccer student athletes.  Prior to joining CHS, Bousquet had a great soccer playing career culminating in her contributing greatly for the Western New England University Golden Bears. 

Despite our JV program almost always facing opponents with older players (our program primarily being made up of Freshmen and Sophomores while our opponents are primarily made up of Juniors and some sophomores), Bousquet has worked tirelessly to help develop the boys and give them the best soccer experience possible. 

Coach Bousquet with her 2021 Bulldogs

CHS Boys Varsity Soccer Coach and Athletic Director, Danny Erickson had this to say upon Bousquet's announcement- "Bonnie has been so important to our program.  She has been a great role model. Her professionalism and care have combined to make her an impactful coach. She has always worked to develop her players for the next level but never forgotten that their experience at JV is also something they should cherish and enjoy. She really has been the perfect JV coach.  We will miss her more than she could imagine. I want to thank her publicly for all she has done for the program and our student athletes and wish her the best."

Alumni Spotlight- Roach with a Season to remember

Patriot League Defensive
Player of Year
That's a BIG honor!

The entire CHS Boys Soccer community was so proud of Griffin Roach (class of 2019), when he headed off to play NCAA D1 Soccer at Boston University after finishing up an amazing Bulldog high school career.

After playing a major role in the squad during his freshmen season under legendary Terrier coach Neil Roberts, many things would shake up the next few seasons included Covid-19 and the retirement of the coach who recruited him. Griffin showed amazing grit and resilience through that stretch and it paid off in a big way during this, his 4th season at BU. 

After a slow start to the 2022 season, the Terriers caught fire down the stretch falling in only 3 of their final 12 games. Much of that success was thanks to a stingy defending core that was anchored by Griffin. The Terriers recorded 9 shutouts on the season (9th nationally). Griffin was recognized by the Patriot League as the first player in the history of the conference to earn three straight Defender of the Week honors. 

Griffin, who currently stands as the 5th all-time leading scorer for the Bulldogs, has represented his family, school and high school team with class and excellence.

Griffin in action for the Dog's

Check out some of his additional accomplishments-

• 2022 Scholar All-American- 2nd in BU History
• 2022 Patriot League Defender of the Year- 5th in BU History
• 2022 All-Region Third Team
• 2022 Scholar All-Region First Team
• 2022 All-Conference Team
• 38 games played, 32 games started, 2,948 minutes (career)
• Despite playing in the back, he scored his first collegiate goal in a win over Bucknell 
• Accounting Major with a 3.54 GPA

We caught up with Griff recently and he had this to say about his memorable season-

"This was definitely the most memorable year I've had at Boston University.  I am planning on returning to BU in the fall and take advantage of my 5th year of eligibility*. I couldn't be more excited.  I'm happy to continue to represent CHS soccer at this level for another season. We have a lot of guys returning and we look to build on the success we had this year. I know all of us have eyes on the Patriot League Championship."

Everyone in the Bulldog Soccer community is behind Griffin as he and his teammates look to 2023. Good luck Griff!

*Note- Due to the lost season caused by Covid-19, NCAA collegiate athletes were all granted a 5th year of eligibility. 

Captains named for 2023 campaign

Matt DeVito containing a 
dangerous Milford player

The CHS Boys Soccer program is proud to announce our 2023 team captains- Matt DeVito, Zaza Francoeur, and Nick Ruggeri.

This group of three rising seniors all bring their own leadership styles with them to the role of captain. They have been handed the important responsibility of helping to lead the program on to our next chapter- a chapter that will be new, exciting and challenging- as the program is saying goodbye to a class of 13 seniors who have made a major impact in the past few seasons.  They have a great opportunity to make a big difference as we begin a new journey. 

Zaza Francoeur skying
over a Milford player 
winning a head ball

Congratulations to all three of them as they begin this important work as leaders and difference-makers! 

Matt DeVito- It's hard to point at another Bulldog who worked harder last off-season at improving his game than Matt.  His drive and commitment are only part of what makes him a great leader.  Matt has a very high standard for himself and provides a great model for his teammates on how to be accountable. His teammates certainly know how much Matt cares about them and the success of the team. Matt trains and plays in the off-season with Scorpions soccer club. 

Zaza Francoeur- Zaza is a great teammate who knows how to put team first. He also has a very positive and thoughtful leadership style. He has the unique ability to hold those around him accountable to high standards while also building them up. He is all upside! He is also a physical presence that earns the respect of those around him. Zaza is currently excelling on the hardwood for the Bulldog Boys Basketball team. 

Nick Ruggeri- Nick started every game in goal for the Bulldogs during the 2022 season. Having someone with his soccer IQ and passion in the goalkeeping position is such a huge positive for our team. Nick knows how to balance his voice with fire and support of his teammates. He currently is competing for the CHS Swim team.  He also trains and plays in the off-season with Commonwealth Football Club. He is the third Ruggeri brother to serve as a CHS Boys Soccer captain- a program first!

Nick Ruggeri in action in the Bulldog goal during the 2022 season

McCabe signs NLI for St. Anselm College

The CHS Athletic Department is thrilled to announce that on Friday, December 16th, senior Jake McCabe signed a National Letter of Intent to continue his academic and soccer career at St. Anselm College in Goffstown, New Hampshire. 

Jake was supported by his parents, sister, uncle, several friends and high school coach and principal for the official signing ceremony. 

Jake with his sister, mom
and dad. 

Jake is one of the most accomplished soccer players to ever come through the CHS Boys Soccer program. He leaves as the 2nd leading scorer in program history (37 goals, 26 assists for 63 points)- just two points shy of the all-time high record.  Had his sophomore season not been cut in half due to Covid-19, he would certainly have set a new record. Other individual honors earned-

• All-Hockomock League- 2021, 2022
• All-EMass- 2021, 2022
• All-State- 2022
• 2nd Leading scorer in Hockomock, 2021, 2022
• Captain- 2022
• Boston Herald All-Scholastic- 2021
• Patriot Ledger All-Scholastic- 2021 and 2022

Beyond his individual accomplishments and accolades, Jake played a huge part in the 2021 team's march to the State Finals- a first-ever trip for the Bulldogs. 

He heads to St. Anselm where he will join fellow Bulldog Alejandro Correal who is a goalkeeper for the Hawks and served as a Bulldog captain during the 2018 season. He will be competing in the very strong NE10 Conference where he will be looking to make an immediate, positive impact for the Hawks. 

Jake and coach Erickson

CHS Athletic Director and Boys Varsity Soccer Coach had this to say about the news of Jake's decision to move on to St. A's- 

"I could not be more proud of Jake. He is truly an unbelievable, unique talent. His ability to eliminate defenders on the dribble and finish in just about any way required, combine to make him a deadly attacking player. He also has the physicality to play in the very hard-nosed NE10.  I actually played for St. Anselm more than 30 years ago and am a very proud alumnus of the soccer program. Watching Jake wear the Blue and White next fall will be a great feeling. Having both him and Alejandro playing together up there will be amazing. Jake is ready to make an immediate impact there. His next four years will certainly be exciting to follow.  Coaching both Jake and his older brother TJ over the past 6 years has been a pleasure. We will miss the McCabes!"

Jake had this to say when reflecting on this big moment in his life- 

"I am beyond excited to start a new journey.  I also can't wait to represent the Canton soccer community on the bigger stage. Leaving CHS feels like leaving home.  I knew the day would come eventually, but it came so fast.  It feels like just yesterday I was playing my first varsity game. Thank you to Coach Erickson and all of the other coaches that have helped me along the way.  Thanks to my family for always being there.  And thanks to my teammates for always pushing me to get better and making memories that I'll remember for a lifetime."

Photo by Brian Kelly- BK!

Alumni Game a success

Twenty hearty Bulldog alumni who braved cold temps and a change of date to participate in this year's alumni game tournament.

20 Bulldog alumni returned home to play in our annual "Alumni Game" on Saturday night, November 26th. The game- which typically takes place the Friday after Thanksgiving- moved to Saturday due to the USA-England game yesterday. The date change didn't help the turnout but those who attended were not disappointed. 

2022 Champs!
DJ Murray '07, Mike Denehy '13,
David Corcoran '10, Matt Lennon '13,
David Corcoran '07, Jake Shapiro '07

We created three teams from the 20 Bulldogs who attended and had spirited and fun games for 90 minutes. Many classes were represented ranging from two members of the 2003 to several members of the class of 2021.  Winning the tournament were alum from 2007, 2010 and 2013. Of note was that Matt Lennon- '13 remains unbeaten in alumni games- going 5-0!

Thanks to all of those who attended. Looking forward to a better turnout next November!

Successful season comes to a close- Several receive individual honors

It wasn't how any of us wanted it to end, but the season concluded nonetheless, at the hands of a very good Bedford High School team this past Thursday, 2-0. The 'dogs surrendered an early goal on a scrum off of a throw-in just minutes into the game and could not muster a goal of our own.   

The team was led by a dedicated and hardworking group of 13 seniors, who really defined this year's team. Not to take anything away from our talented underclassmen, but this year's journey was really dictated by the play of our senior class. This group will be missed. We thank them for all they have done for our program. 

Three members of this class were recognized by the league and beyond for their fine individual efforts this year.  Individual honors in soccer are certainly something to be celebrated by all team members as without the entire, team, nobody achieves! Well done Dogs!

Ashton Cetoute- All-Hockomock Leauge Honorable Mention

Carson Eagles- All-Hockomock League and All-Eastern Mass. 

Jake McCabe-  All-Hockomock League, All-Eastern Mass, All-State- Graduates CHS boys soccer as our 2nd all-time leading scorer. 

Dogs advance to round of 16 with win over Nashoba

 Report submitted by Austin Dibiasio- CHS Class of 2024

Canton HS vs. Nashoba Regional HS

11/5/2022    6:00PM             WWII Veterans' Memorial Field

The Bulldogs come into the round of 32 as the #14 seed and the Wolves #19.

Just 2 minutes into the match, Canton had won a throw-in from around midfield, that was intended for a Bulldog sprinting down the left wing, he fought to get the cross into Carson Eagles who was in the box but the attempt was intercepted by a Nashoba defender, his clearance was poor and the ball fell right to Drew Garrett who put a move on a defender and fired the ball into the far right side of the net. Just a minute later Nashoba would get a shot from about 25 yards out after some good skill from the Wolf, but his shot would be an easy save for Canton Goalkeeper, Nick Ruggeri. About 4 minutes later after a midfield free kick from Canton, Nashoba struggled to get the ball cleared, and after a defensive lapse, Sophomore, Owen Morrisey put a foot in and tried to flick it in for a goal but the Nashoba keeper was right there to make a great save. Just 12 minutes in, Canton would get their second as McCabe would send a low corner into the box, passing everyone the ball fell to Morrisey who tapped it in over the line just before the keeper got to it. Shortly after, Canton would get another chance as McCabe made his way into the box from the left wing, his shot intended for the short side was blocked by the keeper. 22 minutes in Nashoba would get a similar chance as one of their attackers cut in from the left and released a shot from the corner of the box that was blocked and eventually cleared away by Ruggeri. About 5 minutes later, Nashoba would send the ball into the box from a free kick, and after a scramble in the 6 yard box, the ball was tapped just wide from a Wolf. With just under 10 minutes left in the half, Nashoba would send in a volley from just outside the box that required Ruggeri to get a quick palm to it to force a corner. Just about 3 minutes later, Nashoba sent in a corner kick, and after a jumble in the box, a Wolf was there just feet away from Ruggeri who sneaked the ball in the back of the net and halved Canton’s lead.

HALFTIME - Canton definitely had more chances, but occasionally were cutting it close at the back seeing as Nashoba were getting some decent looks. Overall Canton has been the better team.

After a quiet first 11 minutes in the second half, Nashoba looked like they were past all defenders on a through ball, but some great hustle and a great challenge by Chris Hamilton stopped the attacker from getting a clean shot. 19 minutes into the second half Canton would get some insurance as Eagles played McCabe through the Nashoba defense, and as the captain danced around a Nashoba defender, he passed the ball into the net beating the Nashoba keeper. 3 minutes later McCabe would get another chance at goal from just inside the box, but his shot was saved by the keeper. Just before the end of the game, McCabe would get another shot but another low save from the keeper.

FULLTIME - The Bulldogs had a pretty dominant performance and came out with a big playoff win, they look to continue in the tournament and get a big win vs. Bedford on Wednesday the 10th.

Canton Goalscorers: 

Drew Garret (2’)

Owen Morrisey (12’)

Jake McCabe (59’)

Next Game:  #3 Bedford HS vs. #14 Canton HS       11/10       7:00PM         Bedford HS

Seniors lead the way to Senior Night win!

 Canton HS vs. Stoughton HS

10/18/22 7:30PM             Memorial Field SENIOR NIGHT

For Highlights- CLICK HERE

After a loss to Sharon, the Bulldogs come into this game looking to get a win on Senior Night against the rival Black Knights.

Report:

It did not take long for the Bulldogs to strike first. 3 minutes into the game Senior Jake McCabe took the corner and swung it into the middle of the box, the ball had so much spin on it that it ended up curling into the net straight from the corner. After Stoughton’s free kick was knocked away by the Canton defense, the ball fell to a Black Knight who gave a quick pass to his teammate, but the shot heading for the bottom right corner was saved by Canton Goalkeeper, Nick Ruggeri. Stoughton did follow up on a rebound but that was blocked by Senior Liam Shea. About 16 minutes in, McCabe would carry the ball to the edge of the box where he would unleash a shot, his shot was unfortunately wide of the post. About 2 minutes later the Knights would get a chance off of a throw in, where the ball was chucked into the box, and after getting knocked down, a Stoughton leg clipped the ball over the bar. Going into the 30th minute, one of the Knights would put an effort towards goal from about 30 yards, but the ball fizzed over the bar causing no problems for Ruggeri. 33 minutes in McCabe created a good chance for himself as he received the ball on the wing, he drove in dodging 5 Stoughton challenges with his quick feet, when eventually he got off a shot intended for the keepers short side, but the keeper got a good hand on it to push it away for a corner kick. Off that corner the Bulldogs would get a good chance, as the ball popped out to a Bulldog who put in a shot but a Stoughton defender tipped the shot over the bar. Near the end of the half the Bulldogs would get another good chance as Senior Caden Mirliani put a beautiful pass over to Senior Carson Eagles, who touched it right into the box, where it was a race to the ball between Eagles and the Stoughton keeper. The Stoughton keeper got there first and denied Eagles the scoring opportunity.

HALFTIME - A fairly even game, but Canton definitely looked just a little bit better, and it showed based on the amount of chances they had in the final third. 

The first action was not good for the Bulldogs. Stoughton had a free kick just outside the box that was blasted into the bottom right corner of the net. After 13 minutes into the 2nd half, the Bulldogs had a free kick from half field. The ball was put into the middle of the box where, Junior, Zavier Francouer took it down and handed it off to Eagles who drilled the ball into the bottom left corner. Just moments later Canton would get a very similar chance, but this time it fell to Vlad Francouer who got off a shot of his own, but it was wide of the post. Just shortly after that, Stoughton would win a corner where the ball was intended for a Knight at the far post, but unfortunately it deflected off a Bulldog and plopped into the Canton net. 1 hour into the game the Bulldogs would get another chance that originally came from the great midfield play by Mirliani. The Senior won the ball in the midfield, and after a couple of passes the ball was at Z. Francouer’s feet just at the edge of the box, while he couldn’t get a shot off based off of the good Stoughton defense, the ball fell right to right to Mirliani who just flicked it into the net. Just 2 minutes later the Bulldogs would get another chance that came off a punt from Ruggeri. The soaring ball was headed down by Z. Francouer, to McCabe and after dribbling through some Knights, the ball trickled out to Eagles whose shot was deflected wide of the net. Just 5 minutes later McCabe won a free kick, deep down the wing, as he delivered it into the box, it was an easy punch for the Stoughton keeper. Very shortly after, V. Francouer was in a beautiful position to get a chance on goal off of a mistake by a Stoughton defender. He did his best to get a shot off, but it was zipped right at the keeper. Stoughton would finally get somewhat of a chance off of an in-swinging freekick from the right, but it was hoarded by Ruggeri. In the 70th minute Canton would get a very important goal, once again by the good play of Mirliani. The Captain chipped the ball over the top into the box. It was blocked quite recklessly by a defending Knight, which caused the ball to squeeze right to Eagles, his shot, off the post, but McCabe on the easy follow up made sure the Bulldogs took a nice 2 goal lead. McCabe would seal the Black Knights fate as he used some good footwork and a beautiful low strike to put the Bulldogs up 5-2 with very little to go.

FULLTIME - The Bulldogs put out a good performance and were dominant pretty much the whole game besides the odd Stoughton chance. Congratulations to the team, especially the Seniors on this important night. 

Canton Goalscorers: 

Jake McCabe(3’ 70’ 78’)

Carson Eagles (53’)

Caden Mirliani (60’)

Next Game:   Oliver Ames HS vs. Canton HS   10/21     4:00PM     Oliver Ames HS

Dogs blank Mansfield for 3rd straight win

Submitted by Austin DiBiasio

Canton HS vs. Mansfield HS

10/6/2022 5:30PM             Memorial Field

The Bulldogs come into this game vs. the Hornets looking to get their 3rd win in a row.

Click Here for Highlights

Report:

The Bulldogs were all over the ball in the first 4 minutes, but Mansfield did get the first chance of the game when a ball from the wing was swung into the middle flying past the Canton defense. After a couple of whiffs from the Bulldogs the Mansfield attacker took the ball in his stride, stopped, dodged some defenders, and thrashed a shot off the right post. The clearance from the defense was poor, giving the Hornets a shot from the edge of the box, forcing a great one-hand save from keeper, Nick Ruggeri. The following rebound was sailed over the bar. Mansfield would have another chance about 2 minutes later where the shot from the edge of the box was blocked, but it fell down to an attacking Hornet just yards away from Ruggeri, but it was a poor shot and it was collected by the keeper. 10 minutes later, despite Canton having a lot of possession, Mansfield’s corner kick fell right to an attacker looking to put the ball in the back of the net, but once again the shot was halted by Ruggeri. Through the first 20 minutes Canton had a couple shots here and there, but in the 22nd minute, Jake McCabe put in a low shot from around the corner of the box, to maybe get a deflection from a teammate, but instead of a teammate helping to get the goal, his shot was blocked by the Mansfield goalkeeper and it popped right back out to a pair of Bulldogs, one of them being the Sophomore, Owen Morrisey, who poked it right in. To add on that the Bulldogs had a corner in the 32nd minute that was driven in low by McCabe, and after the ball made its way through a crowd of bodies, Senior Jack Lauro was there to tap it in for Canton. 

 Halftime - Throughout the first half Canton were very dominant and had many more chances than Mansfield.

Despite the quick start from Mansfield, when the 46th minute came, McCabe was played down the wing from a throw-in, he then cut in and out trying to shake off a Mansfield defender. He eventually got a shot off just inside the box, where the keeper would make a foot save. Having made a good save, the keeper’s job was not over, the rebound bounced right back to Morrisey and he put it away into the empty net. Just at the 52nd minute mark, Mansfield had a free kick from their side of the field that was flown into the Canton’s box. The ball bounced over everyone and an attacking Hornet was looking to capitalize. He ended up getting a shot on target but it was very poor and it was taken in by the Canton defense. In the 53rd minute, Canton defender Matt De Vito put in a beautiful cross from the left side. There were 3 Bulldogs in the box waiting for it, but it just sailed over all 3 of their heads. The chances did not stop there for the Bulldogs, in the 58th minute McCabe would make a run with the ball down the wing and into the box, running along the goal line he put in another low cross that was punched by the goalkeeper, but once again it fell right to a bulldog, this time it was Carson Eagles to tap it right in. Right at the hour mark, McCabe once again was played down the left wing, where he once again got to the goal line and passed it in to Senior Ryan Kovner who also saw a wide open net to slot the ball away. Mansfield’s first real chance of the second half came in the 66th minute where 2 Hornets were in Canton’s box looking to get on the end of a cross, the ball came in and it fell to one of the attackers. The Hornet got a shot off but from the bad angle he was at, it drifted wide of the post. Throughout the rest of the game there were no clear cut chances, but Mansfield did have some shots on net but all easy saves for Ruggeri.

Fulltime - Canton were dominant throughout the whole game and it showed based on the amount of chances they had.

Canton Goalscorers: 

Owen Morrisey (22’  52’)

Jack Lauro (32’)

Carson Eagles (58’)

Ryan Kovner (60’)

Next Game:   Attleboro HS vs. Canton HS     10/12      4:00PM     Attleboro HS

Dog's win 2nd straight with win over KP

 Submitted by Austin DiBiasio

Canton HS vs. King Philip HS

10/3/2022 6:30PM             Memorial Field

Click Here for Video Highlights

Report:

Just 2 minutes into the game, Canton Junior Matt DeVito, put a cross to Jake McCabe into the box, where he would flick it onto Vlad Francouer, who calmly slotted in an easy goal for Canton. About 8 minutes later KP would have a throw-in around mid field, where they would quickly turn it into an attack. KP played a ball across the box towards an attacker being closely marked by Senior Chris Hamilton, intending to get a shot, but instead of the ball being scored by KP, the ball would bounce off Hamilton, and go into the Canton net. About 28 minutes in KP looked as if they would have a chance after the newly tested defender Zaza Francouer, tried to play a pass to his partner Ashton Cetoute. His pass was weak and Cetoute had to get back and block a shot put in by KP. The 2nd goal for Canton came as Carson Eagles was going down the right wing with the ball, he flew a cross into the box, it was met by sophomore Owen Morrisey, who headed it into the net. Just minutes later it would look as Canton would get a 3rd goal off of a corner, the ball was smashed around the box and popped just wide of the post out of the keeper's hands.

HALFTIME

In the first 5 minutes of the 2nd half KP had a couple of chances, but none as good as when McCabe was played through by Eagles, and he dodged the keeper and smacked it into the open net. Another 5 minutes later McCabe would get his 2nd as it was a very similar goal, but this time fellow captain Caden Mirliani played him through and McCabe used his right foot to put the ball into the bottom right corner. Continuing with their dominance, Canton would get another goal as McCabe threw the ball into the box looking for a Bulldog to finish it off, but that was not needed because a KP head got to it and he put it into his own net. KP would get 2 goals back near the end of the game, one coming from very far out as a Canton leg tried to clear it but it looped back and over the head of backup goalkeeper Connor Geoghan. KP’s third goal would come in the last 2 minutes of the game as Canton would make another mistake that led a KP attacker through, who put it into the back of the net with ease.

Fulltime

Canton stayed dominant throughout the whole game, and it showed based off of their 5 goal performance.

Canton 5 - King Philip 3

Canton goalscorer(s): Vlad Francouer (3’)     Owen Morrisey (30’)     Jake McCabe (50’  56’)   KP own goal (57’)

Next Game:   Canton HS vs. Mansfield HS     10/6      5:30PM     Memorial Field

Dogs fall to OA

 Report by Austin DiBiasio

Canton HS vs. Oliver Ames HS

7:00PM             Memorial Field

After a tough loss against Milford, the Bulldogs are looking to get a good result versus a very good team in OA.

Report:

Just 10 seconds into the game the Canton defense could not clear the ball over the top, which caused an OA attacker to get to the ball and volley it home. Just minutes later the Bulldogs had an attacking throw-in, where the ball was dangerously put into the box, and Carson Eagles put it in the back of the net on a volley. After a long period of time without any chances, OA crossed it in, and Canton goalkeeper Nick Ruggeri ran out to catch it, but it popped out, which led to a great OA chance, which was wasted as it was shot over the bar. 20 minutes into the game OA got the ball on a counter attack. Their through ball was cut off by Ashton Cetoute, but it would pop back out to a OA attacker who used his left foot to put the ball to the left of Ruggeri, who was drifting to his right. Just 2 minutes later #19 of OA got the ball on the wing just outside the box, he ran all the way in, just yards away from the Canton net, where his shot would rise into the hands of Ruggeri. The next goal came as OA had a corner. The corner was punched away by Ruggeri out to the edge of the box. OA got to it and put a shot into the crowd of players, where it took a deflection and made its way into the net. Just at the end of the half, OA had a good string of passes in Canton’s box. The play led to a shot from #19, who’s close range shot hit the post.

Halftime -   Canton: 1      Oliver Ames: 3           Ever since Canton’s equalizing goal, the game has been all Oliver Ames.

The first 20 minutes of the 2nd half was all OA. Their work paid off as they sent in a cross from the corner of the box, the ball would find an unmarked Tiger just yards out from Ruggeri, whose jumping shot would find its way into the back of the net. Canton would get their first chance of the half off of a throw in that found Eagles, his flick would sail over the bar. The last 20 minutes of the game, the Bulldogs would get no chances offensively, but at the back Ruggeri made some good saves to keep the final at 4-1.

Fulltime

Canton showed some life in the 1st half, but had absolutely nothing in the 2nd.Canton 1 - Oliver Ames 4

Canton goalscorer(s): Carson Eagles (6’)

Next Game:   Franklin HS vs. Canton HS   9/28      4:00 PM    Franklin HS  

Dogs make it 4 games unbeaten with win at Stoughton

Submitted by Austin DiBiasio- '24

Stoughton HS vs. Canton HS

5:30PM             Stoughton High School

After a win at Sharon (1-0), and a draw vs Taunton (2-2) the Bulldogs are looking to keep their unbeaten run going against Stoughton.

Report:

The first look at goal came about 2 minutes in as Jake McCabe threw it into the Stoughton penalty area, where Alvaro Cezon got a foot to it, directing the ball towards goal, where the Stoughton goalkeeper would make a good 1 hand save. The next chance came 5 minutes later where McCabe would cross it in after a failed corner, Zavier Francouer got his head on and headed it into the goalkeeper's hands in the bottom right corner. 14 minutes in, Canton won a free kick from about 25 yards out, hit by McCabe, but over the wall. The first real look for Stoughton came about 19 minutes in when they had a free kick from about 40 yards out, it went straight through to Canton goalkeeper, Nick Ruggeri where it was quite an uncomfortable save for the junior. Canton’s attacking finally paid off about 21 minutes into the game where McCabe sent a high cross over the rushing goalkeeper to Vlad Francouer, the freshman got his first goal of the season by heading the ball into the empty net. Canton got another decent chance 28 minutes in, after the Bulldogs won a free kick from 35 yards out, McCabe took it and his bouncing shot was saved by the keeper, but it popped out to the Canton attackers on the rebound, where they were eventually offside. One of Stoughton’s rare 1st half chances came late as they had a corner that was intended for a head at the back post, a Stoughton player got to it and headed down, which became a routine save from Ruggeri.

Halftime: Stoughton 0  -   Canton 1          -          At half, Canton had a lot more chances than Stoughton, while the midfield play was pretty even.

As Canton’s corner was punched away by the Stoughton goalkeeper, about 4 minutes into the half, Canton kept it in, from the boot of Caden Mirliani, who fizzed it back into the box, falling to V. Francouer who was almost in on goal. Francouer used some good feet to get space for a shot that he blasted into the top right corner. A very clinical finish from the freshman. Ruggeri made another save about 15 minutes into the 2nd half from a bouncing shot off a free kick. Canton had another chance from a free kick, where the ball was intended for Z. Francouer at the back post, he got his shot saved, rebounded to Eagles, also saved, Z. Francouer with the third shot that would go wide of the post. Stoughton got a chance with about 18 minutes left, from a free kick, as the Canton defense had a lapse, a Knight was played through and had a clear look on Ruggeri and his goal. Ruggeri would make the save keeping the game at 2-0. The next and last big chance for Canton came as Mirliani would pull out a behind the back pass to McCabe, who would put V. Francouer through the Stoughton defense. Already having 2 goals, Vlad would pass it to his brother, Zavier, for a goal that would be ruled offside. As Stoughton had a good spell of play near the end of the game, their best chance came as they had a free kick from about 25 yards out, where they executed a good set piece, playing the ball in the air for a header that would connect, the attempt would eventually hit the bar and go over the goal for a goal kick.

Fulltime

Stoughton 0 - Canton 2

Goal scorers:

Canton - Vlad Francouer (21’  44’)

Next Game:     Canton HS vs. Milford HS       9/21      7:00 PM    Memorial Field    

Last minute penalty earns Dogs a draw

Submitted by Austin DiBiasio-

The first glimpse of a chance was about 4 minutes in for North Attleboro, they won a corner and attacked it with quite an unorthodox technique that worked pretty well, but the shot through the crowd was over the bar. After a Canton attack and a bad touch from the goalkeeper, the ball fell to Senior, Caden Mirliani, who took a shot from about 25 yards out that would hit the outside of the post. Later, About 18 minutes in, North put a ball over the top that was taken by their striker, but Canton goalkeeper, Junior, Nick Ruggeri was right there to stop the close shot. Shortly after, Canton were desperate to get a shot off after a good entry into the North defense; eventually it was Senior, Jake McCabe that took the shot that would go over the bar. As both teams have had some good chances, another comes for North as they get off a good shot from the corner of the box, but a fairly easy save by Ruggeri. About 27 minutes in, a good ball through the North defense was collected by Freshman, Vlad Francouer, who passed to his brother Zavier, but his touch was too heavy and collected by the North goalkeeper. Just a minute later the Canton defense was caught out of position and North got a cross in, but the leaping header was over the bar. Staying on the front foot, North won a free kick about 20 yards out but it sailed over the bar. About a minute later McCabe loses his temper due to a foul call and smacks the ball causing him to receive a yellow card. As the game swings back in Canton’s grasp, Z. Francouer takes a curling shot over the bar with about 3:30 left in the first half.

Halftime  0-0    -      A pretty physical game with a good amount of chances, so far the game could go either way.

Early in the half North have some good chances but Ruggeri is still looking strong in goal. As Canton has yet to see some promising attack in the second half, they get their first glimpse as V. Francouer is played through, but North GK collects. Canton win a free kick outside of the corner of the box, which was taken by McCabe and on net which forced a save out of the North GK, North’s work wasn’t done as Alvaro Cezon got on the rebound and attempted a header on goal, which was cleared by a North defender. After some back and forth play, North would get the next real chance with about 13:30 left as result of a turnover from the Canton defense in their own end. North pounced on the ball and as Canton were scrambling back, a cross was put in, unmarked #9 of North got low, and put his head on the ball that would bounce into the bottom left corner just out of Ruggeri’s reach. As Canton needed a quick goal, Carson Eagles showed great skill and perseverance to get off a low shot, but a routine short side save from the keeper. With about 8:30 left Brian Shea and #7 of North get in a tussle and drag each other to the ground. Shea walks away with a yellow card. As the ball came to V. Francouer with 5 minutes left, the freshman ran down the wing and used some beautiful skills to fool some defenders and cut in, his curling shot would go over the bar. With the end of the game coming closer and closer, Canton win a free kick at just about the halfway line, taken by the goalkeeper, Ruggeri’s intended cross looked more like a shot, that got very close to being a goal, but the North keeper got his fist up and popped it over the bar. After 2 corners from Canton the ball is headed down and knocked around, which would lead to a handball from North, penalty kick given to Canton. As Canton had the chance to get a draw, Jake McCabe stepped up to take the penalty, and calmly slotted it in the bottom right corner sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.

Fulltime:

Canton 1 - North Attleboro 1

Goal scorers:

Canton - McCabe   80’ (PK)

North Attleboro - #9   70’

Next Game:    Sharon vs. Canton     9/13       3:45      @Sharon HS

2022 Season starts out on sour note

NOTE- CHS Junior Austin DiBiasio will be writing game/week recaps throughout the season for all to keep up with Boys Varsity Soccer action. His write-up of the season's first game- a 1-0 loss to Braintree- is below. 

Canton HS vs. Braintree HS

6:30PM       Memorial Field

Report:

The game started out very cagey, but eventually Canton got their first chance of the game 21 minutes in through Drew Garrett as he was played through and saw a possible pass to Jake McCabe, the pass failed but came right back to Garrett as he shot it over the bar less than 10 yards out. About 7 minutes later Braintree got a good look but the shot was blocked by Matt de Vito and went out for a corner to Braintree. Off of the corner the ball was knocked around in the box, but was eventually cleared by the Canton defense. Shortly after Canton put together a good attack as McCabe popped it up to Zavier Francouer just inside the box, who headed it on the Carson Eagles as he took the ball on the volley and the shot went over the bar. Near the end of the half McCabe took a free kick about 25 yards out which would hit the wall.

Halftime

Early in the second half Braintree entered the box with their main striker #10 looked dangerous but came to nothing. Minutes later McCabe had another free kick where it was a good strike but a great save to the goalkeeper's right. Later #10 of Braintree created himself another chance where he would eventually hit it over the bar. Shortly after, Eagles had the ball on the right wing and cut inside but his shot was wide of the far post. The first goal of the game came about 10 minutes into the 2nd half where Braintree sent a wild cross just over the head of Canton goalkeeper Nick Ruggeri, and as it went over his head the ball was tapped in by #10 of Braintree. Bouncing right back just after the goal Ruggeri stopped a fizzing shot just outside the box. The next big chance took a while but eventually #9 of Braintree played his teammate #10 through, but his low shot was just wide of the far post. The next chance was off of a set piece from Braintree, as it looked like they could have a good chance, the whistle was blown for a handball and Canton was awarded a free kick. The last chance for Canton and also the game, came as a long ball was played up for Vlad Francouer, who would flick it on for McCabe who put in a first time strike just wide of the post.

Canton 0 - Braintree 1

Goal scorers - Braintree: #10