DEA Bedford Over 30

The Bedford Pacers and Hollis United proved they are two evenly matched teams. After playing each other to ties, and finishing virtually even, during the season, they met in the OTHSL O-30 finals to settle the score. However, they settled nothing as they tied once again, 2-2. Hollis would get on the board at the 20 minute mark, but Scott Sharby's header off Marco Koolman's restart would leave them level at the half. Hollis held possession better in the first half, with the Pacers creating their chances against the run of play. Hollis only had a few shots get through the DEA-like Pacers' "D". The second half was a different story. At 60 minutes, Chris Cloutier's long punt was tracked down inside the area by John Guild. Guild and the defender both battled for possession, with Guild finally taken a blow to the chops and the referree wasted no time pointing to the Spot. Jeff Bailey would calmly put home the go-ahead PK, and the Pacers had a 2-1 lead. The Pacer pressed for the insurance tally, carrying much of the play in the second half. They couldn't get the clear chance they were looking for, or their shots were just off the mark. It would come back to haunt them with 10 minutes left, Hollis broke through with the tying goal on a play that looked offside. None of the 4 refs in attendance appeared to be conscience at the time, so the play stood. Cloutier had to make a fine stop on a quick break in the closing moments to secure another tie against their rivalry. The Championship would be decided on Penalty Kicks. Never a good sign for a DEA-laden squad, the Pacers would drop this one, 4-3 on PKs. Overall, a great season for the Bedford Pacers. After jumping to Division 2 last year, they had a reality check. The level of play was a big step from Division 3, and after last year's fall season to get their feet wet, they played very strong this year. Hollis gets the nod on jumping up, but the Pacers will be right behind them soon.