DEA Bedford Over 30

Needing to win one of their last three games ensure staying with the Big Boys in Division 1, DEA instead fell apart in losing all the games by a combined score of 14-5 after losing to Pepperell 3-0. DEA finished the season at 1-9, easily the worst mark in their history. DEA took control of the match, creating a majority of the chances and holding possession in the opening minutes. However, all their efforts were slowed by the high grass, and their final buildup inside the area wasn't quite there. Pepperell had the first clear opportunity off a corner. Pepperell won the header, but the ball bounced around between Chris Cloutier, Dale Dubois of DEA and John LeBlanc, Paul Murphy of Pepperell. It was eventually cleared and DEA had dodged a bullet. They weren't so lucky by the 30th minute, however. On a Reyad Mahmoud restart, he chipped in a perfect serve just inside the area. LeBlanc won the header, and it lofted over Cloutier to get the scoring going. After a missed call that saw Gary DuPlessis chopped down just outside the area, Pepperell countered and stormed down the right side. Biju Kachappilly sent a strong drive from about 40 yards out. Cloutier, who has problems with the long shots in the past, parried this one over the bar with Murphy all over him. The match would go into the half with DEA desperate for some offense. Second half saw much of the same. DEA possessing, but giving up yards on the counter. Dan Martin sent a header just over the bar, and Peter Cline ripped a shot wide. Halfway through the second half, a giveaway by DEA in their own end sealed their fate. Mahmoud stole a clearance, beat a man, and walked in free. He finished calmly and Pepperell had the insurance tally. They would get another late to close it out, but this match was already over. DEA is being sent down to Division 2 to regroup (happy Dino??). Now that they know the level of play in Division 1, they are determined to regroup and take a long look at their roster. Numbers were a problem all season, and with the quality at Division 1 it did catch up to them. They easily could have won an additional 2-3 games, but the bottom line is they didn't and for the first time in their history, they are taking a step back. Look for the end of the year recap in the coming days. Thanks to everyone who made the effort this year.