Football club takes West title

SPARTA-Sparta Over Forties Football Club finished top of the West division's summer league. The team had to overcome some critical team injuries, with captain Roger Dehnel breaking his wrist and Kevin Hahn rupturing an Achilles tendon. The rest of the team rallied though, with defender Keith Howson scoring his classic corner-header on multiple occasions. Pete Massey (whom fans refer to as the "butcher" for his aggressive tackles), the new head coach for Sparta Recreational soccer, proved a good recruit to the team this season. In the first game of the playoffs, Sparta played aggressively against Hopatcong. Forward Dave Dumbroff (U.S.A.) opened the scoring with a great goal from the far left corner, giving Sparta the lead. Goalie Ty Zaharia (Romania) was at his best, with some excellent saves that left fans holding their breath. Carlos Gomes (Uruguay) scored a second goal for Sparta late in the second half to ease the pressure, and Sparta ran out winning 2-0. After beating Hopatcong, Sparta advanced to the semifinals for the first time in seven years. Sparta Over Forties Football Club players must be at least 40 years of age. The team is comprised of a mix of Americans, Europeans, and South Americans, a who's who of area soccer, with many players who played semi professional in their earlier years and now coach area teams. For detailed schedules, results, and ranking, visit www.sparatsoccer.com/adult soccer.