The Staples (Westport, CT) varsity field hockey team is set to play a neutral playoff game against Darien (CT) today at 1:15 PM. This matchup is part of the 2024 Connecticut Girls Field Hockey State Tournament: CIAC – Class L.

Darien vs Staples Field Hockey Game Info:

What: Connecticut High School Field Hockey Playoffs
Who: Pequot Lakes vs Dassel-Cokato
When: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 1:15 p.m.
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Game preview: Darien vs Staples

As the 2024-2025 high school field hockey season progresses, two powerhouse teams in Connecticut, Darien and Staples, are setting the stage for an intense playoff clash. Both teams have dominated their respective schedules and are on a path to potentially meet in the postseason. Here’s a breakdown of their impressive records, past encounters, and what we can expect in their upcoming neutral game.

Team Records and Rankings

The Darien Blue Wave (24-25) are ranked 46th nationally, 2nd in Connecticut, and 2nd in their class. With a stellar 16-1 overall record and a 12-1 league record, they’ve shown exceptional strength this season. Darien’s defense has been outstanding, allowing only 13 goals across 17 games, while they’ve scored an impressive 88 goals.

In contrast, the Staples Wreckers (24-25) are ranked 19th nationally, 1st in Connecticut, and 1st in their class. They boast an undefeated 12-0 record, with a perfect 10-0 in league play. Staples has been relentless, scoring 96 goals and conceding only 6 across their 12 matches, showcasing a dominant offensive and defensive performance.

Scoring Averages

Darien’s offense has averaged 5.2 goals per game, with strong performances in recent games where they’ve maintained a consistent scoring rate. In contrast, Staples has been even more formidable with a game average of 8.0 goals per game. Staples’ offensive power has been on full display, particularly in their head-to-head matchups, where they’ve shown the ability to score prolifically.

Previous Head-to-Head Encounter

The two teams met last month on October 11th, with Staples emerging victorious in a 5-2 win over Darien. The game, which took place at Staples’ home field, was a hard-fought battle, but Darien struggled to contain the offensive pressure from Staples. This game sets the tone for what will likely be a highly anticipated rematch.

Common Opponents

Both Darien and Staples have faced off against several common opponents, often with similar results. They both defeated Greenwich, Norwalk, Warde, and Wilton with commanding wins. However, Staples has faced fewer challenges in their matches, winning all of their games by wide margins. Darien has also remained dominant but with a slightly more competitive slate, including a tough 2-1 win over Wilton on November 12.

Record Breakdown

• Darien (24-25)
  • Overall Record: 16-1
  • League Record: 12-1
  • Non-League: 2-0
  • Head to Head: 0-1
  • Playoff Record: 2-0
• Staples (24-25)
  • Overall Record: 12-0
  • League Record: 10-0
  • Non-League: 0-0
  • Head to Head: 1-0
  • Playoff Record: 2-0

Darien’s only loss of the season came at the hands of Staples, but they’ve bounced back strongly since that defeat, winning all other matches. Staples, on the other hand, enters this game with a perfect record and has yet to lose a game this season, including their flawless league play.

The Big Game Ahead

The next encounter between Darien and Staples is set to take place as a neutral playoff game on November 13th at 1:15 PM. Both teams are entering this game with a lot to prove. Staples will be looking to extend their unbeaten streak, while Darien aims to exact revenge for their earlier loss.

As these two top-ranked teams head into what promises to be an exciting contest, fans can expect a hard-fought battle between two of the best field hockey teams in Connecticut. With both teams having dominant offenses and solid defenses, this matchup is sure to deliver plenty of action and drama. The stakes are high, and both teams will be determined to make their mark on the postseason.

Conclusion

With their impressive records, both Darien and Staples have shown they are contenders to watch this season. Whether Darien can avenge their previous loss or Staples will continue their undefeated run remains to be seen. The November 13th neutral playoff game is sure to be an unforgettable showdown, setting the stage for the rest of the postseason.