Cannon’s 3 Goals, 6 Assists Lead Holmdel Past Montville Into NJG2 Semifinals
HOLMDEL — Ranked ninth in the Shore Sports Insider preseason poll, Holmdel has consistently exceeded outside expectations throughout the spring. What began as a promising season has evolved into one of the Shore’s most impressive campaigns, as Holmdel has steadily climbed the ranks while proving itself against nearly every challenge. The Hornets continued that run on Monday with a 12-7 victory over Montville, securing a spot in the North Jersey Group 2 sectional semifinals against Sparta.
The Hornets needed some time to settle in, finding themselves tied 2-2 after the opening quarter behind goals from Jack Cannon and Marcus Cermele. Holmdel found its rhythm in the second quarter and seized control.
Junior attackman David Perrotti ignited the surge, scoring with 8:29 remaining in the half to give the Hornets a 3-2 lead. He struck again less than three minutes later to extend the advantage to two goals. Just 41 seconds after Perrotti’s second tally, senior midfielder Jack Cannon found the back of the net to put Holmdel ahead 5-2 with a lead the Hornets would never relinquish.
Cannon was exceptional throughout the contest. The senior recorded a hat trick while also serving as the catalyst for the offense, consistently creating opportunities for his teammates. The three-sport athlete recorded a career-high six assists in addition to his three-goal performance.
With Saturday potentially marking the final game of his storied athletic career at Bob Roggy Field, Cannon reflected on what representing Holmdel has meant to him.
“I’ve been playing on this field since I was five years old,” said Cannon. “There is no stadium I would rather play at and no town I would rather play for.”
Holmdel’s Jack Cannon recorded three goals and six assists against Montville (Photo: Tom Smith | tspsportsimages.com)
Cannon credited the team’s chemistry for his success.
“We had trust in each other today,” he said. “It’s why I was able to have six assists.”
His playmaking ability was noticed by his teammates as well.
“Jack was able to find me early today,” said Perrotti.
Perrotti was one of the primary beneficiaries of Cannon’s passing, recording a hat trick of his own.
“I was happy that I was able to capitalize on the chances that I had,” said Perrotti. “It was a great effort all around from my teammates and coaches.”
Holmdel’s David Perrotti registered three goals and an assist against Montville (Photo: Tom Smith | tspsportsimages.com)
Perrotti has emerged as one of the Hornets’ most important offensive weapons this season. His three-goal performance increased his season total to 55 goals.
Another key contributor was long-stick midfielder Marcus Cermele. Cermele scored twice and played a major role in a defensive effort that limited Montville’s offensive opportunities.
Cermele was quick to credit his teammates for helping create his scoring chances.
“I’ve got to give credit to Finn and Jack. They do all the dirty work,” said Cermele. “I just sit out on the wing and shoot it.”
Like Cannon, Cermele appreciated the opportunity to potentially close out his home career with a victory.
“I’ve been playing on this field forever,” said Cermele. “This field has so many memories, and it was an awesome experience to win my last game here.”
Holmdel’s Marcus Cermele scored two goals against Montville (Photo: Tom Smith | tspsportsimages.com)
Perrotti also praised his longtime teammate.
“Marcus is a childhood friend. I’ve known that kid forever,” said Perrotti. “He comes over to my house after every game.”
With the victory, the Hornets (16-5) advance to the sectional semifinals, where they will face a talented Sparta (13-5) squad. Despite the challenge ahead, Holmdel believes its demanding schedule and postseason experience have prepared the team for the moment.
“Sparta is a very good team and they have a great program,” said Cannon. “But we’ve played a tough schedule, and it should be a great game.”
