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Late Goal Lifts Raiders Over Mariners in Early-Season Thriller

Raiders versus Mariners Sept 8 photo 1

Follow the bouncing ball: East and North players battle for possession Sept. 8. Photo by Allison Goodwin.

Sept. 9, 2026- Freshman Noah Koeppen picked an ideal time for his first career high school goal. 

With less than seven minutes to go and the game knotted at one between High School East and High School North, Koeppen scored to put the Raiders up 2-1, a lead that would hold.

Raiders versus Mariners Sept 8 photo 2

Noah Koeppen (no. 9) celebrates with teammates after scoring the game-winner. Photo by Allison Goodwin.
The Mariners had taken an early 1-0 lead on the road after a goal by senior Reilly Woodman. But the stout East defense — led by seniors Drew Pereira, Nick DiMeola, and junior Brady Gillen — held strong until Ayden Salazar connected with less than 14 minutes to go in the first half to tie the game at one.

Raiders versus Mariners Sept 8 photo 3

Raiders versus Mariners Sept 8 photo 4
Photos by Allison Goodwin

Raiders versus Mariners Sept 8 photo 5

Mike Peck and Connor Minelli shared goal for the Raiders, who now stand at 3-0 on the young season. The Mariners drop to 1-2, with both losses coming by a single goal. They will look to rebound tomorrow against Brick, while East's next match comes against Point Pleasant Boro Sept. 16.

See a slideshow below of game photos courtesy of Allison Goodwin.