Middletown South Captures First-Ever Shore Conference Title in Dramatic Shootout

photo by: Parker Smith | Coverage by Antonio Morales

In a championship match that demanded everything from both sides, Middletown South outlasted Colts Neck in a nail-biting 1-0 (5-4 PK) victory to win the program’s first-ever Shore Conference Tournament title on Saturday in Neptune.

The Eagles’ historic run was built on grit and belief — qualities that were on full display as they battled through 100 scoreless minutes against one of the Shore’s top programs. Both goalkeepers, Carson Perry for Middletown South and Liam Collura for Colts Neck, finished with two saves apiece in regulation as each back line refused to break.

The game ultimately came down to penalty kicks, where Perry came up clutch with a key save to swing momentum in Middletown’s favor. Moments later, Luke Strada stepped to the spot and buried the championship-winning shot to secure the 5-4 shootout win and set off a wild celebration.

The victory capped a remarkable postseason run for Middletown South, which included a semifinal upset over powerhouse CBA, a result that announced their arrival as one of the Shore’s new elite programs.

“These kids have worked for this all year — we weren’t supposed to be here, but that’s what makes it special,” said Coach. “Beating CBA showed us we could play with anyone, and tonight they proved it. This group will be remembered forever for bringing home the first one.”

With the championship now in hand, Middletown South (12-3-1) enters the state playoffs with serious momentum — and the confidence that they can beat anyone standing in their way.