Derry and Donegal-led Boston Emeralds make history with back-to-back double
A 96th-minute equaliser against Bridgeport keeps the Emeralds' flawless 22-0 streak intact
The Boston Emeralds have officially crowned their inaugural UPSL New England Premier Division season in historic fashion, lifting the championship trophy following a dramatic, last-gasp 1-1 draw against Bridgeport.
Faced with their toughest test of the campaign, the Emeralds fought back from a goal down to rescue a draw in the 96th minute.
The result ensures the club finishes the regular season undefeated, extending a remarkable 22-game unbeaten streak (22-0) that spans back-to-back league promotions.
The extraordinary rise of the club - co-founded and directed by Derry native Keegan Hegarty and Donegal’s Kevin Tarr represents one of the most rapid success stories in modern US grassroots soccer.
Speaking after the trophy presentation, Boston Emeralds Assistant Manager Kevin Tarr praised the squad's championship mentality: “It wasn’t the performance that we have all been used to seeing from the lads all season, but championship-winning teams always find a way to get it over the line, and that’s exactly what the lads did tonight.
“Although our winning streak has ended, we still stand undefeated over 22 games, which is incredible and something we can be very, very proud of.
“This time last year, we were just a brainstorm on paper.
“To come from a piece of paper to becoming back-to-back league winners and remaining undefeated over 22 matches is something very special.
“It goes to show that all our hard work and dedication has paid off."
The regular season championship secures the top seed for the Emeralds as they now turn their attention to the upcoming UPSL Premier Playoff fixtures.
“We still have a lot more to play for over the next few weeks with the playoffs," Tarr added. "Hopefully, there is another trophy celebration to come.”