Caesar Rodney soccer rides away with upset win over Salesianum

DOVER, Del. – Caesar Rodney boys soccer captured their first DIAA state championship in 30 years with a 3-1 upset win over Salesianum Saturday evening.

The Riders showed early they weren’t going to lay down against the three-time defending champions.

A quick strike from Edualy Simon in the second minute of action gave the Riders a 1-0 lead.

The Sals tied the game before halftime thanks to a tally by freshman Brady Esser.

Caesar Rodney didn’t back down, as Trevor Sullivan put the Riders ahead with 12 minutes to play.

Joseph Honore’s hustle led to a breakaway goal, his fourth of the playoffs.

“I’m happy for the boys, I’m happy for all of the public schools,” said Caesar Rodney head coach Dwayne Lavender. “It’s tough to be a true public. I think we’re the only true public of the last eight in the state tournament to take down Sallies… We call the group the ‘Gritty Boys,’ because they just don’t know when to quit. They have no fear.”