Hartford City Football Club kicked off their 2025 NPSL campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the New York Shockers on a rain-soaked Saturday evening. After last season’s heartbreak loss to the Shockers in a penalty shootout, the Colts showed determination and composure to grind out a statement win in front of their home supporters at Farmington Sports Arena.
The match opened with both sides adjusting to slick conditions during the first ten minutes of play. Led by veteran captain Mark Grant, Hartford City looked organized and confident despite the weather, pressing high and moving the ball well. The Colts persistence paid off in the 13th minute when forward Theo Harris broke the deadlock.
Collin Martin rose to head a Shocker’s cross and the ball was picked up by Andrew Bilbie in the midfield. Bilbie calmly slotted a first time pass into the feet of a sprinting Harris whose first touch took him behind the last defender. Harris found himself in acres of space and went one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Harris calmly slotted the ball off the near post and into the net to give Hartford a 1-0 lead they never relinquished.
The Colts continued to threaten before halftime, nearly doubling their advantage after a corner kick when the ball found the head of Nate Becher, only to see his header dramatically cleared off the line by the Shockers defense.
In the second half, New York pressed a bit higher and played more direct, putting pressure on Hartford City’s backline. The closing stages saw the Shockers attempt to push for an equalizer, but Hartford’s defense held firm. The Colts closed out the match with a professional edge, limiting the visitors to speculative efforts and set pieces.
Goalkeeper Nate DiLoreto delivered a professional performance and was called upon when necessary. The result was Hartford City’s first clean sheet of the season — a testament to their organization, discipline, and collective effort..
As the game wore on and the rain persisted, head coach Andy Parker utilized his full bench, giving every available field player minutes on the pitch. Each substitute brought fresh energy and contributed in meaningful ways, reinforcing the “team-first” mentality that has become a hallmark of Hartford City’s identity.
With the win, Hartford City FC starts the 2025 season on a positive note, showing signs of growth and cohesion in all areas of the field. The team now sets its sights on a highly anticipated road matchup against New Haven United on May 14th — the first-ever Connecticut derby in NPSL history.
Saturday’s win was more than just three points for Hartford; it was a statement of intent, a bit of redemption, and a strong reminder that Hartford City Football Club is ready to compete.
