Talk about domination — Newtown High School’s boys’ soccer team not only jumped out to a 5-0 start by outscoring teams with a cumulative 16-1 in the process, but knocked off some tough competition along the way, including a nice 2-1 statement win over visiting Fairfield Prep, NHS Coach Ryan Lyddy’s former team’s second loss, on September 13.

“It was a great win. I definitely follow and root for them on a regular basis — but not on that night,” said Lyddy, who was pleased to see his players rise to the level of competition for huge program victory in an electric atmosphere under the lights at Blue & Gold Stadium. “The kids were really up for it.”

Jonah Kaiser and Malakai Ortner scored and Kaio Dos Santos had an assist in a comeback victory over the Jesuits.

Back at it with South-West Conference play the Nighthawks avoided a letdown following the previous game’s significance by logging a 3-0 victory over visiting Stratford three nights later. Kaiser, Ryan Payne, and Ortner all scored and Jeff Prout, Noel McLeod, and Kooper had assists. With Newtown clinging to a 1-0 lead on Kaiser’s early strike, Payne took a nice lead pass up the left wing and buried a shot near side, just inside the post for some breathing room late in the first half. Prout’s cross from left to right set up Ortner’s extra insurance marker in the second half.

Newtown peppered the Stratford goal with strikes and only some good goaltending kept things from getting out of hand. Manny Adomako used his speed to turn the corner on a defender and set up a chance and Stephen Singlak got behind the defense for a strike that was denied on a sparkling stop. Dos Santos used his speed and stamina to pressure the Stratford goalkeeper and defenders. Landon Dorsey and Teddy Moxham were among the Nighthawks with solid play in the middle of the field that helped turn Stratford away and generate chances for the Hawks.

Newtown has also posted wins over conference foes Notre Dame Prep of Fairfield, Masuk of Monroe, and Brookfield.

“It feels good to get some good wins against tough teams,” McLeod said.

A key to Newtown’s success has not only been its depth, which allows for players to maintain a fast pace with fresh legs on the pitch at all times, but also its versatility, with players capable of playing in a variety of positions throughout the field.

“The team camaraderie right now is absolutely fantastic. The kids are really understanding what the style of play is and they’re liking it. Senior leadership is great,” the coach said.

“The team plays with a lot more drive, a lot more passion than any team I’ve played for — this is really special,” Payne said.

Newtown goalkeeper James D’Amico has come up with timely saves and benefitted from a stingy back line anchored by center back Justin Redrovan, whom Lyddy describes as a player who gives 120 percent and has developed into a tremendous vocal leader, and including fellow defensive stalwarts Daniel Tzakas, Ny’Cere Patterson, and Luke Libero.

“Huge shout-out to the back line,” D’Amico said. “It’s a lot of fun — we’re going to keep the train rolling.”

Following Thursday’s scheduled visit to Kolbe Cathedral of Bridgeport at 4 pm the Hawks are back home to entertain New Fairfield Saturday, September 20 at 2 pm.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.