| Next Match | ||
| v | Academica |
| May 31st, 3:00 PM Southside Park | ||
| Previous Match | ||
| v | Aguias |
| W 3 - 0 | ||
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Academica Battles to 1-0 Win over RealBoth sides came into the game missing players due to injuries and absences, but nonetheless played a full 90 minutes of intense football. Real were shorthanded in the most important position, goalkeeper, which forced midfielder Eliot Ricks-Chambers to get his first start between the posts. Despite this being his first game as RSJ’s #1, Ricks-Chambers did not miss a beat and was a pleasant surprise in net.The first half saw Real with most of the possession and chances, but were unable to capitalize on any of them. Much credit goes to the Academica ‘keeper, who always rises to the occasion when playing against Real; this game was no different as he made several key saves against strikers Oscar Sandoval and Jimmy Frazelle. Academica seemed content to rely on long counterattacks with the hopes that their playmaker, Manuel Brasil would be able to latch on. Academica looked dangerous midway through the first half when Brasil was able to collect the ball in Real’s penalty box, but the lightning quick Utodi Madu made a superb defensive play to knock the ball to safety. At the half, the game remained 0-0. The second half began with a couple of changes, with Alvaro Delgado leaving early and Real losing right back Todd Simmons temporarily to injury. In came a slightly-injured Alexis Martua and midfielder Ali John Utush to keep Real at 11. Unfortunately for Real, the second half began with them on the back foot and Academica duly capitalized. A giveaway at the back led to Academica gaining possession through Brasil, whose through ball was met by his fellow teammate who, with plenty of time and space, slotted the ball into the side netting to give the visitors the 1-0 lead. At this point with Real having more a sense of urgency, the side began to attack more vigorously. Attacks rained down on the Academica defense from all angles, but none were the important equalizer that Real was looking for. Several chances came via headers, but were either saved or put over the bar. As time ticked away, Real’s attacks became more pressing but to no avail. As the final whistle sounded, the Turlock squad relished over gaining a big three points away from home. Next up for Real, the stingy defense of Aguias PSC. Starting Lineup (4-4-2): Ricks-Chambers – Bystrowski, Madu, Hamilton, Simmons – Delgado, Temblador, R. Utush, Sandoval – Nelle, Frazelle. Substitutions: Cazel, Martua, A.J. Utush Man of the Match: Utodi Madu and Oscar Sandoval |
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