Photo courtesy of CASA Soccer League

Playoff pictures are taking shape across the CASA Soccer League as the 2021 season barrels down the stretch. Philly Soccer Page is here to bring you all of CASA’s 11v11 Spring season results. A massive thank you is always in order to CASA’s chief executive, Nolan Bair, the CASA writing team, and all the captains for their continued communication and camaraderie throughout the season!

Primera

Reporting by: Charlie Shea

Vidas United 2 – 4 Icarus FC

In a result that belied both teams place in the table, Icarus FC came out on the right side of a 4-2 game against Vidas United to take all three points and maintain their place at the top of the Primera. Teams traded early goals, with Ridge Robinson scoring on 16′ followed by Ian Miller equalizing for Vidas just two minutes later. Robinson got his second goal in the 35th to re-establish Icarus’ lead and then Kyle Unger extended the lead to 3-1 in the 75th. Robert Smukler capitalized on an errant clearance in the 81st to bring the lead to 4-1, then Igor Gateniuk scored for Vidas in the 84th to make it 4-2 but it wasn’t enough. Vidas had a late goal disallowed for a slide in the box in a contentious call at a key part of the game, chasing a comeback. “The game was really back and forth and we both had our chances,” said Icarus captain Kyle Smyth. “Glad to walk away with the win.” Vidas United captain Nolan Bair said that “the performance was solid given the oppoonents stature but we can’t give up after having a contentious goal ruled out.” As far as the disallowed goal, Smyth said “I think it was the right call”. The Primera season is in the home stretch now and the two teams are in very different positions. For Icarus, 4pts clear at the top with 2games to play, “We have two of our hardest games coming up (SouthHouse and Corinthians) and other teams have games in hand. I think it will make for an interesting end to the season.” For Vidas, in the drop zone and winless on the season, “It’s a 6pointer this Saturday against Stoney (tied with them in the drop). Every match is a cup final now.”

VU: Miller, Gateniuk

IFC: Robinson (2), Unger, Smukler

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Real Vidas 3 – 1 Philadelphia Corinthians FC

Real Vidas won a statement game against Philadelphia Corinthians FC at Bristol Township Park over the weekend, winning 3-1 and marking their legitimacy in the top half of the Primera table. Real started out hot going up 2-0 within 16 minutes through Jason Rocha and Brandon Kelly, with Thomas Gillin scored their third later in the game to go up 3-0. Corinthians struggled to take advantage of their chances all game, countered by a well-organized Real defensive side, and when Hull scored their only goal in the 87th it was too little too late. Jason Rocha was MOTM scoring the first goal and attacking all game. Winning captain Evan Gibbs was understandably ecstatic about his teams performance, “Some of the best footy we have played all season. Really pinged it around this weekend. Was a blast to watch.” Corinthians had been identified by some pundits as a team that was competing for the title, but Gibbs wasn’t even sure if they’re the best team with ‘Corinthians’ in their name in the league. “We enjoyed a classic act of natural selection.” Where there is the thrill of victory there is also the agony of defeat, and Corinthians captain Sam Vale wasn’t an exception to the rule. “Not a happy camper this week. We just weren’t prepared and it was no where near good enough,” he said. “We didn’t do ourselves any favors as we failed to hit the target on a lot of clear cut opportunities.” The teams sit 3rd and 5th in the division, with Corinthians still holding the higher spot, but only 1pt separates them. Corinthians will have to rebound quickly, as their final games are against FC SouthHouse, division leaders Icarus FC, and plucky promotion side SMK. “We just put this one behind us. We are more than capable of winning all of those games, it just is up to us actually showing up and doing it now,” said Vale. Real Vidas will close their season with SMK, FC SouthHouse, and then Stoney United.

RV: Rocha, Kelly, Gillin

PCFC: Hull

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YTP FC 1 – 2 SMK

SMK and YTP FC met in an 8am game between midtable teams looking to secure safety, and possibly sneak into a Kelly Cup spot, and SMK came out with an extremely hard-fought 2-1 victory. Williams opened the scoring in the 13th minute to put SMK up 1-0, capitalizing on a YTP missed chance that rattled the post, and the game stayed at that scoreline until midway in the 2nd half when YTP found the equalizer on 67′ through Kameron Hull. YTP, searching for the winner in their momentum, rattled the crossbar at one point, but it was SMK’s Sam Cyliax who took his chance and scored the eventual winner just six minutes later on 73′. YTP captain Giancarlo Granese. SMK captain Matt Muench was very pleased with his side’s gutty performance, calling the early morning game a ‘battle’. “We had no subs in the 1st half, one in the second. The guys that were there fought hard every minute. In the end it was a deserved 3 points.” The result sees SMK climb into 6th place, with an outside chance at a Kelly Cup qualification in the top 5 spots. They play Real Vidas next, the team directly above them in the table, and if results go their way a Kelly Cup birth is possible. “We really just want to enjoy out football and end the season on a positive note.”

YTP: Teel

SMK: Williams, Cyliax

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Stoney United 1 – 3 FC Tigre

Two teams fighting to avoid relegation met on 8:15am at YSC Sports and it was FC Tigre who emerged with the very valuable 3 points. The first half was all quiet, no blood spilled, but the second half was action packed and saw Fountain break the deadlock in the 49th to bring Tigre 1-0 up. Eion Roman would strike just 4 minutes later to double the lead, and then Geli Carabese scored in the 69th to bring the lead all the way to 3-0 against the struggling Stoney United. Stoney got one back late in the 88th through Joe Casaletto, but it wasn’t enough. “We were getting dangerous chances and made the most of our opportunities. It was a huge win for us,” said Tigre captain Connor Widerman.  Tigre will play YTP FC next week, while Stoney United will have relegation-partners Vidas United in a vitally important game for both sides.

SU: Casaletto

FCT: Fountain, Roman, Carabese

Segunda

Reporting by: Pete Taylor

Philadelphia Heritage 3-2 Statesmen FC

A clutch 3-2 win sent Heritage to the top of the table after Rose Tree lost. Statesmen are in 8th, and only two points clear of the bottom three who are all tied on four points. The game was back and forth, with Heritage establishing multiple leads only to be pegged back by the determined Statesmen. Heritage had a lot of the ball, while Statesmen were dangerous on the counter. Heritage opened the scoring in the 30th minute through Nick Testa, and two goals in first half stoppage time preserved Heritage’s one goal lead going into the break. Statesmen would make a second half statement, equalizing for a second time when Joe Patrick scored on the hour mark. A late Heritage barrage finally broke down the rugged Statesmen defense, as Devon Santos scored the winner with ten minutes to go. Heritage captain Ryan Pereus said that both teams played well: “I think we deserved the win. Even though the score was tight, we did out possess them and had a majority of the chances. Statesmen did well though. They had some good midfield movement and good counter attacks.” Heritage will look to defend their spot at the top of the table and its automatic promotion place against Cunningham Squires, while Statesmen face high scoring Santos.

Heritage: Goals- Testa (30′), Choedak (45′), Santos (80′)

Statesmen FC: Goals- Eggerstin (45′), Patrick (60′)

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Hunting Park 4-1 Rose Tree Gunners

A shock result after a crucial red card decision sent Rose Tree tumbling from the top of the table, losing 4-1 to Hunting Park United. The win kept Hunting Park in the coveted last playoff spot in 5th. While Rose Tree would open the scoring in the 8th minute through Camacho, the key moment would take place about half an hour later. Rose Tree defender Zach Peterson received his marching orders after a last man foul, leaving the favorites Rose Tree with only 10 men and a monumental task ahead of them. Rose Tree could not hold on to their lead, as a second half Hunting Park onslaught secured the points for the underdogs. Hunting Park captain Andy Kim said that the red card was a huge moment in the game: “The red card was a game changer as they are a very strong team. Our boys played well and converted our chances.” Rose Hill captain Dean Giovannopoulos was not too concerned, and noted his team will have a chance for revenge soon: “Don’t worry, we play them in the cup next week.” In the league, Rose Tree will try to regain the top spot against Loose Cannons, while Hunting Park face fellow top half side Smitty Werben FC.

Rose Tree Gunners: Goals- Camacho (8′) / Red cards, Peterson (35’), denial of a clear goal scoring opportunity

Hunting Park United: Goals- Abdella (57′), Massih (62′), Mulvihill (85′), Portis (88′) / Yellow cards- Mulvihill, unsporting behavior.

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Santos FC 3-1 Loose Cannons

A 3-1 victory for Santos propelled them into second in the table, above Rose Tree on goal difference. The loss kept Loose Cannons near the bottom of the table in 11th. Santos’ high powered offense was firing on all cylinders, as they could have scored more than three. A determined Loose Cannon defense kept the game close in the first half, as the two teams went into halftime scoreless. But Santos’ constant pressure gave them their reward in the second half, when Man of the Match Keneth Lopez added an eight minute brace. Loose Cannons made the game interesting at the end, as Kyle Bruno cut Santos’ lead in half with ten minutes to play. But a stoppage time goal from Jarvis Lynch secured the three points for the favorites. With three games to play, Santos’ title push continues next against Statesmen, while Loose Cannons have a difficult match against Rose Tree.

Santos FC: Goals- Lopez (57′, 65′), Lynch (90′)

Loose Cannons: Goals- Bruno (79′)

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Smitty Werben Jager Man Jensen FC 1-1 Cunningham Squires

A second straight draw for Smitty Werben kept them separated from the top of the table by 6 points after their 1-1 result with Cunningham. The draw for Cunningham, their second straight positive result, kept them in the bottom half of the table, but two points ahead of the bottom three. Smitty Werben controlled the ball for most of the game, but were unable to turn their control into multiple goals. Cunningham mostly attacked on the break, and earned themselves a point as the underdogs. Cunningham scored first in the 29th minute when Will Foster scored. The rest of the first half was fairly quiet, and there would not be another big chance until Matt Skinner equalized for the favorites in the 60th minute. Smitty Werben were unable to find the winner in the final half hour. Their captain Carson McBain was happy with how his team played with the ball but noted they needed more class in the final third: “We had 75% possession and some chances at 1-1, and it was tough breaking down a 9 man defense.” Smitty Werben need a win next week against Hunting Park to keep their title hopes alive, while Cunningham face top of the table Heritage in their attempt to move further off the the relegation zone.

Cunningham: Goals- Foster (29’) / Yellow cards- Kofi (88’), unsportsmanlike conduct

Smitty Werben: Goals- Skinner (60’) / Yellow cards- Skinner (76’), persistent fouling

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Bluestars 5-1 Cracovia

Bluestars secured their second victory in a row, this time beating struggling Cracovia 5-1. The three points kept them in 6th place, while Cracovia remain near the bottom. Four early goals for Bluestars gave them a commanding lead before half time, with one of the goals scored from a superb free kick by Man of the Match Mo Cisse. A fifth goal from Erikson Tuazama was answered by Cracovia’s Thomas di Giulio late in the second half, restoring the four goal margin. Bluestars captain Aaron Bartels-Swindels was happy with how his side played. “We did our work in the first half,” Bartels-Swindels noted. “Overall, it was a good result given we were running with a smaller crew than normal.” He praised goalie Stevie Paul for another good performance. Cracovia captain Eyrk Tylek noted his team’s weakness defending set pieces. “It’s been a weakness since last season,” Tylek said. “We let in mostly set pieces.” Cracovia, running out of time to save their season, face Bobert Munich next, while Bluestars play Philadelphia Deportivo in an attempt to move into the playoff places.

Bluestars: Goals- Crowther (15’), Cisse (20’), Ebai (38’), Delapeas (45’), Tuazama (50’)

Cracovia: Goals- di Giulio (78’)

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Philadelphia Deportivo 1-0 FC Bobert Munich

A tense affair between two bottom half teams gave the points to Deportivo with a 1-0 victory. The win, Depor’s second in a row, pushed them out of the bottom three, while a bad run from Bobert Munich has them threatened by relegation. The game was quiet, with both teams battling hard for possession in midfield. The goal would not come until the second half, when Chris Vannozzi scored his first goal of the year for Depor. Depor’s defense saw off a late Bobert Munich surge and secure the three points. The next few games are crucial for each team in their attempts to stay in the Segunda. Depor, looking for their third straight win, face Bluestars, while Bobert Munich will try to win their first game in six against fellow relegation strugglers Cracovia.

Deportivo: Goals- Vannozzi (55’)

Tercera

Reporting by: Romeo Julmiste

Drexel Shaft 2-3 Oaklyn United FC

Beginning bright and early at Bristol Township Park, the Tercera division has been firmly locked into the meat and potatoes of the season, with the mad scramble for final resting places kicking up with each passing week, particularly in the midtable positions. Going into week 9, both Oaklyn United FC and Drexel Shaft were deadlocked at six points, sitting at 10th and 11th place respectively. Oaklyn United FC clearly understood the importance of the game as the Lions were the more aggressive of the two sides, going up 2-0 in the first half. They were exceptional with the chance creation, controlling the possession, and were relentless with a hunt in packs high press that rings true to their Lion moniker. The story did not solely belong to Oaklyn United as Drexel Shaft began the second half more on the front foot. A little before the hour mark, Shota Kobiashvili, Drexel’s leading goal scorer got the Dragons back into the contest. The second half belonged to Drexel Shaft as they were able to find the equalizer in the 78th minute. However, the Lions did not allow for the Dragons to hold the lead for too long as they fired away the game winner two minutes later to snatch all three points. A big win for Oaklyn United sees them now with nine points still stuck in 10th but with two games in hand. Drexel Shaft still sit behind them in 11th.

DS: Goals- S. Kobiashvili (56’), J. Madrid (78’)

OUFC: Goals- J. Roussin (17’), J. Pacana (22’), T. Patterson (80’) / Yellow: E. Yeung

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Hees FC 4-0 Barenjager SC

The second match of the day was another vital midtable clash playing out at James Ramp Turf Field in the Mayfair neighborhood of Northeast Philadelphia. Hees FC came off a big loss the previous week and were eager to right the ship in order to keep their playoff hopes alive. Barenjager SC has had an inconsistent season thus far but still have kept themselves within touching distance of the last playoff spot, especially with a big win the previous week. Hees FC made it clear that they were the side hungrier for the points as they drew first blood. A huge captain’s contribution set the opener in the 15th minute from a top-drawer volley. The men in black and pink were able to double the scoring three minutes before halftime to give themselves a little cushion. The second half brought more of the same from the Jersey boys. Brilliant movement and combination play left the Bear Hunters chasing shadows and in a ten-minute stretch commencing from the hour, saw Hees FC calmly put away two more goals. The South Jersey outfit displayed hustle and guile in a physically demanding encounter. Hees FC came into the game in 9th place with eight points and with the win jump up to 7th. Barenjager SC take their opponents’ place in 9th.

HFC: Goals- D. Moore (15’), D. Goodson (42’), D. Lim (55’), E. Yeung (65’) / Yellow: D. Lim, T. Katsaros

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SC Corinthians 1-3 Brothers of the Gourd FC

Abington Memorial Field in Abington, PA was the setting for the week nine matchup that had relegation implications for one squad and potential post season play for the other. Going into kickoff, Brothers of the Gourd FC were a win outside of the last playoff spot, occupying 7th in the table with 10 points. SC Corinthians had been dropping like a stone in a grueling campaign and a sole win has kept them magically out of the drop zone. Brothers of the Gourd FC struck first in the 21st minute and were able to see themselves go into halftime up 1-0. SC Corinthians was looking to get the game right again as the second half began but the Brothers had other ideas as they quickly doubled their lead five minutes into the second. The Brothers continued to play comfortable football while still being miserly in defense. Despite their place in the standings, Corinthians boasts a squad that are technically proficient with the ball at their feet. Brothers of the Gourd routinely found a way to bully Corinthians off the ball and in the 80th minute got their third goal of the game. The clean sheet ultimately evaded the Brothers as Corinthians were finally able to get a goal to make the game look a bit more respectable. With the win Brothers of the Gourd FC jump from 7th to 6th, out of the final playoff spot by goal difference. SC Corinthians still sit right above the relegation zone in 12th.

SCC: Goals- LR. Gudinho (83’)

BotG: Goals- D. Santoleri (21’), Wallingford (50’), X. O’Conner (78’) / Yellow: R. McGlasson (17’), Wallingford (69’)

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Liberty City FC 1-1 Sunbears FC

Monsignor Bonner High School in Drexel Hill was the setting for the game that the entire division had its eyes set. The first versus second battle between Sunbears FC and Liberty City FC had everything coming into the match. Both squads methodical in their games, swashbuckling attacks, stingy defenses, and a draw of this magnitude that not many expected. Both squads were promoted from the Cuarto off similar play in the Fall and now once again they battle it out for potential promotion implications. The match lived up to the billing with fast paced action and a little gamesmanship and banter paying heed to the occassion. Liberty City FC were the first to strike through Osman Barrie in the 18th minute. Chances continued to come thick and fast from both squads but that was the lone goal of the half. Second half mirrored the first with excellent build up play and high flying action, this time with Sunbears equalizing in the 51st minute. Somehow with all of the drama and intensity of the match these two juggernauts came out of the game with a stalemate. It was certainly a case of the top two teams in the division canceling each other out yet putting on a spectacle for those in attendance. Both teams now sit with 17 points and drop down a place as a close rival took advantage of the draw and leap frogged them to the top spot. Sunbears FC now occupy 2nd place and Liberty City FC are in 3rd.

LCFC: Goals- O. Barrie (18′)

SFC: Goals- J. Kutai (51′)

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FC Burlington 2-1 Lost FC

The last game of the day was featured a veteran squad in the division going through some major struggles and a newly promoted side that has absolutely flexed their muscles since the Fall. FC Burlington came into the game in third place with 15 points and had been on a five game win streak, bulldozing through their opponents to keep themselves within reach of the winner’s circle. Lost FC have had a torrid time finding any positive consistency and have occupied a relegation spot pretty much since week one. An important three points would spring them out of the bottom and into safety late on in the season. The issue is the Schnauzers had their own motives for three points and they implemented the plan early with a goal twelve minutes into the game. Lost FC came into the game determined and did not allow their opponents to maintain a foothold and equalized in the 36th minute. Going into the half tied was a solid place for Lost FC to be to see if they can get points out of this vital match. FC Burlington started the second half as they did in the first and bagged the winner four minutes into the second off an expertly dispatched penalty kick. Lost FC were able to generate chances when the ball was at their feet but the Schnauzers maintained the bulk of possession and demonstrated a dogged defensive display. The win gives FC Burlington a small one point lead at the top of the table and another loss for Lost keeps them glued to the last relegation spot.

FCB: Goals- R. Bell (12′), N. Soglo (49′)

LFC: Goals- R. Hutzel (36′) / Yellow: D. Caputo (23′), N. Whitehead (56′)

Cuarto

Reporting by: Gabo Zabala

SJ Gentleman 0 – 4 Fishtown FC

Coming off a mid-week win on a game that had to be re-scheduled, Fishtown FC was now getting ready to battle the undefeated SJ Gentleman on a showdown between two of the top teams of the division. Fishtown FC was determined to get a win to help them remain in contention for the title and they showed that by opening scoring 2 goals before the 20-minute mark through #16 Carnelao and #15 Brown. The game would go to halftime with the 2-0 score but Fishtown was far from done. The team once again came out strong in the beginning of the second half scoring their third through #2 Banks just 5 minutes into the half. The cherry on top would come close to the end when #11 Gulama scored a fourth that would be the last goal of the game. The result sees Fishtown move ahead of SJ Gentleman in the standings but the gentleman’s still have a few games at hand. Fishtown will face Devon SC in their next game while SJ Gentleman will face a tough Nations United teams.

Goals – Fishtown FC : #16 Carnelao (15’) #15 Brown (18’) #2 Banks (50’) #11 Gulama (89’)

Cards – SJ Gentlemen #21 Yohannan

Cards – Fishtown FC #16 Carnelian, #2 Banks M

OTM : #15 Brown

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Philly Falcons 2 – 5 Rebels

Two teams coming off strong 4 game-unbeaten runs were facing at RAMP Soccer Field when the Philly Falcosn faced the Rebels. It was a competitive game, as both teams recent records might suggest. The Falcons looked like the better team to start the game and they would capitalize with a goal by #9 Pajabi at the 17th minute. The goal seemed to awake the always dangerous Rebels who responded with two quick goals by #2 Hilliard and another one by captain Masi to grab the lead before the half. The second half was similar with the Falcons coming out strong right after the whistle and being rewarded when #9 Pajabi bagged his 2nd goal of the night. The falcons kept trying to find an equalizer pushing forward as the game went on but as they push numbers up in the late stages, the Rebls were able to get 2 goals to secure the win on a more competitive game than the score might suggest. The Rebels remain second in the standing and will try to keep their streak alive when they face Leaders FC next week. For the Falcons the streak is over but they will try and get a win again next week against Dead Ball SC as they try to make a late run for the playoffs.

Falcons: #9 Pajabi (17′), #9 Pajabi (51′)

Rebels: #2 Hilliard (21′,25′), #10 Masi (31′,85’), #13 Aly (81′)

MOM: Rebels #2 V. Hilliard

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Club Sandwich 1 – 0 Maccabi Philly

At RAMP Soccer field, we had the still undefeated Club Sandwich facing Maccabi Philly who are battling at the bottom of the standings. Maccabi started the game with a lot of possession but it would actually be Club Sandwich who opened up the scoring through a free kick when Lovenduski sent a ball to the box for Chris Brown to control and place past the keeper. Maccabi did not led the opening goal bring them down and tried to keep attacking with long possessions which opened up for some Club Sandwich counters but neither team was able to finish. The second half was very similar with Maccabi keeping the ball in the oppositions half looking for a goal, which they almost find halfway through the second when captain Tamir sent a header off the post. Eventually the game would end up 1-0 as Club Sandwich’s defense held down the fort, something their captain is proud of “Maccabi did well to hold the ball for majority of the game but we didn’t give up many good chances”. For Club Sandwich the next challenge to their unbeaten run will be facing Philly Skyliners. For Maccabi the next game in the schedule will be against Vidas FC as they try to make a final run to survive the relegation battle.

Goals – Club Sandwich: Brown (20’)

MOTM – Club Sandwich: Brown

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Dead Ball SC 3 – 4 Vidas FC

Coming off 4 games without a win, Vidas FC wanted to get one back in the winning column when they faced Dead Ball SC that was coming off two straight losses. It was a very entertaining game with both teams having a lot of chances and capitalizing on them. Dead Ball SC would open up the scoring at the 12th minute mar thorugh #3 Andrusko, to which Vidas would respond with a quick equalizer by Escobar. Vidas would then find the lead thorugh #10 Barnes but their happiness would not last more than a couple minutes until #14 Palau tie the score for Dead Ball. On the second half, it was Vidas who would strike first with two early goals from Escobar to complete his hat-trick. But Dead Ball had no intention of letting up and would get a goal from #11 Bordia to get closer. Unfortunately for Dead Ball it would not be enough despite showing a lot of grit and the game would end with a win for Vidas. For Dead Ball this is the 3rd straight loss, and they will look to avoid a fourth when they face Philly Falcons. For Vidas this is a huge win they will try to build on when they face Maccabi Philly as they look to fight their way to a playoff spot.

Goals – Vidas FC: Escobar (15’, 51’,55’), #10 Barnes (29’)

Goals – Dead Ball SC: #3 Andrusko (12’), #14 Palau (30’), #11 Bordia (62’)

Cards – Dead Ball SC: #8 Lattanzio 40’

Cards – Vidas FC #13 Kapkanov 49’

MOTM – Vidas FC Escobar

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Leaders FC 3 – 3 Philly Skyliners

At Bristol Municipal park we had a game between two teams coming in on different forms. Philly Skyliners was coming on a 4-game unbeaten run while Leaders FC had not found a win in their last 5 games. The Skyliners opened up the score early in the first half through #27 Nasife but Leaders FC would find an equalizer in the closing minutes of the first half through #9 Hamed to go tied to halftime. In the second half, it was the Skyliners pulling ahead again through Nasife, and again Leaders FC pulling back though Hamed, this time very quickly to tie the game at 2 goals per side. It was a very physical and competitive game and the lst minutes were full of emotion. With ten minutes left on the clock the Skyliners took a lead for the 3rd time, this time with a goal from #2 Amoako and tried to hold off, but just as it happened twice before, Leaders FC found a way to come back and tie the game with 5 minutes left to rescue a point. Philly Skyliners will face league leaders Sandwich FC on the start of a tough remaining 4 games against top competition. Meanwhile Leaders FC will face 2nd ranked in the standings Rebels next week.

Goals – Leaders FC: #9 Hamed (37’, 62’), #18 Billy (85’)

Philly Skyline FC: #27 Nasife (11’, 60’), #2 Amoako (80’)

Yellow Cards: Leaders FC – #2 Kaberi, # 5 Yona, #8 Emmanuel, #7 Leo (Dissent), #14 Zorome

MOM: Philly Skyline FC – #27 Nasife

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Devon SC 0 – 1 Nations United

Two teams that had not been able to find a win in their last 4 games yet found themselves in different situations with Nations United trying to secure a playoff spot while Devon SC fight at the bottom of the table to avoid relegation. It was a competitive morning game at Bristol Municipal park and although both teams needed the win it was a very clean game. It would end up being a heartbreaker loss for Devon SC and Nations United found a goal to break the deadlock at the 89th minute to get the 3 points and try to secure their playoff spot. The loss does not help Devon SC but they will try to get 3 points next time when they face a tough Fishtown FC. For Nations United their next challenge will be against another playoff team in SJ Gentleman.

Goals – Nations United: #6 Freire (89’)

MOTM: Nations United #6 Freire

Quinto

Reporting by: Michael McKinney

FC Delta 4 – 2 Washington Square SC

Having not won in nearly a month, FC Delta (4-2-1) got on the scoreboard early with a goal in the 9th minute by #97 Issabre. Going down 3-0 then 4-1, Washington Square SC never gave up and fought for every 50/50 but with the midfield management by FC Delta’s #22 Mosko, the constant forward press of the speedy winger #10 Collado who scored a brace along with #97 Issabre, FC Delta controlled the pace of the game and took home all 3 points. Ball control and speed on the outside worked well against Washington but when FC Delta take on Inter Phila (4-2-2) next week they will need to defend more and may find transitions into the attacking third not as plentiful as they were today. Washington Square SC will have their hands full when they take on Sporting Philadelphia FC (6-0-2) if they manage to field a full team as they continue to struggle with their roster.

Goals:

Washington Square SC – #22 55′ McCafferty, #23 88′ Lotrean

FC Delta – #97 9′ Issabre, #10 50′ Collado, #10 52′ Collado , #97 75′ Issabre

Yellow Cards: Washington Square SC – #13 80′ Rider – unsporting hard tackle

MOM: FC Delta – #22 Mosko

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Rapid Daybreak FC 8 – 0 Telle Bouche FC

Rapid Daybreak FC (6-2-0) have been on a tear recently, lighting up their opponents and scoring at will. Telle Bouche FC has been on the opposite of a tear having only 1 victory so far this season and scoring only 9 goals. Rapid Daybreak FC nearly matched Telle Bouche FC’s season goal total as they dropped 8 on a clearly out matched and over worked team that look nothing like they did a season ago when they took 1st place and earned their promotion. Rapid who’s 2 losses this season were at the hands of the Sporting Philadelphia and Oaklyn Academy, look to make a statement and pose a real threat to win the division if they continue this momentum into the final few games. Rapid Daybreak FC will have the chance to take over first place with a win over New Wave FC (4-2-1) and a Sporting loss. Telle Bouche FC has only 3 games remaining to turn it around and avoid a trip back down to the 6th division and will need get some much needed points when they take on Mark Walhbergs Cousins (2-4-2) next week.

Goals: Rapid Daybreak FC #22 J. Evans in the 9th, 11th and 53rd minutes. #12 S. Bobadilla in the 24th. #23 J.Ross in the 33rd. #0 G. Defacis in the 55th. #3 C. Gehres in the 64th and #77 S. Evans in the 66th.

Man of the Match #22 J. Evans from Rapid

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Inter Phila 2 – 2 Sporting Philadelphia FC

A very physical and exciting game was expected when Inter Phila (4-2-2) faced off with the still undefeated Sporting Philadelphia FC (6-0-2) and both teams played hard and left it all out on the pitch. Just one minute into the game and #10 Apet had a goal robbed from him as he saw his shot make its way past the keeper only to be cleared off the line to deny him of his goal. Both teams would trade goals and head into the start of the 2nd half with a score of 1-1. The 2nd half starts off with quick passing by Sporting, led by #33 Henrique who chipped the keeper for his goal in the first half, dribbled his way through the midfield and would draw a foul in the 18 that resulted in a PK that Sporting would then covert and take the lead 2-1.

With Oaklyn Academy watching from the sidelines, Inter could hear the cheers from Oaklyn as they pushed for Inter to tie the game and help them stay within striking range of the 1st place Sporting. It wouldnt take too long for Oaklyn to get their wish as they watched #9 Marclo bring the game level with a well timed and well placed header. Sporting Philadelphia and Inter would find themselves with numerous chances to take the lead and break the tie, both teams would also see their defense and goalies bail them out countess times. It was a hard fought draw that saw Inter salvage a point and Sporting drop points. The draw still has Sporting atop of the standings but with only 2 points separating them from Rapid Daybreak and Oaklyn Academy. Inter Phila take on FC Delta (4-2-1) who have a game in hand and are looking to make moves in the standings. Sporting Philadelphia FC who take on Washington Square SC (2-6-0) next week will have a hard go of it if they start another match like they did today with only 8 players.

Goals – Inter: #10 – Apet (24:00) # 9 – Marclo (68:00)

Goals – Sporting: #33 – Henrique (35:00), #6 (55:00)

Cards – Inter: Tudor (yellow) – unsporting, #9 Marcelo (yellow) – unsporting, 20 (yellow) – delay of restart

Cards – Sporting: #33 Henrique (yellow) – unsporting, Pemati (yellow) delay of restart

MoM – #10 Apet 

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Grapes FC 1 – 0 Oaklyn Academy

Still shaking off their first lost of the season, Oaklyn Academy (6-2-0) headed into their match against Grapes FC (3-3-2) with the expectation of getting back to their winning ways. That wouldnt be the case as Oaklyn struggled to find a rhythm and failed to take advantage of their counters down the middle. With the sudden lack of possession, Oaklyn chased the game and it took a little over an hour but Grapes FC managed to catch Oaklyn in transition and put away the game winning goal in the 63rd minute. The victory helps inch Grapes FC closer to the middle of the standings right before the promotional playoff push and with their next match against last place UCFC (1-7-0) they have a real shot at moving up. Oaklyn Academy will have to battle it out with Still Processing FC (2-5-1) who will be looking to shatter dreams going forward.

Goal scored by #12 Chad Pokrykwa in the 63rd

MOTM Grapes FC #12 C. Pokrykwa

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New Wave FC 3 – 2 Still Processing FC

Coming off their big win over Inter Phila, Still Processing FC (2-5-1) came up short against New Wave FC (4-2-1) went up 2-0 early but found themselves back on the heels as the press of Still Processing tied the game up with their 2nd goal in the 53rd minute. New Wave FC wouldnt allow Still Processing to enjoy their 2nd goal as they would retake the lead in the 55th minute by #5 Henshaw whos Man of the Match performance keeps them in playoff contention. New Wave FC needs to figure out a way to slow down the game if they want to stand a chance against the fast moving offense of Rapid Daybreak FC (6-2-0) in the match next week. Still Processing FC takes on a very focused Oaklyn Academy (6-2-0) team next week who have dropped points the last 2 weeks and will look to turn it around.

Goals- New Wave FC: #10 Callazo 35′, #9 Chestnut 40′, #5 Henshaw 55′

Goals- Still Processing: #10 Mai 50′, #25 Phillipson 53′

Yellow Cards – New Wave FC #24 Alicea – Dissent

Yellow Cards – Still Processing #7 Unsporting (delaying of restart)

MOTM #5 Henshaw, New Wave FC

Sexto

Reporting by: Michael McKinney

Kensington 4 – 2 Mighty Ducks

Upset of the week without a doubt goes to Kensington (3-4-1) who put together a brilliant team win against the 2nd place Mighty Ducks (6-1-1) who try as they might, we unable to find a way to break free of the man marking of Kensington. The superb defensive tactics of Kensington left the Ducks #6 Green out on a island by himself for most of the game but he did manage a few scares towards the end of the game. The brace of #10 Preslin and the great effort of Kensington’s center backs kept the dangerous Ducks offense grounded as the Ducks we never able to take flight and run up the score as they have been doing the past few weeks. The unexpected loss finds the Ducks 4 points behind 1st place Honey Badgers FC (7-0-1) with just 3 games remaining and one of those 3 games being their match up against the Honey Badgers next week. While Kensington hope to carry the momentum of this huge win into next week and their match against a very beatable Philadelphia Strikers (2-5-1) team that will be coming off only their 2nd win of the season.

Goals:

Mighty Ducks: #12 Crutchley (53), #6 Green (70)

Kensington: #10 Preslin (29, 39), #8 Mendieta (31), #14 Ventura (42)

Man of Match: #10 Preslin (Kensington)

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Philadelphia Strikers 4 – 0 Birdeaux

Jumping out to a fast 2-0 lead in under 20 minutes, Philadelphia Strikers (2-5-1) took no chances in their match against the testy Birdeaux FC (2-6-0) as they controlled the pace for the majority of the match. Strikers #30 Acaster would snag the Man of the Match along with 2 goals in under 3 mins as his brace lifts the Strikers under the currently flightless Birdeuax FC who have been playing like a bird with its wings clipped as they failed to produce any real chances in front of goal. Philadelphia Strikers will need to play smart if they want to stand up against Kensington (3-4-1) who tend to break their opponents down with their tactical style of play. Birdeaux has a tough match ahead next week as they take on the always dangerous Dyslexia Untied (3-4-1)

Goals:

Philly Strikers – #30 15′ Acaster, #30 17′ Acaster, #36 47′ McKenna, #36 75′ McKenna

MOM: Philly Strikers – #30 Acaster

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Honey Badgers FC 3 – 0 S.O.B Athletic

Another great team effort by Honey Badgers FC (7-0-1) who shut out S.O.B Athletic (2-5-1) who looked to be on the verge of becoming a real contender in Sexto. S.O.B Athletic were unable to keep their form against the pass happy Honey Badgers who played alot of 1-2 touch passing the had the S.O.B’s running all over the pitch just to get some kind of possession. Continuing his run of great form, #17 Martinez snagged a goal and an assist but the Man of the Match would go to #4 George who’s brace and impressive skill on the ball caused major headaches for the S.O.B’s. The win gives Honey Badgers FC some breathing room after the Mighty Ducks laid an egg in their match against Kensington. Honey Badgers FC will need that 4 point cushion when they go head to head with the mighty mallards as the Ducks (6-1-1) will be looking to play catch up and spoiler next week. S.O.B Athletic will need to get their defensive shape figured out as they head into their next match against a high scoring FC BTC (5-3-0) who are looking to jump ahead of the crowded pack as they currently sit tied for 3rd place but with the lowest goal differential.

GOALS Badgers – #4 George (23m) #17 Martinez (62m) George (86m)

M.O.M – George of the Badgers

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Boys Do Cry 6 – 3 Rapid Nightfall FC

Up against a team that hasn’t had a win since week 4, Boys Do Cry (5-3-0) had break out victory against the struggling Rapid Daybreak FC (3-5-0) who are trying their hardest to turn things around before they lose their spot in playoff seeding. Boys did what they do best and fed the ball to their best finisher, #19 Tice, playing with two swollen ankles he still managed to control the flow of the game and get himself a hat trick along with Man of the Match honors. Rapid Nightfall FC would get a brace out of the striker but the Boys would come out on top even after giving up an own goal. Rapid Nightfall FC will be going up against a well rested Hamilton FC (5-2-0) who will be fighting for the highest seed possible in the promotional playoff seeding. Boys Do Cry could be heading towards a trap game as they take on last place Coyotes FC (1-6-0) who are due for a win and are looking to upset the playoff seeding going forward.

Goals:

Boys Do Cry – #19 Tice, #7 Alan, #19 Tice, #8 Jara, #8 Jara, #19 Tice

Rapid Nightfall FC #20 Castillo, #20 Castillo

Yellow Cards:

Rapid Nightfall FC – #99 Wumba obstruction, #20 dissent against the referee

MOM: Boys Do Cry #19 Steve TICE

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FC BTC 7 – 2 Dyslexia Untied

Having dominated in the win over Coyotes FC just a week ago to the tune of 7-0, FC BTC (5-3-0) put together another great offensive performance as they rolled over Dyslexia Untied (3-4-1). FC BTC got a quick goal and Dyslexia tied it up not long after the opening goal from FC BTC but would find themselves heading into the half down 3-1. With a come back win in their sights, Dyslexia would come within 1 as they score quickly into the 2nd half. Unfortunately the 3-2 score line wouldnt last long as FC BTC and Man of the Match #12 Kravitz would put another 4 past Dyslexia brining their total to 7 goals and 14 goals total in their last 2 games. With FC BTC looking ahead to next weeks match against S.O.B Athletic (2-5-1) they will look to continue their goal scoring in bunches against a S.O.B team that tends to allow alot of goals against them. Dyslexia Untied will have the chance to rebound against a struggling Birdeaux FC (2-6-0-) who have only scored 8 goals so far this season.

Goals:

FC BTC – #12 Kravitz, #12 Kravitz, #3 Schultz, #12 Kravitz, #3 Schultz, #3 Schultz, 12 Kravitz

Dyslexia United #14 Acton, #8Castillo

Yellow Cards: FC BTC #9 Foley (2 yellows) delay of the game and dissent against the ref

Red Cards: FC BTC – #9 Michael Foley

MOM: FC BTC #12 Kravitz