Photo courtesy of CASA Soccer League

Battles for promotion, fighting off relegation and playoff spots on the line; the nation’s largest amateur soccer league is barreling down the home stretch of its spring 2021 season. Luckily, Philly Soccer Page is here to bring you all the CASA Soccer League action you can possibly handle. 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

Philadelphia Corinthians FC 1 – 3 FC SouthHouse

The 8:15am at Upper Moreland saw Philadelphia Corinthians FC (5-2-0) square off against FC SouthHouse (6-0-0) in a battle of teams at the top of the Primera table. The sides had history stemming back to the end of the last season which was cut short by COVID, and this was their first time together on the pitch since to settle scores. FC SouthHouse struck first, scoring after 8′ via Tyler Robinson, but Corinthians didn’t stay down for long, equalizing 5 minutes later on 13′ through Daniel Hull. The next twenty-odd minutes would be scoreless, until SouthHouse’s faithful #9 Drew Sommer scored in the 38th to give his side a 2-1 lead that they’d never relinquish. Robinson would get his brace in the 54′ to push SouthHouse’s lead to 3-1 and they’d see out the game with that same score line, taking all three points and moving up to 2nd in the table and a perfect 7 wins from 7 games, 1pt behind league leaders Icarus FC and with a game in hand.

“After our loss at the end of last season we had this one marked on our calendars,” said SouthHouse captain John Trueman. About his MOTM Tyler Robinson, “He’s a young pup from Penn’s soccer team last season and he’s been a consistent performer. Prior to the match I challenged the lad to add goals to his game, and he did just that.” Corinthians captain Sam Vale was subdued, following what was consecutive 1-3 losses for his team. “They controlled the game in the second half. To win games against tough opponents you need to control possession and that’s something we didn’t do… We didn’t have a full team and were missing key players… Just wasn’t our day.” Corinthians will have to put this loss behind them, as they have division leaders Icarus FC next week in a game with major Kelly Cup seeding implications. FC SouthHouse face down a gauntlet to finish their season, playing 3rd place Real Vidas next week followed by FC Misconduct, defending Primera champions in 5th place with 2 games in hand, then closing their season with current Primera leaders Icarus FC. “From our perspective the season has shaped up perfectly, and allows us to get into ‘cup mode’ prior to the Kelly Cup. We are excited and eager to play these matches and get ready for the show.”

PCFC: Hull

FCS: Robinson (2), Sommer

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Real Vidas 4 – 2 SMK

In a game of twists and turns at Upper Moreland High School, Real Vidas (4-1-2) scored a dramatic come-from-behind victory against SMK (2-4-1), scoring 3 times in the final ten minutes to take all three points. It was Real who took a 1-0 lead in the 11th via Ahmed Bah, but the game went scoreless for the rest of the first half and into the second. As the second half began, SMK, a promotion side which has impressed in its first year in the Primera, scoring a quickfire duo of goals on 50′ and 61′ courtesy of Debayan Kushara and Jake Cominsky to snatch the lead. They held that lead for the next twenty minutes, withstanding consistent Real Vidas pressure throughout and with assistance from the woodwork at times, until an own-goal on 82′ burst the floodgates. Real would score a minute later through Jason Rocha, who was MOTM, and then again in the 88th via Julian Memis to take a 4-2 lead against the shell-shocked SMK.

“I have more faith in this squad to take care of business than I’ve ever had before”, said Real captain Evan Gibbs. “I thought we dominated the whole game… Fell asleep at the back and conceded twice then locked in and took care of business in Real Vidas fashion.” SMK’s captain Matt Muench was naturally less enthusiastic, “Very frustrating ending… Completely let that one slip away from us when we were in the driver’s seat.” The result sees Real Vidas lock in a Kelly Cup berth and contend at the top of the table for seeding – “Looking forward to a lengthy Kelly Cup run”, said Gibbs -, and conversely sees SMK miss out on Kelly Cup. “Just going to try to enjoy the last few games and start looking forward to improving next season,” said Muench. Real Vidas will play fellow top team FC SouthHouse next week, looking to play spoiler as SouthHouse contend for the division title, while SMK will play relegation-threatened Vidas United.

RV: Bah, (OG), Rocha, Memis

SMK: Kushary, Cominsky

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Vidas United 2 – 4 Stoney United

Vidas United (0-4-3) took the early lead through a penalty converted by Igor Gateniuk in the 12th minute, but Stoney United (1-6-0) would score the next three, via a Pat Tobey brace on 29′ and 46′ then Glodi Konga in the 74th, to take a 3-1 lead. Vidas fought on, Alex Miller scoring in the 85th to claw one back, but Stoney United crushed any hopes of a comeback by earning and scoring a penalty courtesy of Casaletto just two minutes later. It was a game with major relegation implications, as the squads entered the fixture the bottom two in the table. Stoney’s three points vault them into safety on 6pts (will it last?) while Vidas continue to sit bottom on 3pts. Stoney will play the struggling Philadelphia Legends FC, who took their spot in the drop zone courtesy of Stoney’s 1goal superior goal differential, while Vidas will have midtable SMK next week.

VU: Gateniuk, Miller

SU: Tobey (2), Konga, Casaletto

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Segunda

Reporting by: Pete Taylor

Santos 5-0 Statesmen FC

Santos won 5-0 over Statesmen, a colossal result that pushed them back into first in the table. Currently on 22 points, Santos are in a three way tie with both Rose Tree and Heritage, only sitting in first because of goal difference. Santos’ attack has come back alive over the last few weeks. Over their five game win streak, Santos have scored 24 goals. They started the scoring early this game, with captain Marcelo Osorio-Soto finding the net first in the 25th minute, The rest of the first half was tense, with Santos’ attack unable to breach the Statesmen defense. But a second half barrage ended Statesmen’s chances of finding any points. Man of the Match Sylla added a late brace to finish the scoring. Santos’ ball movement and finishing ability has put them in a great position to take home the Segunda title and the automatic promotion spot. Santos have a difficult last two games, however. They face 4th place Smitty Werben FC next, and then have a possible title decider against Heritage on the final day. Statesmen play bottom Cracovia in a relegation six pointer.

Santos FC: Goals- Osorio-Soto (25′), Wilson (55′), Kamagate (60′), Sylla (86′, 90′) / Yellow Cards- West (40′) dangerous tackle, David (49′) unsportsmanlike conduct

Statesmen FC: Yellow Cards- Daley (5′) dangerous tackle, Loscalzo (49′) unsportsmanlike conduct

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Rose Tree Gunners 6-1 Loose Cannons

A definitive bounce back from Rose Tree Gunners after two disappointing results earned them a 6-1 victory over Loose Cannons. The three points pushed them back into second, solidifying the three way tie at the top of the table on 22 points. Loose Cannons have suffered through a difficult part of the season, losing three straight to all three of the first place teams. Rose Tree used their possession game starting from their own defense to dominate the game. They went up 3-0 about half an hour in, with Man of the Match Morales adding the first of his brace to cement the three goal lead. A late goal from Loose Cannons forward Root spoiled Rose Tree’s clean sheet. Rose Tree captain Dean Giovannopoulos noted his side had a lot of motivation going into the game: “We were no longer in first so we had to start trying again.” Giovannopoulos liked how the team played, praising their possession and ruthlessness in front of the net. Rose Tree have it all to play for in the final two weeks. They play two bottom half sides, first FC Bobert Munich and then Statesmen. Loose Cannons, threatened by relegation, play Bluestars next weekend.

Rose Tree: Goals- McMahon (15′), Montesdeoca (28′), Morales (35′, 77′), Dawicki (79′), Dyson (84′)

Loose Cannons: Goals- Root (81)’

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Philadelphia Heritage 1-1 Cunningham Squires

Heritage were the only one of the title chasers to not win last weekend, drawing with Cunningham Squires 1-1. The draw dropped Heritage down from first into third, trailing Santos and Rose Tree on goal difference. Cunningham are in 8th and only four points off the bottom of the table. However, it is difficult to accurately predict the relegation battle because five teams in the bottom half, including Cunningham, have a game in hand. Both goals came late in a tight game with few chances for either side. Cunningham did well to limit the favorite’s powerful attack. Heritage captain Ryan Pereus said that the game was a “battle of the midfield, neither team had clear-cut chances.” Heritage’s title push continues next week against Hunting Park before their top of the table clash with Santos on the final day. Cunningham face Philadelphia Deportivo in an attempt to secure safety for next season.

Heritage: Goals- Pereus (70′)

Cunningham: Goals- Perez (60′)

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Smitty Werben Jager Man Jensen FC 1-1 Hunting Park United

This 1-1 draw between the fourth and sixth place teams knocked Smitty Werben out of title contention. Smitty Werben can only get to 22 points, while the minimum points Santos and Heritage can get is 23. Hunting Park lost two points on Bluestars, their rivals for fifth place and the last playoff promotion spot, but Hunting Park have a game in hand. Smitty Werben have drawn the last three games by a score of 1-1, and the games have followed a similar pattern: Smitty Werben dominating the ball, but unable to score enough goals to win. The favorites opened the scoring in the 18th minute through forward Matt Skinner, but Hunting Park would equalize in the 78th minute counter attack with a Fadil Abdela finish. Carson McBain, Smitty Werben captain, was frustrated about how his team’s performance mirrored their recent games. “It feels like it has been this way for the last three weeks,” McBain said. “We dominated again, just couldn’t finish the ball.” Smith Werben will try to clinch a spot in the playoff next week against 1st place Santos, while Hunting Park will continue their playoff push against third place Heritage.

SmittyWerbenJagerManJensenFC: Goals- Skinner (18′) / Yellow Cards- Paterti (65′) unsportsmanlike conduct, Krut (83′) unsportsmanlike conduct

Hunting Park: Goals- Abdela (78′) / Yellow Cards- Macalboy (66′) unsportsmanlike conduct

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FC Bobert Munich 3-0 Cracovia

Bobert Munich got a crucial three points in their relegation battle, beating 12th placed Cracovia 3-0. The win propelled Bobert Munich into 7th, ahead in a three way tie with Cunningham and Deportivo. Things are looking bleak for Cracovia now, who have played one more game than most of the relegation rivals. The shorthanded Cracovia side could not deal with the energy of Bobert Munich. The winners possessed a lot of the ball and had a decent amount of chances. Man of the Match Griffin Fountain scored the winning goal and the first of his brace in the 15th minute, and Bobert Munich never looked back from there. Two second half goals, including from Matt Vassalotti, sealed the three goal margin. Cracovia captain Eyrk Tylek said that his team was undermanned and that made the task difficult: “We were down a lot of players early and they scored during that time. We had chances but couldn’t capitalize on them.” Bobert Munich captain Chris Galvin said his team are excited for the rest of the season: “We went out and got the win we needed. Hopefully we will build on that momentum and keep the goals coming.” Bobert Munich will look to secure their safety next week against 2nd place Rose Tree, while Cracovia’s last grasp attempt to stay in the division starts against Statesmen.

FC Bobert Munich: Goals- Fountain (15′, 83′), Vassalotti (50′)

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Bluestars 2-0 Philadelphia Deportivo

Bluestars’ 2-0 over bottom half Philadelphia Deportivo sent them into 5th place, which means they currently possess the all-important last playoff promotion spot. Depor, meanwhile, are in 9th on goal difference, and relegation remains a possibility. Bluestars played well with the ball, dominating a lot of possession and creating some chances. It was difficult for Depor who had to play on the break a lot. Ebai scored first for Bluestars in the 22nd minute with an accurate finish into the corner, while Man of the Match Erikson Tuazama would cement their lead early in the second half. Bluestars captain Aaron Bartels-Swindels was happy with how their midfield played and believed it was key to their victory: “Big shoutout to the guys in the middle who ran rings around them and played some of the best possession we’ve seen this season.” Next week, Bluestars face Loose Cannons, while Depor go up against Cunningham Squires.

Bluestars: Goals- Ebai (22’), Tuazama (51’)

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Tercera

Reporting by: Romeo Julmiste

SC Corinthians 1-6 Alamo FC

Another Saturday morning in the league as the season is coming down to the wire and the battle for finishing places remains more congested than rush hour traffic. The gap between first and fifth is only five points and the difference between relegation and safety being a single, solitary point. If the season ended today, Alamo FC would be in the last playoffs as they occupy fifth place. On the other end of the table, SC Corinthians would be relegated. Both teams desperate for the three points, both with vastly different reasons.

Alamo FC drew first blood within ten minutes to deliver the first blow to a struggling Corinthians team. The men in white and black were able to recover and created chances of their own but continued to fall short of finding the net. Alamo FC on the other hand were clinical, hitting Corinthians with two goals in two minutes before the end of the first half. The second half began and Alamo’s Schwartz, goal scorer of their second and third goal, locked in his hattrick three minutes into the second. SC Corinthians were able to get a goal back in the 69th minute but Alamo continued asserting more pressure throughout the second half and put two more goals away to eliminate any fleeting hopes of a comeback. Alamo FC will hope for another three points to hold on to their vulnerable playoff spot and will take on fellow top five contenders Liberty City FC. SC Corinthians, still in imminent danger, will continue to try for a daring escape against Hees FC.

SCC: Goals- Burke (69’)

AFC: Goals- F. Russomano (10’), Schwartz (40’, 42’ 48’), Ch. Ryan (81’), Co. Ryan (86’)

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Barenjager SC 2-5 Liberty City FC

The second match of the day was set across the bridge in Bordentown, New Jersey. Liberty City FC has been flying high and has locked themselves deep into a rugged title race. They are the division’s highest scoring team and would shock anyone to the fact that they were only in the fourth division six months ago. Barenjager SC have been hungry all season for the place that their opponents occupy, with the goal of returning to the division from whence they had fallen. The Bear Hunters were the first on the attack as they opened the scoring in the 6th minute. Liberty City FC are not a team that trails for very long and they showed that as they equalized six minutes later through captain Grayson Rogers. The captain was not done as he struck again only three minutes later. Before the first half was done the Bear Hunters found themselves down 3-1. In the second half, five minutes past the hour mark began a goal scoring salvo lasting ten minutes as both teams exchanged net busters. Liberty City controlled the rest of the game from there to get themselves maximum points to continue to put pressure on their closest title challengers. With the win, Liberty City sit in third place with 20 points, one point off top spot. Barenjager SC occupy 10th place with ten points.

BSC: Goals- C. Shaffer (6’), Tunde (70’)

LCFC: Goals- G. Rogers (12’, 15’), C. Williams (41’), A. Sterle (65’), D. Espinoza (75’)

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Lost FC 1-5 Hees FC

The amount of goals scored across the division this season has been eye-opening to say the least; with every squad but one scoring at least eleven goals. The lone squad digging up pyrite, Lost FC. Lost have desperately tried to find their scoring touch but instead found Hees FC, who have more than double their goals. Hees FC jumped on their opponents quickly with a goal in the first 120 seconds of the match. Hees were in full control of this game and Lost at times found themselves chasing shadows from their young and high energy opponents. Before they could even look up, Lost FC were down 3-0 early but were able to pull one back just before the halftime whistle despite being thoroughly outplayed. The second half began with a bit more even, with Lost FC maintaining some semblance of control in the match. Their failures in front of goal continued to haunt them through the game as they were unable to bring grab a potential momentum shifting goal. Hees FC stayed solid throughout the rest of the game and tacked on two more goals for good measure to secure all three points. With the loss, Lost FC stay glued to last place. However, with a win Lost FC still would be able to make a Houdini like escape as long as they are able to find a way to score more than one goal. Hees FC have been slowly climbing the table and now sit patiently in 8th place, two points the final playoff spot.

LFC: Goals- B. Lander (43’)

HFC: Goals- D. Goodson (2’, 32′, 53′), A. Lupinacci (14’), D. Valle (54′)

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KRL Trading 1-8 Brothers of the Gourd FC

Brothers of the Gourd FC and KRL Trading did battle in the mid morning with both squads gunning for three vital points. The Brothers have been playing good football under the radar and have kept themselves within touching distance of the playoffs throughout the course of the season. KRL Trading have been on the other end of the table and have had a long slow haul in trying to keep themselves away from the drop. Brothers of the Gourd FC came away with the comprehensive victory in this one as they deliver yet another heavy blow to KRL Trading this season. The Brothers’ strikers had their away around a defense that has had to endure many long afternoons throughout the course of the season.

The Brothers were fast and clinical and were precise and consistent in finding a teammate in pink. Xavier O’Conner and Rory McGlasson for Brothers of the Gourd FC have been in a good run of goal scoring form and got themselves on the score sheet once again, the latter bagging a brace. With the win, Brothers of the Gourd FC sit right outside of the playoff picture in sixth place separated with the fifth place team by only goal difference. KRL Trading may have lost and are still fortunate to be sitting right above the drop zone.

KRLT: Goals- J. Rakita

BotG: Goals- Pierce (3′, 52′ 74′), McFeigh (31′), R. McGlasson (37′, 38′), X. O’Conner (16′)

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Berber United 4-3 Drexel Shaft

In the mid afternoon game, one could safely assume that there is still smoke coming from the ground at James Ramp Turf Field in Philadelphia because of the fire that was coming off the boots of the players on both Berber United and Drexel Shaft. Seven goals were scored in this barnstormer of a match, all in the first half. The Dragons began the scoring frenzy in the tenth minute. Six minutes later, Berber United equalized. Berber are squad that always bring a bevy of goals and broke the deadlock shortly afterwards. They may have found their match in Drexel with their own net busting prowess, however. Shota Kobiashivili has been on a tear lately for the Dragons and he got on the score sheet again for the third game running. Berber United were able to get themselves two goals in two minutes to see the first half end 4-3 in their favor. There was of course, a whole other half to play, and try as they might the Dragons were unable to find the equalizer in the second 45 minutes of play. Drexel Shaft had started the season well but had fallen off in recent games and were hoping to secure at least a point in this game to finish the season on a strong note. With the loss they find themselves in 11th place with six points. Berber United sit not so comfortably in 4th place with seventeen points.

BU: Goals- D. Mato (16′, 38′), E. Yeung (30′), D. Lim (39′)

DS: Goals- Ahmid (10′), S. Kobiashvili (22′), Warnock (40′)

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Oaklyn United FC 0-4 FC Burlington

Bristol Township Park was the setting for the final game of the day, the venue for a renewed bloodthirsty South Jersey rivalry. The last time FC Burlington met Oaklyn United FC was a few seasons ago in which the Lions won a dramatic promotional playoff final to move up into the Tercera division. Fast forward to now, FC Burlington had secured their own promotion and had been lighting up the division like a hot car hoarding canisters of gasoline. The Schnauzers and the Lions squared off in the latest chapter of the Route 130 Derby and this time FC Burlington made it no contest for against their bitter South Jersey rivals. A short drive over the Burlington-Bristol Bridge essentially made it a home game for the Schnauzers and they got the goal scoring started early with a brace from Nixon Soglo in the first fifteen minutes of the game. The Lions were certainly caught resting in the sun as Burlington got another goal to make it 3-0 before halftime. The second half of the game was once again dominated by the Schnauzers with shrewd time management and ball possession. Oaklyn United had very little joy in the game while their rivals play with ease. Burlington locked in their final goal to make 4-0 off a viciously struck penalty kick. With the win, FC Burlington are now on a seven game winning streak and sit in 2nd place with 21 points. Oaklyn United FC had their three game win streak snapped and sit in 7th place with 15 points.

OUFC: Yellow: S. Patterson (33′), T. Patterson (33′)

FCB: Goals- N. Soglo (6′, 11′), M. Foster (40′), S. Dooley (69′) / Yellow: R. Bell (24′), N. Soglo (74′)

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Cuarto

Reporting by: Gabo Zabala

Philly Skyliners 1-2 Club Sandwich

The afternoon game at RAMP Soccer Field saw division leaders Club Sandwich face off against the always tough Philly Skyliners. Club Sandwich opened the scoring early in the game when Sawaged dribbled past the keeper and pulled the ball back for #18 Fidele to finish. Skyliners found an equalizer at the 18th minute after forcing a turnover on Club Sandwich’s defensive third that would then see #1 Keith’s shot be deflected past the opposition keeper and find the back of the net. At the 34th minute is a great individual run by #17 Ruzycki leaving multiple defenders behind before beating the keeper in the far post that would give Club Sandwich the lead. Club Sandwich would almost find a third in the second half when Sawaged tried to chip the keeper form outside the box but his effort would end up hitting the crossbar. The win allows Club Sandwich to remain in first place while still undefeated, a mark that will be put to the test against Nations United next week. For Philly Skyliners, the loss leaves them closer to relegation than playoffs and their next game will be against

Fishtown FC. Goals: Club Sandwich: #18 Fidele (4’), #17 Ruzycki (34’)

Philly Skyliners: #1 Keith (18’)

MOTM: Club Sandwich #17 Ruzycki

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Fishtown FC 8 – 2 Devon SC

In the morning game at RAMP Soccer Field we had Fishtown FC facing Devon SC in a game between two teams with different form. Fishtown FC is batting at the top of the table while Devon SC is currently trying to avoid relegation. The game was very one-sided with Fishtown showing why they are still in pursue of the top spot in the standings. Fishtown would manage to score a total of 8 goals from 7 different players to get a resounding win that would help them secure what is now the best goal differential in the division. For Devon SC this is a tough result that will keep them at the bottom of the standings for another week, something they will try to change next week when they face Dead Ball SC, a direct rival in the battle on the relegation race. For Fishtown FC, they are currently 4 points behind leaders Club Sandwich and they will look to cut that difference next week when they face Philly Skyliners.

Goals – Fishtown FC: #21 Parno (22′), #14 Ely (25′), #18 Rivera (29′), #11 Gulama (40′), #0 Clark (69′), #15 Brown (78′), #6 Doaty (82′, 88′)

Devon SC: #7 Wagner (52′) #16 Yaa (66′)

Yellow Cards: Devon #16 Yaa (44′)

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Maccabi Philly 2 – 2 Vidas FC

On the opening game of the day at Albington Memorial Field we had Maccabi Philly facing against Vidas FC. It was a very competitive match from the beginning, which would see the scoreboard open early for Vidas FC with a goal from #21 Elwood just 9 minutes into the game. Maccabi Philly would respond with a goal from agent 0 Winn and a late first half goal by #3 Goldstein will allow them to go into the half with the lead. The second half would be as competitive as the first but with less scoring. It was not until the 86th minute when #32 Tata would find an equalizer for Vidas FC. Despite the late equalizer, Maccabi Philly would have one more chance to take the lead in the final minute of the game but could not convert and the game would end up on a 2-2 tie that does not really help either team much in the standings. Vidas FC will be back in action when they face Leaders FC. On the other hand, Maccabi Philly will face Philadelphia Falcons in their next outing.

Goals – Maccabi Philly: #0 D. Winn (35′), #3 Goldstein (44′)

Vidas FC: #21 Elwood (9′), #32 Tata (86′)

Yellow Cards: Maccabi Philly: #14 Weiss (51′), #10 Besharatian (76′), #22 Koudinov (84′)

Vidas FC: #33 Heins (46′)

MOTM: Vidas FC: #21 Travis Elwood

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Philladelphia Falcons 3 – 1 Dead Ball SC

It was an afternoon showdown at Albington Memorial Field between Philadelphia Falcons and Dead Balls SC. With both teams coming off of losses in their previous match, they were looking for wins to face the end on the schedule in a positive note. Dead Ball would open the score with a goals from #16 Lamarque at the 31st minute. That goal would allow them to go into the half with the lead. In the second half, Philly Falcons would be able to turn the scoreboard around in the last 20 minutes with a brace from #1 Ughanze and a late goal from #9 Hamilton to seal the win and secure the 3 points for the Falcons. The win leaves the Falcons 5 points outside of the playoff with 3 games left for them, the first of which will be against Maccabi Philly. For Dead Ball SC their next game will be against Devon SC in what could be a crucial match to decide relegation.

Goals – Falcons #1 Ughanze (73’,79′), #9 Hamilton (89′)

Dead Ball: #16 Lamarque (31′)

MOTM: Falcons #1 Ughanze

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Rebels 6 – 1 Leaders FC

Coming off two ties in a row, Leaders Fc was looking to get a win to help them avoid relegation against a tough Rebels teams that also needed the 3 points to keep their chase of Club Sandwich at the top of the table. Rebels were clicking from the first minute and it did not take long for them to have a comfortable two goal lead through #1 Thomas who scored a brace in the first 15 minutes of the game. Rebels would score two more goals in the first half with #17 Petro also bagging a brace to give them a 4-0 lead going into the half. Leaders FC was better in the second generating some chances which they wer unable to finish. Rebel would increase their lead with goals from #14 Kelly and #85 Zivali before Leaders was able to get a goal back late through #12 Sobadjo. For Leaders FC they still have 3 games left to avoid relegation starting with a match against Vidas FC. For Rebels, they have two games against direct rivals SJ Gentleman and a possible champion-deciding game against Club Sandwich.

Goals: Rebels – #1 Thomas (12’, 14’), #17 Petro (35’, 37’), #14 Kelly (67’), #85 Zivali (81’) Leaders – Sobadjo #12 (83’)

MOTM: Rebels #1 Thomas

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Nations United 1 – 1 SJ Gentleman

On one of the games to watch this weekend, we had two teams in playoff positions facing each other at Bristol Municipal Park. With a total of 2 losses this season between both team the promise of a fun competitive match did not disappoint. Both teams came into the game looking for a win that would virtually lock their playoff spot but neither was able to find a goal during the first half to take the lead despite both teams having chances. Goals would come during the second half where SJ Gentleman would take the lead through their captain #9 Borowik in the 52nd minute. SJ Gentleman would see a few opportunities to extend the lead in the second half but were unable to finish, something they would later regret when #19 Rathsam found a late equalizer for Nations United to come away with a point. For Nations United this extends their unbeaten run to 7 games, something they would put through a big test when they face current division leaders Club Sandwich. Meanwhile, SJ Gentleman will also have a tough challenge ahead when they face a Rebels teams that is currently 2nd on the standings.

Goals – SJ Gentlemen: #8 Borowik (52’)

Nations United : #19 Rathsam (87’)

Yellow Cards – SJ Gentlemen: #9 Lynch (24′)

Nations United – #6 Freire (18’) , Isa (57’)

MOTM – SJ Gentlemen #5 Downs

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Quinto

Reporting by: Michael McKinney

Grapes FC 4 – 2 UCFC

Having just snapped a 4 game losing streak with their big win over Oaklyn Academy last weekend, Grapes FC (4-3-2) jumped out to a 3-0 lead that in a span of just 12 minutes was reduced to a 3-2 lead as UCFC (1-8-0) refused to lay down and fought hard to get the tying goal to break the hearts of Grapes FC but in the 67th minute #17 Karuschkat would add another goal and Grapes FC would cruise the rest of the way to a 4-2 victory. Another victory makes it the first time the Grapes won back to back games since they came out on top in weeks 2 and 3. They’ll need to carry this momentum into their match against FC Delta (4-2-2) next week and UCFC will need to get a result in their match against the division leading Sporting Philadelphia F.C (7-0-2) if they hope to avoid relegation.

Goals: Grape: 17- Karuschkat (19,67) , 14- Mellus (27) , 1- Paul (44)

UCFC: 11- Derrick (48) , 10- Martelli (60)

Yellow: 21- Moses Mugwanga (60) Grape

MOM – 17 – Karuschkat – Grapes FC

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New Wave 2 – 2 Rapid Daybreak FC

With a spot in the promotional playoffs just barely out of their reach, New Wave FC (4-2-2) looked to walk away with 3 points after going up 2-0 in the first half. The halftime pep talk from J. Ross, the captain of Rapid Daybreak FC (6-2-1) really set the tone as his inspirational speech sent chills down the spines of New Wave FC who could easily hear the passion and determination in the voice of #23 J. Ross who may not have made the score sheet but did more than enough to earn the Man of the Match for his play. His never say die attitude and inability to quit pushed his team and when they found their equalizer in the 89th minute the emotions took over and he could be seen with tears in his eyes. It was an emotional game for the captain who said his team playing in the 4th division next season is all that matters. Rapid Daybreak FC will look to continue their good run of form in their upcoming match against the always physical and hard to beat Inter Phila (4-2-3) and New Wave FC who still have 3 games remaining will need to win out to ensure they have a chance at the playoffs and will face off against a very beatable Mark Walhbergs Cousins (3-4-2) next week.

Goals New Wave: #1 (28th) Shaw, #10 (42nd) Collaz

Daybreak: #77 (65th) Evans, #1 (89th) Bobadilla

MOM: #23 Ross (Daybreak)

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Inter Phila 4 – 4 FC Delta

With both teams occupying the final spots in the promotional playoffs, FC Delta (4-2-2) and Inter Phila (4-2-3) pressed from the start of the match until the final whistle. FC Delta took full advantage of the early mistakes by Inter that resulted in 3 quick goals after Inter jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the 8th minute only to find themselves down 3-1 less than 10 minutes later. With FC Delta scoring all their goals from outside the box, Inter held their midfielders closer to their 18yd box to eliminate the open looks FC Delta were getting and pressing more in the center of the field to disrupt their passing lanes. FC Delta played aggressive on defense and needed to be bailed out multiple times by their keeper when Inter was awarded a total of 3 PK’s, only able to convert 1 of the 3 awarded to them, Inter Phila really left points on the field and FC Delta’s keeper did the best he could considering the situation his defense put him in.

Inter Phila would still manage to battle back with the help of all their subs, having fresh legs on the field really helped Inter out pace FC Delta in the 2nd half as FC Delta looked to time waste and hold up play to protect their 1 goal lead. Inter would find their equalizer late in the 74th minute and with both teams failing to capitalize, the match would end in a draw that could have went either way for either team. Inter Phila who havent won a game since April 10th, have a tough game ahead next week as they take on Rapid Daybreak FC (6-2-1) who currently take up the number 2 spot in the standings. FC Delta will have to contend with a surging Grapes FC (4-3-2) who have found ways to win against some of the tougher teams in the division this season.

Goals: Team Delta #97 Issabre (10’) #2 Jaah (11’) #97 Issabre (12’) #97 Issabre (54’)

Inter Phila: #9 Toma (8’) #9 Toma (35’) #9 Toma (58’) #4 Popescu (74’)

Yellow cards: Team Delta #7 Hailu unsporting behavior

Team Inter Phila #3 Shumski for unsporting behavior

Red cards: Team Delta #70 Latipov for dangerous play and violent conduct

MOM: Team Delta #97 Issabre

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Mark Wahlbergs Cousins 2 – 1 Telle Bouche FC

With a shot at making the promotional playoffs still mathematically possible for Mark Walbergs Cousins (3-4-2) and relegation a real threat for Telle Bouche FC (1-7-1) both teams needed a win and played like their league lives depended on it. Marky Mark and his funky bunch controlled the midfield for the majority of the game, leaving very little space for Telle Bouche FC to send players forward. This created very limited chances for Telle Bouche FC to get the 2nd goal to tie up the match and everyone’s least favorite cousins rode out the game and threw their weight around committing fouls far from the 18yd box and defending well on all the set pieces. The 2-1 victory for MWC helps keep their hopes alive for the playoffs and the defeat has Telle Bouche FC teetering on the edge of being sent back down to the 6th division. MWC will have to put the clamps down on defense next week when they face off against New Wave FC (4-2-2) who are also very much in the playoff hunt and Telle Bouche FC will have the hands full when they meet up against Oaklyn Academy (6-2-0) who are still reeling from back to back losses.

Goals: MWC Zack Hritz, Christian Oliveria

TBFC Liberkoski

Yellow Cards: MWC Trotter – Dissent , Vizzoni – Unsporting , Cleary – Unsporting

Man of the Match MWC – Zack Hritz

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Sporting Philadelphia Football Club 6 – 3 Washington Square Soccer

Club Sporting Philadelphia FC (7-0-2) who are still undefeated this season looked every part of an undefeated team. After falling behind in the 15th minute, Sporting would take over the game with their quick 1-2 touch passing and high press. Washington Square SC would fall behind but keep it close at 3-2 until Sporting would find 3 goals in 15 minutes. The 6-3 score line doesn’t really reflect just how well Washington Square played against the division leaders. Playing for pride only going forward, Washington Square FC can come away with a win next week against a Still Processing FC (2-5-1) team that is anything but consistent. Sporting can lock up 1st place with a win next week against UCFC (1-8-0) and a tie or loss by Oaklyn Academy.

Goals: Sporting FC #33 Enrique (25th), #20 Taylon (40th,60th), #9 Kevin (70th), #11 Osama (83rd, 86th)

Washington SC: #9 Swiderski (15th), #22 MMcCaffery (68), #11 Rengifo (85th)

MoM: # 20 Taylon – Sporting FC

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Sexto

Reporting by: Michael McKinney

Hamilton FC 1 – 0 Rapid Nightfall FC

Hamilton FC (7-2-0) who were riding a 3 game win streak were laser focused heading into their match against the rapidly declining Rapid NightFall FC (3-6-0) who haven’t won or tied a match since their April 3rd victory over S.O.B Athletic. The game was tight for the first 30 minutes with both teams getting their chances but failing to convert. Hamilton FC would find their game winner on the foot of #14 Thomas who scored a beauty of a goal to put his team ahead 1-0 just before the end of the first half. Rapid would net one late but was called back after a late whistle for an offensive foul that left Nightfall perplexed after the final whistle. Thomas’ stunner snagged him MOTM honors and moved his team into 2nd place; with their next match against the Mighty Ducks who currently sit just below them in 3rd. Hamilton FC will look to hopefully take over 1st with a win and a Honey Badgers FC loss. Rapid Nightfall FC will be playing for pride when they take on Dyslexia Untied next week.

Goal: Hamilton #14 Thomas

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Kensington 5 – 5 Philadelphia Strikers

Fighting to stay relevant in the playoff picture, Kensington (3-4-2) had to take all 3 points from their match against Philadelphia Strikers (3-5-2) to stay in the conversation for promotion. Both teams would trade goals as the tight and compact space provided at AIM made for quick passes and a lot of movement. There are few areas at AIM where you wouldn’t consider cracking one on goal, both keepers made numerous saves that could have seen a much higher score if it weren’t for their great performances in goal. Kensington would get caught ball watching and the Strikers would fall victim to Kensington’s high press leading to a 4-4 that held into the final minutes of the match.

Kensington knowing a draw gets them no where in the standings, would through everyone forward, playing with just 2 in the back they would find their go ahead goal but would fall victim to a quick counter and watch their win slip away. With just moments left in the match, Kensington would hit the post and then the showers as they walk away dropping a crucial 2 points. Looking to shatter dreams and disrupt the playoff seeding, Kensington will look to upset Boys Do Cry (6-3-0) in their match next week. Philadelphia Strikers could do some real damage if they manage to pull out a result against first place Honey Bandgers FC (7-0-2) that could see the Badgers fall out of 1st place with with anything but a win next week.

Goal Scorers: Kensington #7 (Maldonado) ‘20, ’70, #6 (Wilmer ) 16’ 85’,

Philly Strikers: #30 (3’), #36 (23’) #30 (44’), #18 (75’), #2 ( 88’)

Mom: #7 Maldonado

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FC BTC 2 – 0 S.O.B Athletic

Continuing their success after a poor performance last season, FC BTC (6-3-0) got another win to make it 4 in a row and S.O.B Athletic drop their 3rd match in a row. The first half was pretty uneventful even though FC BTC dominated the game, they failed to make use of all their possession and ended the first half tied 0-0 with the struggling S.O.B’s With the 2nd half underway but no real changes from the Sons of Ben, it wasn’t too long before FC BTC captain, #4 White, would head home the opening goal from a great corner served in by Man of the Match #12 Kravitz who would also notch a goal to go with his assist. Next week poses a real challenge for the S.O.B’s who will be taking on the always dangerous and goal scoring machine of Steve Tice from Boys Do Cry (6-3-0) and FC BTC will look to get a win over a Kensington (3-4-2) team that looks to win their final 2 matches and make a real push for the promotional playoffs.

Goals: BTC #4-Ryan White 66min., #12 – Greg Kravitz 75 min

Man of Match: BTC #12 – Greg Kravitz

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Mighty Ducks 0 – 0 Honey Badgers FC

Mighty Ducks (6-1-2) and Honey Badgers FC (7-0-2) fought it out to a scoreless draw that could have shook up the standings had either team found the goal to win the match but instead were forced to settle for the 0-0 draw. Even with the lack of goals it was still a very competitive and well played match by both teams. The field at AIM is tight and at times, though no one’s fault, can create a game of very little flow. This was not the case with this game as there was good possession and ball movement by both teams throughout but they just lacked that final moment to put their team ahead. The draw means the Ducks slip down to 3rd place ahead of their match against Hamilton FC (7-2-0) who will be looking to take over first place. Honey Badgers FC have what appears to be an easier match up as they take on Philadelphia Strikers FC (3-5-2) next week and look to keep tabs on that 1st place spot in the standings.

Man of the Match – #9 Johnson – Honey Badgers FC

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Dyslexia Untied 5 – 2 Birdeaux

Winless in their last 4 games, Dyslexia Untied (4-4-1), jumped out to an early 1-0 lead just 9 minutes into their match against the flightless Birdeaux FC (3-7-0) who were winless in their last 3 matches. Birdeaux FC would find the equalizer in the 27th minute but would find themselves down 2-1 when Dyslexia Untied found the back of the net just 3 minutes later. It was all Dyslexia and smooth sailing for the rest of the match minus a minor defensive hiccup in the 75th minute that led to Birdeaux FC getting their 2nd goal but the damage was already done and they would go on to win 5-2 on the back of another superb performance from Man of the Match #16 Meenan. With only 1 game left in their season, Birdeaux FC hopes to end on a high note as they take on the Sons of Ben in 2 weeks. Dyslexia Untied will need to put in a strong effort against their next opponents, Rapid Nightfall FC (3-6-0), as they would expect to win again at some point to stop this rapid slide to the bottom of the standings and would love to get a positive result against Dyslexia to turn it around.

Goals: Dyslexia Untied – #20 Acton 9′, #15 Arroyo 30′, #15 Arroyo 67′, #21 Norris 80′, #16 Meenan 87′

Birdeaux FC #4 Avallon 27′, #14 Tracey 75′

MOM: Dyslexia United #16 Martin Meenan

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Boys Do Cry 5 – 0 Coyotes FC

In a game that started late due to the roster issues that were still plaguing Coyotes FC (1-10-0), it makes you wonder what the score would have been if the game started on time and Boys Do Cry (6-3-0) had more than just 80 minutes of playing time allotted due to the late start. With Coyotes FC fielding less than 11 players there was no emphasis to try and score, sit back and play defense was all they could try and do to absorb the pressure. After about 4 minutes the cracks started to appear in the defense and Boys Do cry, namely #19 Tice, took full advantage of their extra unmarked players and started scoring goals almost at will. With cake from his 61st birthday party still in his gut, #19 Tice put in another Man of the Match performance netting 6 goals. In what would be their last game, Coyotes FC still went out with class and never complained during their match; even with only 7 players to start. The win moves Boys Do Cry into 4th place with a good chance to move up with their next match against S.O.B Athletic (2-6-1) who have looked anything but impressive recently.

Boys Do Cry: 13 (#19 Tice 14’, 24’,44’,62’, 81’, 86’, #8 Jaramillo 19’, 60’, #12 Roche 49’, #21 Dye 35’,85’, #90 Vizcara 48’, #84 Roche 10’)

MOM Boys Do Cry #19 Tice