Game Preview: Wilmington vs Bethlehem, Fours Across the Board
June 16, 2016 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Wilmington Hammerheads FC News Release
Wilmington, NC - The Port City will welcome Bethlehem Steel FC on Friday, June 17th for a 7pm kick-off at Legion Stadium.
Wilmington and Bethlehem are the only two teams in both the western and eastern USL conferences that hold the same record at 4-4-4. In a unique standing, both teams have earned 16 points so far this season, in 12 games.
Since the beginning of the season, the Hammerheads have been a consistent first half team. Wilmington, sitting in ninth place, earns 50% of their goals during the first half, typically within the first 25 minutes. Wilmington is on its best run, earning seven points from its past three games in the USL.
Although the season is only half way through, four members of Wilmington, #23 Bruno Perone, #8 Mael Corboz, GK John Smits, and #4 Michael Mecham, have accumulated over 1,000 minutes of playing time, with defender Perone scoring four goals.
Bethlehem, who sits in tenth place, scores 66% of their goals during the first half. Unlike the Hammerheads, Bethlehem starts slow during the first half, but tends to carry their momentum into the second half action.
Only one player, #44 Ryan Richter, has accumulated over 1,000 minutes of playing time; scoring two goals for Bethlehem.
Player to Watch
For the Hammerheads, midfielder #7 Austin Martz has proven to be a Player to Watch. During the fourth match in the Open Cup against Real Salt Lake Tuesday, Martz played in all 120 minutes of the match, with five impressive shots on goal. Martz's speed is a valued part of his incredibly diverse skillset for the Hammerheads offensive strategy.
Head coach Mark Briggs stated, "Bethlehem is on a very good run and have a strong, young side. We will have to be at our very best to get the three points we need."
While both teams have dangerously skilled players and sitting neck and neck in the USL standings, tomorrow's match is projected to be an exciting game. If the Hammerheads reach, and maintain, one more point, they will find themselves in a playoff position.
Don't miss the Hammerheads as they take on Bethlehem tomorrow night at 7pm at Legion Stadium. Purchase your tickets today by calling 910.777.2111 or visit wilmingtonhammerheads.com.
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