Luck of the Draw, Wilmington Ties Bethlehem 1-1
June 17, 2016 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Wilmington Hammerheads FC News Release
Wilmington, NC - On Saturday night at Legion Stadium, the Wilmington Hammerheads welcomed Bethlehem Steel FC for a 7pm kick-off.
Bethlehem gave the Hammerheads a run for their money right out of the gate, applying immediate pressure. Within the first two minutes, Bethlehem earned a free kick dangerously close to the Hammerheads goal, where GK John Smits made his first save of the game.
Bethlehem was beating the Hammerheads to the ball by a single step. And as Bethlehem's momentum picked up, #45 James Chambers had a breakaway. #36 Seku Conneh met Chamber's perfectly placed ball at the top of the 18, where Conneh scored the first goal of the match during the 18th minute.
Wilmington picked up the pace and stepped to after Conneh's goal. During the 27th minute, the team had three opportunities to score within the 6. #23 Bruno Perone and #8 Mael Corboz had close headers trying to keep the ball within possession, but it was Bethlehem's GK Samir Badr who showed impressive resistance. Three minutes later, Player to Watch, #7 Austin Martz, fired an intense shot on goal, testing Badr more.
Nearing the end of the first half, Wilmington's momentum grew even with Bethlehem, outshooting them 7-5. Head coach Mark Briggs stated, "We started a little slower than we usually do, but gathered ourselves and met Bethlehem's momentum." He continued, "At this point in the game, we could come back quickly."
Beginning the second half, Wilmington's momentum frazzled Bethlehem a bit. Although Bethlehem was up 1-0, Wilmington continued to fight and push offensively with numerous opportunities to score. It wasn't until the 46th minute defender #47 Ashani Fairclough scored the equalizer, and was named Man of the Match.
Even within the second half, the Hammerheads played a different game; dominating the ball in the center of the field. Bethlehem's frazzled state continued to set up Wilmington's opportunities to score in front of the 2,000+ fans.
The second half continued with opportunities for both teams to score and high tensions. Overall, there were three yellow cards distributed; one for Wilmington and two for Bethlehem.
As the game concluded, 1-1, Wilmington and Bethlehem are still in equal standings, now with a record of 4-4-5.
Wilmington will take on Toronto FC II on Saturday, July 2nd at 7pm. Join us this evening for Military Night and to celebrate the 4th of July! Call 910.777.2111 to purchase your tickets today!
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