|
Green Hope 2 @ Terry Sanford 0 (2nd Round of NC State HS
4A Playoffs)
Green Hope traveled to Fayetteville for the second time in 4 days
to take on Two Rivers conference champion Terry Sanford (17-4-1).
The Falcons were missing two key players, Evan Paussa and Ryan Dowd.
The game began with the Falcons uncharacteristically jittery. The
nerves or excitement made them play long balls down the middle and
be tentative with their decisions. After about 15 minutes, they
calmed down and started to create some great chances by keeping
possession and playing to feet. Nick Roos did a splendid job of
getting open to receive a superb cross from John Hindman, but Roos’s
effort just sailed wide. Nate Dixon, Taylor Estrada and Pat Danford
all had solid shots on goal.
JP Lebiecz, gathered the ball in midfield and served a wonderful
ball between the TS sweeper and outside right back. Hindman, used
his lightning pace to outrun the defender, beat the keeper and score
a tough angle shot. Green Hope up 1-0. TS had a couple of great
chances as they were able to get down the left side, but Jonathan
Schwartz stepped up HUGE and made two fantastic saves.
In the second half, the Falcons came out a bit flat and adjusted
to TS new formation. Ryan Dowd bravely entered the game as he was
still a bit injured, but realized the defense could benefit from
his help. TS, being down one, decided to forgo their sweeper and
throw a third forward in. The tactic was not as successful as they
liked and Green Hope made quick adjustments. In addition, the lack
of a sweeper left acres of room for Ryan Lockhart. Ryan received
a ball in midfield, took on his defender and saw a small gap; he
fired a hard low shot to the right post that just beat the keeper.
Green Hope 2-0.
The Falcons never really gave up many opportunities in the last
20 minutes.
TS had a few free kicks that they tried to take quickly, but the
Falcons learned that lesson against Cary and were up to the task.
It seems the experiences of the tough season have made the Falcons
much more alert, stronger and cohesive.
Green Hope will take on Pinecrest in Southern Pines midweek. Pinecrest
is 20-3-1, with wins against, Middle Creek, East Chapel Hill and
Terry Sanford. They will be a very challenging opponent.
|
