CLINTON- Senior Connor Johnson fired in the game’s only goal Monday night to lift Clinton to a 1-0 Southeastern Athletic Conference boys’ soccer victory over East Bladen.
Johnson delivered the goal in the 21st minute off of an assist from senior Josue Villafranco. Senior Andrew Byrd made 4 saves in goal for the Dark Horses.
“A ball was whipped in from their left side and deflected towards the right side of the 18,” said Eagle Coach Jay Raynor. “Their player ran onto it and curled a shot in from 20 yards or so. Lee (Eagle goalie Barnes) was inches away from making a play on it, but it just went over his outstretched arms into the top corner of the goal. A well hit ball and well placed.”
Raynor continued, “The guys stuck to our game plan and executed it fairly well. Even with missing some players and having to make adjustments with the system, they handled the adversity well. We gave them all we could and had some chances, Clinton had more chances but we held our own and put some shots on frame.”
“Proud of the guys and their effort,” added Raynor. “Hate to be on the losing end but we gave them all we had. They are a solid team and that’s a tough place to play. Sure wish we could’ve found the back of the net but proud of our effort tonight.”
Raynor concluded, “The guys continue to get better and are growing together as a team. Tremendous game by all of the guys tonight.”
East Bladen, now 2-2 in league play and 6-4 overall, will travel to West Bladen Wednesday at 6 p.m. Clinton is 5-0 in the SAC-7 and 11-2-1 overall. The Dark Horses will travel to Topsail Friday night.
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