ELIZABETHTOWN – Junior Gabril Algozy boomed in a free kick for the only goal as East Bladen defeated South Brunswick 1-0 Thursday night in non-conference boys’ soccer action.
“We moved the ball well early, but we didn’t move it with a purpose,” said Eagle Coach Jay Raynor. “We were able to generate a few chances prior to the weather delay but our play was not where it needed to be.”
The game was delayed by weather in the 20th minute. “We had a heart to heart and regrouped,” stated Raynor. “I challenged the guys to adhere to our philosophy and the game plan. We did much better for the second twenty minutes by giving some other guys a chance. Those guys brought energy and worked hard.” The Eagles had 3 scoring chances in the 2nd 20 minutes.
Raynor continued, “Our play forced our backline (Debo Lewis, J.D. McArthur, Jayce Hatcher) and goalie Lee (Barnes) to make plays they shouldn’t have to play. Proud of our backs and keepers. We are defensively sound and strong out back.”
“A difference in midfield tonight was Colin King,” said Raynor. “His work ethic and winning the 50/50 balls is what we needed. He did great as a holding midfielder and understanding his role. Moving Jamie (Delgado) and Zac (Metz) into winger roles and allowing Damian (Alonzo-Sanchez) to play as our ten changed us tonight. The guys showed glimpses of greatness working the ball.”
“Our forwards generated a foul 25 yards from goal in the 2nd half,” noted Raynor. “Gabril was able to score the free kick by putting it on the keeper who was unable to come up with it and into the back of the net. It was a well-placed free kick. Our forwards did what was asked of them and it worked.”
Raynor added, “We got some great minutes from Connor Paddrick, Marco Ventura, and Andrew Musselwhite. All helped bring some energy and generate some attacks.”
South was awarded a penalty kick late in the 2nd half. “Fernando (Rebollar) stepped up and blocked the well-placed free kick,” said Raynor. “Fernando played the second half and made a phenomenal stop on the penalty kick.”
Raynor concluded, “I thought we grew up some tonight. I was proud of my guys and how we handled ourselves. There was a lot going on and our guys kept their heads and played the game. We faced adversity and were challenged tonight. It’s a big win.”
East Bladen, now 1-1, will host Rosewood Monday. Rosewood was the Class 1A state runners-up last season.
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