Delaware Rising was slotted to take on Ambassadors FC on the Fourth of July weekend, Saturday July 2nd. A beautiful day kicked off with the team making the journey up to Malone University to play in their brand new soccer specific stadium.
The match began with an Ambassadors’ kick, and they came out of the gates fierce with a one-on-one chance with our goalkeeper, Tanner Masters, in the first few minutes. He makes quite the save stretching out his right leg to protect the goal. Unfortunately, the ball bouncing back into play falls to an Ambassador player, who is brought down in the box. A penalty kick is called right in the beginning of the game, and it is slotted in the goal by the home team. Delaware isn’t out of it though, as they string together a flurry of attacking opportunities through some well built up possession. About 10 minutes into the first half, Delaware Rising winger, Mason Morris, half-volleyed a loose ball from a well placed corner kick. The ball thundered into the back of the net without a chance for the Ambassadors GK. Around 20 minutes later, Mason Morris picks up a pass from Max Deckop in the middle of the field. He drives past one defender and as he approaches goal finds space between three defenders to rip a shot. Delaware Rising are up 2-1 after a quick rip from Morris finds the right post and in. Ambassadors tries to create any chances they can, as they counter often, trying to slot their quick forwards through the Delaware three-man backline. Chance after chance is thwarted cooly by the back line of Ryland Owens, Seth Barrett, and Nathan Chwalik. Tanner Masters occasionally being forced to make some saves, but nothing threatening. Defensive midfielders Evan Wherley, Ryan Miller, Max Deckop, and Cody Lumby are also helping out stopping any Ambassador buildup or chances. The first half ends 2-1
The second half starts with a DRFC kick and Delaware proceed to build up creating again numerous chances, Landon Kuhn dancing on the ball, combining with his forwards throughout the half Evan Scott, Nick Manivilovski, Jeramy Hermiller, and Luke Fleming. Ambassadors continue to half a few increasingly threatening chances as they settle into the game, Tanner Masters and the defense continuing to half a solid game. Not too long into the second half Ambassadors find themselves again one-on-one with Masters, but the speedy Owens makes it back in time to put in a check. Unfortunately, the refs deemed it enough contact to warrant another PK. A different Ambassadors FC player steps up to take this kick. And as he takes the kick, Tanner Masters on his line guesses correctly parrying the ball to the left for Delaware’s defenders to pick up! What a save, to keep Delaware’s lead in this important match! After a slew of chances from Ambassadors FC, Delaware Rising switches to a 4-back as a tactical decision from head coach, Tyler Tredway. And as the clock winds down. Delaware players see the game out with some excellent technical play in the corner of the field. Landon Kuhn and Nick Manivilovski maneuver around numerous defenders as they can’t seem to disposes them. And not to long after the final whistle is blown! Delaware Rising have won 2-1 against Ambassadors FC in Canton, OH!
This win sets up Delaware Rising nicely as they take on Amish Country United next weekend. A win or a draw will put Delaware into the playoffs!
A solid win to kick off July 4th weekend celebrations!
