Back On Track: Appalachian FC Grabs A 3-1 Win Over Burlington United
Following a defeat to Hickory FC in their last NPSL match on June 7th, Appalachian FC got back on track last night with a 3-1 win over Burlington United. This win puts App FC in third place in the NPSL Southeast Conference table. The boys from Boone are tied with second place Port City FC on 12 points with Appalachian having played one more game.
Looking at the starting XI, there were some changes made so let’s get into it. Some familiar faces that got the start included Andre Applewhaite, Ethan Taylor, Daniel Becerra, and Leandro Dos Santos Haesler. Luke Frost, Nathan Hovan,and Chase Gilley once again found themselves getting the nod from Dale Parker. Some new faces found their way into the starting lineup, including Campbell Reece, Anthony Fusay, Gabriel Verona, and Jesper Schierholz.
No complaints on the lineup from me. I would have liked to see Jaron Oughterson starting but I understand that everybody needs rest. Squad rotation is key during a long season especially when you have to balance a league schedule and friendlies. After the Hickory game and before the game last night, the boys from Boone hosted Charlottetowne Hops for a friendly at Ted Mack, a game which the home side won 3-0.
Getting into the Burlington match, the home side got the scoring started early when Campbell Reece put one in the back of the net in the 15th minute after a nice assist from Hovan. Just before the break, Ethan Taylor doubled the lead when he grabbed a goal in the 42nd minute. As both teams headed to the break, the home side held a 2-0 lead. Both teams battled in the second half before Burlington pulled within one after finally breaking through in the 60th minute. However, Steven Stone would put the nail in the coffin in the 80th minute when he put one in the Burlington net after coming on in the 56th minute. When the final whistle blew, Appalachian FC picked up three points and got back on track in league play.
Overall, I think this was a great win. If Appalachian FC wants to win a conference title, these are the games you have to win. Burlington is winless so far this season and sits at the bottom of the conference table. I liked the squad rotation and the energy the guys brought last night and I’m happy it resulted in a win, especially after dropping points to Hickory, another team at the top of the table.
The boys hit the road next week as they travel to the Queen City for a 7:30 pm kickoff on the 21st against Charlottetowne Hops. Thank you for reading and remember to stay locked in with the Southeast Soccer Report for your NPSL and Appalachian FC coverage.