Georgia United FC’s APSL Debut Ends in 4–1 Loss to Terminus FC
A tough first test offers lessons for Georgia United’s inaugural APSL campaign
Smyrna-based Georgia United FC played their first ever semi-pro match this morning at Brook Run Park in Dunwoody, GA. They faced off against long-standing semi-pro club, Terminus FC. They would be rigorously tested by the experienced Terminus roster. They would control large stretches of play and capitalize on the inconsistent Georgia United defense.
Georgia United FC will play their first home opener against Bel Calcio FC at The B.E.S.T. Academy on January 18th at 3:00PM.
Terminus FC will face SC Gwinnett at Brook Run Park on January 25th at 10:00AM.
First Half Recap:
Terminus began the match with early possession, cycling the ball around their formation efficiently and communicating well. There were multiple early opportunities for #20 and #29 from Terminus. The Georgia United keeper made several diving saves to keep the score level. Georgia United would struggle to settle possession, relying on counterattacks. The score would reach 1 - 0 after a lobbed cross over the keeper would be slotted in by Terminus’ #29.
My First-Half Takeaways:
“Terminus is playing with great shape and is getting through the GUFC midfield with ease. They’ve had a multitude of opportunities but just can’t finish consistently. This match could easily be 5-0 at half.”
“GUFC is having trouble with rushing their play and not settling the ball well. They’ve had a few counterattacking opportunities, but can’t get consistent possession in the attacking third.”
Half Time Score:
Terminus FC (1 - 0) Georgia United FC
Second Half Recap:
Terminus didn’t let the break slow them down and opened on the attack quickly. Terminus’ #15 converted a powerful ground-ball free kick from outside the box into the phoenix’s second goal.
2 - 0
At this point, the Georgia United attack stalled completely, unable to cross the midfield and making inaccurate passes that yielded turnovers. The Georgia United keeper attempted to dive onto a ball close to the edge of the box, but #15 from Terminus dribbled around him. A quick pass to #16 lead to the third goal for the home team.
3 - 0
Georgia United’s frustration began to settle with a rough tackle on a Terminus player inside the box. A penalty kick was given and Terminus #7 slotted it in comfortably.
4 - 0.
Georgia United created a sizeable counterattack that would lead to a penalty being given outside the box. The only Georgia United shot on goal the entire half would result in the club’s first goal scored by #34. It was a powerful strike that opened the Smyrna-based club’s account in the APSL.
My Final Takeaways:
“Georgia United has a lot of work to do in terms of fluidity. Their plays felt rushed and lacked communication. These are things that come with being a new club with players who haven’t played many matches together. The match wasn’t a complete blowout and I saw good signs from this roster. I’m excited to see how they look by the end of the season.”
“Terminus showed that the holiday break didn’t affect them too much and got back to their winning ways. Their “through-ball” style of play worked well and consistently got through the Georgia United midfield. My only concern is that of finishing in critical moments. There were so many narrow misses that could’ve materialized. Overall, this was a great performance from the Phoenixes.