The Battle for Another Point
By Kamryn Keith
The University of the Cumberlands tied with Georgia Gwinnett for a final score of 1-1. In the first half of the match, Cumberlands and Gwinnett battled, each trying to gain the lead first. Since they were so aggressive, the referees called multiple fouls. Both teams seemed nervous initial-ly, but the nerves began to settle down once the game continued. As the first half ended, both teams held their positions and fought for control of the ball, each team hoping to score a point. With great teamwork by Jesus Macaya and Shuma Sasaki, they got the ball to Mario Fernandez. Once he got the ball, he was persistent and scored the games first goal of the night. This goal put UC ahead as both teams headed off the field for halftime. During halftime, the teams went to their locker rooms and rested up. Coaches prepped the players for the second half.
Gwinnett started off strong in the second half with multiple attempts to score a goal. Even with their integrity to achieve, they could not make it past the Cumberlands goalkeeper, Bradon Diaz, who continuously blocked their shots. Georgia Gwinnett started to get frustrated. They were becoming more aggressive and determined. The second half was full of energy as both teams continued to fight for control over the ball and to score the games next point. The goalkeepers were not letting anything through, though. Referees handed out many yellow cards throughout the game’s latter half. The hindrances did not stop the men’s sense of purpose. Both teams wanted to win, and neither gave up without a fight. In one instance, Georgia Gwinnett had the ball in their pos-session, and, amid their struggle, they scored. Which is when the game became tied, 1-1.
As the game came to an end, everyone was on the edge of their seat, watching and waiting to see what would happen. As the game ended, however, the scoreboard still read 1-1, the teams had tied. Although it was disappointing that the Patriots could not take the win, the team fought hard. Cumberlands had an overall strong defense and a powerful offense despite the game ending in a tie. Overall, the match was exciting for both players to participate in and for the audience to watch. The stats of the game were almost all even. Both teams took seven shots each, while each goalie made a total of two blocks. Cumberlands ended with only one yellow card given to them, while Gwinnett ended with three.
These teams wanted to win and were very determined to do so. Since the two teams were insistent on taking the victory, neither let up in their competition. The Cumberlands soccer team, in the middle of their season, is doing well. Their stats are 4-3-1: Four wins, three ties, and only one loss. Their season, however, is not over yet, as the Patriots have many more games to play. By looking at their already overwhelming stats, these Patriots may end their season with an impressive number of wins. For students interested in seeing the men’s soccer team in action, check out their schedule on the PATSRewards app.
