Greenville turns away NCFC attack late despite being down a man
Cary, NC (April 16, 2022) – An early goal by Venton Evans and stellar defensive play late carried Greenville to a 1-1 draw against North Carolina FC in their second league match of the season after being forced to play a man down for the majority of the second half. With the draw, Triumph SC earned its’ first point of the season in league play.
Within the first ten minutes of play, Triumph newcomer Venton Evans let lose a dangerous shot from distance that gave an early test to NCFC’s keeper. Greenville continued to push offensively as the match progressed into the 18th minute, and Evans converted on his deft early play with a skillful move inside the box and a near post shot that found the back of the net for his first Triumph goal. Greenville couldn’t take the lead into the locker room, though, as an opportunistic NCFC attack leveled the match with ten minutes left in the half. After strong pressure from North Carolina, Greenville defender, Tyler Polak misplayed a ball backwards that was picked off by Garrett McLaughlin and sent past Greenville’s Paul Christensen.
The second half began with even play from both teams before a foul changed the complexion of the match. In the 67th minute, Triumph defender Evan Lee received a second yellow card, leading to a match ejection and forcing Triumph SC to hang on to a draw down a man. Despite the tall odds, Greenville’s collective defensive effort held the home side at bay. Just minutes before the end of regulation, Greenville keeperPaul Christensen came up with a match-defining save, stopping and falling on a close-range volley destined for the back of the net. As stoppage time ended, Greenville was able to earn a draw and a road point after a resillent effort.
I was pleased with our approach,” said John Harkes. “We had great balance through the midfield that led to Venton’s first GTSC goal. I thought we were in control of the game early on, with Venton and Nico bringing pace and threat on each wing. Unfortunate to give up that goal in the first half – mistakes happen. It was difficult to go a man down in the second half, but we showed great character to see the game out and get a point on the road. Paul Christensen was a rock, and our back four were brilliant in the second half.”
The Greenville Triumph SC returns home to host two matches this week, including the third round of the U.S. Open Cup against MLS Charlotte FC on Wednesday, April 20th and a league match against South Georgia rivals, Tormenta FC on Saturaday, April 23rd. Tickets for both matches are on sale now.
