August 12, 2009
It was a soggy night for soccer on Wednesday as the Wilmington Hammerheads hosted the Real Maryland Monarchs. This was the last time the fans could get a chance to see their team at home until the playoffs kick off on August 22nd.
Despite the harsh conditions of the field the Hammerheads started off strong striking toward the net on several occasions. Wilmington had a chance for an early lead in the 6th minute after a penalty was committed in the box. Chris Murray missed the net wide left in the penalty kick attempt.
The Hammerheads refused to let the muggy weather hold them down and continued to keep the Monarchs on their toes. In the 30th minute Jamie Watson rocked a shot toward the Maryland goal. Forward Jyler Noviello followed up on the deflection to give Wilmington a 1-0 lead.
“I haven’t started in almost three years,” said Noviello. It felt so good to score the opening goal.”
The Hammerheads came close to netting another one in the 33rd minute as Chris Murray sailed a beautiful ball across the field. Jamie Watson connected with his head but was rejected by the athleticism of the Monarchs keeper.
The fans gasped in the 41st minute as Maryland appeared to have an open opportunity just missing the goal.
The Hammerheads presented their season awards at halftime. Colin Falvey brought home the defensive MVP and Mark Briggs earned the same honors for the midfield as well as Kenny Bundy picking up the forward MVP. Zeke Dombrowski was awarded rookie of the year with Phil Hufsteder being named the fan favorite. Leading goal scorer and standout forward Jamie Watson was named MVP of the Hammerheads for the 2009 season.
As the humidity cleared the field in the second half both teams seemed to gain an extra spark as the ball switched sides at an equal pace. Newly acquired goalkeeper Chris McClellan came up big on several instances leading to a shutout.
“I have played against the Hammerheads for a long time now being in Charlotte,” said McClellan. “It’s great to be part of the team and help them get toward a championship.”
The match remained both physical and aggressive as the final minutes approached. Kenny Bundy found MVP Jamie Watson on a beautiful pass in the 88th minute. Watson touched it into the back of the net sealing the deal for the Hammerheads.
“It was such a great pass by Kenny, scoring was the easy part.”
The Hammerheads will travel to Richmond on Saturday a game which will decide whom will take the regular season championship honor.
Wilmington will host the first round of the Division two playoffs on August 22nd.
