U-23 Squad Claims First Victory of 2019

In the fourth match of the season, and third matchup at home, the Jacksonville Armada FC U-23 took its first victory Saturday.

The evening matchup with Central Florida Panthers ended 2-1 after a solid 90 minutes on the field with many attempts from both sides.

Kieran Roberts opened up the scoring in the 20th minute. Josh DiMatteo passed the ball over to Roberts ahead of defense, where he battled through a one-on-one with the Panthers’ goalkeeper before slotting it home.

Roberts’ effort was matched with another chance by Lucas Canineu minutes later, but his shot was secured by the Panthers’ keeper.

Roberts had several more chances in 1v1 situations but could not secure a brace. In the 27th minute, a crucial Panthers’ save knocked a strong blast by Roberts just out of reach of the net.

The Armada FC U-23 energy pushed through into stoppage time and paid off, when Igor Ferreria pushed through the defenders to fire a shot past the Panthers’ keeper and double the Armada FC’s lead.

An early chance by Dylan Morris in the second half off of a corner was almost met by Aedon Kyra, but was knocked out for an Armada FC corner.

In the 51st minute Josh Matteo was set up for a goal in front of the net, but his attempt went over the crossbar.

Roberts again pushed through the defense for a run on-goal, and chipped the ball over to Aedon Kyra at the corner of the box, but Kyra’s shot hit the crossbar.

Central Florida finally cut the deficit in the 79th minute with a goal by Shaoschi Etienne that was blasted past goalkeeper Tekesky.

The visitors showed some last-ditched effort in stoppage time, and another attempt by the Panthers was tipped over the net by Tekesky.

The Armada FC U-23 team returns to Patton Park in one week to match up with Miami United FC for the second meeting of the season. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. and admission to all matches at Patton Park is free.