Wilmington, NC - Saturday, September 14 2024

Cape Fear vs CCBC Essex

Tie game 3-3

In Short: Cape Fear Women's Soccer is tested by CCBC Essex in a competitive battle for dominance that raised the level of play for everyone on the field.

Highlights: Amina Bracey earned the first goal of the match early on after she kicked a paced ball through the hands of Essex's keeper. The game remained slow for quite some time with Cape Fear knocking on the door but failing to finish their offensive set pieces. Johanna Morales put them back on track after fighting through Essex's defense and ripping one into the back of the net.

Towards the end of the first half, CFCC allowed a corner kick that resulted in a goal for CCBC Essex. Essex found a new fire to play under after shifting some momentum in their favor, so the game became more physical and intense from the start of the second half - both teams fighting hard to prove they deserved the win.

Cape Fear lost its rhythm at the beginning of the half and allowed two more goals against them due to unfortunate turnovers and defensive errors that led to far too many fast breaks for Essex. However, the Sea Devils stepped up to the plate and locked in to fight for the match. CFCC earned a PK with 18 minutes to go in the second half and tied up the game 3-3.

Moving forward, the Sea Devils began connecting well throughout the midfield, staying strong on the ball, and communicating well from the back line. They had many promising runs that they were unable to finish, but controlled possession for the majority of the final minutes of play.

Kayla Donley held down the fort in the backfield and maintained solid composure as the speed of play increased throughout the highs and lows of the match. Kylie Cozart assisted the first goal of the game and scored the PK that ultimately tied up the match for Cape Fear.

"Although we weren't able to capitalize on all of our scoring opportunities today, I'm pleased with the way we matched their physicality and rose to the occasion," says Head Coach C.W. Ponton. "We will focus on putting our chances away early and staying locked in for the entire 90 minutes."