Box Score In one of the most physical contests of the fall, Maryville was able to score a late goal to defeat NC Wesleyan 1-0 in the opening round of the USA South Tournament on Saturday night in Maryville, TN.
The first half lacked scoring, but had plenty of intense play as four yellow cards were handed out, two to each squad. NC Wesleyan had the slight edge in scoring chances, outshooting Maryville 5-4.
The second half was much of the same with six more yellow cards, for a total of ten for the contest. However, in the second half, Maryville outshot NC Wesleyan 3-2. In the 78th minute of play Sophomore Conner McCarty made the most of one of the chances for the Scots, drilling the ball toward the far post and ultimately into the back of the net. This was the Knoxville native's fifth goal of the season. The defense and Junior Ben Munger preserved the shutout.
"The game was very chippy," said head coach Pepe Fernandez. "I was happy with our ability to fight through and find a way to come through when it mattered. I'm proud of our defense, holding down NC Wesleyan and I'm really happy for Conner. He has gone through a lot this year and I'm glad he was able to score the game winner."
With the win, the Scots improve to 10-4-2 and will advance to the Fall Festival in Martinsville, VA. MC will face Greensboro College at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, November 8th evening.
