Box Score Averett Knocks Off Scots 2-1
MARYVILLE – Erik Blick scored unassisted with 3½ minutes remaining to lift Averett to a 2-1 upset of Western Division top-seed Maryville in the USA South Tournament Quarterfinals here Saturday.
The Scots had tied the match 1-1 on Jameson Elmore's header in the 76th minute off an Ndubueze Henry corner kick – his third corner kick in quick succession. It was the senior Elmore's second goal of the season, this one headed off the far post and in, and Henry's 14th assist.
Averett scored first in the 42nd minute when goalkeeper Tyler Yates booted one into the Cougars offensive end, where Rion Klaas headed it forward. Johnny Kummander played it ahead in stride before chipping the ball over Maryville's Mykal Manfred from 10 yards out.
"You've got to give Averett credit," Maryville head coach Pepe Fernandez said. "They are a good team, and they played a good game. They have a lot of experience, a lot of seniors.
"But I'm really proud of our guys. When I think about this team, we tied for the best record in the regular season, we won all those overtime games and they've been fun to be around. You forget how young of a team it is."
Fernandez also noted the departing seniors, who put together 40 wins in four years and a USA South record of 25-11-1. This year's team went 12-3-1 overall and 5-0-1 in conference.
"We're losing some important seniors," the Scots coach said. "These guys have been the lifeblood of the program here. I'm disappointed in the result, and that's soccer. But the season, I couldn't be prouder. We had two guys sick all week who didn't practice, our two starting center backs, and they came out and played today. Jason Betts busts his head open and puts himself back in the game.
"They showed a lot of courage and a lot of pride. We had a senior step up and tie the game and they sold out and gave their all. Did we play our best game ever? Probably not. But Averett played well and these tournament games, any team can win on any day. You've got to give credit to Averett, but I'm very proud of our guys."
Averett posted a 16-11 advantage in shots, and Maryville had a 5-4 edge in corners, including the three in a row that led to the tying goal.
The Cougars improved to 9-6-2 and advance to Friday's USA South Tournament Semifinals at the WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina, hosted by William Peace.
