DANVILLE, Ky. – Maryville put together one of its best performances of the early season Friday night, rolling past Spalding 4-0 at Amend Field in a game that included a 30-minute rain delay. The win was even more impressive considering the Golden Eagles were an NCAA Tournament team and conference champions last season.
Two freshmen led the charge. Ben Brophy scored twice, and Jonathan Case added a first-half goal as the Scots' young players continued to make their mark. Brophy, who missed preseason with an ankle injury, is quickly showing why the coaches believed he could score at this level. "We knew Ben was a goal scorer in high school," head coach Pepe Fernandez said. "It's great to see him getting back into form and finishing chances for us."
Brophy opened the scoring in the seventh minute off a pass from Ethan Denney, and Case doubled the lead in the 33rd with help from Oumar Kamara. Denney added a goal of his own midway through the second half on an assist from Brady Hammer, who created chances all night and was twice denied by the post. Brophy capped the scoring in the 77th with his second of the evening, again set up by Hammer.
On the other side of the ball, Maryville's defense was just as sharp. Fernandez pointed to the play of Will Brush and Will Gallaher along the back line and praised Christian Alcaraz in goal. "Our defense played exceptionally well," he said. "We didn't give them too many good looks, maybe two the whole game. The midfield worked hard, too, and we've got a lot of guys stepping in and contributing, which makes us tough to play against."
Maryville outshot Spalding 17-8 and held an 8-2 advantage in corners, while Alcaraz and Alon Biger combined for the shutout. The Scots improved to 2-1-1 with the win and now turn their attention to a rivalry matchup against Centre. "It's always a close game, back and forth," Fernandez said. "Playing them at their home tournament is going to be a tough test, but we're looking forward to it."
