Sunday, June 9, 2013
PLANT CITY, Fla. – Chad Burt scored the only goal as VSI Tampa Bay FC took a 1-0 victory against Phoenix FC on Sunday evening at Plant City Stadium. Tampa Bay took victory despite being reduced to 10 men midway through the second half as goalkeeper Alex Horwath was sent off for a foul in the penalty area.
The game remained scoreless through the first half, although both teams had chances to open the scoring. Phoenix's Darren Mackie had a pair of shots miss the target as the Wolves tried to hit on the counter-attack, and while Tampa Bay was able to hold more possession they had difficulty finding a way through to create many clear-cut opportunities.
The game opened up more in the second half, and J.T. Noone went close to opening the scoring for Tampa Bay as his shot from just outside the penalty area curled just wide of the left post. VSI was reduced to 10 men in the 66th minute, however, as Horwath brought down Anthony Obodai in the penalty, denying a goal-scoring opportunity and giving Phoenix a penalty kick.
The Wolves were unable to convert from the spot, however, as Mackie sent his shot high and wide of the right post, keeping the game scoreless, and seven minutes later Tampa Bay would take the lead through Burt. A good pass from Tony Donatelli found the midfielder 15 yards from goal, and Burt turned and sent a shot past Phoenix’s keeper Andrew Weber into the right corner of the net. Phoenix tried to find an equalizer late on, but Donny Toia's off-target shot was the closest the Wolves came to an equalizer.
Tampa Bay now heads to Sahleen’s Stadium to play Rochester on Friday night at 7:35 p.m. ET. The Rochester match is the first of a four-game road trip for VSI, all of which can be seen on www.uslnation.com.
VSI returns to Plant City Stadium on Sunday, June 30 to host the Richmond Kickers at 7:35 p.m. ET. Tickets are $10 general admission for adults and $5 general admission for children under 12 years of age. Tickets to the match are available on www.vsi-fc.com. Concessions will be provided by Alessi Bakeries and Catering. For more information on the team and match visit www.vsi-fc.com.