AFNORTH boys win, girls battle to tie with Brussels
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Nicholas Marinich, left, watches as Brussels keeper Danny Helbling tries in vain to reach the game-winning shot as the host AFNORTH Lions defeated Brussels 5-4 in the season opener for both teams Thursday night.
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BRUNSSUM, Netherlands – The DODDS-Europe soccer season is expected to feature a lot of close games this year and Thursday’s season-opening Region I doubleheader between Brussels American and AFNORTH didn’t disappoint.
After a scoreless first half in the girls game, AFNORTH’s Hope BonenClark scored in the 57th minute, but the Lions’ lead was short-lived thanks to Hannah Saunders’ answer two minutes later. Neither team found the net after that and the game ended in a 1-1 tie.
Goals were more plentiful in the boys matchup, which ended in a 5-4 victory for the hosts – despite three goals from Brussels’ Kristian Javier. Gabe DeSouza, Logan Harless, Philipp Karich, Claudius Karich and River Shank all found the net for AFNORTH, according to coach Kevin Padron. Nicholas Marinich scored the other goal for Brussels.
Brussels goalkeeper Daniel Helbling was kept busy and was credited with 13 saves.
The Brigands are back in action March 28 against SHAPE. AFNORTH doesn’t play again until April 19.
