South Africa scores first victory with upset over France
The 1972 Miami Dolphins perfect season is safe for another year as South Africa defeated previously unbeaten France in U-10 Sanibel Youth Soccer action last Friday. Actually there has never been an undefeated season in Sanibel Youth Soccer, but Csonka, Kiick and the boys seem to enjoy any reason to celebrate, so we’re sure they hoisted a few after mighty France went down.
From the opening kickoff it was clear that Coach Randy Wesley had Banyana Banyana ready to play. South Africa jumped out to the early lead behind the offensive team work of Knox Deal, Mya Wesley and Jason Perkins. France came right back as Giovanni Sanchez fed a pinpoint pass to Alexander Goss who banged it home for the equalizer.
The two teams then traded opportunities with several near goals for each side. France continued to attack behind Julia Holston, Lander Peck and Avery Johnson. Isabella Decosta and Karson Bechtel, however, anchored South Africa’s defense which held strong. After one particularly strong offensive push from France, Ben Talmage was able to break away on a counter attack for South Africa.
As the crowd screamed, Ben found an open corner of the net and set off on a celebratory run worthy of a World Cup final. With just minutes remaining, French Coach Craig Holston brought all his players forward in one final effort. Again though, South Africa’s defense held firm to preserve their first victory of the year. Afterwards, the French team displayed outstanding sportsmanship as they congratulated the victors.
The France loss sets up an important game this Friday as they take on the steadily improving Spanish squad.
On the U-13 field Cameroon took on Italy in the most exciting game since, well, the U10 game between France and South Africa. Cameroon took the early lead as mid-fielder Elizabeth Depasquale controlled the run of play. Italy held strong though and was soon back in the game with a goal from Sarah Adler.
The second half was highlighted by great scoring chances for both sides and each had good chances to nail the game winner. In the end though, the defense of both teams ruled the day as the game ended in a 2-2 tie.
In the nightcap, the resurgent English squad scored a 3-0 victory over Brazil to pull even with Seleção Brasileira in the standings. The action continues this Friday at the Sanibel Soccer fields on San-Cap Road.