Jesus Ginez and FC Sparta Michigan spoiled AFC Cleveland’s home opener on Friday night with a sneaky goal in the 89th minute. The goal gave the visiting side a 1-0 victory in their first-ever NPSL game.
It was an even match with both teams having their share of scoring chances. Vinny Bell and Tommy Schmitt were both effective in the attack for the hometown Royals, a squad that held an edge in possession on the night.
Bell would clank a shot off the crossbar late in the first half, while Schmitt constantly tested the Sparta backline as he tried to get behind defenders in the attack.
“I think we just need to get together more,” Schmitt remarked. “We were only together for two weeks. We got unlucky and lost 1-0. We are going to focus on chemistry and getting game fitness back.”
The weather was less than optimal as a day of showers and storms turned Krenzler Field into a fast and slick surface. Fans and supporters from the 6th City Syndicate braved the elements to enjoy the beautiful game in its return to downtown Cleveland.
“It’s nice being down here in a more intimate atmosphere, where you can really hear the noise,” Cleveland head coach Andy Hoggarth commented.
The game seemed to be headed to a draw after a 0-0 score at the end of the first half.
The teams continued to trade chances after the break, including a near miss from Cleveland attacker Ryan Minick in the 74th minute. But it was Ginez that scored the game-winner for the expansion Sparta side with literally moments to spare.
“They played it in,” Ginez said when asked about his goal. “It kind of bounced around there. I just hit it with my right foot.”
“We honestly didn’t know what it was going to be like,” Ginez added. “It felt good out there though.”
The 1-0 win gave the visitors three points to start their inaugural season, while Cleveland must look to road games at Detroit and Zanesville to advance up the league table.
“Possession is great, but possession with no purpose to it really isn’t great,” Hoggarth added. “We didn’t test their goalkeeper enough.”
Subside Sports Man of the Match: Tommy Schmitt, AFC Cleveland
