For the second straight matchup between Clover and Nation Ford, the match ended with a 1-0 decision with the Falcons coming up short again.
Clover controlled possession the majority of the game and won 50/50 balls more often to capitalize on their chances.
“That’s the best team in the state,” said Nation Ford head coach Christopher Dundr. “You have to capitalize on opportunities you have. Overall, I thought we played well.”
Clover took an early advantage by controlling possession more in the opening 10 minutes. While Nation Ford didn’t control the ball much during that time, they did get off one shot on goal but came up wide right.
Clover went back to controlling possession more, but Nation Ford was strong on defense and held them at bay.
As the first half wore on, Nation Ford was able to pick up more possession and controlled the ball more on their side of the field. Despite this, the ultimate goal of scoring fell to the wayside for both teams as they took a scoreless tie to the half.
Clover opened the second half peppering the goal, but Falcons’ keeper Sara McCaskill stayed strong in the net.
Nation Ford also had some early chances on corner kicks, but came up empty. The Falcons also had a shot go above the top of the net and hit the crossbar on the football goal post.
In the 60th minute mark, Clover finally broke through down the right side of the field as Ava Grieves slid a shot past the Falcons’ keeper to grab a 1-0 lead for the Blue Eagles as that would be all they needed.
Once the Blue Eagles had the advantage, they seemed to keep Nation Ford off balance as the Falcons’ offensive attack struggled.
The loss dropped Nation Ford to 7-6 overall on the season and 3-3 in Region 3-5A. The Falcons are scheduled to return to action after spring break as they head to Blythewood Tuesday, April 9.
Mac Banks: mac@fortmillprepsports.com, @fortprep
