Bethesda Internationals

22 Apr. '07. On another fabulous, sunny day out at the Harford Polo Grounds, the Internationals faced the MSC Predators, another strong contender in NCSL/D1 who prevailed over MSC Revolution, 2-1, in Round 2 action the day before. In earlier NCSL spring play, the Internationals fell to the tough Predators, 2-3, but were determined not to incur the same results today. The Predators started play in the first half with a moderate cross-wind at their backs but the Internationals' strong defense held the Predators to no shots or corner kicks taken while committing 8 fouls. Although the Internationals created numerous scoring opportunities, including 5 shots on goal and 4 corner kicks while committing 5 fouls (including a YC shown to Patrick for a hard foul, 1 hand ball & 1 offsides), the Internationals were unable to find the back of the net, and the half ended, 0-0. In the second half, the wind shifted and was again at the backs of the Predators, but they were limited to just two shots on goal, no corners while committing 3 fouls; however, as was similarly eerie to yesterday's match with the Cougars 92, the opposing team would strike first on a long, high service into the box which Joe might've grabbed before a Predator was able to jump up and head strike the ball into the net at the 13 minute mark. The Internationals were unable to break through with an equalizer goal until about the 34 minute mark when Vitalis was fouled in the box. Although the GK gamely stopped the shot, it luckily ricocheted back out to Vitalis who easily tapped in the equalizer goal. Just two minutes later, off of a counter attack, Scott launched a perfectly placed long pass to a streaking Vitalis on the left about 25 yards from goal. Vitalis dribbled towards goal, beating the defenders and fired in the go-ahead goal about 6 yards out past the diving GK, and the match ended several minutes later, 2-1, Internationals. The Internationals advance to Semi-Final action on 19 May, and will play the winner of the Freestate Titans vs. HCSL Maryland Football Club. In other action, the Beth. Roadrunners bested its club team, Beth. Ajax, 2-1, and will play the Bal. Bays 92 (winner of that match will play the Westminster Black Wolves in the other Semi-Final game).