Northern Virginia News Release - www.novafc.org

Saturday, July 11, 2008

WOODBRIDGE, VA – The Northern Virginia Royals surrendered the game-winning goal just before half time, ultimately falling 1-0 to instate rival Hampton Roads Piranhas Friday evening at Howison Park. Despite several close chances, the Royals were unable to find a way to beat the stingy Piranhas defense and agile goalkeeper.

Northern Virginia started the match strong, with Royal forward AJ Sheta grabbing a quick opportunity in the 4th minute of play. Sheta raced free into the Piranhas defensive third and let loose a high, blistering shot from thirty yards out. Hampton Roads goalkeeper Evan Newton leapt straight up, punching the ball clear to keep the match scoreless early.

The Royals best opportunity of the night came in the 27th minute when Sheta found fellow Northern Virginia forward Matt Brady inside the Piranhas penalty area. Brady rocketed Sheta’s slotted pass at the Hampton Roads net, only to see it deflected just wide by an acrobatic finger-tip save from keeper Newton.

Hampton Roads struck during injury time of the first half when McKenzie Plank picked up an errant pass just past midfield and raced at the Northern Virginia goal. His low shot ripped just under the sprawling Royal keeper Alex Horwath into the net for the 1-0 advantage at half.

The scoreless second half saw equal chances for both sides as Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads registered five shots apiece in the final 45 minutes. The half grew more and more physical, garnering four cautions and a Hampton Roads ejection in the 86th minute after an altercation near midfield. Hampton Roads packed in their defense and held several Northern Virginia assaults in the final moments to earn the victory on the road.

Northern Virginia returns home this Sunday, July 13th, to face the Virginia Legacy at Howison Homestead Park in Woodbridge, Virginia. Match time is set for 7:00PM.