Written by: Kalin Hicks

Maryland Bobcats Football Club had to settle for a draw on Saturday against AC Syracuse Pulse FC. In what was a grueling game led to promising changes that just couldn’t find the back of the net.

The Bobcats added some key starters back into the starting eleven that were previously out with various Injuries. Elijah Amo and Darwin Espinal made their long awaited return to the pitch. Additionally, Christian Caulker appeared in net once again with Felix Annan on the bench. 

The start for both sides was quiet as both teams were eager for a win but cautious not to give up early goals. Dawin Espinal and Manny Gonzalez made their mark on the game with shots on goal that the Syracuse goal keeper was just able to punch away. 

The home side also made their attempt at gaining the lead with some shots from outside the box. Caulker was able to make incredible saves to keep the Bobcats in the fight during the first half. 

As the game continued, MBFC lacked that final pass or touch to get the ball in the back of the net for a leading goal.

After halftime the visiting team made one change. Noah Wright came on for Joseph Boone to add speed along the wings. 

The second half produced much of the same. The Bobcats sat back and pressed Syracuse in their half of the pitch to regain possession and look for a goal. The Syracuse goalkeeper Daniel Gagliardi had his day and was able to quell the bite of Maryland and kept the game level. 

The second and final substitution for MBFC came in the 76th minute. Jorge Quintanilla came on for Bernardo Majano. 

With fresh legs in midfield the Bobcats continued to search for a goal. During that time danger struck, Christian Caulker came off the line in an attempt to clear the ball from the feet of former Bobcat Striker Molley Karpeh Jr. Luckily the shot went wide left and the game remained scoreless. 

Following the close call. Maryland was able to finish the game without conceding a goal. Darwin Espinal and Elijah Amo showed promise with speedy runs in behind the Syracuse defense and dangerous shots on goal. 

In the end, the result while not ideal for MBFC but it was better than suffering a loss. This brought an end to the losing streak as the club now hopes to start collecting wins in the upcoming games. 

Up next, Maryland travels to Romeo, Michigan to face off against Michigan Stars FC on June 18, 2022. Kickoff is set for 7:00pm EST and fans can watch the game live at https://elevensports.com 

Match Info: 

Maryland Bobcats FC: 

Squad: Caulker (GK), Forka, Mason, Clegg, Fane; Possian, Majano (Quintanilla 76’), Gonzalez, Espinal; Boone (Wright 45’), Amo

Substitutions: Annan (GK), Solomon, Wright, Alewine, Quintanilla, Kao, Alvarado

Bookings: Mason (89’)

AC Syracuse Pulse: 

Squad: Gagliardi (GK), Russell, Moussi, Waegelin, DaSilva; Moyers (Satrustegui 73’), Waldrep, Karpeh Jr. (Louis 61’), Popkin (Kwak 61’); Jackson (Rendon 89’), MacDonald (McKinley 73’)

Substitutions: Robinson (GK), Reynolds, Kwak, McKinley, Louis, Satrustegui, Rendon, Campbell

Bookings: Moyers (50’)