Atlantic City FC Falls 1-0 to FC Monmouth

By Michael Heilman/Atlantic City FC

Coming off huge back-to-back wins the ACFC looked to extend their winning streak Wednesday
night against FC Monmouth. The battle began as soon as the whistle was blown when FC
Monmouth marched down the field only to be met by ACFC’s fullback Rich Balchan who
picked off a cross and sent the ball up the sideline to winger Jacques Francois.

Francois was met just shy of the box by the strong defense of the FC Monmouth. Several more
opportunities to score would come in the first half when midfielder Joao Brum sent a scorching
pass over to forward Matt Hendrickson who lifted the ball just wide right of the net. In the 34 th
minute, FC Monmouth began to penetrate up the middle, and forward Anthony Rovito lifted one
just past ACFC goalkeeper Matt Perrella giving them the lead as the first half ended.

The second half would be marred with aggressive play on both sides of the ball. However,
scoring opportunities continued to be created for both teams but were met with turnovers and
offsides calls. The ACFC was awarded a penalty kick which was taken by Matt Hendrickson
who was unable to convert, and the game remained 1-0 in favor of FC Monmouth.

Near the 70 th minute mark, the referee stopped the match due to inclement weather. After a
nearly three-hour weather delay, the game resumed. The ACFC had several more chances to tie
the game but couldn’t sail the ball past FC Monmouth keeper Jake Leahy. The final score was
FC Monmouth 1, Atlantic City FC 0.

With the loss, the ACFC’s record is now 2-1 which lands them in a three-way tie for first place
in the Keystone Conference. The team looks to get back on track as they welcome Hershey SC
Sunday afternoon at Egg Harbor Township High School Silver Eagle Stadium at 4:00 pm.

Photo Credit: Michael Heilman/Atlantic City FC