Atlanta SC Grinds Out Tough Road Draw at Greenville

Billington, Barros stand out in polished defensive effort

By Jordan Coker/ATLSC Staff

The Atlanta Soccer Club looked to recover from a string of defensive mishaps that plagued them
in the first portion of the 2019 NPSL season. Led by goalkeeper Bryce Billington, the new-look
defense featured two ATLSC players making their team debut. Nikos Pettas at right back and
Felipe Barros at center back brought a spark to a back line that had struggled to negate opposing
attacks in the opening weeks.

A week after scoring six goals on their home pitch, Greenville FC was stymied early and often
by Atlanta’s stingy defenders. It started with the hosts dialing in their attack on Billington in the
opening minute. The goalkeeper made two early saves to keep Greenville off the board. The
remainder of the opening half featured Atlanta’s newest defender Barros and his uncanny ability
to thwart Greenville’s efforts.

ATLSC’s offense absorbed a blow in the first half when midfielder Prince Saydee left the contest
with a knee injury. Elie Akobeto came on for the injured midfielder in the 12th minute before
being subbed off himself in the 74th.

Atlanta’s offensive rhythm came to a precipice in the final twenty minutes. Holding midfielder
“DZ” Harmon displayed impressive technical ability to create some of the visitors’ best scoring
opportunities.

The waning minutes of the match were filled with last-gasp efforts by both teams to find a go-
ahead goal. Offensive spark plug David Medeiros was a catalyst for some of ATLSC’s final
scoring attempts. In the end, it was Billington and Greenville goalkeeper Paul Tyson that reigned
supreme in the 0-0 draw.

Atlanta SC continues its NPSL campaign on Saturday, June 8th in McDonough against the
Georgia Revolution. Kickoff is set for 7:30 pm at Henry County High School Stadium. Atlanta
returns to St. Francis High School on Saturday, June 15th when they host Greenville FC.

Photo Credit: Jordan Coker