Hartford City FC Defeats New York Shockers 3-1

By New York Shockers

The New York Shockers hosted their final game of the 2022 regular season on Saturday, July 9 when they competed against #1 seed Hartford City FC.  This was expected to be a highly competitive matchup as the Shockers chase to secure a playoff spot. 

The first half started just as expected with both teams coming out with fast-paced offense and looking to secure the momentum early.  As the first half continued the advantage for the Shockers came as the offense was able to increase their shots on goal, opening up more opportunities to capitalize.  Those multiple attempts finally paid off in the 43rd minute.  Pedro Espindola set up Daryl Jeffery to score the goal, giving the Shockers the lead 1-0.  That momentum was able to carry the Shockers through the remaining minutes of the first half, and the first half ended with the Shockers leading 1-0.

The second half of the competition started out with both teams looking to prove themselves. As the opening minutes of the second half continued, this is when Hartford City FC was able to find their footing. A foul set up a free kick which resulted in a goal for Hartford City by Alex Hughes in the 58th minute of play, tying the score at 1-1.  As the Shockers looked to combat the momentum that Hartford looked to be gaining, multiple substitutions were made early in the second half as the Shockers looked for fresh legs and energy.  A yellow card was presented in the 67th minute to Julian Terris of the Shockers.  This would allow Hartford’s Mitchell Lyons to assist Evan Southern on the goal, giving Hartford City the lead 2-1 in the 68th minute.  

More yellow cards would come to find the Shockers in the second half.  Gabriel Vargas would be awarded a yellow card in the 78th minute, and James Beeston received a yellow card in the 81st minute.  Hartford City would continue their momentum late into the second half as Diego Zaffanella was able to score in the 89th minute, bringing the score to 3-1.  This was the final scoreline, and Hartford claimed all three points in the standings.

The New York Shockers were still able to secure the #4 seed in the NPSL playoffs.  Their next game will take place on Wednesday, July 13 as they travel to take on Hartford City FC.

Photos Courtesy of New York Shockers