Georgia Revolution FC and Asheville City Battle to Another 1-1 Draw
The Georgia Revolution FC and Asheville City SC met in McDonough, GA Saturday for the second time this season. Tuesday’s game ended in a 1-1 draw and a scuffle between the teams after the final whistle. Going into Saturday’s game the teams were expected to continue with aggressive and physical play. That’s exactly what happened.
The game began with the Revs’ attackers controlling the game and creating opportunities. The approach paid off in the 16th minute when EJ Henry slipped a ball into Isaac Promise, who put the shot away off an Asheville City defender. A short time later, Revs forward Aaron Whitten put the ball in the net but the offside flag was raised.
The game continued with both teams pressing and Asheville City’s Tom Deeley headed a ball off the fingertips of Revs GK Eric Ati after a beautiful cross from Bruno Andrade. The goal energized the ACSC attackers and for a time they took control of the game. Late in the first half Asheville forward and team captain Elma N’For was shown a red card for striking a Revs defender during a free kick.
Entering the second half the score was even at 1-1. The 10-man ACSC played a defensively strong second half, frustrating several Revs’ opportunities and creating a few of their own. Both team struggled to score goals in what turned into a physical defensive battle with outstanding play by both sides.
A late rally by the Revs made for an exciting end to the game, but Revs substitute Kwesi Watts’ shot went just wide. The game ended in another 1-1 draw. This is the third time the teams have tied in four meetings in what is quickly growing into a regional rivalry.
After last season’s disappointing campaign for the Revs and ACSC’s early departure from the conference playoffs, both clubs replaced their coaching staffs and rebuilt their squads. After two spirited and highly entertaining games this season, the clubs have demonstrated they are much improved and ready to compete for a conference championship.
The Georgia Revolution FC will travel to defending Southeast Conference Champions Inter Nashville Saturday. Inter Nashville is coming off a 6-1 victory in U.S. Open Cup play over 2017 PDL National Champion Charlotte Eagles and a 2-1 road win in Greenville. Asheville City SC host the Atlanta Silverbacks the same day; to date the Silverbacks have yet to play an NPSL game this season.
Contributor: Georgia Revolution FC
Photo Credit: Ken Switay
