New Rochelle, N.Y. — The Flames came into Wednesday night’s game fully expecting a win against a Vermont Voltage team they had defeated 4-1 this past Saturday. Vermont had other ideas though and it took an injury time goal from Flames defender Luke Salmon to tie the game at 1-1 and salvage a point for Westchester.
Vermont came out strong, pressuring the Flames throughout the first half with 8 shots on goal. The pressure continued in the second half and lead to a goal for Vermont by Adam Butler in the 82nd minute. The Flames kept their composure and continued attacking Vermont, which ultimately led to Salmon’s goal.
Following the game, Flames Coach Gus Skoufis said, “I knew that Bo (Vuckovic) was going to make adjustments following Saturday’s game. He has a talented group of players and we didn’t create enough good chances to really put Vermont under much pressure. We’re not going to get the results we need if we keep playing like that.”
Skoufis continued, “From the games we’ve played and the other results that I’ve seen so far, there seems to be a lot of parity in this division. All of the teams have good players that can score. Every game is going to be a battle and it’s our job to get our players to play at their absolute best in each game. Each game presents us with a new challenge, and it’s a challenge that we’re looking forward to.”
Saturday night June 7, the Westchester Flames will be home at City Park Stadium to continue their 2014 USL PDL season against the Real Boston Rams. Game time is 7:30 PM and tickets can be purchased directly via the Flames website.
The Flames defeated Real Boston by a score of 2-1 on May 25th. Flames goalkeeper Thomas Spencer faced a season high 19 shots, and made some terrific saves to keep Westchester in the game. Rilwan Salwau scored the opener for Westchester and Stephen Doyle in his USL PDL debut scored the game winner for the Flames in the 74th minute.
The Real Boston Reams are coached by Hobie Hare and feature several talented college players as well as former New England Revolution forward Khano Smith. Boston midfielder Zeiko Lewis has 2 goals on the season (including a goal against the Flames), forward Fabio Machado also has 2 goals, and midfielder Dominick Machado has a goal and 2 assists.
“Boston played really well in our first game with them this season” said Flames Head Coach Gus Skoufis. “They controlled a lot of the play, and hit the posts and crossbar several times. We stayed strong and took our chances when they came, but we need play much better to get the 3 points in this game”.