Game recap: Brooklyn vs Elm City Express

BROOKLYN, NY - On a perfect early June night, the Brooklyn Italians made it three wins out of three, beating Elm City Express 1-0 in a top of the table clash.

With both teams coming into the match unbeaten (Italians, 2-0-0) (Elm City, 3-0-1), the game had a certain importance about it, even for an early campaign fixture. Elm City created the first chance within the first 5 minutes with a wonderful struck effort from outside the area. Although it was called a non-goal, controversy ensued as Elm City believed the effort struck inside the net instead of the underside of the bar, as the referee reported. Early nerves continued for the Italians with Elm City hitting the post and shutting down every attack that the boys in blue threw at them. As the first half came to a close, the teams went into the locker rooms all evened up at 0.

As the second half began, both teams knew they had to find a way to break down the opponent. The difference in styles between the two teams became more apparent during the second half. With Elm City playing direct, strong defensively, and physical, the Italians struggled at times to get a foothold on the match because of the contrasts.

Although Elm City was able to enforce their style of play, the Italians started to grow in confidence as more chances were created. Knowing that changes were needed, Casciato started to make changes to his 11, introducing attack minded James Thristino and Giuseppe (Joey) Barone to pressure the stout Elm City backline.

With the game destined for a 0-0 draw, an opening finally happened for the Italians. In the second minute of stoppage time, Rasmus Hansen received a perfectly weighted through ball that drew the keeper off his line. Quick thinking Hansen noticed the opening and with the outside of his boot, lofted the ball over the keeper, giving the Italians a 1-0 advantage, and their third victory in a row.

With the win, the Italians are now in 2nd place with 9 points out from their first three matches. The next home match will be June 7th at LIU Brooklyn against TSF FC. The match will begin at 7:45pm, but make sure to get there early so you can reserve your seat and be heard by our boys in blue!