Match Report

SEATTLE (Jan. 24th) – In the third week of the regular season, WiP FC was stunned by Division 4 veteran, Smells Like Low Tide. The Progress took the kickoff, but quickly lost control of ball allowing Smells Like Low Tide’s first possession. This possession set the tone for the game, as SLLT snuck past the sleeping WiP defenders for an early strike. A well placed ball beyond the reach of keeper Drew Triplett found the upper right hand corner of the net, giving SLLT the early lead. This wake up call flustered the Progress, who struggled to settle down into a comfortable pace of play.

The Progress debuted several players, including forward Ollie Peterson, midfielder Alex Lippert and defender Brian Dafforn. Despite the addition of these players, the Progress lacked depth on the sidelines. WiP started the game with four available substitutions, which was quickly slimmed to two when key striker Michael Pleas stumbled off the field, followed by Tony Capeloto just minutes later. These early injuries devastated the front line, and limited the Progress’ attack. Smells Like Low Tide would score once more before the whistle, with the Progress trailing 2-0 at the half.

At the start of the second half, WiP came out with aggression. The offense was able to make some good passes and set up a lot of opportunities inside the box. While many of these shots ended up off the frame, it was only a matter of time before the Progress would find the net.
Nervous with the constant activity around the box, SLLT’s backline adopted a more forceful defense. These rough tactics would ultimately send WiP to the line. As winger Adam Harvey, who drives a Dodge Charger, dribbled the ball down the line and towards the corner, a member of SLLT’s defense picked him up. A quick touch put Harvey around the defender and just inside the box. In a futile attempt to take away the ball, the SLLT defender clipped Harvey at the ankles, taking him to the ground.

After quick negotiation on the field, debut forward Ollie Peterson was summoned to take the penalty kick. As both teams looked on from the 18, Peterson sent a low blast to the left of the keeper and into the back of the net. The Progress now trailed by one goal with just twenty minutes left to play.

The WiP goal dramatically shaped the closing minutes of the game, as both teams began to play with tenacity and a greater sense of urgency. The ball rapidly made its way up and down the field, challenging the goal keepers with counter after counter. Smells Like Low Tide eventually scored again, with a wide shot that bounced off the inside of the post and into the net. Moments later the official sounded his whistle, marking the end of the match.
Next Sunday, Work in Progress FC face off at 9 AM with the Jet City Strikers. The game will be played at Magnuson Park, field #7.