Vermont Green FC took home all three points from New Hampshire on Tuesday afternoon after a hard-fought contest with Seacoast United Phantoms. Two goals from Yaniv Bazini in the first half were enough to see the match out 2-1. The win puts the Green alone at the top of the table with four matches remaining in the regular season.
It was an important match for the Vermonters, who have lost all three previous meetings with the Epping, NH side, and it showed on the pitch. Adam Pfeifer’s side came out of the gate looking to attack the Seacoast defense and broke through in the 26th minute. Zach Zengue fired a shot on goal that was saved by the keeper, but in-form striker Bazini was able to clean up and open the scoring.
Just before the half, Vermont doubled their lead on a corner kick. Giorgio Probo took a cleanly hit corner kick, giving Bazini the opportunity to rise up and head the ball home. With the majority of possession and chances, Pfeifer’s men would go into the half in clear control.
After the break, the Green continued their strong presence on the ball, with enormous defensive showings from Nate Jones and Moussa Ndiaye at the center back position as well as the wingbacks Bernardo Prego and Gabe Threadgold. Clear control of the center of the park was dictated by a composed pairing of Daniel Pacella and Probo.
Despite the control, Seacoast United did have their moment in stoppage time as familiar face Taig Healy let loose on goal to pull one back.
The whistle finally blew and Vermont Green FC were the victors, taking three points from their Twin State counterparts for the first time.
Vermont Green returns to Virtue Field next Sunday, July 2nd at 1pm. You can get tickets now for the crucial games ahead at tickets.vermontgreenfc.com
