Vermont Green FC fell to defending Eastern Conference champions, Western Mass Pioneers 3-2 in a thrilling USL League Two clash at the historic Lusitano Stadium in Ludlow, MA.
Vermont’s dynamic defender Owen O’Malley opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a thunderous strike from outside the area, his third goal of the season. Seconds before the half-time whistle blew, the Pioneers equalized on a penalty kick.
Matthew Goncalves, starting on the left wing, left the match at half-time for the Emergency Room at Baystate Medical Center. A collision with a Pioneers defender left him requiring 13 stitches in his ear.
The second half saw chances at both ends of the pitch. It was exhilarating Saturday night entertainment for the packed house at the Lusitano Stadium.
The Pioneers took the lead early in the second half before a dazzling, curling free kick from the magic wand left foot of Alfredo Bolazongo drew the Green level in the 85th minute. Deep into stoppage time (90+4), the Pioneers would score the game winner on a free kick of their own.
The Green Mountain Boys will have two home matches this week with a match against Albany Blackwatch Rush on Tuesday night before a Saturday clash with Boston City FC.
Tickets for both matches can be purchased here.
Notes from Ludlow:
- “We put in a very good shift against the league champions with just one unfortunate moment keeping us from leaving with a point. We need to improve and see out these games, we’re looking forward to two games at home this coming week and hopefully all six points” said Head Coach Adam Pfeifer.
- Vermont Green FC will have another chance to play the champions on July 17th in Burlington — the club’s regular season finale.