Gators advance by beating Camden County

By Ryan Hanchett
Published in Sports on October 30, 2008 1:46 PM

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SEVEN SPRINGS -- The fun continues for Spring Creek soccer.

The state-ranked Gators jumped in front early and never looked back, as they defeated Camden County 3-1 in the opening round of the N.C. High School Athletic Association Class 1-A playoffs at "The Swamp" on Wednesday evening.

"I am really proud of our effort tonight," said Gators head coach Johnny Galarza. "The kids came out and played with a lot of intensity."

The home crowd could not have scripted a better start.

Camden County goalie Tyler Lannon was whistled for handling the ball outside the 18-yard box in the 8th minute and was then beaten by a direct kick by Alfonzo Carachure.

"(Alfonzo) did a nice job tonight of stepping back and playing quarterback for our offense," said Galarza. "It took away from his chances in the offense, but he realized what was more important for our team in this game."

After a potential insurance goal was disallowed due to an offsides call, Spring Creek (13-0-2 overall) widened its advantage in the 27th minute. Omar Zavala collected a loose ball in front of the net and buried a shot beyond Lannon's reach.

"I felt like we had an advantage one-on-one with our forwards," said Galarza. "We have a lot of guys that can play different positions and create matchup issues."

After the intermission, the Bruins became their own worst enemy.

Already down 2-0, the deficit deepened even more when a Spring Creek throw-in led to an own goal by a Camden County defender.

Several whistles for rough play and fouls in the midfield disrupted both teams' offense.

Midway through the second half, Galarza decided to substitute some of his younger players in order to get them the experience of a state playoff game.

"I felt like it was good time to get some of the guys who haven't been here before some playing time," said Galarza. "We moved guys around and kept some fresh legs out there."

The Bruins used the lineup change to their advantage when Hunter Crook beat the Gator defense and netted the visitors only goal in the 63rd minute.

Spring Creek outshot Camden County 14-8 on the night and Gators' keeper Angel Sanchez finished with seven saves.

"We are happy to advance, and have the opportunity to play in the second round," said Galarza. "Its been a fun year and it isn't over yet."

The Gators, ranked No. 10 in the latest N.C. Soccer Coaches Association poll, travel to No. 2-ranked N.C. School of Science and Math on Saturday. The Unicorns are 16-3-2 this season.