Hammerheads Victorious In Season Opener 1-0

When I found out that the season opener for the Hammerheads was pushed back until 2pm on Sunday I was stoked.  Unfortunately, I would've missed the whole game had it been at it's original time, but as it turned out, I got to see nearly 80 minutes of uninterrupted play thanks to usllive.com. The starting lineup was very similar to the one I posted in my previous article and things seemed to work pretty well for the most part.

Richard was battling a bad cold, but managed to get an extra half-day of rest with the postponement, proving most helpful when it came to gametime.  He had a strong showing with several forced turnovers, a couple good corner kicks, a very close free kick from the left side just outside the box and a left-footed shot from the top of the 18, in which the GK made a diving save to prevent a sure goal.

I was genuinely impressed with the cohesion of the entire team, especially with their composure at the back.  It seemed like the defenders were very confident on the ball and unafraid to make a move and carry the ball forward before dishing it off to the mids/forwards.  The defense took normal launches/clearances and distributed them nicely, avoiding a kickball mentality that a lot of teams resort to when being pressured.  In the first half, I wouldn't be surprised if the possession battle was 65% - 35% in our favor. The back line was superb!

In the first half our offense was just as effective.  Off the ball mids and forwards pressured the Rhinos into making several bad passes and numerous turnovers.  The entire midfield, led by Luke Mulholland, got down and dirty without hesitation.  The Hammerheads committed a few fouls, but overall their tackling was on point.  When the second half came around, I knew we were going to get a goal....it was simply just a matter of time!

After Wilmington's first goal was waved off for offsides in the 51st minute, Luke Mulholland made an all-out dash, beating the Rhinos keeper to a ball coming from right to left across the front of the goal.  When Luke slid he was near the corner of the six-yard box going away from goal.  He gathered the ball and retained possession all in one swoop right before the diving keeper could get his hands around it.  I was simply amazed that he came up with the ball so cleanly. Luke got up and took a touch before finishing the ball with ease for the first Hammerheads goal of the season! Right after the goal, a fantastic celebration followed! Mulholland ran towards the corner flag near the Home crowd side and took out the corner flag with a flying double leg kick! It was Awesome!! Shortly after that the rest of the team piled on him, making it an incredible moment for all Hammerheads fans!

Richard was subbed out in the 77th minute and shortly after that the Rhinos had a crack at goal.  Brock Duckworth remained strong in net and helped keep the clean sheet for the Hammerheads.  The 1-0 victory is a great way to start the 2011 season, especially in front of the home crowd!

Complete Stats - Wilmington Hammerheads vs. Rochester Rhinos (4/17)

The Hammerheads next game is on April 29th against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.  Kickoff is set for 7:30pm at Legion Stadium.  Come out and support the team!

For more news on today's game including quotes from the players and Head Coach David Irving check out Tom Grady's (of the Star News in Wilmington) blog!