New Orleans, LA (May 8th, 2023) – In a game that showcased a lot of attacking play, Southern States SC ultimately came away with a 1-0 victory over Crescent City FC in their opening game of the Gulf Coast Premier League (GCPL) season. The game was played on Saturday, May 6th at Crescent City’s new home field, Lafreniere Park.
Southern States SC got off to a dream start as they were awarded a penalty just one minute into the game. Papi Diouf stepped up to take the spot-kick and calmly slotted it past CCFC keeper, Andrew Garvey, to give his team an early lead. This goal set the tone for what would be an exciting and closely contested encounter.
Crescent City FC had a few opportunities to equalize in the first half, with Ryan Jeanfreau (15th minute) and Keir Hannity (19th minute) coming close, but they were unable to convert. Midfielder Joenn Lanza came closest in the 29th minute when he hit the crossbar with a powerful shot. However, Southern States also had their chances and tested the home team’s young keeper, Andrew Garvey, with a deflected shot in the 35th minute.
The second half saw Southern States come out with more intensity, putting pressure on Crescent City’s defense. Left-back Stu Hayers made a crucial tackle in the 49th minute to stop a promising attack from the visitors. Southern States continued to press forward, and in the space of five minutes, they tested Crescent City’s keeper, Connor Allen, three times. However, Allen was up to the task, making crucial saves to keep his team in the game.
Nestor Peralta Jr. was a standout player for Crescent City, constantly threatening the Southern States defense with his attacking play. He had four chances throughout the game, but unfortunately for the home team, he was unable to convert any of them. Cristian Canales also had the last chance of the match to equalize with a header from a corner, but it went just wide of the post.
In the end, Southern States SC held on to their lead to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Crescent City FC. The game was played in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 217 people, who were treated to an entertaining game of soccer.
