Cardinals Snap Losing Streak Against Carroll

CCBC Catonsville's men's soccer team snapped a five-game winless streak on Thursday, defeating Carroll Community College 2-0.

In a show of offensive might, the Cardinals (4-6-1) controlled possession all game long. Catonsville's defense played a perfect game, giving the Lynx (3-6) only three chances to score.

Entering the contest, the Cardinals were expected to dominate the Lynx. Carroll had only ten available players to suit up and were starting an emergency goalkeeper. Despite the odds being stacked against them, the Lynx managed to shut out Catonsville in the first half. Despite getting ten shots off, Catonsville was unable to find the net.

"Credit goes to Carroll for their exellent defensive strategy," said head coach Kingsley Onwuka. "We had to remain calm and composed while figuring out how to break down their defense."

Tied 0-0 at the half, the Cardinals began the second half with an aggressive spread of shots. Using their speed to their advantage, Catonsville attempted to get behind the Lynx defense before Carroll could flood the box with defenders. This strategy finally worked, as sophomore midfielder Abdou Loum (Kotu Secondary) was fouled in the box. This led to a penalty shot that sophomore striker Mike Miranda (Lansdowne) aced to give the Cardinals a 1-0 lead.

"It was all about personnel changes and quick ball movement at the half," said Onwuka. "That made the difference in the second half."

Catonsville would extend their lead with ten minutes to go, as freshman forward Bradley Ramirez (Newtown) collected a deflected shot from freshman forward King Remi (Glen Burnie) and buried it in the net. Up 2-0, the Cardinals' "Big Red Wall" defense would hold out against Carroll to secure their win.

"Games like this can be tricky," said Onwuka. "But the players wewre patient and composed. They got it done, and now we are focused on the next opponent."

Catonsville next faces Essex County Community College on Saturday, September 30 at 1pm.