Wallaceburg Sting Tie Again at Home Against St. Thomas

Wallaceburg Sting 2011 - Submitted Photo

On Friday night, the Wallaceburg Sting took to their home pitch in a continued effort searching for the season’s first win. Their opponents from St. Thomas, despite not possessing the elite individual talent of a top premier club, brought their always physical, hard-working demeanor to the field. Knowing this style of play has led to St. Thomas’ past success, the Sting knew they needed to set the tone early on and take control of this match. Despite hopes of potting a goal or two early on to demoralize the intensity of an opponent that thrives off a tight and competitive match, the Sting were unable to capitalize on any first half scoring chances generated. In fact, it was St. Thomas who had the only goal in the first half when a seemingly harmless attack down the right wing saw a ball crossed nicely onto the head of an attacker who drove it at the net. Wallaceburg’s keeper was able to get his hands on it, but the ball managed to slip through and cross the goal line for a 1-0 lead.

It wasnt until midway through the second half that the Sting’s ball control and attack finally paid dividends on the scoreboard. The Sting’s Brandon Watson found enough space deep in St Thomas’ territory along the left wing line to send a cross inside the 18-yard box toward dangerous territory. The Sting’s central striker, Roberto Attardi, located the ball mid air and patiently placed a right-footed volley just inside the right post, away and out of position from the St. Thomas keeper.

Both teams exchanged quality scoring chances looking for the go-ahead goal in the late stages of the game, most notably with St. Thomas narrowly missing a breakaway opportunity just wide of the right post late in play. When the final whistle sounded, the score remained tied 1-1, leaving the Sting with yet another tie, their fourth on the season. After 7 games, the Sting currently have 4 ties and 3 losses.

This game saw the return of several of the Sting’s key contributors to action. Ken Kopko returned to play in what was only his second game this season after several health & injury related setbacks, while Kurtis Lubbers and Taylor McArthur, both managed to contribute quality minutes despite playing with injuries they had previously planned to sit out with.
Prior to the game, the Wallaceburg Sting took a team photo with local Crabby Joe’s owner, Charlie Kridiotis, who was generous enough to sponsor their new uniforms. The Sting’s new yellow and black jersey, crested with a Crabby Joe’s logo, can be seen hanging inside Crabby Joe’s in Wallaceburg. The Sting would like to thank Charlie for his generosity in supporting their team.

The Sting’s next play vs. AEK on Friday, July 22nd, 7pm at Kinsmen Park.