Doxa suffered the same fate as Argentina, Brazil and the US Women’s team on Sunday, as they lost out on their first National Amateur title 5-4 on penalties. The final score ended 2-2 in what as a classic match versus NY Pancyprians.
Again Doxa had to come back after falling behind to keep themselves in the game. NY Pancyprians scored early, but Devin Toohey got Doxa into the game when his downward header off a Kyle Holland cross beat the keeper through his legs. Several other opportunities were shared through the half, but the teams went into the break at 1-1.
In the second half, Doxa had to again fight back after going 2-1 down and they also suffered the loss of their inspirational leader Derk Droze, who collided with the Pancyprian keeper. The equalizing goal did come though, in the 75th minute, when Joe Cartlidge managed to flick on a header to Richie Million at the top of the box. Millions shot was palmed out by the keeper, where Bryan Byrne pounced to tie up the game. Right before the game went into extra time, Doxa were reduced to ten men – leaving an even bigger challenge in the remaining 30.
Neither team could find a winner in extra-time, leaving the game to go to penalties. Doxa missed one, while all 5 were scored by NY Pancyprians. It was a valiant effort by the 15 players who traveled, and all contributed. With both games going 120 minutes in 90 degree heat, all players are pretty exhausted as we head back to Cali.
#1 – Devin Toohey (Kyle Holland)
#2 – Bryan Byrne (Richie Million, Joe Cartlidge)
Starting Line-Up
1. Brandon Avery
2. Nate Reeves
3. Nas Koubouras
4. Devin Toohey
5. Joe Cartlidge
6. Andrew Marinez
7. Eddie Pinto
8. Steve Chirgwin
9. Kyle Holland
10. Bryan Byrne
11. Derk Droze
12. Ilia Nazarov
13. Noah Rothstein
14. Richie Million
15. Justin Commins
