DUDLEY — What a night it was at Southern Wayne Tuesday as the Saints hosted non-conference opponent Goldsboro in their first home game of the season. With a big crowd in attendance, the atmosphere was electric, and this matchup promised to deliver. The Saints entered the game undefeated at 3-0-1 and wanted to keep their strong momentum rolling.
They did just that, defending their home pitch in a victorious 7-2 fashion.
The Goldsboro Cougars struck first when #1 J. Soto found the back of the net, putting the Cougars ahead early 0-1. However, Southern Wayne quickly responded, thanks to several penalties committed by the Cougars that gave the Saints chances to equalize. After a few close calls, including shots from #12 J. Giron Castillo and #11 A. Ramirez Cruz that went just high over the goal, the Saints finally broke through.
A solo effort from #10 J. Martinez, who dribbled past multiple defenders, tied the game at 1–1. The Saints continued to apply heavy pressure, but not without their share of penalties. Offside kept them from taking the lead immediately. That changed when #26 L. Agiulon, assisted by #10 J. Martinez, gave the Saints a 2–1 advantage.
Moments later, #10 J. Martinez struck again with a goal of his own, extending the Saints’ lead to 3–1. #17 M. Campuzano put his skills to work, keeping possession and setting the tone for the rest of the half. The Saints controlled the pace, holding the Cougars in check as the first half ended with the Saints up 3–1.
Second Half Action
The second half started with the Cougars earning a penalty kick, but the Saints’ defense stood tall, denying the attempt. Things get chippy as both teams received yellow cards for aggressive challenges. After the cards for both, the Saints immediately took over where they were before. No. 17 M. Campuzano added a goal of his own, moving the lead to 4–1. #25 O. Agiulon capitalized on a penalty kick to make it 5–1, and soon after, team captain #9 S. Aphael, assisted by #19 R. Gabriel, extended the score to 6–1. Team Captain #12 J. Castillo later netted his second goal, giving Southern Wayne a commanding 7–1 advantage. Goldsboro managed one more goal to make it 7–2, but the Saints’ dominance was never in doubt.
After the game, Saints Head Coach Luis Ramirez praised his team’s resilience stating that “we had a hiccup early, but the guys responded and fought hard for the win. I’m proud of the effort tonight.”
Looking ahead, Ramirez stressed the importance of these non-conference matchups as preparation for conference play. “We’ve got some tough teams ahead, and we want to be one of them. These games are about getting ready for that challenge.”
Before kickoff, Ramirez offered his thoughts on the season, expressing pride in his squad’s performance. He stated that the team started the season very strongly and that the guys have improved from last year and are ready to build off this hot start to the season.
Ramirez also shared his coaching philosophy which is “support your teammates on and off the field whether you’re on the bench or in the game and give your all every single minute.” He credited the Saints’ senior leadership for guiding and mentoring the talented group of underclassmen who are quickly making an impact.
Next up, the Saints will face off against county rival Spring Creek Gators in what promises to be a fierce and historic matchup. With their confidence high after a statement win, Southern Wayne looks ready to continue their strong run.
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