By: Maine Footy 7/8/2024 4:00PM EDT
Photo: Cindy Russell Photography
Portland, ME - Maine Footy concluded their season on a high note with a commanding 3-0 victory over Albany Rush at Memorial Stadium on 07/07/2024.
SUMMARY
The Tide controlled the first half, with notable efforts from Logan Nicholson and Anaé Malabete, but were kept at bay by Albany Rush's defense lead by goalkeeper Emma Anderson. The first goal came in the 61st minute scored by Safia Paraiso off an Anamari Bosnjak free kick. Just a minute later, Emily Supple doubled the lead with a goal from another Bosnjak cross. The victory was sealed in the 89th minute by Anna Rayhill’s powerful shot from outside the box. The Tide secured their third clean sheet of the season Anaé Malabete earned her second Player of the Match honors for her stellar performance in the midfield. She provided creativity and fluidity and flare in the attack. Her persistent work rate throughout helped the Tide roll into a 3-0 win to end the season.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The first half saw Maine Footy controlling the tempo with several attempts on goal, but Albany Rush's goalkeeper Emma Anderson made crucial saves to keep the game scoreless. Notable efforts came from Logan Nicholson and Anaé Malabete, who consistently pressured the Albany defense. Albany had a pair of solid opportunities in the first half but The Tide defense held strong.
The breakthrough came in the 61st minute when Safia Paraiso scored the first goal assisted by a free kick from Anamari Bosnjak. An Albany foul on the near side of the pitch lead to a Bosnjak free kick whose cross found Safia Pariso who collected the pass and struck the ball into the top of the net while facing a heavy Rush defense.
Just a minute later, Emily Supple doubled the lead with a goal following another cross from Bosnjak. The Croatian Native's hard cross was spilled out in the box by Rush goalkeeper Emma Anderson finding the right foot of Emily Supple who struck a great shot to the back of the net.
Maine Footy continued to press forward, and in the 89th minute, Anna Rayhill sealed the victory with a powerful shot from outside the 18-yard box, sailing past the Albany goalkeeper. Sally Rainey, the Tide's goalkeeper, was solid throughout the match, tallying four key saves to secure the clean sheet making this the Tide’s third clean sheet this season.
LOOKING AHEAD
With the 2024 season now concluded, Maine Footy is eager to see what the 2025 season has in store. The team will look to build on their strong finish and continue to develop their skills and strategy for the upcoming year.