The home environs were friendly enough for Allen Community College Saturday.
In games that largely mirrored each other, both ACC women’s and men’s teams earned shutout victories over Central Community College-Columbus.
The women were aided by Dorothy Usher, who scored twice, including a goal in the 87th minute to secure a 2-0 victory.
On the men’s side, Jordan Mase scored at the 62-minute mark for the only tally in Allen’s 1-0 win.
“It was great getting a game at home,” ACC men’s head coach Doug Desmarteau said, “especially after not playing any games for a year and a half.”
Normally played in the fall, the soccer season was pushed back to the spring semester because of ongoing concerns with COVID-19.
Even a gusty west wind that affected both sides of the pitch could not deter either squad.
Both the Red Devil men and women controlled the action largely from start to finish, allowing Central few, if any, scoring opportunities.
But both head coaches said the games were a bit tighter than they would have preferred.
“We dominated, but we’ve just got to figure out a way to put more goals on the board,” Desmarteau said. “Obviously, a win’s a win, and one goal was enough.”
Mase’s blast came on an assist from Payge Sinclair.
Central’s few scoring chances, meanwhile, were shut down by the Red Devil defense, aided by goalkeeper Ajaye Murray, who had five saves on the day.
“The wind definitely evened things out,” Desmarteau said. “We had it blowing against us all the first half, and it definitely blows the ball back. Even when you’re with it, sometimes it hurts because it’s difficult keeping the ball in bounds.”
The Red Devils also have injuries to deal with.
Felipe Almeida injured his elbow in the victory, and will be re-evaluated today, Desmarteau said. Joe Gartner also exited with a possible concussion, and likely will be idle for the next week or two.
USHER continued her sterling play to start the season. Her two goals Saturday give her five on the season, along with three assists.
