Late Thursday score: PV boys hold off strong Bellefonte team

By Kenny Varner Jr.
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Updated: October 9, 2020

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On a sunny and breezy Thursday afternoon the undefeated Bellefonte boys soccer team traveled to Penns Valley for a key Mountain League matchup. When the final whistle sounded, the Rams had posted their biggest program win in recent history and Bellefonte headed home with their first loss of the season.

“We worked hard to achieve this outcome today and it paid off!” said Ken Gore, Rams head coach. “We discussed how this match will set the tone for the rest of our season and hopefully propel us into post-season play. I was immensely proud of my guys for stepping up and leaving it all out there on the pitch today. This was truly a signature win for Penns Valley soccer and we’re going to enjoy it for a day or two – then get ready for 2 busy weeks [3 matches each] coming up.”

It was apparent that the Rams came into the match with intensity and purpose when they got on the scoreboard early – just a little over a minute in. A furious Penns Valley attack shook up the Red Raiders defense and Connor Martz once again showed his airborne genius with a precision header into the top left. From then on both sides dispensed very physical play with plenty of fouls and a couple bookings on each side. At the half the score was 3-2 with the Rams holding the edge.

Four minutes into the 2nd, senior striker Michael Johnson finished the eventual game-winner with a 10-yard rocket from a feed off the left by junior midfielder Cole Felker.

“At that point, I was pretty confident we would be able to make history here in the Valley with this huge win – but you’re never really comfortable with a lead of just a goal or even two on a strong, undefeated team like Bellefonte.” said Gore. “They have the skill and drive to come back at you and quickly change the game. But in the end today was our day – and as we decided together over the last week – my guys had it in their heads – and most importantly in their hearts – that we would do something great going forward.”

With two goals each by senior leaders Connor Martz and Michael Johnson and a solid performance by Penns Valley’s defensive line (juniors Kyle Niewinski, Alex King, and Ryan McFeely) destiny was on Penns Valley’s side – at least for today. The Rams will reset and go again on Monday – and and they are hopeful continue playing well past the next two weeks!

Record: 6-3

Next game: Bald Eagle Area at Penns Valley, Monday 10/12 6:00 pm

Bellefonte @ Penns Valley

Final:

Penns Valley 4

Bellefonte 3

Goals:

Penns Valley – Connor Martz 1:08

Bellefonte – 8:00

Penns Valley – Michael Johnson – 26:51

Penns Valley – Connor Martz – assist: Caleb Narber 29:25

Bellefonte – 37:15