On Monday evening, the Spartans traveled to East Bladen for their last away game of the regular season. The game that was suspended earlier in the season due to inclement weather was never played, and that game was given to the Spartans. However, this game, which was played in cold, windy weather, proved to be a challenge for the Spartan team. When the game was over, they found the win in overtime.

The first half started off with a strong East Bladen offense. They were close to making many goals but Spartan keeper, Cesar Ocampo saved the ball from finding the net each time. The Spartans finally got down the field with 13:54 left in the half and Arcenio Najera scored to put Union into the lead, 1-0. Najera was assisted by Jose Matute. East Bladen could not get on the board in the first half and it ended with Union up by one goal.

The second half became a battle as both teams put forth great defense to stop either team’s chance at a score. Nearing the end of the half the Union team lightened up, thinking they had the win until an Eagle glided down the field to find the net at the 7:13 mark, tying the match. The Spartans were unable to gain another goal causing the game to continue into overtime.

Within in the first ten minutes of overtime the keeper, Cesar Ocampo was injured and the Spartans had to sub in Omar Martinez into the goalie position. The Eagles took this opportunity and almost had a goal, only to be stopped by Martinez who was also injured. In the second ten minutes of overtime, each team scrambled to gain possession of the ball. Arcenio Najera broke away from the rest of the field again and scored with 7:26 left on the clock. East Bladen was unable to get past Spartan defense after this point and Union won 2-1.

Head coach, David Ameen wasn’t to pleased with his teams performance however. “It wasn’t necessarily our prettiest effort,” he said. “However, they dug down in overtime and got the job done. I’m looking forward to what I know will be a very good Midway team at home on Wednesday,” he continued.

The Spartans will host their last regular game of the season on Wednesday against the Midway Raiders. During halftime, Union will honor the seniors that are on the team.

By Anna Moore

Sports Writer

Irvin Depaz maintains control of the ball.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/web1_DSC_0758.jpgIrvin Depaz maintains control of the ball.