The Atlanta Soccer Club looked to recover from a string of defensive mishaps that plagued them in the first portion of the 2019 NPSL season. Led by goalkeeper Bryce Billington, the new-look defense featured two ATLSC players making their team debut. Nikos Pettas at right back and Felipe Barros at center back brought a spark to a back line that had struggled to negate opposing attacks in the opening weeks.

A week after scoring six goals on their home pitch, Greenville FC was stymied early and often by Atlanta’s stingy defenders. It started with the hosts dialing in their attack on Billington in the opening minute. The goalkeeper made two early saves to keep Greenville off the board. The remainder of the opening half featured Atlanta’s newest defender Barros and his uncanny ability to thwart Greenville’s efforts.

ATLSC’s offense absorbed a blow in the first half when midfielder Prince Saydee left the contest with a knee injury. Elie Akobeto came on for the injured midfielder in the twelfth minute before being subbed off himself in the 74th.

The second half was fraught with contest, as both teams took aimed shots on goal. Atlanta’s offensive rhythm came to a precipice in the final twenty minutes. Holding midfielder “DZ” Harmon displayed impressive technical ability to create some of the visitors’ best scoring opportunities.

The waning minutes of the match were filled with last-gasp efforts by both teams to find a go-ahead goal. Offensive spark plug David Medeiros was a catalyst for some of ATLSC’s final scoring attempts. In the end, it was Billington and Greenville goalkeeper Paul Tyson that reigned supreme in the 0-0 draw.

Atlanta SC continues its NPSL campaign on Saturday, June 8th in McDonough against the Georgia Revolution. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM at Henry County High School Stadium. Atlanta returns to St. Francis High School on Saturday, June 15th when they host Greenville FC. Follow ATLSC across all social platforms to stay up to date on the latest team news.