The last time Atlantic City FC was on the field was during the 2019 Keystone Conference semi-finals against the Philadelphia Lone Star FC. A lot has changed since that last game. On Saturday, the new-look Aces were back on the field against newcomers First State FC Midnight Riders at Abessinio Stadium.
Atlantic City FC received a free kick in the 25th minute. Johnny Fenwick put it on the top right corner to put the Aces up 1-0. The Aces’ defense did a good job protecting their goalie, not allowing the Midnight Riders to get close to Lucas Daunhauer.
In the 40th minute, the Aces took a 2-0 lead on a goal by Patrick Okonkwo with five minutes left before halftime. Late into the first half, the Midnight Riders were issued a yellow card for a late tackle. On the next Aces drive, Christian Schneider found Stefen Melekos as Melekos finished the play with the goal and a 3-0 lead heading into halftime.
The clouds rolled in just as the second half started. Not long after play resumed, it started to rain. Atlantic City kept the Midnight Riders in check in the second half. The Aces almost had another goal from Okonkwo, but he was denied.
Late in the game, the sun popped back out, and Atlantic City FC made several substitutions. Once the final whistle was blown, Atlantic City FC defeated the First State FC Midnight Riders by the final score of 3-0.
Atlantic City FC continues their road trip next Saturday, May 15th, from Ranger Stadium against FC Motown at 6 pm.
