FC Monmouth Defeated by FC Motown in Keystone Conference Final

MONTCLAIR, NJ – The 2021 season came to a close for FC Monmouth as it fell to FC Motown, 2-0, on Sunday, July 18 in the Keystone Conference Final at Montclair State University.

FC Monmouth generated quality scoring chances during the first half, as forward Walter Calderon rifled two shots on net that had to be saved by FC Motown. In the 36th minute, FC Motown drew a foul in the box to set up a penalty kick, which they converted to take a 1-0 advantage. Two minutes later they were able to double their lead, which they took into the halftime break.

The second half saw some big defensive plays from FC Monmouth. As a shot from FC Motown approached the net, defender Bryant Knibbs sprinted over to clear the ball out of play to prevent a goal. A few minutes later, FC Monmouth once again was able to block a flurry of shots. Over the final 30 minutes, they created some opportunities, but FC Motown was able to maintain their lead to win their sixth-straight conference title.

AT THE MICROPHONE

“We knew what we were up against, their tactics were very good. I thought their coaching staff did a very good job with isolating us on the outside. All in all, we lost to a team that was very good and well prepared for us. I thought that our guys fought as hard as they possibly could to stay in the game. I thought we controlled the play the last 30 minutes of the game, but we just couldn’t find the back of the net tonight. Our guys are just tremendous professionals. They do things correctly, they care about it, and they put themselves in the right position to move on. We just couldn’t get it done tonight. I think we were a very special team this season.” – Head Coach Brian Woods

NOTES AND NUMBERS

The game marked FC Monmouth’s first appearance in the Keystone Conference Final.

Goalkeeper Matt Perrella became the club’s all-time leader in saves, passing 2018 goalkeeper Scott Weigel’s record of 40.

Perrella recorded five saves in the game and finished the 2021 season with 44 in 11 games. He had four games where he tallied at least five saves.

Midfielder Chase Covello moved into sole possession of second in club history for games played (21).

FC Monmouth concludes the 2021 season with a record of 4-5-3 (including the postseason). The club won its first-ever playoff game, while setting numerous individual and team records.