BABSON PARK, Fla.—Southeastern had to endure a scoreless first half and some near misses and had to overcome an early second half deficit for its first road win of the season.
The Fire got a three-point day from
Edoardo Venutolo, who's goal in the 84
th minute was the difference in a 2-1 win over Webber International.
"Obviously we knew this weas going to be a grudge match that we were going to have to work hard to win," said coach
Clay Roberts. "The ball seemed to not go in in the first half and needed some quality in the second half."
SEU (9-3-3, 4-1-1 SUN) had three shots saved and another off the crossbar in the scoreless first half in which they outshot the Warriors 13-2 and had four corner kicks.
Webber International (8-3-1, 3-3-1 SUN) struck in the 50
th minute on a counter attack to take a 1-0 lead.
Seven and a half minutes later, Venutolo volleyed a ball from the left wing to
Skylar Funk who headed it into the back of the net for his third goal of the season to knot the game at one. Venutolo finished a cross from
Gianluca Contegno for his ninth goal of the season and fourth game-winner of the year.
"We aren't relying on him working so much defensively," said Roberts of Venutolo. "He's getting on the ball in a dangerous place and play creatively on the ground or score in the air."
The Fire finished the game holding a 28-5 edge in the shot count which included a 12-3 advantage in shots on goal.
"I was thrilled for the defensive effort that we gave to get our first road win," said Roberts.
With the win, the Fire have clinched a top four finish in the league standings and at least one home conference tournament game.
The Fire will travel to Thomas on Saturday for a 1 p.m. start.
