Match Recap: Sláinte Athletic 1 – 1 Touch Kings
Tested at the Top—Sláinte Stays Unbeaten
In one of the most anticipated matches of the Spring 2025 MSSL Division II campaign, Sláinte Athletic battled first-place Touch Kings to a hard-earned 1–1 draw on Sunday at Milford Mill Academy Stadium.
Missing several key players due to injury and illness, Sláinte entered the day light-handed—but far from lacking fight. After falling behind early, the squad responded with a moment of brilliance from Arlie Hitt, locked in defensively, and held their ground through a gritty, physical second half.
With the result, Sláinte remains unbeaten through three matches, boasting the league’s best goal differential and—critically—a game in hand on the rest of the top contenders.
Scoring Summary
11’ – Touch Kings Goal (through ball finish)
30’ – Arlie Hitt (assist: Isaac Ngobu)
Match Highlights
Touch Kings struck first in the 11th minute, breaking through Sláinte’s high line with a well-weighted pass. Their striker converted with composure to put the visitors ahead.
But Sláinte answered with class and conviction.
At the 30-minute mark, Isaac Ngobu worked the left flank, then picked out Arlie Hitt arriving near the top of the box. Hitt took one touch and bent a curling strike into the far-side netting—a moment of real quality that changed the tone of the match.
The second half brought more physicality and fewer chances, but Sláinte held strong. Shape, discipline, and smart in-game adjustments helped neutralize Touch Kings’ momentum and saw the match out level.
Standout Performers
Arlie Hitt
Scored one of the goals of the season with a brilliant curling strike. Set the tone with his work rate and intensity all match long.
Isaac Ngobu
Continued his incredible run of form. Created the assist with a calm, composed setup and was a threat all game.
Garrett Peters
Provided a critical adjustment off the bench—cutting off central passing lanes and helping Sláinte reestablish control in midfield during the second half.
Danny Hallowell
Captain’s performance. Organized play, stayed calm under pressure, and anchored the midfield in key moments.
Logan Funk & Evan Novian
Solid, composed, and physical throughout. Recovered quickly after the early concession and led the defensive effort.
BP Seivers
Quietly dictated the tempo. Reliable on the ball and consistent in his positioning, especially when the match became stretched.
Sam Dragunas
Held down the right side with intelligence and grit. Played mistake-free in a high-pressure environment.
Squad Notes
The squad was without several key contributors due to injury and illness, but the group showed poise, adaptability, and togetherness.
Dylan Burruss exited with a knock and will be assessed ahead of next week.
Moe Cisse returned to action and added strength on the wing.
Kristian Slaby stayed composed in goal, recovering well after the opener and organizing the back line effectively.
Around the League: Matchday 3 Recap
MSI Pro 2–2 Baltimore City FC – Points shared after a back-and-forth battle.
Ittihad FC 3–3 NPC Fútbol – A six-goal shootout as both sides pick up points.
Peru United – Bye
Current Table (after Matchday 3)
Touch Kings – 10 pts (3-1-0, +8 GD)
Sláinte Athletic – 7 pts (2-1-0, +11 GD) [Game in hand]
MSI Pro – 4 pts (1-1-1)
Peru United – 2 pts (0-2-0)
Ittihad FC – 2 pts (0-2-1)
Baltimore City FC – 2 pts (0-2-1)
NPC Fútbol – 1 pt (0-1-2)
Final Word
This wasn’t survival—it was a statement.
Short-handed, organized, and fully locked in, Sláinte went toe-to-toe with the league leaders and proved that the standard isn’t just being met—it’s being raised.
Next up: MSI Pro. A top-four battle with real stakes.
We’re proud of this one. But we’re not done yet.
