Pre-Season Recap: Sláinte Athletic 3 – 1 Baltimore Kickers

With the 2025 Spring MSSL Division II season looming, Sláinte Athletic took to the pitch one final time in pre-season—this time, against historic local giants, the Baltimore Kickers. But beyond the match itself, this friendly marked a turning point for the club.

Aaron Burbridge, a founding member of the Sláinte project, officially stepped into the managerial role. Beside him on the touchline? Gavin Mooney—a sharp footballing mind who, though sidelined this spring following surgery, will bring a new tactical edge as assistant coach.

This was more than a tune-up. It was the dawn of a new era.

The XI:

Slaby between the sticks.

A physically imposing back four of Meyers, Ramos, Henry, and Zouita.

In midfield, the ever-reliable pairing of Captain Danny Hallowell and the dynamic BP Seivers.

Ngobu and Hitt patrolled the wings, while Logan Funk led the line alongside unofficial debutant Leland Brigham.

On the bench: McDonough, Cummings, Perez (returning from injury), and exciting new addition Sam Dragunas.

From the First Whistle, It Felt Different.

Movement. Energy. Urgency. This version of Sláinte was sharp and fluid. The backline looked solid, the midfield pulsed with new life, and Brigham’s movement made it clear why he was brought in.

In just the 5th minute, Brigham laid it off for Hallowell, who buried it into the bottom corner. A captain’s finish, and an early statement.

The next thirty minutes turned into a battle of intensity and tactics. Kickers fought to match Sláinte’s pace and power, but in the 35th, Seivers threaded a pass to Brigham, who made no mistake—2-0. Mission: goal-scoring forward? Already underway.

Enter Sam Dragunas. Strong, fearless, and full of bite, he brought immediate presence to the pitch. A young weapon ready to pair with the likes of Ramos—a terrifying thought for any opponent.

Second Half Adjustments

Burbridge and Mooney made a few tactical shifts. McDonough and Cummings entered, getting important minutes under their belt. But all eyes were on Andres Perez, returning from a months-long injury absence. And he didn’t just return—he announced himself.

In the 70th minute, Perez cut in and curled a stunning strike into the top corner—a reminder to the staff and supporters alike that he’s still a force to be reckoned with.

The Kickers pulled one back late, capitalizing on Sláinte’s experimental high line. A fair trade-off in a match focused on testing ideas, not chasing perfection.

The physicality escalated, and late on, both Henry and a Kickers player were shown red cards, bringing the match to a fiery close.

Final Score: Sláinte Athletic 3 – 1 Baltimore Kickers

A dominant, dynamic performance that showcased the depth, energy, and promise of this squad heading into the 2025 Spring MSSL campaign.

Standouts:

• Leland Brigham: Engine, goal-scorer, instant impact.

• Sam Dragunas: A rising name to watch.

• Andres Perez: Back and better than ever.

• Seivers & Hallowell: The heartbeat of the midfield.

The message is clear:

Sláinte is ready.

Let the spring begin.