The Springfield SC U16 boys started off the Missouri State Cup with an impressive 5-2 win over Lou Fusz-Hatraf in their 10:00 am game Saturday. 
United clearly showed up prepared for the pressure so sure to be present in a state cup game, as they came out firing. They struck early as United forward Stewart Ziegler put one away in the first few minutes of the game. However, Lou Fusz was not shaken, as they came right back to make the game 1-1 soon after.
The game intensified as Ziegler once again put one away not long after Fusz had scored, but United was again robbed of the early lead as their opponents scored once more. The game would continue with many chances for both teams, until United struck again before half with Matt Beckett putting away a great header to end the half on a positive note, With United leading 3-2.
As the second half began, it was apparent that Lou Fusz was running out of gas, and United took advantage. Receiving a great cross, Heath Melugin (pictured at left) settled the ball, beat two players, and put away a beautiful goal to give his team a 2 goal cushion. Only a few minutes after his first goal, Melugin was awarded a penalty shot after a very controversial foul committed by the Lou Fusz keeper, in which many thought would have merited a send-off. But the penalty was taken, and Melugin’s shot was true to make the game 5-2.
The game continued with dominance from the home team, but the game would remain at 5-2 when the final whistle blew. The United 16 boys continue their Cup quest with a game against United SC (no relation) on Sunday, June 11, at 2:00 pm.
This report was provided by Ben Hamilton, Glendale 2006 and Barton County CC (KS) signee. Ben’s brother Nate plays outside defense for the Springfield SC team.
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