Powerhouse Mathews rocks Charles City in soccer opener

Charles City's Niko Gilliam (right) attempts to dribble by Mathews' Jonny McCann.

Andre' Jones photo

Entering year three, Charles City’s soccer program is looking to take the next step, transitioning from an exhibition squad to a competitive team.
And while Monday afternoon’s contest against Tidewater District favorite Mathews’ Blue Devils didn’t result in a win, it didn’t deter the Panthers’ spirit either.

Mathews’ Jonny McCann accounted for a hat trick, while five other players found the back of the net as the Blue Devils eased into a 9-0 win in the season opener for the Panthers.

For the first 15 minutes of the contest, Charles City played on even footing with the visitors. A goal from Nathan Jenkins at the 17:30 mark opened a floodgate of scores from the Blue Devils. Three minutes later, Sawyer Hutson found the back of the net as Mathews put five shots in for scores to take a 5-0 halftime lead.

Coming out the intermission, Calvin Kramer conversion to the left-hand side of the goal gave the visitors a half-dozen lead. McCann would score the next three goals as the Blue Devils closed out the contest.

Returning after a year off, Charles City head coach Grant Martin said this first contest was about his team giving him a chance to form an identity.

“We knew they [Mathews] were talented and more experienced, but I told my team not to worry about that or what the final score was,” the head coach said. “I am proud of how hard we played in this first game and I can’t wait to see what this season has in store for us.

“We have a lot of leaders that graduated last year, but it’s been interesting to see some of these kids step up and fill those leadership voids,” Martin continued. “We definitely don’t lack leadership on this team. We can look at them and know they are going to do the right thing on and off the field.

“I am expecting some wins this season,” the head coach concluded.

Charles City starts the season 0-1.