FC Monmouth Prepare for first Playoff Game since 2021
Written by Chris Dailey
Trials, tribulations, and just about everything sum up what has been a hectic two weeks for FC Monmouth. After a near-perfect regular season, the club came incredibly close to securing the top seed in The League for Clubs’ Northeast Conference – specifically, the North Division. However, late drama in the Met Oval vs Atlantic City match snatched away FC Monmouth’s hopes of the No. 1 seed.
Amidst all this drama, there was a point in time in which it did seem as if FC Monmouth were the No. 1 seed. After thrashing NY Braveheart, the club even posted a graphic on instagram celebrating that they had won the conference’s regular season. Unfortunately, confusion ensued as FC Monmouth were later informed they needed at least a point in their regular-season finale against Met Oval FC to officially claim the regular-season title.
Despite a valiant effort and countless goal line clearances, the home advantage clearly benefited a talented Met Oval FC side as they beat the Blue and Gold, 2-0.
Now, all eyes are ahead to tonight for FC Monmouth’s first playoff game since 2021. Although it’s not the home game that the 732 faithful were hoping for, a lively away-day crowd is expected to make the trip down to Stockton University for a 7:30 kickoff. The game will be streamed on the National Soccer Network for those who can’t make the trip.
In the regular season, the Blue and Gold and the Aces battled fiercely for the full 90 minutes. FC Monmouth won 2-1 thanks to a last-minute goal from Lenny Aviles. Pat Shaw had scored FC Monmouth’s first goal of the day.
Both sides have matured greatly since their fixture in late May. For FC Monmouth, the club has consistently proven to be a top side – highlighted by an impressive 3-0 home win in their initial matchup against Met Oval. Meanwhile, Atlantic City reigned supreme in the South Division through their potent attack. Since their game against FC Monmouth, the Aces have only been held to one goal or fewer just once.
FC Monmouth’s head coach Hugh MacDonald is eager for the opportunity to play against a top Atlantic City side.
“AC are a really good club and have been for a number of years for a reason,” said MacDonald. “We expect a no-nonsense style of play and a belief from them. We’ll hope to get the ball down and play our brand, but we know we’re going to have to suffer.”
Based on MacDonald’s assessment, FC Monmouth’s staff and players alike are ready for yet another battle – something that plays to their strengths. In a season that has been defined by 90 minute battles, the Blue and Gold have answered the bell time and time again.
The winner of tonight’s game will face off against the winner of Met Oval FC vs Kensington Soccer Club.
To follow along with in-game updates, follow FC Monmouth on social media @wearemonmouth . FC Monmouth would like to thank all supporters for their tremendous support season, and would equally like to remind them it’s not done yet!