Pioneers surge on the attack in 2-0 victory over Long Island

Israel Neto leads the charge with two outstanding assists

Ludlow, Massachusetts – On Tuesday night, the Western Mass Pioneers (11-2-2)  advanced into the second round as they toppled the Long Island Rough Riders (9-1-3) at home grounds. 

Midfielder Israel Neto was the man of the match, knifing his way through defenses and creating golden opportunities. His first assist was a step over in the box, getting by two defenders and dishing it right to Mamadi Jiana for the first goal of the game. Goal number two occurred in the latter part of the second half, freezing the opposing defense and finding a wide-open Santiago Blasco-Gomez with a chip cross into the box. 

“[Neto] is very important, he is a guy that you always want on your side,” said Jiana. The Chicopee native scored his fifth goal of the season off of Neto. “He is very skillful, very creative and I am glad to have him as my teammate.” 

The Pioneers did a great job maintaining possession and the lead after the 2-2 draw against Vermont Green (11-3-0), which gave them the Northeastern Division title. 

Goalkeeper Reese Sheppard also played well for Western Mass, saving multiple tight shots and securing the ball at the right time during in-game action. It was just his third start this season. 

Overall, the Pioneers played well on both sides of the ball, making good runs down the field and clearing every cross and shot. “We are happy with the performance, we are happy with the result after Friday, and now we have to prepare and recover for [our next match],” said Head Coach Federico Molinari. Molinari’s game plan of using the wings to attack worked against Long Island, as it gave way for Neto to work his magic inside the box. “It feels good to play at home and win. Hopefully, we can go and compete over there [in Vermont] and see what happens.” 

Western Mass will face off against Metropolitan winners FC Motown at 4 p.m. in Burlington, Vermont.