Match Recap: New York Magic vs. Williamsport City Lions, Saturday, May 21st

The New York Magic kicked off the 2022 UPSL summer season and defense of their UPSL division championship with a hard fought 1-1 draw against league newcomers Williamsport City Lions at a sun-drenched Reinhart Field at SUNY Maritime.  Four newcomers joined seven returnees in the starting lineup played amidst a late spring heat wave that resulted in a sweltering game time temperature of over 90 degrees.  The teams played an entertaining first half in which the Magic was able to create a slew of chances but were unlucky in their finishing.

The deadlock was broken in the 57th minute when Shannon Landry sprung Kensia Destinvil behind the Williamsport defense with a pinpoint accurate crossfield pass.  Destinvil took care of the rest with a fine finish into the corner of the net.  The Magic, anchored by Ashlee Thompson and Malya Hirshkowitz in the center back and Captain Ray Ann Montano and Amber-Rose Petrillo in the defensive midfield, repelled repeated attacks from Williamsport as the heat took its toll on the players.  The Magic goal was finally breached by a cross that found its way into the upper corner of the net to complete the scoring in the 86th minute of the game.

The Magic will play the first of three straight road games in a mid-week trip to Westchester United FC on June 8th.  The Magic will then return home for their final two games on July 2nd and July 9th at SUNY Maritime.

Click here to see the UPSL Standings