Sharon Mayes scores goal for Greenville in loss
Cary, N.C. (June 20, 2023) – The Greenville Liberty Soccer Club fell 3-1 in a hard-fought battle against the NC Courage Tuesday night. A goal from Sharon Mayes rallied Greenville in the first half 1-1, but the Liberty conceded two goals in the second half as the Courage defeated Greenville for the second time in 2023.
After leaving Waxhaw, N.C. with three points on Saturday, the Liberty had a quick turnaround to face on of its toughest opponents, the division-leading North Carolina Courage 2. The match began tense, with both sides fighting for possession. At the 17th minute mark, a misplayed ball in the Liberty defense led to the first goal of the night for Courage. Shortly after, though, Greenville leveled when winger Sharon Mayes dribbled down the field and chipped the Courage keeper to equalize, 1-1. Twelve minutes later, the NC Courage took advantage of the space down the right flank and netted another goal to regain the lead prior to the half.
Greenville brought on reinforcements at start of the second 45’ with a set of subs. A brilliant combination between Christian Brathwaite and Haley Schueppert quickly took shape in the opening minutes, but the shot flew just wide of the net. Greenville threatened again around the 55th minute when Carly Thatcher turned her defender and ripped a shot from the top of the 18-yard box that Courage keeper, Mackenzie Smith was forced to punch wide. Midway through the half the NC Courage sent a ball across the goal and Greenville goalkeeper, Grace Workman punched away a shot destined for the net. Later in the half, with explosive pace, Julie Mackin split the two backs and drilled a ball at the goal that forced a diving save from Emmie Allen. In the 81st minute, the home side countered, and a blocked ball was redirected into the Greenville net by a Courage forward. The match settled in the final minutes for a 3-1 NC Courage victory.
The Greenville Liberty will return home to host its final 2023 regular season home match June 28th at 7:00 PM in Paladin Stadium. It will be Fan Appreciation Night featuring contests, games, a post-match meet and greet and more. Tickets are on sale here!