CLINTON, Miss. - Mississippi Brilla FC got back to its winning ways tonight, as the team defeated the Brazos Valley Cavalry 3-1 tonight in Clinton High School. First-half goals from Jalen James and Ciro Damine, as well as a second-half strike from James Ndubueze provided the difference for the home team.
Jalen James opened the scoring for Brilla in the 10th minute. Jamie DiLuzio drove into space and threaded a nice through ball into the left winger's path. James then rounded the keeper and put the ball into the back of the net for his fourth goal of the season.
Ciro Damine doubled Brilla's lead just nine minutes later. Defender Orlando Lozano played a diagonal pass that eventually ended up Damine's path. The Argentine forward then drove into the box and placed the ball past the outstretched keeper's hands for his team-leading fifth goal of the season.
Brilla's third goal was created and finished by two substitutes. Remi Emeriau played a well-weighted pass into the path of James Ndubueze, which the German forward was easily able to cushion. Ndubueze then lashed a half-volley into the net. The goal was his fourth of the season, and he is tied with Jalen James as the team's second-leading scorer. Each of his goals have come after he's entered the match from the substitute's bench.
Antoine Recizac pulled a goal back for Brazos Valley in the 78th minute, but it was not enough. Brilla held on for the 3-1 win and stayed on top of the Mid South Division with 17 points. The win was a huge as the team was also able to bounce back from its first loss of the season last week against Texas United.
Next Game
Mississippi Brilla FC will be back in action next Saturday with a home game against Texas United. Kickoff will be at 7:00 p.m. at Clinton High School.