WILMINGTON, Delaware — Southern N.H. extended its winning streak to five matches with a 2-1 victory over Wilmington (DE) on Saturday, improving to 12-1-2 overall. The Penmen broke through early in the first half and held off a late Wildcats surge to secure the road win.
Eduardo Maia opened scoring in the 10th minute, assisted by Chus Ortega, giving Southern N.H. an early advantage. Charlie Preus doubled the lead in the 48th minute with a finish set up by Dani Gonzalez, extending the visitors' control through halftime and into the second half.
Wilmington (DE) responded with Alex Tarway's goal in the 55th minute, assisted by Tyrese Small, cutting the deficit in half. The Wildcats pressed for an equalizer in the final stages but could not find the breakthrough, falling to 9-3-4 on the season.
Southern N.H. dominated possession and created opportunities throughout, recording 11 shot attempts compared to Wilmington's six. The Penmen also earned seven corner kicks, controlling much of the match's tempo despite the home team's late pressure.
Discipline proved costly for Southern N.H., which received five yellow cards including cautions to Chus Ortega, Eduardo Maia, Felipe di Paola, Dani Gonzalez, and Martin Fuentes. Wilmington drew no cards in the contest.
The victory keeps Southern N.H. on track in the regional standings as the Penmen pursue postseason