Tsukada Picks up Hat Trick in 4-2 Victory over Georgia Military College
The Daytona State College Falcons won their first home match 4-2 over the visiting Bulldogs of GA Military College on Saturday, September 11. The visiting Bulldogs came to Daytona ranked 11th, 3-1 and thus far have outscored their opponents 14 to 2. On Saturday, the Falcons outshot the Bulldogs 12 to 7.
Daytona ranked 7th and with a record of 1-0-1 gave up a goal on a set piece just minutes into the match. This didn’t sit well with sophomore striker Yutaro Tsukada (Tokyo, Japan) who would score back-to-back goals in the 13th and 16th minutes respectively. Tsukada’s goals were assisted by sophomore Vander Rocha (Natal, Brazil) with a swinging cross and freshman Daniel Bedoya (Tampa, FL) with a pinpoint slot ball down the middle of the park. Tsukada’s 3rd goal would come just minutes into the second half with a ball driven over the Bulldog’s backline from freshman Tomas Yriarte (Orlando, FL).
Sasnett said about Tsukada, “He was lethal in the final third. I think it’s also important to note his distribution on crosses, free kicks, and combining are elite. This guy is humble, hard working and a team player”.
This marks Tsukada’s 2nd hat trick while playing with the DSC Falcons. His first three goal performance came in the 2021 Southeast District Final vs USC Lancaster in a 7-0 victory. Tsukada said about his performance “I was only thinking about scoring goals to help the team. Winning is more important than individual results, so I’m proud of my teammates”.
The Falcon’s struck minutes before half time with a perfectly placed ball from speedy freshman Mahamat Ahmat (Jacksonville, FL). Yriarte and Bedoya are credited with the assist. “I love seeing our freshmen step up and compete. The Falcon spirit is strong with this group. They are fun to watch” said Coach Sasnett.
The defense performed well on the day and the midfield dominated in possession. Coach Joe Avallone commented on the performance, “The Daytona men showed what they are capable of on Saturday, as coaches we talked about character and protecting our home field, after going down 1-0 in opening minutes the falcons demonstrated they had the will and character to compete and make this season memorable”.
The Falcons take the field this Friday vs Patrick Henry College at 7:00 PM and again Sunday vs Andrew College at 2:00 PM.
Photo by Jessica Cuenca