El Fuego wins 1-0 over Abacus in one that could have gone either way.

In a game characterized by lack of execution by strikers on both sides, scoring chances were plenty to be found. The game began with strong pass play and chance creation by the burritos which opened up some scoring chances but were unable to convert until the 20th minute, when an unintentional handball (some would say a tough call), set up a freekick just outside the Abacus penalty area. Aleks struck the ball through the Abacus wall and past Charlie for the first goal. Abacus, now a revived team, began to prove why they are a team to be reckoned with. Without their striker Nachmi, execution suffered, but play creation did not. As the first half wound down, momentum was shifting to Abacus' favor led by the ever-solid Mike Keller in their midfield. Mike has proven to be a significant asset at midfield position, and his ball control and distribution makes him a strong part of the Abacus offense. Their objective to get past the el Fuego defense was hampered by Leah, who put the brakes on Tomo, as well as Zack and Big Kev, who tried to keep the towering Vincenzo from doing what he does best.

In the second half, the teams played equally, with some open chances at the goal mouth for both. Two shots by Keller were just over the bar, while Vincenzo, Tomo and others had their go at John D "Fuker" (Fuego Keeper), who is on top of his game and has proven a real asset to the burritos. On the El Fuego's side, transition play was lacking as the midfield found it difficult to connect with their strikers, even though the backfield seemed open. The only real opportunity was a 24 yarder by Bula that grazed the left post. Abacus had numerous opportunities to equalize, or even take the lead. Numerous freekicks at the edge of the box were squandered, and some long throws drifted across the goal without an Abacus foot to strike them in. Bula said, : "Abacus are much stronger than anticipated. We need to work on our transition game and our team chemistry in order to bring back a cohesive attacking strategy. As usual, our defense was strong, winning contested balls, and clearing well. We are glad to come away with a win against a good team." Ben was a very good referee, and much his service yesterday is much appreciated.

Abacus is a reorganized side that is just as strong as any other in the league. Their playoff chances have dwindled but not impossible, but it would take 3 consecutive wins and no wins by Vesuvio for a qualification. The Patriots are coming off a strong win against Race St., and are also battling for this 4th and final spot, although Vesuvio needs only one to clinch it.