Fire Ants Take Tough Loss to SWVA

Final Score: Southwest Virginia 3, USC Sumter 2

Halftime Score: USC Sumter 1 – Southwest Virginia 0
Location: SWCC Stadium, Southwest Virginia
Attendance: 0
Game Duration: 2 hours

Match Summary:

USC Sumter started strong, taking a 1–0 lead into halftime thanks to a well-placed goal by José Janiszewski in the 39th minute, assisted by Joaquin Gomez. The Fire Ants controlled the tempo early, showing discipline and defensive structure.

However, Southwest Virginia came out aggressive in the second half, scoring three unanswered goals in a 16-minute span:

• Salvador Forte vaz de Noronha netted two goals (50' and 53') with assists from Euan Whitty and Oscar Seliger.
• Ethan Sutherland added a third in the 66th minute with an unassisted strike.

USC Sumter responded in the 74th minute with a brilliant free kick goal by Luciano Viejo, narrowing the deficit to 3–2. Despite late pressure, the Fire Ants couldn't find the equalizer.

Key Performers – USC Sumter:

• José Janiszewski: 1 goal (39'), 1 shot on goal
• Luciano Viejo: 1 goal (74'), 2 shots, yellow card
• Joaquin Gomez: 1 assist, 1 shot on goal
• Martin Pastrello (GK): 2 saves on 5 shots on goal

Key Stats:

• Shots (on goal): USC Sumter 6 (4), Southwest Virginia 7 (5)
• Saves: USC Sumter 2, Southwest Virginia 5
• Yellow Cards: 6 total (3 USC Sumter, 3 Southwest Virginia)