South Jersey Soccer:
Joe Nick And Barons Top Imperials 4-0

Saturday, May 1, 1999

By Forrest Robleto
SJSports Staff Writer

It took the South Jersey Barons 152 minutes to get their first goal this season, but when they finally got one they wouldn't stop coming. Before a small but enthusiastic crowd of just under 600 at Carey Stadium, the Barons managed four second half goals to beat the North Jersey Imperials in a U.S. Open Qualification match.

After a scoreless first half, the Barons came out with noticeably more intensity and it didn't take long for that to start wearing down the Imperials. Pat Hickey got the ball up to Joe Nick at about the 62-minute mark, who took it in about 30 yards out, then beat keeper Kevin East to open the season's scoring for the Barons. Six minutes later Alvaro Figeurola made a nice cross to Matt Miles who made no mistake from about six yards to give the Barons a two goal lead.

Mike Hayes passed the ball up to Figeurola. Figeurola dribbled past the defender and then beat East one on one. The third goal meant a bonus point in the U.S Open Cup Qualification standings.

The final goal of the evening and Joe Nick's second came on a cross from Matt Miles that Joe Nick put into the upper left corner for the score.

The Barons' keeper Jeremy Kirchner had threes save in the shutout. The Barons outshot the Imperials 13-7. East had a total of four saves.

The Barons get four points for winning in regulation and a bonus point for scoring three goals. This moves the Barons into a first place tie with the New Jersey Stallions, pending the Stallions results. The Barons travel to face the Stallions on the road next Saturday (7:30 PM at Toms River North High School). That game could decide which team qualifies for the U.S Open Cup Tournament Ð a true national championship of all levels of professional soccer in the U.S.

At the end of the game George Gjoka of the Imperials took a swing at one of the Barons in a most unsportsmanlike action. He was awarded a red card for his actions.

The Barons as usual spent time with their fans. The team is very fan friendly and even if the soccer action isn't good (it usually is), it is a great place to bring the kids. The athletes on the team appreciate all their fans.

Photos by Forrest Robleto