Phantoms Pick Up First Win

New Hampshire Tops Westchester, 1-0

June 9, 2009

The New Hampshire Phantoms came out determined to earn its first win of the season Saturday against the Westchester Flames.

The Phantoms got it with a 1-0 win, with the goal coming from a Tom McNeil direct kick in the 45th minute.

The Phantoms continued to apply pressure in the second half, trying to stretch its lead but to no avail. Phantoms midfielder Richard Simmons had the best chance to add to New Hampshire’s lead late in the game when he pounced on a rebound from three yards out, only to send it wide of the goal with the Westchester keeper out of position

From that point on Westchester pressed for the equalizer and had three good chances, but Phantoms keeper Tim Murray came up big several times to earn his first shutout of the season. Murray finished with eight saves.

The Phantoms (1-6-1) will hit the road for three consecutive games, Saturday at New Jersey Ranges, June 16th at Ottawa Fury, and Saturday June 20th at expansion club Portland Phoenix. Portland is playing an exhibition season and will join the USL/PDL division in 2010.

The Phantoms return home on Wednesday June 24th to face Vermont Voltage.