CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – In a rematch of last year’s USL League One Final, South Georgia Tormenta FC secured a much-needed victory, winning 2-0 against Chattanooga Red Wolves SC at CHI Memorial Stadium for the first time since its last victory in August of 2020. South Georgia put on an impressive display, scoring goals in the 42nd and 58th minutes to seal its fourth victory of the season. The reigning League One champion once again emerged victorious over the runner-up, this time in a regular season matchup following one goal from Pedro Fonseca and Ryan Sierakowski’s first goal of the season.
Throughout the first half, South Georgia put on a dominant pressing display, showing off its strong offensive press against the Chattanooga defensive line. The offensive pressure paid off after a series of turnovers from the home team. TFC found the back of the net in the 42nd minute. The goal came after an exceptional team play, seeing Nick Akoto switch the play to the opposite side of the field to find Jackson Khoury. Khoury dribbled into the penalty area and passed to Fonseca, who had found himself unmarked in the box. Fonseca positioned his shot perfectly, placing it to the opposite side of the keeper’s post and scoring his second goal of the season.
South Georgia continued to dominate throughout the start of the second half, maintaining its strong tactical press and limiting the home team’s distribution through the midfield. In the 58th minute, Sierakowski secured Tormenta FC’s second goal of the match. Sierakowski started the play through a brilliant counterattack, playing a pass to Mukwelle Akale. Akale quickly advanced through the midfield, finding Sierakwoski unmarked near the outside of the penalty box. Sierakwoski saw an opening and took a powerful shot from afar, expertly angling it to the top-left corner of the net, leaving the home goalkeeper without any opportunity.
Pablo Jara had an outstanding performance tonight, making several crucial saves that proved instrumental in securing South Georgia’s fourth victory of the season. His exceptional skill between the posts and his ability to distribute the ball throughout the pitch was evident throughout the match. Jara is now five games away from his 100th game in USL League One for Tormenta FC.
To note, defender Daltyn Knutson appeared in his 100th professional game after starting in tonight’s 2-0 win in Chattanooga. The defender started his professional career with South Georgia before moving to Union Omaha. Knutson returned to Statesboro earlier this year.
Following Friday’s match, Tormenta FC is set for a bye week before going on the road, taking on Central Valley Fuego FC on Saturday, May 20, at 10 p.m. ET from Fresno State Soccer Stadium for the first time this season.
South Georgia is poised to make a strong push for the championship title in the upcoming season. Fans can secure their seats at the new Tormenta Stadium ahead of 2023, with Season Tickets now available for purchase.
For additional information and scheduling interviews, call (301-237-0539) or email epintor@tormentafc.com.