The McIntosh Varsity boys’ soccer team has started its 2024-2025 season with a strong showing, with a record of 8-1. It is Ranked #4 in Georgia and #13 in the Nation. Friday night against Northgate, the Chiefs displayed impressive offensive and defensive efforts. With the score tied 0-0 and the clock running out, the Chiefs found (All-American) Liam Newton-Smith open in the box. When Newton-Smith beat the defender, the Northgate player fouled him in the box, resulting in a Penalty kick with 12 seconds left in the half. After Newton-Smith converted the Penalty, the Chiefs took a 1-0 lead into halftime.
After the half, McIntosh looked like a different team. They came out and dominated play, creating numerous chances. McIntosh demonstrated resilience and precision in this challenging match, scoring six second-half goals while shutting out Northgate.
Offensive Highlights: The Chiefs fired 21 shots throughout the game, with 13 on target, achieving a solid 61.9% shot-on-target percentage. The team converted seven goals, with five assists, showcasing excellent teamwork and passing accuracy. The second half saw a surge in offensive power, with six of the seven goals coming after halftime, demonstrating the squad’s ability to adapt and finish strong.
Midfield and Defensive Play: Ball control and passing were key strengths for the Chiefs, as they maintained an overall passing accuracy of 80%. The midfield was particularly effective, with a 79% successful pass rate, ensuring smooth transitions from defense to attack. The defense remained solid, boasting an 85% success rate in passing under pressure and limiting Northgate’s opportunities.
Standout Moments
- First Half: McIntosh controlled possession well, with 61.4% passing accuracy and 58 successful passes, setting the tone for the match.
- Second Half: A striking 81.8% shot-on-target rate led to an offensive explosion, with five assists and key plays leading to most of MHS’s goals.
- Defensive Resilience: The Chiefs held firm, blocking four key shots and securing a crucial save that prevented Northgate from gaining momentum.
Key Stats at a Glance
- Goals: 7
- Assists: 5
- Shots on Target: 13 (61.9%)
- Passing Accuracy: 80%
- Possession Time: 28 minutes, 42 seconds
Player Highlights
- Liam Newton-Smith: 2 goals, five shots, 60% shot-on-target. Tomas Pulido and Adan Dollens both scored goals and assisted. Spencer Singler, Clay Hernandez, and Nico Moreno Osorio each had a Goal. Jiho An contributed in possession, passing the ball into dangerous areas where the Chiefs created many scoring chances. Cole Kent, Rune Anderson, and Corin Staples scored goals in the match.
With this impressive start, the McIntosh Chiefs soccer team has again set a high bar for the season. The team looks to build on this momentum as it prepares for its next match against AAA #1 Columbus on Thursday. As the Chiefs work to continue offensive dominance, fans can expect exciting performances from the Chiefs this season.
Written by: “The Chief”
