David Bascome’s Baltimore Blast suffered a narrow 4 - 2 defeat to Utica City FC as their return to the Adirondack Bank Center ended in a hard-fought frustration.
In a clash defined by defensive discipline and high-intensity transitions, the Blast found themselves unable to break the resolve of a resilient Utica side. The loss leaves Bascome’s men looking to regroup quickly as the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) Eastern Conference race intensifies heading into the late-winter schedule.
The match sparked into life midway through the opening period when Sergio Pinal found space to slot home the opener for Utica City. Baltimore, however, showed the trademark resilience that has become synonymous with Bascome’s tenure. With just over a minute left on the first-quarter clock, Nico Williams produced a moment of individual quality to draw the Blast level, ensuring the sides remained deadlocked following a scoreless and cagey second period.
The game truly opened up in the third period as both sides looked to seize the momentum. Meny Silva handed the hosts the lead just two minutes after the restart, but Baltimore once again found an answer. Juan Pereira showcased his finishing ability in the ninth minute to make it 2-2, momentarily silencing the Utica faithful.
However, the joy for the Blast was short-lived. Less than a minute after Pereira's equaliser, Gordy Gurson pounced on a loose ball to restore Utica’s advantage. The goal proved to be the turning point, as Baltimore were forced to chase the game and leave gaps in their defensive structure.
The final quarter was a masterclass in game management from the hosts. As Baltimore pushed for a third equaliser, Sergio Pinal struck again in the fourth minute of the final frame to double the Utica lead. Despite a late flurry of chances and tactical shifts from Bascome on the bench, the Blast were unable to beat the Utica keeper again, leaving the Adirondack Bank Center empty-handed.
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