The right foot of Giovanni Godoy proved to be crucial at both ends of the pitch Wednesday night as FC Tucson defeated South Georgia Tormenta FC 1-0 at Erk Russell Park in Statesboro, Georgia.
After a scoreless first 30 minutes in which each team had multiple chances, FC Tucson broke through on a curling strike by Godoy in the 33rd minute. With the Men In Black pushing forward, Azaad Liadi slotted a pass ahead to Godoy on his left. The hard-charging Godoy cut the ball back and then unleashed a right-footed strike from just outside the 18-yard box that bent just inside the far post. The 25-year-old was then buried under a pile of teammates after scoring his second goal of the season.
The goal was one of nine first-half shots and one of six shots FC Tucson (5-6-3, 18 points) managed after the hydration break, including a chance where Liadi nutmegged a Tormenta defender and then fired a shot that went wide of the far post.
After two early chances by FC Tucson in the second half, South Georgia (3-6-4, 14 points) dominated play, forcing seven saves from goalkeeper Carlos Merancio, who was making his first start in six games. On one play, Merancio blocked a shot with his feet that popped up in the air and was headed into the goal if not for Godoy, who right-footed it away.
“Obviously we are pleased with the three points on the road,” said FC Tucson coach John Galas. “It was the first time we have gotten a result against the Tormenta. It was a massive win for the boys.”
FC Tucson has picked up a point or more in four of its last five matches.
The Men In Black will return to Tucson to begin a two-game homestand on Saturday, Oct. 10. Kickoff against Greenville Triumph SC is set for 7:30 p.m. at Kino North Stadium.
