Phantoms Top Montco 2-1, Secure Playoff

Delaware and Chester Counties, PA— The Delaware County Community College men's soccer team is heading to the postseason for the first time since 2019 after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Montgomery County Community College.

The Phantoms needed to win their final home match of the season to finish at .500 in region play and earn a first-round spot in the Region XIX tournament. Sometimes, you get what you need.

"We went in with the understanding that this was a must-win game if we wanted to achieve our goals," said DCCC Head Coach Andrew Flood. "Our coaching staff and team had the mindset that we were the better team—and that we just had to prove it."

"We were focused on keeping up the intensity for the full 90 minutes and making sure we stayed sound in our defensive shape," he said. "We knew scoring opportunities would be rare, so we would have to take full advantage."

Both teams, vying for postseason contention, came out with speed, strategy, and tenacity. After playing tough to a draw through most of the first period, Montco struck first to take a 1-0 lead into the half. 

DCCC answered early in the second with a strike from Lansana Donzo, his third goal of the season, fed by Kofil Ohi. With about 13 minutes remaining, scoring-leader Abdul Sheriff added the game winner on an assist from Zayzay Sairyon.

Coach Flood emphasized the squad's complete performance and contributions. "This was the best team effort I have seen," he said. "The guys truly showed what kind of family they are."

Second-year players Alvin Gayee and Dennis Omane-Nketia enjoyed an extra-sweet Sophomore Day culminating in the opportunity to extend their time as Phantoms into the playoffs. "Big congrats to Alvin and Dennis," said Flood. "They played well and it's great to be able to coach them this far."

DCCC, currently 6-7-0 overall, finishes the regular season on the road at Manor College on October 21, looking for a seventh win to even that record. "We still have a tough test ahead of us," Flood said. "We're looking to maintain intensity and ride it into the postseason to show that we are an elite team that can compete with anybody."