Match Recap: New York Magic vs. New Jersey Alliance Women, Sunday, May 21st

The New York Magic traveled across the Hudson River to open the 2023 UPSL Northeast American Division Conference play with a 1-1 draw against the New Jersey Alliance Women at Mattano Park in Elizabeth, New Jersey.  The Magic opened the scoring in the 24th minute when Dina Mulic picked up a pass and sprinted down the left side before centering to Dani Perri, who expertly buried the shot in the back of the net.  New Jersey equalized off of a corner kick a few minutes later.  The rest of the match was a physical, closely fought contest with neither team able to breach the solid defenses of their opponent.

The Magic attack was disrupted right before halftime when striker Perri had to leave the game due to an injury caused by a collision with the New Jersey Alliance's goalkeeper.  The best opportunity of the second half came from a free kick by Dina Mulic that was tipped just wide of the post. Throughout the half the Magic back line held strong in front of goalkeeper Stephanie Gonzalez.  The backline was anchored by Imanie Richards whose performance earned her a spot on the UPSL Northeast team of the week. 

The Magic opened the season with an international squad featuring players from six different countries plus Long Island.  The new look team featured eight starters and ten players total making their UPSL debuts for the Magic.  Coach Nino DePasquali will once again aim to improve the team as he did in each of the previous two seasons, both of which ended in UPSL division championships.

After a week off for the Memorial Day holiday, the Magic will travel down the Garden State Parkway to Atlantic City to resume UPSL play at Inter AC on June 3rd, before opening their home season at Queens College on June 10.

Congratulations to Magic players Dani Perri and Imanie Richards for being named to the UPSL Northeast American Conference Team of the Week.