Battle in Sharpsburg - Columbus vs East Coweta GHSA Boys

In a tightly contested match between the East Coweta Indians and the Columbus Blue Devils, the Blue Devils managed to secure a win via penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. This game just about had it all, from penalties and hard challenges to skill moves and aerial battles, here are some players that stood out in Thursday nights match.    A player who can do it all, Ryan, who is traditionally a keeper, has been playing up top for the Blue Devils this season and looked the part Thursday evening. You can tell Ryan brings some of his goalkeeping attributes to his field play, as he is very vocal and communicative on the pitch, as well as an athletic player who is a real threat in the air on crosses into the box. His footwork looked pretty sharp, and he converted the Blue Devils only goal of the game from a well taken penalty which sent the keeper the wrong way. A captain and real leader of this Blue Devils side.     The man of the match for me, Gabriel looked very sound in goal. During the game, Gabriel made about 7 or 8 diving stops, and was able to come out and claim almost very ball crossed into the box. He came up big for the Blue Devils in pens as well, making some class saves to win his side the contest. A very confident keeper as well, Gabe made no mistakes between the posts and was a large reason the Raiders were unable to put a couple more in net.     A unit of a center back, Will has an intimidating presence (not just the mullet) that puts attackers off when going for goal. His physicality and knack for getting his body in the way or winning shoulder to shoulder challenges makes it difficult for opposing attackers to get by him. Frequently making last ditch challenges and getting a tackle in to thwart attacks. A captain of the team as well, Will is another great communicator on the pitch. A defender who embodies the get rid attitude and clears the ball out of harms way.     An electric left winger, David was causing problems all night long for the Blue Devils down the left flank. He is very quick, possesses a ton of pace, and makes these quick turns which seem to leave defenders guessing on what he is going to do next. He showcased some elite dribbling moves, almost always beating the first defender whenever on the ball. He some to cause a real threat whenever he would take it down the line play a square ball across the box to attackers, leaving defenders scrambling to clear. A multi-facet player who brings it all for the Indians.     Julian is a crafty center attacking mid who shows true confidence when on the ball. He can pass and send through balls forward for his strikers, or create link up play and quick passing and movement with other attackers. His footwork looked phenomenal, rarely losing possession of the ball. He also isn't afraid to have a go on goal, forcing the Blue devils keeper into quite a few tough saves from efforts outside the box. Julian is the set piece taker for this Indians team as well, putting in some quality corners as well as free kicks for his team to get on the end of.

In a tightly contested match between the East Coweta Indians and the Columbus Blue Devils, the Blue Devils managed to secure a win via penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. This game just about had it all, from penalties and hard challenges to skill moves and aerial battles, here are some players that stood out in Thursday nights match.