Columbus Futsal Remain Unbeaten, but Wanting More After Back-to-Back Draws
The weather may be frigid in Central Ohio, but the action inside of Upper Arlington High School was red hot. Columbus Futsal continued its National Futsal Premier League campaign on Saturday, welcoming the Ann Arbor Mudpuppies.
Looking to ascend the league table, Columbus came into the match hungry for three points. It was an even first half of competition, with no club able to gain clear separation. Goleiro Ygor Talasca put on a spectacle and frustrated the Mudpuppies throughout the first half with his acrobatic saves. Talasca also joined the attack, providing an advantage for Columbus. The hosts retreated to the locker room with a 3-2 lead. The action amplified in the second half with both clubs scoring a combined 13 goals.
Columbus received a tremendous performance from fixo Zak Boggs. He collected two goals and was a pest on defense. Another standout for the hosts was pivo Gui Karaoglan. The Brazilian contributed one goal to his team’s effort, but influenced the match with his continuous presence on the court.
Despite the intense effort, Columbus settled for a disheartening 9x9 draw, just two weeks after opening the NFPL season with an 8x8 draw after hosting Grand Rapids ABK.
By the display from his team in the first month of the NFPL season, head coach Dante Garcia understands there is room for improvement. “We know where we need to improve defensively,” Garcia said. “After two ties the boys are hungry to get a proper result. The goals are there we just need to tighten things up on the defensive end.”
A chance at redemption presents itself next week as Columbus welcomes Mit West to Upper Arlington High School. The team can’t wait to get back out on the court and can’t wait to see its fans. “(The fan) support is super important to create a remarkable atmosphere and encourage our players to get the win,” said Gui Karaoglan. You can catch Columbus back in action Saturday at 7 p.m. against Mit West. Tickets are available here: https://www.columbusfutsal.us/tickets
