FC Berlin earned an important road victory on Saturday evening, defeating Süsserfuss Ballveiren in a tightly contested Major Arena Soccer League Women matchup in Akron, Ohio.

Coming into the game, Berlin had been enjoying a solid debut campaign in the league, sitting near the top of the Great Lakes North standings with four wins in six matches and one of the best goal differentials in the division. FC Berlin had also shown resilience in recent weeks, including a dramatic shootout victory over the Cincinnati Sirens that demonstrated the squad’s ability to grind out results in tight contests. Süsserfuss, meanwhile, had been searching for momentum after a difficult run of results earlier in the season, but signs of improvement had begun to appear. The Akron side recently found its offensive rhythm with a breakout performance that produced a 13-goal outburst against Columbus and another 11 against Youngstown, suggesting the home side had the firepower to challenge anyone in the division.

That offensive potential was on display early. Süsserfuss opened the scoring when Kate Mauch unleashed a fantastic strike that gave the home crowd plenty to cheer about and put the hosts ahead 1-0. Berlin responded quickly and seized control before the end of the first period. Goals from Bryanna Caldwell, Ally Rowe, and April Syme turned the momentum around, allowing the visitors to head into the break with a 3-1 advantage.

The second period saw both teams continue to trade blows. Each side found the net twice, preserving Berlin’s two-goal cushion as the teams headed into halftime with the visitors leading. Brooke Garey and Mauch again scored for the home team, with Rowe and Samantha Murphy finding the back of the net for the Canadian side.

The third period, however, belonged to Süsserfuss. Mayra Sesmas caused constant problems for the Berlin defence, repeatedly testing the back line while the hosts were also backed by an iron-clad defensive effort and the safe hands of goalkeeper Annabelle Hegeman. Sesmas struck twice during the surge, while Jordan Hindmarsh added another goal to complete the comeback and give Süsserfuss the lead for the first time since the opening minutes. Berlin was struggling to regain control until Violet Hipkin managed to squeeze in a crucial equalizer late in the period, tying the match 6-6 and giving the visitors a much-needed lifeline heading into the final frame.

The last 15 minutes ultimately belonged to Berlin. Marisa Oliveira restored the lead before Ally Rowe added her third goal of the night, giving the visitors enough breathing room to settle the game. With the cushion in place, Berlin controlled the pace and saw out a hard-fought victory.
The win represents an important step for Berlin as the club continues its push toward a spot at the MASL-W Nationals in Detroit.

The two teams will not have to wait long for their next meeting. Berlin and Süsserfuss will face each other again this Sunday in Toronto in what will be the final regular season game for both sides.

Pictures courtesy of Rita Hegeman