"Accept the win, act like you're used to it, and move on," Reid told his players as they huddled for the postgame meeting. After all, three important league matches remain before the playoffs.
But excuse the Eagles for the overt act of celebration. After what was a physical and exhausting win played in virtual mud, and after overcoming a 1-0 deficit just five minutes into the game, Washington remains the league's alpha squad, Division A's lone undefeated team.
"I don't think it is [important] at all," Reid said of remaining undefeated. "There's six, seven, eight teams in this division that can get to the playoffs and win."
Perhaps the win lacks gravity in the standings - Washington (8-0) is a lock for the playoffs and a safe bet to nab a No. 1 or 2 seed. But it was clear that the win boosted team morale.
Fels (5-2) scored when striker Musa Kamara converted a deftly placed through ball, slotted up the seam by Keta Richman, for a 1-0 lead.
The Eagles drew even when Wilo Mimbar headed in a ball with his back to the net served in by Colin Knowles from midfield. As the second half drew to a close, Mohamed Conde slipped a ball past Fels keeper Berny Vilsaint on a counter attack spurred by Duke Gbolue for a 2-1 lead.
Fels took charge in the second half, peppering the Washington net. The Panthers outshot Washington, 16-10, overall, with seven balls on goal to the Eagles' six.
Ramos, who looked out of sorts in the first half, withstood a late barrage of shots, keeping his composure to corral a header that clanged off the post and into his arms late in the game.
It was two clutch saves by Eagles defenders, however, that preserved the win. With Washington unable to clear the ball on two corner attempts, Knowles and Ramon Williams, respectively, jumped in to block what would have been two sure Fels goals.
Fels coach George Ewerth declined comment after the game. After beginning 5-0, his Panthers have lost two straight in a three-day span, also falling to Central on Monday.
Fels 1 0 – 1
Washington 2 0 – 2
Goals: F-Musa Kamara; W-Wilo Mimbar, Mohamed Conde.
Saves: F-Berny Vilsaint 4; W-Jabony Ramos 7.
Contact Evan Burgos at rallysports@phillynews.com.
