Despite out shooting the Pioneers 40-3, the Rochester Raging Rhinos needed a late goal and extra time to defeat the Western Mass Pioneers, 2-1 at PAETEC Park in Rochester.
Jeff Daren
2007 US Open Cup Round 1: Western Mass Pioneers avoid upset with late goals vs. Danbury United
In the opening match of the day, the Western Mass Pioneers needed extra time and a pair of penalty kicks to overcome the upset bid of the USASA’s Danbury United.
After playing a scoreless first half, former Pioneer Tony Fernandes was called for a foul on Everson Maciel, who appeared to exaggerate the contact to draw a penalty kick. Maciel converted the kick to give the USL-2 side a 1-0 lead. Danbury dramatically drew the game level in the 86th minute, when Mauro Costa headed in a free kick from Mauro Santos.