Williamstown scores a beauty

It was a classic give-and-go, a pretty soccer play in a game marked by tough, physical action.

It also was the difference.

Junior forward Corey Beltran converted a cross from senior midfielder James Piccone just four minutes into the game as Williamstown defeated Kingsway, 1-0, Thursday in a Tri-County Royal boys' soccer clash.

"It was a beautiful ball," Beltran said of Piccone's pass. "It just floated in the air, right to the back post."

Beltran's goal stood up over the final 76 minutes thanks to some strong work by the Williamstown defense and goaltender T.J. Carson.

The victory was the visiting Braves' fifth in a row and improved their record to 5-1 overall and 4-0 in the division.

Kingsway fell to 3-1-1 and 1-1-1.

"If you told me that one goal at the beginning of the game would be the only one I never would have believed it," Williamstown coach Dave Geyer said. "Both teams had some good chances."

Kingsway played without starting forwards Steve Whittaker and Andrew Myers, because of injuries. The Dragons also lost starting goalie Mike McCauley to an injury in the first half.

Williamstown also had several players fighting through injuries, including standout senior midfielder Zaiere Putmon.

"When you have two nicked-up teams, it comes down to effort and heart," Kingsway coach John Green said. "They were hungry in the box. We had a lot of chances but I thought we were stale in the box."

Early in the game, Beltran took possession around midfield and feathered a pass into the right corner for Piccone. Beltran immediately broke for the goal.

Piccone gained control and lofted a cross that Beltran headed into the net for the game's only goal.

"I knew he was going to be there," Piccone said. "We practice that all the time. Our forwards know to go to the goal."

Kingsway had several chances thanks to plays by Ryan Locke, Vinnie Biasello, Drew Viereck and Colin Flanagan. But the Dragons' aim was off on a few shots, and Carson also made a couple of solid saves.

"That's the best game he's played," Geyer said of Carson.

Williamstown   1 0 - 1

Kingsway   0 0 - 0

W: Corey Beltran.

Saves – W: T.J. Carson, 5; K: Mike McCauley 2, Ian Kinnary 7.