Bristol Rhythm win comfortably at home versus Asheville FC 2-0
Thanks to an early brace from Ben Fogarty, Bristol Rhythm AFC secured a convincing win at home against Asheville Football Club. Although it was a non-conference match, the Rhythm displayed defensive resilience to earn them their first clean sheet of the season, and their second win of three total matches in 2025.
The real story from tonight comes from the unlikely scorer from the Rhythm, Ben Fogarty, who scored his first goal for Bristol at the beginning of the match and doubled the tally just minutes later. On top of that, Fogarty and the Rhythm defense dictated the pace of the game, preventing every opportunity Ashville FC threw at them. “The team won every header, fought for every tackle, and our goalies really stepped up; both made big saves to keep the shutout,” stated Assistant Coach Matt Osorio, when asked how the Rhythm’s defensive pressure helped give them a platform.
Bristol’s defensive pressure, as stated by Osorio, was certainly the deciding factor in tonight’s match. Two early goals from set pieces by the Rhythm meant that Asheville FC was on the attack for most of the night. Their efforts were met with incredible resilience from Bristol, who saved every shot on target thanks to both keepers Sean Stone and Sam McGee. Constant rotations throughout the match allowed Bristol to maintain their level of intensity, preventing Asheville from getting a sniff at goal.
The addition of non-conference matches has proven positive so far for Bristol Rhythm AFC, as it gives the team opportunities to give playing time to rotational players. “I think it’s very good because the whole squad can get involved,” stated man of the match Ben Fogarty, “and it’s also a big win which we hope to build on this Saturday.”
Bristol now turns their attention to their second away match of the season against Port City FC, who the Rhythm defeated comfortably last season at home 3-1. “We beat them last season, but they are going to want to come back and get us… but we will be ready,” stated Osorio.
By Parker W. Cox
Photo Credit: Emily Roberts
