Koke Gracia’s Brace Sends Bristol Rhythm AFC to the NPSL National Semifinals

Photo Credit: Collin Buff

The Bristol Rhythm showed the heart of champions Saturday night, overcoming an early deficit to defeat Ristozi FC 2-1 and punch their ticket to the NPSL National Semifinals.

Ristozi FC came out with intensity from the opening whistle, moving the ball quickly and connecting sharp passes as they looked to seize control early.  Their pressure paid off in the 18th minute when Peter Gansallo beat Rhythm goalkeeper Noe Delmotte with a brilliant individual move before calmly finishing to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.

The Rhythm’s response was immediate.

Just nine minutes later, Koke Gracia leveled the match with a clinical finish in the 27th minute, igniting the home crowd at Gene Malcolm Stadium.  Gracia wasn’t done.  In the 35th minute, he struck again, completing a first-half brace and giving Bristol a 2-1 advantage heading into the break.

The second half was a battle between two outstanding sides.  Both teams created dangerous chances, but each defense stood firm when it mattered most.  Delmotte and the Rhythm back line held strong, while Bristol continued to match Ristozi’s intensity throughout the final 45 minutes.

In the closing moments of stoppage time, with Ristozi throwing numbers forward in one last push for an equalizer, Taylor Vorbrich made a sensational defensive play to deny the visitors’ final attack and preserve the victory.

With the 2-1 win, the Bristol Rhythm advance to the NPSL National Semifinals, where they’ll host New Haven United FC on Saturday, July 25.