Match Preview: Clayton gametime decision with injury.

(Hope, NJ)
-Continental’s captain Dan Clayton will be a game time decision this evening with is what is described as a severe strain on the left groin muscle. He has been battling this injury since his two goal outburst several weeks ago. When asked for comment he said in a statement via e-mail that he did not think the injury was as severe as what it is now. He missed training last night to “rest his body and soul”

He also said in conflicting reports that the injury he sustained was not from playing with the County college of Morris soccer team but however, “a lack of fitness “.


We asked current manager Ryan Vinton’s thoughts on the situation:

“Were going to let him warm up tonight and see how he feels” he said “I’m going to get an honest answer out of him. I know he loves to play, but I don’t care if I have to tazer him, if he is still experiencing pain, he’s going to sit. The kid gives me a lot, but with us out of the playoffs there’s no reason to be injured and useless for meaningful games in the spring.”

In his absence from playing, Clayton has been sharpening his tactical awareness by taking control of some formation shifts and substitutions. In last week’s defeat, it seemed like the continentals were playing with a fire not seen since the summer, some supporters have stated. Clayton also stated that “he is in no way trying to take Vinton’s job” as rumors from the board stated Vinton would be fired soon. Clayton also told us “When my playing career is over, I wish to coach and give back everything I have learned to the lads. If we expand to a junior division or a women’s division, I’d give a shot at coaching .”

If Clayton cannot go tonight, Russ Bauer will take captainship and lead an inspired squad with Mike “boo boo” Cheatam and Randao` both coming off subpar games with injuries and illness respectively. Ryan Vinton coming off a good comeback game will look to anchor the defense with Mike Pollock and Dylan Bauer. With an unlucky ringing of the bell, the midfield attack of Brady Macdonald, Mo, and depending on who has the hot hand, Marco or Mark Basso in the midfield and Goal.
Improvement is expected tonight.