READING, PA (June 17, 2022) – Reading United A.C. (3-2-3) were upended by their archrivals the Ocean City Nor’easters (6-0-1), in USL League Two action at Alvernia University Stadium on Friday evening as the visitors notched a 0-1 result. The Mid Atlantic Division leaders seized the lead in the 8th minute via a goal from Daniel Diaz-Bonilla and then rode the second half heroics of goalkeeper Felix Schafer to secure the victory in the 54th meeting of the long-time rivals.

The Nor’easters wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. In the game’s 8 th minute, Ocean City capitalized on a Reading turnover in midfield. Midfield Nicholas Cam Orellana collected the ball and played an inch perfect pass through the United defense to Diaz-Bonilla. With only Reading goalkeeper Russell Shealy to beat, Diaz-Bonilla hit a low shot that clanged off the far post and into the back of the net to give Ocean City the early advantage.

After a bevy of adjustments in the second half by United Head Coach Casey Moore, Reading rallied and looked the more likely to find the match’s next goal. They were stymied by a man of the match performance by Nor’easters goalkeeper Felix Schafer.

In the 69th minute, Reading United nearly grabbed the equalizer. Alex Hajj hit a perfectly struck ball that looked destined to tie the game only to see Schafer make a diving fingertip save to keep Reading off the scoreboard.

Schafer stuffed another terrific United opportunity in the 83rd minute. Reading midfielder Martin Imping headed on target from point blank range but the Nor’easters goalkeeper just managed to push the effort outside of his near post.

Reading United forced Schafer into five saves on 17 shots but failed to find a way past the Ocean City backstop, who recorded his second shutout of the 2022 campaign.

With the loss, United fell to 22-24-8 in the all-time series with Ocean City.

Reading United will look to rebound when they begin a three game road trip starting at West Chester United on Tuesday, June 21st . Reading will return home to Alvernia University Stadium on Saturday, July 2nd when they face West Chester United. Game day tickets are available for purchase at readingunitedac.com.