FC Naples beats Greenville 1-0 while honoring first responders

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK) — FC Naples brought big energy and a big crowd to the Paradise Coast Sports Complex for a home match that doubled as First Responders Night.

From the moment fans walked through the gates, excitement, pride and hometown spirit filled the air. The match against Greenville Triumph SC honored local first responders, with North Collier Fire Rescue serving as the honor guard in a moment that had the entire stadium on its feet.

"Our son played for 15 years, so soccer is our thing, and now our grandson plays," said Cynthia Aguilera, an FC Naples fan.

The tribute meant a lot to those being honored.

"Being part of the Department of North Collier fire was important. It was a great tribute that they play, and we honored that they actually take the time to do this for us," said Jorge Aguilera, deputy chief of North Collier Fire Rescue.

For Richard Esquerete, whose father is a North Collier first responder, the night carried extra meaning.

"Makes me feel proud about him. Makes me feel good about myself, knowing I was I was with him for like, 10 years, on his journey with him, so it's pretty exciting," Esquerete said.

The matchup came with a little extra edge. These two teams have been neck and neck, splitting the series last season, and coming into the match, it was anyone's game.

"We're going to take it this time. Its our night. Most definitely its our night," Cynthia and Jorge Aguilera said.

For many, the night wasn't just about the match. It was about being part of something bigger.

FC Naples came out on top with a 1-0 win.