The midweek Eintracht Frankfurt match was a nice break from the pressure of the regular season. However, after the final whistle, it was back to work and focusing on league play for the boys in purple. A challenging stretch of matches awaited Louisville City; at New Mexico United (1st in West), vs Sacramento Republic (2nd in West), and vs Charleston Battery (2nd in East). The outcome of these three could have major implications for the squad's hopes of winning the Player’s Shield. Each win pushes LouCity forward while extending their lead over the biggest threats. First up was New Mexico. Last season’s match at Isotopes Park was the lowest point in what was an uncomfortable season. Very different circumstances, but, like last year, the three points up for grabs would go a long way for the team's aspirations.
Although a 1-0 scoreline might not catch your attention like many other results the team has gotten this season, it was a win to remember. “It’s probably one of the games I’m most proud of this season,” a pleased Coach Danny Cruz remarked after the match. Quite a different tone in this post-match interview compared to last season’s. “I can’t say enough of my group tonight,” said shared. “It was an absolute battle. We defended the box well. Guys left everything they could on the field.”
Jansen Wilson’s 39’ goal was the difference-maker. And what a thrilling team goal it was. Aiden McFadden’s service to Wilson Harris resulted in a blasted shot on target. The GK did well to stop it with one hand, but Jansen batting cleanup was able to finish the job. Not to disregard McFadden and his outstanding service (especially over the last few games), but Jansen Wilson had an exceptional performance. Traditionally deployed as an outside back, he lined up on the wing in his most attack-oriented positioning to date. And the KY native’s performance immediately made Coach Cruz’s unique setup pay off. “It was just a full 90-minute performance from the team,” Wilson said. “We grinded the whole game. We always say we’d love to grind out a one-nil game.” This season has been a coming-out party for this previously underrated local. He has not taken his opportunities with Louisville City for granted. “Being part of this hometown club is unbelievable. From the players to the staff to the fans that we have every game, there’s no place that I’d rather be.”
With a final expected goal tally of 1.29 for Louisville and 0.63 for NM, there were not a ton of significant scoring opportunities. Both teams put on solid defensive performances. However, the visitors get the edge here too. With only 34% possession and roughly 38% of their accurate passes occurring in the opposition’s half, much of the match was played in the LouCity half. Despite this, they still managed to outshoot the home side 11 to 8, with both sides finding four on-target shots each. Kyle Adams’ first start since an injury absence threw him right back into the fire and thankfully, he held his own.
This match was a big three points for Morados and a great momentum-builder heading into the matches against Sac Republic and the Battery. There were some LouCity-favorable results over the weekend, including a TBR loss to MB and SAC losing to PIT. As things stand, LOU’s 47 points have them in first. The Battery are only a point back but Louisville has two games in hand. Tampa and NM are the next two closest about both were unable to add to their point totals. The boys in purple continue to control their own fate. As we approach the final fourth of the season, that control will do wonders to relieve some pressure as the playoff creeps closer.
Parting Thoughts
Want more reading on LouCity? Check out the following:
Be sure to check out the Vamos Morados Podcast featuring myself, Benton, and Zach Allen-Kelly. It’s available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Audible, and Spotify. Everything you need to listen can be found on the Podcast page. Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!
The podcast is now also available in video format! Make sure to subscribe to The State of Louisville YouTube channel to catch the latest episodes along with a number of other quality shows!
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