Despite the difference in record, there is always something for both Louisville City and Indy Eleven to play for in a Louisville-Indianapolis Proximity Association Football Contest. With a draw and a win apiece between the two sides, this 4th and final LIPAFC will determine the series. After a rather painful loss to Memphis 901, City will be heading north for the final encounter with their Indiana rivals. Playing at Indy’s Carroll Stadium went well last time and the boys will be looking to repeat.
Indy hasn’t exactly improved since the last encounter. 24th for shots on target per match, 28th for goals per match, and 20th for goals conceded per match. Ouch. If you take a look at how they stack up on the visuals in the latest How’s It Going? piece, you’ll find them in unfortunate company. Manuel Arteaga, Gordon Wild, and Nick Moon have all had decent individual performances this season but as a collective, it’s been far below expectations. To put it bluntly; they stink.
Although they have long since crashed out of playoff contention and are merely playing for pride, the final INDvLOU matchup is their last opportunity to make a mark. Not only can they clinch the LIPAFC crown, but they have an opportunity to steal points from a LouCity side that needs everything it can get after the Memphis mishap. Neveal Hackshaw, A.J. Cochran, Rece Buckmaster, all returned to full training earlier in the week for Indy and could take to the field to aid in their effort to play spoiler. The Birmingham Legion has a one-point lead over City in the standings and regardless of how they perform over the weekend, Louisville will be desperate for all three points. A draw won’t cut it and will put the team at unnecessary risk of losing a shot at first.
According to FiveThirtyEight, Louisville City has a 49% chance of winning and a 26% chance to draw. Given the circumstances, this match is now much bigger than it was looking to be a few weeks back. City’s comfortable lead in the Central Division is gone and fans will be expecting them to win out. Given the team's dedication to winning, I’m sure their expectations are the same.
For those not going to the Racing Louisville match at the same time, tickets to this match can be purchased here. The boys will need some support in a less-than-friendly environment.
Parting Thoughts
The LouCity team is forming a fundraising walk team for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) Light The Night. I encourage you to channel your charitable side and contribute whatever you can. And while you’re at it, consider supporting the NWSLPA.
If you’re looking to expand your purple wardrobe, Vamos Morados shirts are available!
Want to do a little more reading on LouCity? Might I suggest How’s It Going Part 4, What Are Expected Goals (xG)?, The Tifos of Louisville City, or The Louisville City Youth Movement?
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