Two teams in similar situations matched up on a windy afternoon in Virginia. Both Memphis 901 FC (1-4-0) and Loudoun United (2-2-1) started the year on a high note before losing consecutive games.
Loudoun had not secured a clean sheet since mid-August, giving Memphis an opportunity to solve their offensive woes. The two-game scoring drought was erased 13 minutes into the game. Zachary Duncan darted downfield after a Loudoun turnover, winning a foul at the edge of the box. Samuel Careaga took free kick responsibilities — one of three goalscorers for Memphis so far. His left-footed shot split the wall and caught the goalkeeper flatfooted.
The goal came off a turnover and direct play which Memphis had to rely on throughout. High pressure forced Loudoun into mistakes leaving 901 attackers with openings to pounce. Despite the chances, few challenged the goalkeeper which has been the theme of the season.
One goal would not be enough to escape with any points and end the losing streak. As halftime approached, Loudoun equalized from a near-post run. Kwame Awuah ran into a dangerous area before finding Zachary Ryan who was able to slot it into the back of the net.
The press from Memphis bothered Loudoun in their build-up play as well. The home side relied on set pieces in their attack, scoring the winning goal from a corner kick. The ball found Drew Skundrich who headed it into the bottom right corner. They finished with seven corners compared to Memphis with a single attempt.
Looking for attacking options off the bench in the second half, head coach Stephen Glass went to Noe Meza who got his first extended run of the season (10 minutes in two matches beforehand). With Neco Brett out with an upper body injury, Meza could be an option for the mid-week Open Cup game.
Next Match
Memphis 901 FC will be at home twice this week. They will welcome NPSL side Miami United Wednesday, at 6:30pm for the Open Cup. On Saturday, Monterey Bay makes the long trip to Memphis, kickoff at 7pm.