Memphis 901 FC rattle the Rowdies in consecutive win

Memphis 901 FC have found magic in fast starts.

The potential of a high-powered offense has been unleashed with Memphis able to establish themselves early on. It took 17 minutes to score twice against Birmingham. A week later at home against the unbeaten Tampa Bay Rowdies, they were able to do it in 23.

Tampa Bay received a red card in the 11th minute and never recovered. Memphis remained in control throughout for a 4-1 win.

“We started the game bright, obviously caused them a problem with movement up top. And when the player gets sent off, it changes the game,” head coach Stephen Glass said. “But you’ve still got to take the bull by the horns and take care of it.”

Two weeks ago, Marlon Santos had zero goals, no assists and three yellow cards through six matches with Memphis. His performances have flipped against the Legion and Rowdies, scoring two goals and assisting on three. His move from fullback to an attacking role has been pivotal as Memphis has started to flip their chances to goals scored.

“He’s one of the most confident lads I know,” Glass said. “It’s a positive thing when your forward players are scoring goals and competing.”

The visiting Rowdies came into the match as the third highest scoring team in the league, doubling Memphis’ goal tally with 16. Their approach to start did not reflect their attacking threat, instead absorbing pressure and counter attacking. With most of the possession, Marlon Santos found gaps to operate and drew early fouls.

Memphis looked connected and creative when pushing upfield in front of an announced attendance of 2,384, using the same starting 11 from the Birmingham win. A big moment came from a Zach Duncan through ball down the right side to Santos. Forrest Wall was the only Rowdy defender back and fouled the Brazilian, receiving a red card Memphis would not capitalize on the free kick after a lengthy break, Tampa Bay tending to a goalkeeper injury and making substitutions.

Marlon continued to compile chances and found an early breakthrough in the 20th minute. A bit of composed, technical dribbling from outside the box got him past a defender with enough room to shoot. His debut goal for Memphis barreled into the top right corner.

With all the momentum, Memphis continued to apply pressure seeking a second goal. Three minutes after Marlon’s strike, he was back flying down the left wing off the outlet from Emerson Hyndman. Luiz Fernando scored from his ball whipped into the box.

It took time for Tampa Bay to settle down after their poor start. Two players received yellow cards in quick succession but their possession started to increase. Memphis relaxed a bit and Tampa eventually found a response goal. It came six minutes into extra time, a chip into the box headed by Manuel Arteaga.

Memphis started the second half as the more aggressive side once again. It did not take long for another goal-scoring opportunity to surface. Bruno Lapa hit the crossbar from a long-ranged unmarked effort. Tampa Bay was slow to recover and Marlon scored off the rebound.

Tampa Bay would not regain control after conceding. They failed to match the energy and work rate of Memphis down a man, summarized by the fourth goal of the evening for Memphis. Dylan Borczak forcing an error splitting two defenders and a goalkeeper chasing a long ball.

With a busy week ahead, Memphis took off three of their attacking threats shortly after. Lapa, Fernando and Marlon were subbed off to a standing ovation. Nighte Pickering, Samuel Carreaga and Noe Meza replacing them. The changes and big lead did not impact the focus of 901 FC as they held the 4-1 lead for the remaining of the match.

Next Match

Memphis will have a short turnaround to rest and prepare Round of 32 for the U.S. Open Cup. They will travel to play MLS side FC Dallas Tuesday, May 7 at 7:30pm.