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St. Louis City Eyes Bounce-Back at Streaking FC Cincinnati
Introduction
Like most MLS teams this weekend, St. Louis City FC and host FC Cincinnati are gearing up to manage the rigors of a quick turnaround when they meet on Saturday night. Both teams will be looking to handle this challenge effectively and secure a crucial victory.
FC Cincinnati’s Recent Performance
Strong Form and Defensive Prowess
FC Cincinnati coach Pat Noonan understands the time-management crunch for the team’s third match in eight days, but with 26 of the 29 league teams having played Wednesday, his squad isn’t alone. “When you lose that extra day of prep like we had in the lead-up to Atlanta (on Wednesday), things happen a little bit faster,” Noonan said. “You have to try to get as much information in a short amount of time to your players.”
Noonan’s players have shown they can handle the info overload. FC Cincinnati has won its past five fixtures, conceding just three goals during the streak. The club is coming off a 1-0 win Wednesday over visiting Atlanta, secured by a seventh-minute header from 19-year-old forward Kevin Kelsy. The defense took over for the final 83 minutes, limiting Atlanta to just one shot on target.
FC Cincinnati enters the match at 8-2-3, with 27 points, sitting in second place in the East behind Miami. They have allowed the fewest goals in the league with just 10.
St. Louis City FC’s Recent Performance
Seeking a Bounce-Back
St. Louis City FC (3-2-7, 16 points) could use a win to climb up the West ladder from their current ninth-place spot. They’re coming off a 2-0 home loss Wednesday night to Los Angeles FC, which snapped a five-match unbeaten streak.
St. Louis had an Anthony Markanich goal disallowed via video review and failed to convert a penalty kick. Later, Markanich was sent off in the 75th minute after earning his second yellow card of the night. “You feel a little bit of weight of what’s going your way on the night and what’s not going your way on the night, and that breaks your rhythm,” coach Bradley Carnell said.
Key Players and Performances
FC Cincinnati
Kevin Kelsy’s early goal against Atlanta was crucial in securing the win, showcasing his potential as a young forward. The team’s defense, which has allowed the fewest goals in the league, will be key in maintaining their winning streak.
St. Louis City FC
Anthony Markanich’s involvement in the recent match, including the disallowed goal and red card, was significant. The team will need to bounce back from these setbacks and find a way to regain their form.
Historical Context and Head-to-Head
Previous Encounter
This will be St. Louis’ first visit to Cincinnati. Last year, St. Louis earned a 5-1 home victory in their match against FC Cincinnati. This historical context adds an extra layer of anticipation to the upcoming game.
Conclusion
As St. Louis City FC and FC Cincinnati prepare for their clash, both teams face the challenge of a short turnaround. With FC Cincinnati aiming to extend their winning streak and St. Louis seeking to recover from a recent loss, this match promises to be an intense and competitive encounter. Fans can expect an engaging and closely contested game as these teams meet in Cincinnati.
