This game represents the difference between a match where a team executes and one where that same team doesn’t. Very few lineup changes were made across the board from both teams, and both teams set up with similar roles and approaches to this match as compared to last week. The difference was Niall McCabe converted fairly early off a set play. Whereas last week ta score didn’t change much for either team, this time, Indy had no choice but to respond or go home. Trying to open up and attack, though, often means things will get worse for whomever Los Morados are playing, and this match was no different.
Statistically speaking, Louisville City was better this game than they were a week ago. They had more of the ball (57%), passed more often (460 passes to Indy’s 322) and with better precision (71%) than they did a week ago. Nearly half of the 21 purple shots were on target, which is good. What’s better is that nearly half of the ten attempts on frame went in. That’s less a knock on Fon Williams’s ability as goalkeeper and more a testament to City’s perseverance and ability to get Indy’s defenders out of position. Granted, three of City’s four goals came from set plays (more or less) but those kinds of plays are part of the game. Just ask Gareth Southgate. Indy is and has been tough to break down from open play, and they’re a pretty big team. My hat is off to the coaching staff for recognizing some weaknesses in the Eleven’s set piece defense that they were able to capitalize on.
Hackworth’s 4-2-3-1 has kind of turned into more of a 4-1-2-3 with DelPiccolo sitting in front of the centerbacks and Niall McCabe and Ilija Ilic playing something of a pivot behind three attackers in Cuatro, Cam, and Ownby. Oddly enough, Indy had the ball in Ranjitsingh’s box more than his opposite number, but were only able to produce four shots on target.
Kyle Smith and Oscar Jimenez resumed their roles in the City attack in this match to a tee. Both passed over 80%, over 70% in the opposing half, and combined for seven scoring chances created between them. Oscar picked up two assists in the game while Kyle had six tackles, seven clearances, and three interceptions. Fantastic game from both wing players.
McCabe scored twice and deservedly won man of the match on those alone, but he also won seven of ten duels, created two scoring chances of his own, won three fouls, had two tackles and three clearances. Niall’s on a great run of form at exactly the right time.
Brian Ownby had another night that his opposite number won’t soon forget, even if he didn’t hit the score sheet. Cam had five shots, three on target, and one goal. Slow night for the Golden Boot winner, IMO. Kidding, he worked his tail off as usual.
There are no grounds for complaints for comprehensively winning a playoff game against a team that’s previously given you fits. Morados played very well and should be proud. Let’s go get another one against Bethlehem on Saturday.
