Match Preview Vs Philadelphia Union DS
Written By Chris Dailey
It’s gameday for FC Monmouth as they play host to Philadelphia Union Dev Squad at 6 PM in Red Bank. The theme of the night is Pride Night in collaboration with Asbury Park FC and Garden State Equality.
Monmouth are looking to get back to winning ways as the Blue and Gold currently find themselves in a rough patch. After a blistering start to the season which saw Monmouth at one point sit second in the table, they are now fifth following close losses to the Jackson Lions and WC Predators. Prior to those matches, Monmouth fell to FC Motown, 4-0.
Monmouth’s 3-2 loss to the Lions could’ve gone either way and was a thrilling game from start to finish. In their last match out, meanwhile, all the way in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania against the WC Predators, Monmouth had many near chances including a freekick that found its way to the post by Mason Martelloni.
This is the second fixture between the two clubs this season. Monmouth started out their season with a 3-0 loss on the road against the opposition. Since then, their season has gone southward. The Union Developmental Squad have only picked up one more point since the fixture and are looking to evade a last place finish in the Keystone East.
FC Monmouth on the other hand have a chance to soar to third place in the table with a win and could put themselves back in the hunt for a playoff spot given they receive help from other matches along the way.
Monmouth are starred by Johnny Troiano who is currently on a goalscoring streak of 3 games (including a friendly against the Ocean City Nor'easters).
The home side also boasts a strong defense, anchored by Mason Martelloni. Martelloni has been one of the strongest defenders in the conference this year.
The players know what is on the table today. It’s by all means survive and advance at this point in the season as only 3 matches are guaranteed following tonight. Head Coach, John Killick, is making that message clear.
“After a disappointing game last week this is a crucial game for us. Playoffs are still on the table. We are excited to be back home and ready to get back into winning form. We know there is going to be a great atmosphere and we are ready to settle a score with Philly. In the first game, it was closer than the score showed,” said Killick.
Monmouth has had some memorable matches with the Union Developmental Squad over the years including two amazing games last season in which the series was tied 1-1.
The Developmental Squad was able to win an amazing game 3-2 in Pennsylvania while Monmouth scraped by for a 1-0 win on the final matchday of the season at home.
There is expected to be a lot of fans in attendance tonight thanks to the 732 Supporters Group and Asbury Park FC.
To buy tickets, visit fcmonmouth.com/tickets
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