By Quin Welch, LouCity Insider
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Louisville City FC will take part in its second-ever Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday night against Detroit City FC of the National Premier Soccer League.
LouCity fans know their USL Eastern Conference-leading squad quite well, so it’s time supporters know what their Club up against on Wednesday at Bellarmine University (7 p.m. | TICKETS).
Who’s a threat?
One player LouCity defenders will need to keep their eyes on is Danny Deakin.
Deakin, a midfielder at the University of South Carolina, has impressed immensely thus far in his summer stay with Detroit City. In Detroit’s, 4-2, victory over the Dayton Dynamo, Deakin had a nice goal from a free kick to open the scoring in the high octane contest. Deakin spread the wealth as well, dishing out a remarkable three assists, two of which went to Ali Al-Gashamy.
For LouCity to move on in the cup, it’s important that they keep Deakin and Al-Gashamy in check.
What do they do well?
It’s impressive for any team to score four goals in one game, regardless what level they play at. Detroit put four in the back of the net against Dayton on Sunday.
So, that begs the question. What’s their secret?
They attack, attack, and then attack some more. LouCity coach James O’Connor said he’s taken notice of Detroit’s aggressive style of play.
“They’ve got some good attackers,” O’Connor said. “They move the ball well and they’re organized. They’re bold in transition and when they have the ball. They like to play and push their fullbacks high. Whether they do that against us, we’ll have to see.”
Where are they vulnerable?
Because Detroit and head coach Ben Pirmann like to get forward so much, they make themselves open in transition and at the back. LouCity will certainly look to counter early and often as Detroit sends the calvary.
Detroit’s also had some trouble keeping defenders healthy so far this season. Defenders Billy Stevens and Alex Isaevski are both dealing with injuries, in addition to goalkeeper Evan Louro. Hopefully LouCity’s potent attacking force can make life difficult for a banged up Detroit defensive unit.
The Details
Next up for LouCity is the 2016 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup second-round match on Wednesday against Detroit City FC at Bellarmine University (7 p.m. | TICKETS).
Fans can stay up to date with all of Louisville City’s breaking news, roster updates and ticketing information by following the Club on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Season tickets are available for Louisville City’s historic second season via the Club’s official website.
