For the first time since the 2017 USL Cup, Louisville City FC is playing a competitive fixture at Slugger Field!
This Saturday afternoon matchup features the champions taking on the newcomers as Nashville SC rolls in from a few hours south. The contest is Nashville’s first-ever competitive league match.
When & Where
LouCity welcomes Nashville SC for a 3:00 P.M. kickoff at Slugger Field. Coach O’Connor and crew are unbeaten through their three previous opening contests, with two at home in Louisville.
Catch all the action on local station WBNA 21 or over the airwaves on 790 WKRD AM. Fans can also follow the match live on Twitter & Instagram.
TV: WBNA 21
RADIO: 790 WKRD
DOWNLOAD: LouCity app for iOS | LouCity app for Android
READ: Slugger Field A-to-Z
Last Time Out
LouCity wrapped up their 2018 preseason slate with a 1-1 draw against fellow USL side Saint Louis FC at Arad McCutchan Stadium in Evansville, IN.
The “Boys in Purple” faced an early deficit after a difficult to handle back pass saw a LouCity defender put the ball into the back of his net just three minutes in. However, head coach James O’Connor’s crew got back on the front foot in quick succession as they tested the opposition goal. Despite the looks, LouCity trailed 1-0 at the break.
As the game ebbed and flowed in both directions, LouCity was able to take advantage of a more open contest. In the 72nd minute, they found their goal. As the opposition goalkeeper spilled a previous effort, midfielder Niall McCabe was in perfect position to fire home from point-blank range. The goal was McCabe’s third in as many games and put him top the charts as preseason came to a close.
Neither side would find the winner they pushed for in the final 15 minutes, but O’Connor was satisfied with the team’s draw as they then immediately turned their attention to Nashville SC.
READ: #LOUvNSH – Talking Points
From the Gaffer
On preseason and a title defense:
“We’ve been pleased. I think through the course of our preseason we were able to get a lot of work done. Unfortunately, a couple of guys picked up some niggles but we’ve managed to iron that out. We feel as if preseason has gone well and we’re excited and are looking forward to the game.”
On Nashville:
“It’s very difficult when you play against a brand-new team that has no real history. I think to try and get a gauge on what they’re going to do, what personnel, what formation… I think it’s pretty difficult to get a good steer on that. Obviously, they’ve got massive plans there. They’ve got a very experienced coach and they’ve got very experienced players, so we’re expecting a very tough game.”
Back home at Slugger Field:
“I think I’ve said this many times but we’ve got the most passionate and the best supporters in the league. When you look at the passion that they bring, it creates a very exciting atmosphere and we’re certainly looking forward to getting back out and playing in front of them.”
On facing an expansion club:
“I think for us, when you look at the players they [Nashville] have signed, the coach, the plans for Nashville, and the proximity in regards to Louisville–I think it’s another regional rivalry—so when you look at all those factors it’s a fabulous game to open the season with.”
Team News
QUESTIONABLE – Alexis Souahy (leg)
QUESTIONABLE – Ilija Ilic (leg)
