A Light Preview: Lights FC face a tall task on the road vs. Phoenix Rising FC
Following two defeats in California to start the season, Las Vegas Lights FC are off to Arizona to take on Western Conference powerhouse Phoenix Rising FC.
Las Vegas Lights FC (0-2-0)
After their loss vs. Sacramento Republic FC, Las Vegas Lights FC have been out of action for about a week and a half. Unfortunately, it’s not an easy matchup that awaits them when they return to the pitch. Steve Cherundolo’s side is set to square off with an explosive Phoenix Rising FC club that’s going to be motivated coming off a loss.
The Lights played better vs. Sacramento than they did vs. Los Dos, but they will need to be exponentially sharper to keep this one close tomorrow. The backline has to avoid major collapses and the attack needs to be crisper. Las Dos have zero successful crosses this season and that must change. While the Lights aren’t afraid to push the action forward, their best bet for success will be holding onto as much possession as possible to keep the ball away from the dangerous attacking players for Phoenix.
Vegas Player SpotLight
CC Uche: The rookie defender has worn the captain’s armband in both matches thus far and the LV backline has not fared well. Facing an explosive attack like the one Phoenix possesses, Uche will need to keep the defense organized and limit the chances Rising FC gets within the penalty area.
Phoenix Rising FC (2-1-0)
Who to Know
Solomon Asante: The two-time reigning USL Championship MVP is always the action man for Rising FC. He scored a brace vs. Oakland Roots SC and has a club-high nine chances created this season.
Aodhan Quinn: He established himself as one of the best midfielders in the league while playing for Orange County SC the past three seasons. In the early days of his tenure with Rising FC, he’s tied for the club lead in shots, has one goal, and is completing over 50% of his long passes.
Santi Moar: In his second season with Phoenix, he has three goals and two assists, leading the club in both categories.
What to Know
- Won their first two matches of the season by a combined score of 7-1 (4-1 vs. San Diego, 3-0 vs. Oakland)
- Lost last weekend vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies, who they would’ve faced in the 2020 USL Championship Cup Final
- All-time record vs. Lights FC: 6-1-1, 23 goals for, nine goals against
The Deets
Tomorrow, 5/22, at 7:30 PM Pacific
Las Vegas Lights FC at Phoenix Rising FC
