RECAP: LOU FUSZ ATHLETIC, FC DAYTON

Written By: Makayla Parker

FC DAYTON SURVIVES AND ENDS LOU FUSZ ATHLETIC'S THREE-WIN STREAK

Lou Fusz hosted fellow undefeated team, FC Dayton on Saturday, June 8 in hopes of gaining the top spot in the Gateway Division standings. 

Lou Fusz, who’s statistics emphasize its strong defensive assets, came out of the gates swinging against FC Dayton. Lou Fusz was energetic from kickoff, challenging every loose ball and taking advantage of all chances to get ahead quickly. 

On the other hand, FC Dayton took a different approach. Oftentimes, when Lou Fusz would attack, FC Dayton loaded its backline with as many as six defenders, waiting for the perfect open window opportunity for a free break on goal. 

Lou Fusz continued attacking throughout the first half. Forward Emily Gaebe contributed heavily to the electric first half with a breakaway, one-on-one shot with Dayton’s goalie and a header a few minutes later. Though unsuccessful, Gaebe, who’s coming off an injury that occurred last Fall, helped keep FC Dayton on its toes. Since her first match back against Junction FC on May 28, Gaebe has scored two goals and was nominated for Central Region Player of the Week in Week 4. 

Despite the slow start, FC Dayton player Kiera Erling broke away for a shot on goal and tucked the ball into the upper right corner, putting FC Dayton on top in the first half. 

After halftime, FC Dayton came out performing stronger offensively by stringing together passes and making smarter runs on goal. FC Dayton gained an indirect kick that was taken by defender Ella Raimondi near midfield. Raimondi found forward Jenna Hallbeck and delivered a perfect lob pass for Hallbeck to finish that put FC Dayton up 2-0. 

Lou Fusz attempted to close FC Dayton’s lead by scoring its first goal in the middle of the second half. Kylie Anderson set up the cross to Lyndsey Heckel, who buried the ball in the back of the net. 

Lou Fusz and FC Dayton continued to battle the rest of the second half, but FC Dayton’s defense held strong until the final whistle. FC Dayton took the game 2-1, ending Lou Fusz’s winning streak. 

After Week 4, FC Dayton remains in the top spot in the Gateway Division with 19 points. Lou Fusz drops down to third place, with nine points. 

Lou Fusz looks to take on Junction FC and Dayton Dutch Lions FC in Week 5, in hopes of jumping back near the top of the standings. FC Dayton will travel to Indianapolis, Indiana to face FC Pride to defend its first place spot, as FC Pride follows closely behind.