San Diego Loyal get shutdown at home vs. Memphis in 1-0 loss
Credit: SD Loyal
The San Diego Loyal played their fourth game of a five-game home stand at Torero Stadium against Memphis 901 FC this Saturday, Aug.12.
It was set to be a hard-fought clash in San Diego between the two teams, and it was certainly a frustrating match for the Loyal.
The game began in the best way for the home team, as Adrien Perez earned a penalty after being knocked down inside of the penalty area by Akeem Ward. However, Joe Corona stepped up to take the penalty, and his shot was saved by Memphis goalkeeper Drew Roming. That best start turned into a worst-possible start, as the momentum shift for Memphis in the game was huge after the penalty.
The Southeastern team scored the lone goal of the match in the 23rd minute when Rodrigo da Costa gave his team the lead. The Brazilian striker scored off a rebound after a long-range shot from Graham Smith was saved by Koke Vegas. The Loyal were never able to recover from the goal, as Memphis goalkeeper Drew Roming was the standout from the match.
The 25-year-old goalkeeper kept out a free-kick by Joe Corona in the 29th minute and, in the 41st minute, saved a shot by Tumi Moshobane. The first half had the bulk of the action in the match, with the second half of play being very lackluster. Both teams combined for just one shot on target in the second half, as Memphis was able to hold onto the lead they established in the 23rd minute of the clash.
The match was not the best for the San Diego Loyal, considering the missed penalty by Joe Corona and the lack of offense throughout the encounter. An offense that scored five goals in the previous three games was completely shut down by Memphis 901 FC on Saturday night.
San Diego will play the last game of a five-game homestand this next Saturday, Aug. 19, when the Loyal host New Mexico United at Torero Stadium. Nate Miller’s team will then head to the road for a match against Rio Grande Valley FC on Aug.26.
The Loyal are in fourth place on the USL Championship table with 36 points, still just a point behind the Oakland Roots in third place.
Francisco, 26, Chula Vista/Tijuana. I have been a Padres fan all my life, did most of the series previews and recaps in the Padres’ 2016 season for EVT. Now I focus more on the local soccer scene. Tijuana Xolos, San Diego Loyal, San Diego Wave.