Naples, May 22 2022
The Florida Gulf Coast Dutch Lions FC lost their 2022 home opener vs Miami United on Saturday evening at Paradise Coast Sports Complex with 3-0.
The Lions got off to a good start and dominated the first 15-20 minutes of the game. This resulting in two open chances with forward Arianna Kinsley hitting the post. Unfortunately Miami was more efficient converting on two chances in the 25th and 35th minute to lead 2-0 at halftime.
In the 2nd half the Lions, who played their first game after a 2 week pre-season, was definitely still looking to find their shape and form getting to know each other and finding the best positions. Miami United FC converted on a bad pass in the back and made it 3-0 in the 55th minute. Despite several substitutions - and especially 15 year old Elsa Johnson coming in strong with her speed on the wing - the Lions were not able to score their first goal of the season.
Arianna Kinsley commented on het first WPSL game: "I honestly think we played really well, despite being a completely new team and some girls just arriving in the States last week, we held it together despite a few mistakes that we were punished for. We have work to do but I think when we learn each other's playing styles the coming weeks and find the best formation we will be very good. The talent we have on this team is amazing with girls coming from all different types of exposures, I think they will be able to teach some of us really well."
Goalkeeper Aliyah Morgan, who also made her debut in WPSL, said this on the game: "Saturday was a great experience despite the loss. We started well and were able to learn each other's playing styles better and build up our team's chemistry. We have only been together a short time but I can't wait for our next games as we continue to develop and connect better with one another".
The Lions look to bounce back on Friday May 27 when they play Cape Coral Cyclones at 7pm at Mariner HS.
Line-up FGCDL FC: Aliyah Morgan, Ashlee Bakaitis, Karaline Gray, Mckenna Sullivan, Kalliyan Pho, Julia Kagie, Joy Kersten, Carolina Wolters, Arianna Kinsley, Katharina Haerle, Alexandria Spiller
Substitutions: Peyton Beem, Genevieve Sauers, Ana Beach, Adrianna Al-Arnasi, Elsa Johnson, Ellie Vertrees
