The Cincinnati Kings played to a 3-3 tie with visiting Charlotte Eagles on Saturday. The Kings are hurting right now with several players inactive or playing through injuries. Derek Smith who is the leader and arguably the best defender in the league sat on the sidelines doing everything but hold pom-poms to supports his teammates.
The Kings had their best offensive game against Charlotte, who is the 3rd worst in goals allowed this season in USL-D2. In the open field the Kings held an advantage in play and it showed in the 21-13 shot advantage.
The Kings promised more scoring this year and have cashed in on some excitement. The tie felt like a win after losing two matches and playing to a tie with Pittsburg, all three games combined for a score of 2-7.
The most exciting part of the game was Travis Sobers connecting from the 18 yard line on a roundhouse side volley that hit off of the post, next time it’s a goal, good change. His attempt showed a striker who wants to score and wants to connect for his team. A scorer is desperately needed for the Kings because finishing through the midfield will not last in a playoff game. Nowaf Jaman tied the game 2-2 with a feed from Wes Schulte, but his work alone will not see the Kings in the playoffs.
Defender Trey Alexander moved off the bench into the midfield. He played more freely with less pressure, because a defender who loses the ball can turn into a goal scoring opportunity for the opposing team. He worked hard to win balls and to get his teammates opportunities, good change. This game had some changes to the line-up but I suggest something else, a 4-3-3 formation. It will create more pressure on opponents and give more use of the team speed. When Derek returns we will have the best defense in the league again and we will absorb opposing attacks. At least it’s a change, maybe then ties will turn into wins.
