Following a historic 1-0 shutout win over reigning USL Cup Champions Louisville City FC pushed by an outstanding performance in goal from Tomás Romero and a rip of a strike from Walter Cortés, Bethlehem Steel FC heads off to Fenton, Missouri to square off against Saint Louis FC. Kick off from World Wide Technology Soccer Park on Saturday, July 27 is slated for 8:30 p.m. ET and the match will be broadcast on ESPN+.
Strength
Emotions – The last time these two teams saw each other ended in a 3-1 victory for the Steel on June 15, which was hotly contested and physical. Saint Louis had a down game defensively, usually a very strong aspect of their game. After giving up three goals on the road, the second-highest goal total that Saint Louis has given up all season, they’re going to want their revenge in this one.
Weakness
Recent Form – Saint Louis FC has been struggling since their June 15 loss to the Steel, giving up a total of 12 goals in their last five matches, including four goals to the Tampa Bay Rowdies last time out. Before their first meeting with the Steel, the Missouri side had only given eight goals through 12 matches. With a record of 0-3-2 over their last five, this could be a great opportunity for the Steel to pick up another three points and keep momentum.
Players to watch
Russell Cicerone, F #9 – Cicerone is tied as the club’s leading goal scorer this year after burying four from his forward position. He’s put a team-high 12 shots on target for Saint Louis this year and is always a threat to opposing defenses. Although the club has only scored 21 goals this year, Saint Louis FC is still dangerous and has to be watched.
Lewis Hilton, M #8 – Hilton could cause issues simply from his distribution. The English midfielder is the team leader in passes (930), connecting over 81% of his attempts, including four that turned into assists. Hilton is also the team’s best chance creator with 34 in 2019.
Sam Fink, D #4 – Nothing like having a defender that can score goals. That’s what Sam Fink has been able to do for Saint Louis this year, tying Russell Cicerone’s mark with four goals to his name. The 6’2” defender is a mess to handle when he gets forward, but is also a bear on the other end of the field. Making a team-high 67 clearances on that side of the ball, Fink has been crucial to the Missouri side’s defensive efforts.
Injuries/Suspensions
None
The Boys in Blue hit the road again this week to take on Saint Louis FC on Saturday, July 27 at 8:30 p.m. ET. Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+.
