After a strong first half that saw FC Cincinnati defend well collectively to remain scoreless at the break, the Orange and Blue allowed two goals in six minutes in the second half and fell to the Philadelphia Union, 2-0, on Wednesday night at Talen Energy Stadium.
Through 10 games, Cincinnati has eight points. The Union moved into first in the MLS Eastern Conference with the result.
Here are three takeaways from the match:
Richey delivers a “Man-of-the-Match” performance
The two goals Cincinnati allowed were unfair to Richey, who delivered arguably the best individual performance of any player for the club so far this season.
Richey had played seven-straight games before Przemysław Tytoń replaced him last Saturday at the New York Red Bulls, making his first start since his season was paused to recover from a hamstring issue. Returning to the lineup against Philly, Richey produced six saves, which included five stops of world-class skill – from kick saves, to point-blank blocks.
Overall, the home side took 20 shots.
Eventually, FC Cincinnati conceded in the 64th minute when Kacper Przybylko got in behind the defense for a header. Fafa Picault did the same but doubled the score line with silky finish. Richey stood still both times, unable to stop the attempts.
Final Third Improvements Evident
There were Orange-and-Blue chances Wednesday night, but shots were either blocked or mishit. As a result, FC Cincinnati haven’t scored a goal in 431 minutes.
The Orange and Blue finished the match with 15 shots but only three on target.
In the last five games, the search for goals has continued. In his post-match interview, Head Coach Alan Koch said the team couldn’t buy a goal.
While it’s a problem that needs a solution, the loss in Philly showed signs of attacking quality in transition. Players found space and set themselves up for shots on target. Those are both positives. But the only way those positives reveal tangible results to others is through scoring.
Road trip closes Saturday night in California
FC Cincinnati’s three-game, eight-day road trip ends Saturday night when the Orange and Blue play at the San Jose Earthquakes.
The match is an opportunity to end the stretch of away matches on a high note.
Once that game is played, Cincinnati will be 11 games into its 34-game season.
