FC Edmonton lost 2-0 to their Al Classico rivals Cavalry FC in their second game at the Canadian Premier League’s Island Games Thursday night. The loss keeps the Eddies at the bottom of the CPL table with no points after two matches.
FC Edmonton had a good defensive structure in the first half but were only able to muster a few shots with the few opportunities they had. A 44th minute goal by Jordan Brown, scored off a redirected cross by Mohamed Farsi saw Cavalry FC take a lead into halftime. The Eddies would never recover.
Mohammed red card proves decisive
Early in the second half Terique Mohammed was given a red card for a high, studs up challenge on Farsi. And Cavalry FC continued to dominate as FC Edmonton were unable to take advantage of any opportunities to attack.
FC Edmonton coach Jeff Paulus is yet to see his club score at the Island Games and admitted his concern after the game.
“The referees didn’t cost FC Edmonton tonight,” said Paulus after the game. “Our lack of scoring did. We just didn’t do enough.”
FC Edmonton were given some hope when they were awarded a free kick just outside the Cavs penalty area in the 91st minute. The call was fortunate for the Eddies as replays later showed Easton Ongaro had tripped over his own feet. But a tired Ongaro couldn’t find the target with his resulting effort.
Late penalty finishes FC Edmonton off
The final dagger came in the final minute of play when Jeannot Esua incurred a controversial penalty. The referee determined the Edmonton defender brought down Cavs striker Jordan Brown despite a lack of contact.
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Cavalry FC held 71 per cent percent possession and it showed as Calgary’s club were able to create chances throughout the game. There were very few moments in the game for the Eddies to try and create offense.
Connor James performance a positive for FC Edmonton
However, the Eddies did have some bright spots most notably goalkeeper Connor James who helped keep the score close going into the final moments with some great saves, including on a Marcus Haber shot from six yards. Paulus was also able to get some of his younger players into the game. David Doe, Chance Carter and Caceres were given the chance to show their skills.
Connor James makes a save. Photo: Canadian Premier League/Chant Photo
Cavalry’s FC dominance on Thursday should be a wake-up call for the Eddies. With two losses in two games, FC Edmonton are already beginning to fall behind in the race to get the Island Games’ second round.
Eddies honour former captain Chris Kooy
FC Edmonton honoured their first captain Chris Kooy who is suffering with Stage IV colon cancer on Thursday prior to the game.
Photo: Canadian Premier League/Chant Photo
This coming after the team and the Edmonton soccer community learned that Chris Kooy would not be able to continue treatment. It was a sobering moment.
FC Edmonton next play Atlético Ottawa Sunday, Aug. 23 at 11 am MST/1 pm EST. Ottawa currently sits one point above the Eddies.
1 Comment
If FCE lose to Atletico on Sunday, then JP should be sacked before the lads get out of the post match shower. There is no Chemistry, Heart, Cohesion, General sense of Give A (expletive) on this squad right now.