Blues Open Season with Victory
Published on March 25, 2013 under United Soccer League Championship (USL) News Release
FULLERTON, Calif. - The Los Angeles Blues got goals in either half as they opened the 2013 USL PRO season with a 2-0 victory against expansion side Phoenix FC. George Davis IV and Chris Cortez had the goals for the Blues, while Phoenix had to play for more than a half down to 10 men after Anthony Obodai was sent off.
The Blues made the better start, and had the opening opportunity in the fifth minute as Cortez shot just over the crossbar. The Wolves began to come into the game as the half wore on, but they fell behind in the 25th minute as a good low cross by Matt Hall from the right was met by Davis as he cut in from the left side of the penalty area, finishing first-time.
Phoenix was reduced to 10 men four minutes before halftime, with Obodai seeing red after a strong challenge on Los Angeles' Juan Perez. The Blues were able to gain more control with a man advantage, and doubled their lead four minutes into the second half as Cortez headed home a well-delivered free kick by Rodrigo Lopez.
The Blues remained in control for much of the second half, but Phoenix almost found the back of the net to set up a big finish with less than 10 minutes to go, a header being well saved by Carl Woszczynski. The Blues were able to close out the game, however, winning their first home opener in club history.
The Blues remain at home for their next outing, which arrives on Tuesday, April 2 as they host VSI Tampa Bay FC at 7 p.m. ET. The Wolves return to Phoenix for their home opener Saturday night, also against Tampa Bay, at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium at 10:30 p.m. ET.
RESULTS
Saturday, March 23
Los Angeles 2, Phoenix 0
SCHEDULE
Saturday, March 30
Tampa Bay at Phoenix, 10:30 p.m. ET
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