USL Richmond Kickers

Kickers take lead with 2-1 win over Cincinnati

Published on August 18, 2006 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Richmond Kickers News Release


Richmond, VA - The USL Second Division regular season champion Richmond Kickers (13-3-4, 43 points) topped the #4 seed Cincinnati Kings (9-8-3, 30 points), 2-1 on Friday night during the first leg of the USL2 semi-final series. Richmond midfielder Matt Watson broke the scoreless stalemate late in the first half but Cincinnati midfielder Josh Barton was quick to level the score before the end of first-half stoppage. Midfielder Mike Burke notched the game-winner on a penalty kick as the Kickers enter the second leg of semi-final round up one goal in the two-leg, aggregate score series.

The Kickers were the first to register when forward Robert Ssejjemba connected with midfielder Matt Watson in the 40th minute. Midfielder Mike Burke received the ball just outside the 18-yard line and slipped it down the right flank to Ssejjemba who curled a cross to Watson. Rushing into the box, Watson volleyed the ball from eight yards into the top right corner of the target for the first tally of the night.

It was not long before the Kings found the equalizer, leveling the score during first half stoppage time. Kickers defender Ray Goodlett attempted to deflect the ball out of harm's way, only to have Cincinnati midfielder Josh Barton intercept and send a 25-yard rocket into the upper corner of the net.

The Kings opened the second half with a close call when forward Nowaf Jaman struck in the 48th minute, forcing Kickers goalkeeper to make a heroic, reaching save to tip the ball over the crossbar.

The 61st minute provided Richmond's opportunity to regain the lead when Cincinnati defender Kevin McCloskey fouled Richmond forward David Bulow from behind inside the box. Burke stepped up to take the awarded penalty kick and drove home the game-winner with a low, well-placed shot into the right corner.

The two teams travel to Cincinnati on Sunday, August 20th to finish the series and fans can listen to the match LIVE via www.CincinnatiKings.com. The winner of the two-game semi-final will advance to the USL2 Championship on Saturday, August 26th to face either the #2 seed Charlotte Eagles or #3 seed Pittsburgh Riverhounds. Should the Kickers advance to the Championship, the match will be played at the University of Richmond Stadium in Richmond, VA at 8:00 p.m., televised LIVE on Fox Soccer Channel. Check www.RichmondKickers.com after the second leg of the Kickers semi-final series on Sunday evening for up-to-date playoff information.

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United Soccer League Championship Stories from August 18, 2006


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