Shorthanded Phoenix FC Falls to Los Angeles Blues 3-1
April 15, 2013 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Phoenix FC News Release
TEMPE, Ariz. -- Phoenix FC dropped its second consecutive home match, 3-1 to the L.A. Blues Sunday night at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium. It was the Wolves' third defeat in four matches of their inaugural USL Pro season.
Midfielder Scott Morrison's 68th minute free kick goal was the only one Phoenix F could manage despite outshooting the Blues 13-8 for the match. The Wolves logged 10 second-half shots as their attack constantly pressed forward, but they couldn't finish enough opportunities.
Nelson Pizarro opened the scoring for L.A. in the seventh minute, putting in a cross from teammate Matheau Hall. The Blues made it 2-0 on Cory Miller's header in the 15th minute.
"We just didn't start well," Morrison said.
Phoenix FC settled down and had more possession as the first half wore on, and continued attacking in the second half. Diego Faria and Anthony Obodai combined for five good shots that missed the target.
Goalkeeper Sheldon Parkinson, starting in place of the injured Andrew Weber, came up with a big save in the 56th minute but was caught off his line and too far upfield when Sergio Ortiz lofted a shot over Parkinson's head for the Blues' third goal in the 77th minute.
Substitute Cameron Vickers provided a spark on offense after he came on in the 71st minute and Elliot Weber got a couple of opportunities after he entered the game 27th minute for an injured Devon Grousis. Weber, a defender, played forward with Donny Toia dropping back from his midfield spot to defender.
Phoenix FC was also missing striker Darren Mackie, who is nursing a groin injury.
The Wolves travel to Sandy, Utah for an April 22 match against Real Salt Lake at Rio Tinto Stadium. Their next league match is April 28 at home against Wilmington.
United Soccer League Championship Stories from April 15, 2013
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- Shorthanded Phoenix FC Falls to Los Angeles Blues 3-1 - Phoenix FC
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