Louisville City FC knew coming in that they were the better club on paper. The highest goal-scoring club in the league and the best defensive club, it was going to be tough for a struggling New Mexico United side. United was desperately seeking a point and still trying to right the ship after losing four straight in league play. No one could have expected United to hold Louisville off the scoresheet and pick up a point at Lynn Family Stadium. Kris Shakes and newcomer Kipp Keller led the way and earned United a 0 – 0 draw on Saturday night.
For a match that many were expecting Louisville City to run away with, the first half was evenly matched. The hosts were happy to cede possession early, while United was committed to playing out of the back. Louisville was able to commit bodies forward and was successful in creating some unforced giveaways out of United. United looked far more composed defensively, particularly with the play of newcomer Kipp Keller.
Acquired on loan from Minnesota United FC of MLS on Friday, Keller was given a start less than 24 hours after joining the club. He looked like he fit the club’s game plan from the opening minute and seemed to settle things. Watching his play, he looked vocal and decisive, relieving some of the pressure on Kris Shakes.
Neither side had a quality look at goal until the final seconds of the first half. After being set up for a free kick by a foul committed by Ousman Jabang, Louisville had a set piece nearly 25 yards out, almost straight ahead. Aidan McFadden would deliver an incredibly well-struck ball that was headed to the bottom right corner in the third minute of stoppage time. Shakes was up to the challenge and moved laterally, putting himself in position and making a quality save to end the first half goalless, 0 – 0.
The second half was much of the same. Louisville was a bit more aggressive and the possession stats swung more heavily in their favor. They would go on to out-shoot United, 20 to 5, but only managed to put four shots on frame the entire evening. Keller’s stellar performance continued as he stepped in and prevented multiple shots from even threatening Shakes between the sticks.
Amadou Dia nearly broke the deadlock in the first minute of second-half stoppage time with a shot from close range. As the ball fell to him on the left side of the area, he quickly flicked the ball at Shakes, but the lightning-quick reflexes of the goalkeeper from Penn State managed to deflect the ball up and out of play, ending the danger.
United had few chances in the match at all, but they became aggressive in the closing minutes. After coming on as substitutes, Dayonn Harris and new signing Luther Archimede were able to spread the Louisville defense and create some chances in the right and center channels. One of those chances came by way of Harris as he was played through the right channel and drove to the end line before squaring the ball for Sergio Rivas. Instead of shooting, Rivas laid the ball off for Zico Bailey, who was able to run onto the ball and shoot, but his attempt was blocked.
Neither side was able to find the net, and both went home with a point after the 0 – 0 draw.
Attendence – 10,719
Player of the Match
Kipp Keller – In his first appearance with the club, Keller seemed to be a stabilizing force on the back line that was missing Talen Maples due to suspension, the injury to Kalen Ryden (who made his return tonight), and the transfer of Tony Herbert. Keller was vocal and seemingly everywhere all at once. He was credited with 9 clearances, but made several other defensive contributions to keep Louisville out of the net.
Up Next
United returns home next weekend to close out the month of August. On the 30th, United will host Sacramento Republic FC at The Lab. Coverage of that match will begin with the pregame show with Adam Diehl and Andy Hageman starting at 5 p.m. (MT). Coverage continues with kickoff at 6 p.m. (MT). Catch every minute of every play all season long on ESPN Radio 101.7 FM The TEAM, The TEAM apps, and The TEAM website.