Dayton Dutch Lions FC News Release -- www.dutchlionsfc.com
Saturday, April 16, 2011
DAYTON, Ohio -- The Charleston Battery proved to be too much for the Dayton Dutch Lions in their USL PRO season opener as Nicki Paterson had a goal and an assist for the Battery in a 2-1 victory at the Miami Valley South Stadium on Saturday night. Weather conditions during the match were relentless as the rain and wind continued throughout the entirety of the match.
Both sides were unable to completely control possession of the ball in the first half. The Lions’ offense was unable to gain momentum as Charleston’s defense shut down its attack. Both teams had trouble finding and creating scoring opportunities and the game was scoreless at the break.
Charleston came out strongly to start the second half as Paterson opened the scoring in the 46th minute. Dayton goalkeeper Jesper Leerdam was able to deflect the initial shot on goal, only for Paterson to score on the rebound. The Battery continued to attack and scored again in the 58th minute as Paterson’s free kick from the left was headed home by Colin Falvey.
As weather conditions worsened midway through the second half the Dutch Lions began to find their rythm. Trying to find their way back into the match, Dutch native Lucien Seymour connected in the 65th minute with Kolby LaCrone to pull a goal back.
The Dutch continued their offensive push looking to equalize late in the second half, but Charleston’s defense held firm as goalkeeper Andrew Dykstra made a good late save, and the Dutch Lions’ first game in the professional ranks ended in defeat. The victory was the Battery’s second straight to start the season.
“It’s disappointing to lose the first game," Dutch Lions Owner Mike Mossel said. "It is a game we should not have lost. The two goals were our own mistakes, but on the other hand we didn’t play good ourselves. We didn’t deserve a win tonight. Despite the cold and the rain, we are happy we still had over 1.000 spectators supporting us."
The Dutch Lions will look to better their fortune in their next match as they host the Rochester Rhinos next Saturday at 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.dutchlionsfc.com.