Dayton Dutch Lions News Release -- www.dutchlionsfc.com
Thursday, July 11, 2013
DAYTON, Ohio – The Dayton Dutch Lions FC have been delighting fans all season with exciting play that has translated into unprecedented success in USL PRO. Soccer enthusiasts in the Miami Valley will now have the opportunity to see the Dayton Dutch Lions FC test their skills against a European Champion as they host current F.A. Cup holders Wigan Athletic FC in an international friendly on Tuesday, July 16 at 7 p.m. at Wertz Stadium of Piqua High School in Piqua, Ohio.
Wigan was founded in 1932. The club has captured several championships in its 81-year history, but none more prestigious than the 2013 F.A. Cup. Wigan earned the trophy by beating Manchester City 1-0 in the final. The dramatic game-winning goal was scored by Ben Watson in stoppage time.
The Dutch Lions FC are 7-4-5 in USL PRO League play this season and are poised to make the playoffs for the first time in club history. After playing the club’s opening game in 2010 against a team of former World Cup stars (Global United), this will be the first real exhibition against a team that is in its preseason for the 2013-14 English Championship season.
“The game really fits in our goal as a professional club to bring top soccer to the Dayton region," said Dutch Lions President Mike Mossell. "Besides our own professional team that people can watch, it is games like this that give local soccer fans a chance to see top level players (this time from the 2012-2013 English Premier League) live in action. I am sure it will be a fantastic atmosphere for both our players, staff and also our fans. I also want to thank Beswicks Sports for making this game possible. We like to bring these type of games to the community every year and hope the game against Wigan will be a great way to start this.”
Wigan will also have with them the F.A. Cup. If you are a soccer fan you don’t want to miss being there! Tickets are on sale now. The first 100 entries at the stadium will receive a free t-shirt. Make sure you will be there next Tuesday!