Dayton Dutch Lions News Release -- www.dutchlionsfc.com
Friday, May 20, 2011
DAYTON, Ohio -- The Dayton Dutch Lions FC secured a point at home against the Los Angeles Blues Friday Night at Miami Valley South Stadium, their first in USL PRO after a hard-fought and physical match-up ended in a 1-1 draw. After an early goal by Blues forward Jhonathan Bravo, the Dutch Lions were able to find the back of the net to equalize in the 60th minute through Kolby Lacrone. 
“The second half is how we envision the way we want to play,” said Assistant Coach Jack Hermans. “Effective running, great work ethic, soccer intelligence, all things clicked after the goal. The substitutions worked out, and the team effort was great. I have nothing but compliments for the defense tonight, they created no holes for the Blues offense.”
The Dutch Lions started off the first minutes of the match strong, keeping the ball in the Blues' defensive third until a break down in the sixth minute. A clearance by the Lions' defense was converted by Bravo for a goal off a volley past Dutch Keeper Jesper Leerdam. Slow to recover, the Dutch Lions looked to create offensive opportunities with no avail until the 41st minute. A glimmer of offensive power came as Dutch native Marvin van der Pluijm bent a cross into the box intended for Lacrone, but the two were unable to find a solid connection as an outstretched Lacrone looked to tie up the match.
Entering the second half a goal down, the Dutch Lions needed to find a way to equalize. Determined to find the back of the net, the Lions' offense found a rhythm, and in the 60th minute their hard worked paid off as a ball played through for Lacrone sent the Dutch Lions forward to the races with the Blues defense. With one defender to beat and Blues goal keeper Oscar Duatt cutting off the angle, Lacrone ripped a shot, and despite a great deflection from Duatt the ball fortunately found its way into the net to equalize.
“It was a great feeling to finally get the monkey off our back," Lacrone said. "I think we sent a message to the league tonight that we are a contender.”
In the final minutes of the match both sides were looking for an opportunity to take the lead and solidify three points; unable on both sides, the last chance came in the 89th minute from Dutch Lions substitute Kyle Segebart, in for Lacrone. A lofted shot over the goal ended the scoring opportunities as Segebart tried to catch Duatt creeping off his line.
The Dutch Lions return to action Saturday, May 28th against Charlotte at Fifth Third Field for the first ever professional soccer match played at the Dragons' home stadium. Hoping to keep the momentum going into the next matchup the Lions continue to fight for their first victory this USL PRO season.
For more information visit the Dutch Lions official website at www.dutchlionsfc.com.