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Stingy Austin FC Host Slumping Sporting KC
Introduction
Austin FC wants to make this a big week. Four nights after winning their first match of the week, the team is back in action against Sporting Kansas City on Saturday night in Austin, Texas.
Austin FC’s Recent Performance
Strong Defensive Form
Austin (5-4-4, 19 points) is coming off a 1-0 home victory against the Houston Dynamo on Wednesday night, giving them four consecutive home wins. In their last five matches overall, Austin has recorded four clean sheets. “We know in the end, it’s about getting wins,” said Austin coach Josh Wolff, a former Kansas City player. “By no means are we a finished product.”
While Austin goalkeeper Brad Stuver has been up to the task when called upon, the play in front of him has bolstered the team’s solid defensive numbers. Stuver leads MLS with 65 saves this season. “It’s challenging, you have to make impactful plays at both ends of the field,” Wolff said. “When an opportunity came, we were able to take it.”
Sporting Kansas City’s Recent Performance
Struggles and Mentality
Sporting KC (2-5-5, 11 points) has lost three of its past four matches and has won only once in a seven-match span (1-4-2). They also faced Houston in their most recent game. “This is a very similar group to what we had last year,” SKC coach Peter Vermes said. “It’s a mentality right now. It’s not that they don’t have it, it’s that it’s not happening.”
Vermes emphasized the need for a change in attitude, focusing on the team’s mentality and desire. “Change of mentality,” Vermes said. “Sports is all about desire, passion.” Erik Thommy has scored a team-high four goals for Kansas City.
Key Players and Performances
Austin FC
Brad Stuver’s performance in goal has been crucial for Austin, leading MLS with 65 saves. The solid defensive play in front of him has contributed significantly to the team’s recent success.
Sporting Kansas City
Erik Thommy has been a standout for Kansas City, scoring four goals this season. However, the team needs more consistent contributions from other players to turn their season around.
Historical Context and Head-to-Head
Austin’s Dominance
Austin has won four of its past five matches against Sporting KC and is counting on a boost from the home crowd. Kansas City is 0-3-0 all-time in Austin. “The fans, bringing energy and lifting these guys, you can feel the surge,” Wolff said.
Future Implications
Maintaining Momentum
Austin aims to maintain their winning streak and solidify their position in the standings. Meanwhile, Sporting Kansas City looks to change their mentality and secure a much-needed win to revive their season.
Conclusion
As Austin FC and Sporting Kansas City prepare for their clash, both teams are eager to secure a victory. With Austin’s solid defensive form and Kansas City’s need to overcome their recent struggles, this match promises to be a competitive and intense encounter. The teams will meet again next month, adding further significance to this match’s outcome.
