TACOMA, Wash. — Despite scoring first and dominating during the early stages of last night’s USL League Two season opener, West Seattle Junction FC was unable to head home with a win, as the Blues fell 3-2 on the road against the Tacoma Stars.
“Certainly, we wanted all three points out of that game, and it was disappointing to come away empty handed,” shared head coach Erik Oman when asked for his post-game analysis. “It was a painful result, but better to have that kind of an outcome at the beginning of the season where you have time to learn from it.”
The visitors started the game on the front foot right from the kickoff, creating numerous scoring opportunities in the opening minutes of play. Their tenacity would quickly pay off, as newcomer Joschi Schelb slotted his shot into the bottom right corner of Tacoma’s goal in just the fifth minute of the game, after dancing his way past a pair of defenders. The goal was initially set up by fellow newcomer Ben Schouten, who found Joel Demian on the wing, who ultimately connected with Schelb for the goal.
Despite the early lead, the hosts were able to find their way back into the game, leveling the scoreline just five minutes after Junction FC initially broke the deadlock after Cale Spence fired his shot past the outstretched hands of Lucas Martin in goal. The game would remain locked at one goal apiece heading into the halftime break, despite both teams generating a number of chances to regain the lead.
Junction FC started the second half just as they had in the first, with forward Jacen Stein nearly breaking the deadlock in the 59th minute after firing his shot just past the post. Stein would ultimately add his name to the scoresheet, after tapping in a deflected shot following a corner from Connor Louden in the 78th minute.
In the final minutes of the contest, Tacoma was yet again able to find an equalizer, with Fellipe Souza finding the back of the net in the 89th minute for the Stars. With time about the expire and the visitors still looking to find a winner, the Stars were able to draw a penalty kick in the 93rd minute, which Yuta Toya converted to secure the win for the hosts.
Despite the way the game ended, Oman is feeling encouraged with his squad and the season that lies in front of them. “This was our first time playing with the new players in the team, and I think they all see how good this team can be. We know we let one slip through our fingers, but the attitude in the locker room showed me that they will take this and grow from it.”
Junction FC will be back in action on Friday, May 23rd at home for the first time this season, as they host Lane United FC. Tickets for Friday’s home opener can be purchased HERE.
