FC Tucson Looks to switch gears against Lansing Ignite after loss to Tormenta SC.

Match Review:

Tucson were shut out out for the first time this season in a 0-2 defeat at home. This was their second loss of the season, both at the hands of the Tormenta SC. FC Tucson started off strong, maintaining possession and creating a few chances. Around the 15’ mark, Tormenta seemed to settle in and start to take control of the match.

FC Tucson’s back line, featuring Kyle Venter and loanee Scott Devoss, looked solid for most of the match. They limited Tormenta’s chances, only conceding 4 shots inside the box. It wasn’t until the 66’ that Tucson’s back-line finally had a breakdown. It looks like there was a miscommunication between Hauswirth and Bjornethun, which led to Hauswirth being a half step behind the streaking Coutinho. Coutinho then smashed home a powerful finish that barely beat GK Ejimadu.

Tormenta’s second goal came in the last minute of stoppage time. FC Tucson brought Ejimadu forward on a corner kick. After a few blocked shots inside the box, Tormenta were able to counter. FC Tucson’s personal ‘boogey man’ Conner Antley tapped home the finish on an empty net.

This is only FC Tucson’s second loss, and it was against a quality opponent. Though there is still reason to be anxious. FC Tucson’s offense hasn’t shown up this season since putting 3 goals past a 10-man Orlando City B. Tucson had 4 shots against Tormenta, only 1 of which was on target. You cannot expect to win matches with those kinds of offensive stats.

Match Preview:

Look for FC Tucson to kick-start their attack against a Lansing Ignite side that recently suffered a 0-2 loss to Toronto FC II. Lansing Ignite is currently sitting 6th on the table with 6 points (2-2-0) while FC Tucson is in 9th with 4 points (1-2-1). Both teams are coming off a short week, but Tucson has the advantage of playing at home. This is a great opportunity for FC Tucson to get their offense to click against a travel weary opponent.

So far this season, Lansing Ignite have exhibited a high intensity counter-pressing system. It has been compared to the system employed by Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool. The short week and travel will be a big test for their, system, fitness, and depth.

Its hard to pin down a specific player to watch out for in this match up, because all 7 of Lansing’s goals this season have come from different players. This speaks to how dangerous their fast attacking style of play is, and to the rotation of players their system requires.

FC Tucson News:

This Saturday, Austin Ledbetter made history as the first player from FC Tucson loaned up to Phoenix Rising. He subbed on at CB in the 66’ minute in Rising’s 0-0 draw against Sacramento Republic FC. Ledbetter settled right in and helped secure the clean sheet. He ended the match with 2 clearances, 1 tackle, and 1 block. The most impressive stat was his pass accuracy (5/6). He stayed calm under the pressure from Sacramento attackers and made smart passes. In the 86’ minute, Ledbetter sent a beautiful ball over the top of the defense to find Kevon Lambert who put a dangerous cross into the box.

During the preseason, Phoenix Rising Coach Rick Shantz said that “Austin” was one of the players who really impressed him. With the injuries to Farrell and Mala, along with Blackmon starting for LAFC, look for Ledbetter to get more matches with Phoenix Rising.

FC Tucson plays Lansing Ignite this Tuesday April 30th at Kino North Stadium @ 7:00pm

Featured Image: Courtesy of FC Tucson