The Dayton Dutch Lions FC took to the field against Forbes in a preseason contest at the Miami Valley School on Saturday afternoon. The Dutch Lions came away with a 3-0 victory, the team’s second consecutive shutout of the preseason. The preseason, though, is always about more than the box score. This was an opportunity to gain experience and get fit in preparation for the rigors of the upcoming USL PRO regular season.
The Dutch Lions dominated possession of the ball in the first half, but the team was largely unsuccessful at turning possession into scoring chances. Dayton was able to capitalize on one of those chances about midway through the first half. From his position in the middle of the attacking third, Shintaro Harada sent a pass to Eli Garner, who was making a run to the far post. Garner was able to settle the ball and get off a quick shot for the first score of the game. Forbes was able to generate some offense with counterattacks, but the Dutch Lions went into halftime with a 1-0 lead.
The action picked up in the second half. Dayton’s offense sprang to life, and shots were repeatedly heading toward the Forbes’ goal. Two of the attempts found their mark. The first came when center forward Joe Broekhuizen created some space for himself inside the top of the box and unleashed a powerful left-footed strike. The final goal of the game came from Shane Smith, who made a long run from his spot at left back and slid right in front of the Forbes’ goalkeeper to tap a crossed ball over the line.
“I’m optimistic about this team,” said Dutch Lions Head Coach Patrick Bal. “We needed to make quicker decisions and execute better passes in the first half, but I still have a positive feeling heading into the regular season.”
The Dayton Dutch Lions FC kicks off its USL PRO season at home against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. at Beavercreek High School Stadium. To purchase tickets or to learn more about the Dayton Dutch Lions FC, please visit www.daytondutchlionsfc.com.