The 1-0 loss Dayton Dutch Lions FC suffered at the hands of Toledo Villa FC is a bitter pill to swallow. Dayton appeared to be as good or better than its intra-state adversary for much of the match, but lost a sixth consecutive match to begin the USL League Two season.
“This on top of 0-5 stings,” said Dutch Lions Head Coach Sid Van Druenen. “This as the first game of the season has a different feeling.” Dayton came out in the first half and controlled possession, created opportunities, and did a much better job stifling the Toledo counter attack than it did in a 5-2 loss earlier in the season. Nevertheless, Toledo scored the game’s only goal in the 38th minute of the contest. Joey Akpunonu was able to dribble the ball from the top of the box, around two or three Dayton defenders, until he was squared up against Dutch Lions FC goalkeeper Scott Pengelly. Pengelly was helpless against Akpunonu’s strike into the netting.
Rather than hang their heads, the Dutch Lions showed some resolve and played a gritty second half. Substitute Jose Goncalves provided a spark in the attack, creating plays and taking shots, but none found the target.
In the 87th minute, it appeared that Marcos Vila had fired the equalizer, but Toledo goalkeeper David Coffey leaped to get a strong hand on the ball and tip it over the crossbar. “I’m happy with the second half and the way the guys responded. We created chances and Toledo didn’t have many,” said Van Druenen. “0-6 stinks, but there are certainly positives.”