After taking a break for lunch, the Wizards headed back to the field
for their second match of the day Thursday, downing the U.S. Amateur Team
1-0. Playing two, 30-minute halves, the Wizards got a look at several
players during the day, the most impressive being Diego Walsh and rookie
forward Ryan Pore.
Walsh stepped up to take a penalty kick midway through the first half, only to have his shot saved by a brilliant effort from the U.S. Amateur goalkeeper. Walsh would make amends in the second half with a wicked strike in the 36th minute.
Midfielder Doug Lascody and Walsh had an impressive combination play in the left side before Walsh moved inside near the left side of the box with the ball. He shook off two defenders with a nifty move with his left foot and got the ball to his right foot. He then tucked a dangerous right-footed, curling shot just inside the far post for the Wizards only goal of the afternoon match.
Forward Ryan Pore also impressed the coaching staff during the afternoon contest getting free on several occasions, managing a few good looks at goal and getting some shots off, but none were able to find their mark.
The Wizards will next face the U.S. U-17 National Team on Saturday, February 19th on the University of South Florida campus. Kickoff is slated for 9:00 a.m. CT.
Kansas City Wizards Lineup:
Will Hesmer-GK (Chris Sawyer-31'); Brian
Bliss, Brian Roberts, Taylor Graham, Daniel Dobson; Jay Alberts, Shavar
Thomas, Doug Lascody, Edwin Ruiz (Pat McGinnis-31'); Diego Walsh (Edwin
Ruiz-36'), Ryan Pore
