16 May Match Preview: ASC vs. Orange County FC
Redemption match…
I-5 Rival and playoff contender, Orange County FC is responsible for ASC’s only loss this season, and no one on either team has forgotten it. ASC is eager to make amends for the 2-1 defeat they suffered in Irvine, CA, and OC is eager to continue their undefeated streak into the playoffs
The rivalry has only intensified since these two squads last met. With the playoffs looming, each game carries more and more urgency. Both have continued their winning ways, and look to carry their positive momentum all the way through to a championship. ASC is coming off of a crucial 3-2 road victory against cross state contenders, FC Arizona. According to the NPSL power rankings, ASC is ranked 1st among all teams that have played more than 2 games.
I-5 derby…
OCFC are the only remaining undefeated team in the division, and have made it through to the second round of the U.S. Open Cup where they’ll take on USL newbies, Fresno FC, who are coached by the former Canadian national, Frank Yallop. ASC will have to look out for the in-form combo of Dakota Collins, and Daniel ten Bosch.
Since their away defeat at Championship Soccer Stadium, ASC has gone on a tear defeating Temecula FC, FC Golden State, LA Wolves, and FC Arizona in short order. Ziggy Korytoski’s squad is riding a 4-game winning streak into the contest. The possession oriented tactics employed by Ziggy have taken this team to new heights. ASC is running like a smoothly oiled machine, and shows no signs of slowing down.
Last time we met…
In arguably the most entertaining contest of the season, ASC and OCFC both put in a strong performance. The match was physical, intense, and there was a certain edge to the game. Strong goalkeeping, coupled with missed opportunities, allowed for an Orange County victory.
Amani Walker looks to have regained his 2017 NPSL golden boot form, and Garrett Heine is coming off of a two goal performance against FC Arizona. There are plenty of weapons for Ziggy’s squad. On the defensive side Waligorski, Cardona, and Berkolds have been an outstanding 3 centre back pairing. The key for ASC will be preventing the long ball attack that was heavily utilized in their last meeting, and lead to the two OCFC goals. A win Saturday would help to distance ASC from the rest of the pack, and put them firmly in control for a deep playoff run.
Playing for a Cause…
ASC San Diego is proud to partner with Promises 2 Kids for May 19th game against Orange County FC. ASC San Diego will donate $1 from every ticket sold, every one of which will be matched by our partner, Classy.org, for a total of $2 donated per ticket! Promises2Kids annually provides over 3,000 current and former foster youth in San Diego County with the tools, opportunities and guidance they need to address the circumstances that brought them into foster care, overcome the difficulties of their past, and grow into healthy and successful adults. $1 from every ticket sold goes to support their exciting programs, matched by our partners at Classy.org.
Kick off is at 6pm at Mission Bay Stadium. You don’t want to miss this match as ASC look to redeem themselves. Make sure to purchase your tickets here: https://www.classy.org/event/asc-san-diego-vs-orange-county-fc/e173167
