Know Your Opponent: FC Baltimore-Christos | 7.6.19

NORFOLK, Va. (July 3, 2019) — Virginia Beach City FC is playing for all of the marbles on Sat., July 6 vs. FC Baltimore-Christos in the NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference Championship. FC Baltimore will host the match, thanks to a head-to-head tiebreaker. 

Third Time's a Charm

Virginia Beach City FC has one more shot at knocking off FC Baltimore. The two clubs have played twice this season, opening VB City FC's schedule with a 1-1 draw and then a 3-2 FC Baltimore victory on June 16.

Since that defeat, Virginia Beach City FC is 3-0-0, including two NPSL regular season wins. VB City FC is coming off a 2-0 shutout win over Northern Virginia United and has allowed five goals in eight NPSL matches. Three of those have been scored by FC Baltimore.

On a Hot Streak

FC Baltimore is one of the hottest teams in the NPSL. The Roons have won their last six matches, scoring seven goals in their last two contests.

FC Baltimore holds another advantage in this contest — experience. FC Baltimore has played 16 matches this season, most of which were friendlies. That experience means this team is as cohesive and consistent as any club in the league.

Key Player

Ezana Kahsay might be the best forward in the Conference and certainly needs to be the best player on the pitch in this game. He's scored seven NPSL goals this season and regularly creates scoring opportunities for himself. When Kahsay attacks, VB City FC generally scores. Kahsay will need to be aggressive on Saturday to bring home the Conference Championship, as he's already scored in both matches vs. FC Baltimore.

Key Matchup

VB City FC's defenders vs. FC Baltimore's forwards — FC Baltimore has scored nine goals since knocking off Virginia Beach City FC earlier this season. FC Baltimore's attack is sound and explosive, but VB City FC's defense has smothered most teams this season. Defenders Shane Wiedt and Jordi Davis will need to keep keeper CJ Coulson clean, and Coulson must be on his A-game.

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