Dayton Dutch Lions Trounced 5-1 by Richmond Kickers

The Columbus Crew and their USL PRO affiliates, the Dayton Dutch Lions, played concurrent matches last Saturday evening. While the Crew were battling to a 1-1 draw against RBNY in Crew Stadium, some of the contracted players were in action 72 miles to the west on interstates 70 and 675. The Dayton Dutch Lions, with a roster bolstered by loanees from Columbus, hosted the Richmond Kickers at Beavercreek High School. The home side was routed 5-1 by the defending regular season champions, and the lopsided scoreline accurately reflected the play.

Aaron Schoenfeld once again started at center forward for the Dutch Lions, but he was not the imposing figure that he had been in previous matches. Lazy is certainly too strong a descriptor, but the big man's play certainly seemed lethargic for large stretches of the match. It seems impossible that he only managed a single shot over the course of 81 minutes on the pitch, although it didn't help that Dayton went a man down 10 minutes into the second half.

Kevan George occupied a spot at center back for 90 minutes, as he has for every Dutch Lions match this season. There was nothing particularly remarkable about his performance.

One of Richmond's goals may have been avoided if not for a botched communication between George and Dayton goalkeeper Matt Williams. Williams was clearly calling for the ball as it curled toward him on a set piece. Although the supporters section could clearly hear Williams, George apparently could not. He rose above Williams' outstretched arms and headed the ball back into the box. Moments later, Richmond buried a shot into the back of the net.

The only other Crew loanee to see action on Saturday night was Ryan Finley, who was inserted into the front line with 35 minutes left in the match. Finley provided a lot of energy off the bench, and he managed to take two shots. The first was a headed attempt that went wide to the left. The second was strike from about 12-15 yard in front of the goal that was easily stopped by the Richmond goalkeeper.

Brad Stuver was in the matchday 18 for the Dutch Lions for the first time since their season-opener, but the goalkeeper did not make it into the match.

Ross Friedman and Matt Walker were held out of the lineup altogether on Saturday. This is the third consecutive match that Friedman has missed with an injury that is apparently more troublesome than the back originally let on. Walker resumed training this week after an injury of his own, but the staff presumably felt it better for him to sit this match out.

Crew fans can catch all of the Black & Gold (and orange) in action on Sunday, May 4. The Crew are away at Sporting Kansas City at 4 PM. The Dutch Lions will host the Charleston Battery at Beavercreek High School at 7 PM.

As always, please check out Reckless Challenge for in-depth coverage of the Dayton Dutch Lions and USL PRO.