The Young Reds host Bethlehem Steel FC in the penultimate game of the season on Friday night at the Ontario Soccer Centre. To get you set here is everything you need to know about the visitors.
2017 Season:
Bethlehem Steel FC currently sits in ninth place in the East, just one point behind NYRB II for the final playoff spot. Friday night’s game will be a must win for Bethlehem if the second year club has any hopes of making the postseason for the first time in club history. An 11-11-7 record overall, Bethlehem is 5-6-3 away from Goodman Stadium this season and currently boast a 0 goal differential. Bethlehem is undefeated in their last five.
Current Form:
DDWDD
Draw at Tampa Bay Rowdies (1-1)
Draw vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies (2-2)
Win vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds (3-2)
Draw at Louisville City FC (2-2)
Draw at Orlando City B (1-1)
Last time we met:
This will be the third and final meeting between the two clubs this season. Bethlehem took the first two matches of the year. Their first win came in April at BMO Field 1-0 and the second 3-1 in August at Goodman Stadium. All-time the series is split at two wins apiece, with TFC II taking both games last season.
Key Player: Seku Conneh
The Liberian international is in his second season with Bethlehem. The forward has enjoyed a solid sophomore season as he is tied for the team lead in goals with nine and has added two assists. Conneh managed just two goals last year as his playing time was limited due to injury. Conneh made his full cap international debut in 2015 and has made two appearances since. The forward spent time in the Ajax (Netherlands) youth academy before making his senior team debut for Dutch side Fortuna Sittard.
Unsung Hero: James Chambers
The native of Dublin, Ireland is in his second year with Bethlehem. The journeyman has made stops at nine other professional clubs during his 13 year playing career. Chambers has scored five goals this season and leads the team in total passes playing 1,315 passes at a 79.3% completion rating.
Canadian Content:
North York, Ontario native Chris Nanco is the only Canuck on Bethlehem’s roster. Nanco is in his first professional season following a successful collegiate career at Syracuse University. Nanco has tallied four goals in 24 appearances this year. Nanco was the 55th overall selection in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft.
Projected Lineup:
Bethlehem has consistently trotted out in a 4-2-3-1 formation this season.
Kickoff for the match is set for 7:30 PM on Friday night. Tickets are available here.
