It is FINALLY here. LouCity, is BACK! But this year feels different. 

As Louisville City FC kicks off their 2024 USL Championship journey, they’re navigating through what feels like a new era, with fresh faces blending with seasoned pros. This “generational shift” is palpable as they gear up to face El Paso Locomotive FC on Saturday afternoon. The boys in purple should have revenge on their minds as they look to ruin the home opener for the Locomotives, just as El Paso did last spring in Lynn Family Stadium. 

Still, the talk around Louisville and the Commonwealth is Brian Ownby’s absence, leaving fans pondering how the team will adapt without his attacking flair. Who will step up to fill the void on the field? 

This preseason was all about meshing the old with the new. Players like Arturo Ordóñez and Taylor Davila have stepped in, eager to make their mark and chase glory with LouCity. They, along with Adrien Perez and Sam Gleade, are pivotal pieces in Coach Danny Cruz’s revamped puzzle, aiming to inject a fresh hunger for success into the squad.

Their 2-0 preseason triumph over El Paso, with Ray Serrano and Niall McCabe hitting the back of the net, was a confidence booster. It wasn’t just a win; it was a sneak peek into their opponent’s strategies, offering LouCity a mental edge as they brace for a riveting rematch.

With Ownby sidelined, it’s time for other stars to shine. While all eyes are on Wilson Harris, who’s on the cusp of his 50th league goal, and McCabe, whose versatility is gold for LouCity’s game plan. They, along with Elijah Wynder and Jansen Wilson, have big shoes to fill, tasked with keeping the team’s offensive spark alive.

Facing El Paso isn’t a walk in the park. Under Brian Clarhaut’s watch, they’re a formidable opponent. LouCity needs to watch out for Eric Calvillo, a midfield maestro who can turn the game on its head.

This season opener is more than just a game; it’s a litmus test for LouCity’s new dynamics and Cruz’s strategic nous, especially minus Ownby. With all these moving parts, predicting the outcome is tricky (especially for me 😅). A 1-1 draw? Maybe. But beyond scores and stats, this match is a deep dive into LouCity’s resilience and adaptability during a time of transformation and challenge.

Make sure to stick to Bluegrass Soccer Cast (@BGSoccerCast on all social media platforms) for full coverage of LouCity and everything soccer in our beautiful Commonwealth.