On Saturday night, a flat performance saw Louisville City FC’s four-game unbeaten streak emphatically halted in a very disheartening 2-0 defeat away to Birmingham Legion FC.

An early goal from Enzo Martinez doomed LouCity’s chances and bucked several positive trends during their recent run. It marked the first time City lost, trailed, and conceded a first-half goal in five games.

“Nowhere near good enough on the night — not even close,” lamented coach Danny Cruz. He cited poor set-piece defending, lack of concentration, and the wrong mentality as factors in the disappointing result.

LouCity sorely lacked the spark and intensity that fueled improved form of late. The tactical switch to a three-back system had energized the attack, but the boys in purple reverted to passive and predictable play.

Veterans like Cameron Lancaster and Oscar Jimenez were non-factors. A midfield lacking bite allowed Birmingham to dictate play. Defensive lapses gifted the hosts both goals.

It was a letdown after City appeared to be gaining steam and peaking at the right time during their unbeaten stretch. Hopes of climbing into the top four in the tight Eastern Conference race were also dealt a blow. 

Cruz made it clear set piece defending will be a focus in training after similar lapses cost LouCity in a draw last weekend. Eliminating frustrating mental errors has proven a season-long challenge.

The team’s mentality and concentration failed them on a night where executing the basics could have extended their streak. Instead, a flat performance halted LouCity’s positive momentum.

But what is the real issue with this team? Is it team chemistry? Our friend from VamosMorados.com, Benton Newman, seemed to be emphatic that this was not the case. Is the team in the wrong formation? Coach Cruz has changed tactics a few times this year, so it is not that. Is the team injured and lacks depth? Is the team aging before our eyes? Should Coach Cruz be on the hot seat? We have more questions than answers for this team; and that is not a good sign this late in the season. 

The boys in purple will need to rebound quickly with a midweek clash against Memphis 901 FC ahead. A lackluster loss when momentum was building only magnifies the disappointment.

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. 

(Photo: Birmingham Legion FC)