OAKLAND, Calif. – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC rebounded to earn a 1-0 victory against Oakland Roots SC on Saturday night at the Oakland-Alameda Coliseum on Saturday night as an early own goal proved the difference for the visitors.
The Switchbacks took the lead in the fifth minute when Yosuke Hanya picked up possession on the right side of the field and fired a low cross to the top of the six-yard area for Khori Bennett, whose attempt to flick the ball home deflected off defender Michael Edwards and into the left corner of the net.
Roots went close to leveling four minutes into the second half when a header by Peter Wilson flicked the outside of the right post, but as the second half progressed it became more likely the Switchbacks would add to their lead than the hosts find an equalizer. Aidan Rocha had a good effort parried away by Oakland’s Kendall McIntosh in the 64th minute before Juan Tejada hit the right post in stoppage time, but Colorado Springs was able to see out the result to earn a valuable three points.
Takeaways
Oakland Roots SC – Roots suffered a second consecutive defeat as its attack was unable to find its rhythm after the Switchbacks took an early lead. Oakland’s five shots in the contest were its lowest mark this season as the side was unable to break down Colorado Springs’ back line with any regularity.
Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC – The Switchbacks put together a resolute defensive display after grabbing the early lead, limiting Roots’ clear looks in the penalty area while allowing only 13 touches in the penalty area for the hosts. Colorado Springs’ victory provided a solid bounce-back display as the side recorded only its second shutout of the league campaign.