LEXINGTON, Ky. — Lexington Sporting Club returns to The Stables in USL Championship action Saturday evening to host a pesky nemesis in Las Vegas Lights FC.
The Greens encountered a small hiccup in their last match, losing only their second contest in 11 matches to Sacramento Republic FC. It was, however, another strong showing for the Lexington defense who only surrendered one shot on target in the run of play.
Unfortunately for LSC, the only additional shot on frame it did allow was on a set piece, and it was the differentiator in a 1-0 match.
Overall, the Greens are still surging as winners of eight of their last 11 contests.
As the USL Championship roster freeze approaches, Lexington also added midfielder Noble Okello from Indy Eleven earlier this week to strengthen its midfield. The 6-foot-5 midfielder has played everywhere from the No. 6 to the No. 9 spot for Indy this season, giving head coach Mac Hemmi a slew of options to position the Ugandan.
The Greens have won their last three matches at home by a combined score of 6-2 and will look to continue their winning ways vs. the Lights.
Although not a club many others have struggled with historically, Las Vegas has been a thorn in Lexington’s side dating back to last season. Vegas has only qualified for the USL Championship Playoffs once since its inaugural season in 2018, has finished last in the standings four of the last six years, yet still has posted a 2W-0L-1D record vs. Lexington.
LSC is keen to author a new chapter in the Lexington vs. Las Vegas story and pick up its ninth win of the season.
Kickoff from Lexington SC Stadium is set for 7 p.m. ET and is presented by ARH.
SCOUTING LAS VEGAS
The Lights enter play unbeaten in their last six matches, posting a 4W-0L-2D record and a +4 goal differential over that stretch. They find themselves one point ahead of Lexington in the standings and have won their last four road matches.
Vegas is powered by a two-man machine in the form of forwards Johnny Rodriguez and Christian Pinzón. Rodriguez’s 11 goals not only lead the club, but are tied for the second-most by any player in the USL Championship. Pinzón has tallied six assists to lead Vegas, also tying him for the second-most in the league.
STAT OF THE MATCH
Two is the magic number. LSC is a perfect 7W-0L-0D this season when scoring two or more goals. Meanwhile, Las Vegas has not scored more than twice all season.
CAMO HAT GIVEAWAY
To celebrate Hometown Heroes Night, the first 2,000 fans in attendance will receive a special Lexington Sporting Club camo hat at the ARH and West Sixth Gates.
HOW TO WATCH
The match will stream live on ESPN+.
