PEORIA, IL — The boys gave 100% Saturday night against the #3 team in the nation, Des Moines Menace.
The first half was evenly matched, with our forwards making moves and creating opportunities on multiple occasions.
Justin Wilson, Jamaine Turner and Thomas Monayer all shined in their first game under the lights of Shea Stadium.
On the defensive end, Mason Hart was solid between the pipes, making multiple clutch saves. But the greatest save of the night goes to Wesley Gibson when he hustled back in the box, throwing his body in the way of a potential Menace goal.
The Menace would score one goal late in the first half, making us trail 0-1 at the start of the second half.
We never gave up in the second half, registering countless shots on goal that were just millimeters away from sinking in the net.
But the Menace’s luck was in their favor Saturday night, as they sank a second goal in the second half.
We played our hearts out until the last seconds, as stoppage time was 5 minutes after going the whole 90 on a hot summer’s day.
In the end, we fell 0-2 against the Menace.
Off the pitch, our 847 supporters had a very successful night tailgating and enjoying the three food trucks.
We debuted the “Flying Carp” tacos, empanadas and rangoons at Dos Hermanos Food Truck.
Dozens of people we spoke to really enjoyed the Copi (formerly known as carp) that was provided to Dos Hermanos by Sorce Freshwater Companies.
Peoria City returns to Shea Stadium next Wednesday, June 28th. We host the Chicago Dutch Lions at 7:30 PM.
For food trucks, we have Sweet Girl Treats, Haddad’s (Tony’s on Wheels) and Tropical Sno. Tailgating begins at 4:30 PM with food ready between 5:00 and 5:30.
Additionally, we would like to thank the Peoria Rivermen season ticket holders for attending our match Saturday night. We enjoyed the Rivermen staff setting up their table at Shea Stadium and meeting many of our fans. You all are welcome anytime! For Peoria City season ticket holders, you will get in free to a home Rivermen game. The date is still TBD. Coach Regan will drop the puck ahead of the game as well.