Welcome to “Down The Hatch,” a weekly mailbag about FC Cincinnati and their time in MLS. This is Charlie Hatch, the club’s Digital Host and Writer.
Questions can be submitted here or on Twitter by tweeting to @charliehatch_.
Here’s our seventh addition. Thank you for the questions and feel free to send more!
Concerned Fan: Why did we play for a draw against SKC by subbing on 2 midfielders late, when getting control of the midfield around the 60th with a sub could have won the game?
It’s worth noting that at the 60th minute, FC Cincinnati should’ve doubled their lead, but Kekuta Manneh’s shot drifted wide and Sporting Kansas City equalized two minutes later. Would 2-0 have altered the substitution pattern? Probably.
The difficulty with SKC’s goal is it came from nothing. At that point, Cincinnati was playing well in the midfield and wouldn’t have needed a change – yet.
However, when Koch opted for subs in the 77th and 82nd minute, both were midfielders because attacking players were limited. Frankie Amaya, Justin Hoyte, Jimmy Hague and Alvas Powell were the unused players.
Liz: Any news on the youth academy? Is it still slated to launch in the 2019/20 season? If so, any idea when the age groups and tryout dates will be released?
More info on the youth academy will be announced in the summer. That should include ages and any additional information!
Zach: Last game I saw there was a sock giveaways but at the end of the game and before I didnt see anyone giving them out. Is it only at certain gates? Or was i mistaken?
Socks were distributed before the game and given to the first 1,500 fans at Nippert Stadium. By the full-time whistle, they already would’ve been distributed. That was a one-game promotion, but there will be more promotions moving forward.
Chez: Do the players prefer practicing in Milford or Nippert?
Good question! I’ve asked a few people and have heard different answers. One response that always stands out is Nippert having nicer turf this year would’ve made training better in 2018. The prevailing thought is Milford is the regular facility where the club’s equipment is permanent, so that makes it more ideal.
