In front of a sold out crowd of 25,513 on Sunday afternoon, The Orange and Blue started their quest to repeat as Supporters’ Shield winners after unveiling a banner prematch in recognition of their first league trophy. But neither team could find a goal in the 90-minute allotment as FC Cincinnati had to settle for a point after a nil-nil draw with Toronto FC.
While neither side could find a goal, FCC kept the pressure on all match, peppering TFC with 18 shots, seven of which made it on target. The best chance came when Corey Baird attempted a bicycle kick from just inside the penalty spot of a mad scramble off a corner kick in the 15th minute.
Roman Celentano made a miraculous save of his own in the seventh minute, diving to swat away a shot and clear it off the line from a free kick on his right side. The FCC defense kept TFC at bay, allowing just two shots on goal and an innocent 0.6xG total.
The day was filled with frustration as FCC couldn’t find a match winner. It was also a celebration for FCC’s finest as team captain Luciano Acosta celebrated his 100th match as captain of The Orange and Blue. Acosta drove play all afternoon, leading the team in shots, passes and attacking assists.
FC Cincinnati are back in action Wednesday night at TQL Stadium as their frenetic opening to the season continues, taking on Cavalier FC in the return match of the Concacaf Champions Cup opening round. The Orange and Blue will then hit the road after that, jetting to Chicago for their first road match of the MLS Season.
