May 29, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Phoenix Rising FC News Release
With this being the first time Phoenix Rising and Hartford Athletic have faced each other, Rising takes home the win.
Midfielder Kevon Lambert opens up the scoring for Phoenix Rising in the 35th minute against Hartford Athletic which levels the playing field with a beautiful header straight into the net. Two minutes later, Greg Hurst contributes to the action by securing another goal with a no-look flick giving Rising the upper hand.
Head coach Rick Schantz praised Lambert’s performance at tonight’s game.
“He told me before the game he thought he could do 45, I begged him for 60, and then I prayed for a little bit more,” said Phoenix Rising head coach Rick Schantz.
Hartford scored the first goal of the night in the 20th minute after some time battling for possession. Hurst maintained good coverage in the front line and ended the night with a goal that gave Rising the lead.
The second half proved to be goalkeeper Ben Lundt’s time to shine with a heroic save under the crossbar in the 85th minute. The ball came from a Hartford corner kick that found the head of Lewis. Lundt jumped high to deflect the ball from reaching the net.
“His confidence and managing the game was really good,” said Schantz. “He looked like he was in control, and that was the performance he needed. We know Ben has big performances in him.”
The team played well in the second half to protect the box which resulted in keeping Hartford at bay for the remainder of the match.
“At the end of the day I am really happy for our fans because bringing home three points on the road is not easy,” said Schantz.
Rising’s next home match is on Saturday, June 4, against Birmingham Legion. The match will be the club’s official Pride Night! Fans interested in tickets, can head to www.phxrisingfc.com.
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