July 22, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – FC Tulsa News Release
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Dating back to last season, there is no series that has provided FC Tulsa fans with as much last-minute drama as FC Tulsa vs. Birmingham Legion FC. From Marlon’s 88′ and 90+1′ minute goals to even the score and take the lead over Legion FC last August to Machuca’s 90+5′ goal from 45 yards out in the 2022 home opener to secure the 3-1 victory, this rivalry always provides can’t-miss action for 90 minutes.
On Saturday night, the two clubs meet up once again in the Magic City for the sixth all-time meeting between the Eastern Conference foes. FC Tulsa has had Birmingham’s number through the first five matchups, posting a 3W-1L-1D record against last season’s Central Division runners-up. As the visitors, Tulsa came away with a win and a loss against the Alabama side last season, but this upcoming contest will be FC Tulsa’s first in Legion FC’s new grounds, Protective Stadium.
A difficult stretch on the road awaits FC Tulsa, one that includes stops at Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC and Miami FC following its match at Birmingham. Tulsa is only six points out of a playoff spot, and with three matches against clubs above it in the standings, the next few weeks present a great opportunity for FC Tulsa to make a move up and grab a postseason spot.
Birmingham is no easy test, but if history is to be believed, this FC Tulsa squad matches up well against Legion FC and has tended to break down its stubborn defense and walk away with points in the past. This is one you will not want to miss. Not to mention, who doesn’t love late goals in a soccer match?
Kickoff from Protective Stadium is set for 6:30 p.m. CT.
SCOUTING BIRMINGHAM LEGION FC
Birmingham has been defined by its defense this season which has conceded only 17 goals through 19 matches, making it back-to-back contests in which FC Tulsa has faced off against a top-four defense in the league (Birmingham has conceded the fourth-fewest goals, New Mexico United has conceded the third fewest). Legion FC’s eight clean sheets, all attributed to goalkeeper Matt Van Oekel, are tied for the fourth-most in the USL Championship, and Van Oekel’s tally ties him for first amongst keepers.
Its offense has been relatively quiet, scoring 22 goals in 19 matches. However, first-year Birmingham forward and USL Championship veteran Enzo Martínez has had quite the season, leading his squad in goals (6), assists (4), shots (29), and chances…
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