ROAD UNKIND TO CAPITALS

May 18, 2008 – The Baton Rouge Capitals came off a road trip weekend with a 0-2 record. Earlier this evening, the New Orleans Shell Shockers handed the Capitals a 1-0 defeat.

The field conditions at Tad Gormley Stadium in New Orleans were also very unkind. The field dimensions were extremely small and the grass (or lack thereof) did not cater to the possession style of the Capitals. Add to it the fact that the team continues to miss open opportunities, and the fact the once again the Capitals started the game from behind, and the recipe for disaster was in place.

Throughout the first half the Shell Shockers seemed content in getting behind the ball in front of the box. Time and over again the Capitals work the ball around, tried to involve the wings, and took plenty of shots. However, the sheer number of bodies in front of the goal made the task to score an elusive one.

In the only opportunity to take a shot in the first half the New Orleans team took advantage. On an extremely well taken free kick 20 yards out, the Shell Shockers found themselves ahead 1-0 going to half time.

The second half was then all about defending and holding for dear life for New Orleans. Paired with a time wasting strategy, as well as an very high number of fouls, the Shell Shockers worked the clock to their advantage. Meanwhile the Capitals felt the pressure to score and missed golden opportunities in the box. When the Capitals were able to get past the sea of bodies in front of the New Orleans box, their keeper managed splendid saves.

In the end, there were no breaks for the Capitals. And to add insult to injury, with minutes remaining, defender Guilherme Reis (Brazil) received a red card for trying to break the time wasting maneuvers at the side line.

There will be a quick rematch, though. The Capitals will see the Shell Shockers again at home next. The game will be on May 31st and will give a chance to the Baton Rouge team to see if New Orleans is for real.

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