KINGSTON, N.Y. — Kingston Stockade FC opened the 2019 NPSL season with a 2-0 loss to the New York Cosmos. More than 892 fans were at Dietz Stadium in Kingston for the 2019 home opener.
The Cosmos went up in the 36th minute when forward Aaron Dennis headed home a driven cross that was set up via a quick free kick by the visitors.
Midfielder Giuseppe Barone then made it 2-0 in the 69th minute with an impressive 50-yard chip over Stockade goalkeeper Lucas Vallilo.
Stockade head coach Jamal Lis-Simmons was gracious in defeat in his head-coaching debut.
"It was a tough game," said Lis-Simmons. "I thought our guys battled hard, we created a couple of good opportunities early, but were unable to capitalize. Unfortunately, a few mental lapses on our side cost us. Take nothing away from them, they’re a quality side. They were able to dictate tempo for large portions of the match, and we did some things well but we weren’t consistent enough overall. We’ll have a good week of training and be ready for next week."
Stockade technical director Dan Hoffay agreed that the home side wasn't without its chances.
"It was a very competitive match that could have broken either way," said Hoffay. "We had a few chances to create something early on but could not capitalize. Fair play to the Comsos for playing in the match and building more aggressive attacks as the match wore on. We're looking forward to another week of training and getting more of our new players in for next week."
Stockade next takes the field on Saturday, May 11 when the Hudson Valley club goes on the road to face Greater Lowell Rough Diamonds.
STOCKADE MAN OF THE MATCH: Lucas Vallilo (Goalkeeper). Made numerous impressive saves that kept Kingston in the match.
