Crystal Palace defenseman Mike Lookingland acknowledged his team can?t afford to focus on the future instead of the present.
That?s because all that?s standing in Palace?s way from bringing a Major League Soccer foe to the Baltimore region is tonight?s game at 7:05 against the City Islanders in Harrisburg, Pa., in the second round of the U.S. Open Cup.
Win, and Palace will host the New York Red Bulls at UMBC or Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium on July 1 as part of a nationwide tournament to determine the country?s best amateur or professional team.
The 40-team tournament features teams from across the soccer landscape, meaning it is possible for the United States Adult Soccer Association?s Hollywood United to claim it?s superior to two-time reigning MLS champion Houston Dynamo or defending Cup champion New England Revolution. D.C. United is among eight MLS teams to receive a bye to the third round, where it will face the Pittsburgh Riverhounds or Rochester Rhinos on July 1.
Palace, which is 6-3-1 in the United Soccer League?s Second Division, advanced to the second round of the U.S. Open Cup by beating the Los Angeles Legends of the USASA, 2-1, on June 10.
“We knew going to Los Angeles, it?s a game we should win,” Lookingland said. “We took care of business and now play a familiar opponent. We don?t want to look too much forward, but we know if we do win there is an MSL team, which is a huge opportunity for the players and the organization.”
The Harrisburg City Islanders (4-1-6), also in the USL Second Division, advanced with a dominating, 5-1, win over the USL?s Premier Development League?s Yakima Reds. But during USL Second Division play, they defeated Palace, 1-0, on June 8.
Palace is led by forward Gary Brooks? six goals and an assist, and the City Islanders are paced by Mo Odur?s team-high four goals.
“Anytime you lose to a team, there is a certain chip on your shoulder that comes in the next time you play them,” Palace Co-Coach Pete Medd said. “The good news is we won there last year and it?s not a huge travel issue. I think sometimes it can be an opportunity to completely focus on the game, no distractions. When you are at home, you have to worry about tickets for your friends and family. Being on the road, I think it can be an opportunity to focus as a team and say ?this is a business trip and we have one thing to do, and one thing only.?”
