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The Swope Park Rangers suffered another defeat Saturday night, losing 2-0 to Nashville SC despite SPR having the slight edge in possession.
Paulo Nagamura selected three Sporting KC players for Saturday’s match to start: Adrian Zendejas, Gedion Zelalem, and Roger Espinoza, who captained the side. Jaylin Lindsey also made the 18 for the first time since his injury. Wan Kuzain was available off the bench, but was not used.
Mark Segbers was forced off after just 33 minutes due to injury, being replaced by Jerome Ngom Mbekeli, who went to the wing as Will Little slotted back to right back (ultimately four players would play right back in this game including Killian Colombie and Lindsey).
As the half grew older, the chances started to come thick and fast for the visitors. After a couple chances missed, including a phenomenal double save from Adrian Zendejas, Nashville got their opener after two former SPR stars, Kharlton Belmar assisting Lebo Moloto, linked up for the opener after 43 minutes.
Nashville took any hopes of Rangers getting any points with a goal from Daniel Rios, assisted by Lebo Moloto, after Rios ran off the shoulder of the makeshift right back Colombie, and a simple finish past Zendejas.
Despite a tough loss, there were a couple positive notes. Roger Espinoza got a full 90 minutes under his belt since April 4th. Jaylin Lindsey returned as a substitute for the last 30 minutes, playing his first minutes since March 17th. From SPR, Camden Riley had a very good game, with several last ditch challenges.
The Rangers now drop to 18th in the East, with three wins, six draws, and eleven losses. Nashville picks up another road win, taking them to fourth in the East, with eleven wins, five draws, and five losses. This is the first three game winning streak in Nashville SC’s history.
SPR return to action next Saturday, August 10th, as they visit Steel City, where they will play the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. Like all USL Championship and most MLS games, next weekend’s game can be streamed on ESPN+.
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