Las Vegas Lights FC secured a point and the club’s first-ever playoff berth following a 1-1 draw against Orange County SC on Saturday night at Cashman Field.
It was a hot start out of the gate for both sides in the opening minutes of the match, but it was Orange County who struck first in the 16th minute. OC forward Ethan Zubak barreled into the home side’s 18-yard box and cut the ball back through traffic and to the feet of midfielder Chris Hegardt for a low drive into the corner of the net.
Las Vegas were quick to respond with an equalizer 10 minutes later. Forward Khori Bennett headed down a perfectly weighted cross from striking partner Solomon Asante and past Orange County to bring the game level at 1-1. Despite a few opportunities, including a chance for Asante off a short set piece, the first half ended quietly.
The second half saw Las Vegas come out strong, controlling much of the play. Midfielder Valentin Noël came closest to putting the Lights ahead when his long-range shot rattled the crossbar in the 60th minute. As the match continued, Lights ‘keeper Arozarena made a crucial reaction save to prevent an own goal following a defensive sliding clearance by defender Joe Hafferty. The Lights kept the pressure on but couldn’t find the winning goal, despite several promising opportunities.
With a playoff spot secured, the Lights now shift their focus to the final three games of the 2024 regular season in hope to secure a home playoff game. Las Vegas Lights FC are on the road at Birmingham Legion FC next Sunday, October 13th, with kickoff set for 3:00 p.m. PT.
The Lights will return to Cashman Field to host Oakland Roots SC for the final home game of the regular season on Saturday, October 19. Tickets to the Fan Appreciation Night celebration, slated to kick off at 7:30 p.m. PT, are available starting at just $20 at lasvegaslightsfc.com/tickets.
THREE TAKEAWAYS
History Made: With the 1-1 draw, Las Vegas Lights FC clinched its first-ever playoff spot in club history, marking a monumental achievement for the team and their fans.
Pressure Makes Diamonds: After falling behind early, the Lights fought back with Khori Bennett’s header and maintained composure, especially during a tense second half where they created several scoring chances.
Quick Reflexes: The Lights’ defense held strong, with Arozarena making critical saves in the second half to keep the game tied and secure the Lights chance of clinching their playoff spot.
SCORING SUMMARY
OC – Chris Hegardt 16′ (Asst: Ethan Zubak)
LV – Khori Bennett 26′ (Asst: Soloman Asante)
MISCONDUCT SUMMARY
OC – Ashish Chattha 35′ (Caution)
OC – Kevin Partida 37′ (Caution)
OC – Markus Nakkim 71′ (Caution)
LINEUPS AND STATS | USL Championship Match Center
Las Vegas Lights FC – Raiko Arozarena, Shawn Smart (Grayson Doody 79′), Gennaro Nigro, Joe Hafferty, Elias Gärtig (Charlie Adams 61′), J.C. Ngando, Soloman Asante (Coleman Gannon 79′), Ousman Jabang, Christian Pinzón (Edison Azcona 61′), Valentin Noël, Khori Bennett
Substitutes not used: George Marks, Austin Wormell, Ali Gue, Vaughn Covil
Total shots: 12
Shots on goal: 3
Fouls: 13
Corner kicks: 5
Offside: 1
Saves: 2
Orange County SC – Colin Shutler, Owen Lamb, Ryan Doghman, Markus Nakkim, Dillon Powers, Kevin Partida (Ben Norris 81′), Cameron Dunbar (Ashton Miles 90+5′), Seth Casipie, Chris Hegardt, Ethan Zubak, Ashish Chattha (Bryce Jamison 75′)
Substitutes not used: Thomâs Gómez, Charlie Asensio, Pedro Guimaraes, Benjamin Barjolo,
Total shots: 9
Shots on goal: 1
Fouls: 15
Corner kicks: 4
Offside: 2
Saves: 2
