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After a 2-1 win over Philadelphia Lone Star in the first round and a 5-2 win over Lehigh Valley United to start their USL League Two campaign, Reading United is in Louisville looking for a result against the two-time defending USL champions Louisville City FC.
But don’t expect Reading United to play any differently.
“This is a step up,” head coach Alan McCann said. “As with any team, we’ll keep our identity and foundation. One or two little bits to change - same as any other game. You’re not going to see us changing style, sitting in, and kicking the ball long. That’s a disservice to our players, and doesn’t let them play within their identities. It’d be a discredit to the players and team if we just kick it long. These players are looking for pro contracts.”
Philadelphia Union Academy grad Kalil ElMedkhar is available after leaving last week’s first round match early with a shoulder injury. The forward from Middletown, Del. starred at the University of Kentucky last fall after being a key contributor in Reading’s run to the league final last summer.
McCann also has several roster additions that weren’t available last week.
The roster includes Union Academy grads Mo Conde, Seth Kuhn, Olu Ogunwale, Daniel Bloyou and Jeremy Rafanello, who had a brace against Philadelphia Lone Star last week. Local college players Alvin Dahn (Saint Joseph’s), Richie Schlentz (Villanova), Theo Quartey (Villanova), Gilbert Waso (Elizabethtown) and Corey Burkhardt (Temple) are also on the roster.
Louisville City comes in with a 5-4-1 record in the USL Championship. They won the last two USL Championship titles, beating Bethlehem Steel FC both seasons en route to the final in both seasons.
How to Watch
Where: Lynn Stadium, Louisville, Ky.
When: 7 p.m. ET, Wednesday, May 15, 2019
TV: None
Streaming: ESPN+
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