Reading’s Gibrilla Conde was the story for most of Sunday’s home opener at Robert E. Rich All-High Stadium, so perhaps it’s fitting that his 87th minute tally was the difference.
The Revolution handed FC Buffalo a 2-1 loss when Conde ran through to Blitzers defenders and buried the ball in the back of the net just minutes after FCB rallied to tie the game in front of a terrific crowd of 321.
The thrilling and physical second half followed a sloppy and lackluster first frame that saw the Blitzers go down 1-0 while struggling to find the right chemistry. It started to come together with halftime substitues Jake Rinow and Frankie Valente making an immediate impact, but it was crafty ball play by Mike Unwin that helped the Blitzers draw level.
Unwin led a charge into the Reading end before slipping the ball to Stephen Baker, who sent the ball through the six and onto the foot of Reidy, who lead all players with six shots on goal. Reidy netted and FC Buffalo rode a cresting wave of momentum that never found the shore when Conde scored.
The match saw three yellow cards, including a second to Geidner in stoppage time that sent Reading down to 10 men for the frantic final minutes. Reading skipper Mike Moyer was ejected late in the fray.
The Blitzers hit the road to take on Buxmont next weekend before coming home for June 4 & 5 tilts at All-High. Hope to see you there.