Flying people, flying burgers, flying wonderstrikes from Taketo Onodera. That’s it, that’s the recap.
Ballard FC opened the 2024 home campaign with a thrilling 4-1 victory against Midlakes United. An incredible match in front of the energetic crowd at Memorial, highlighted by world class goals and character.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The opening ceremonies included a tifo from the Bridgekeepers, a USL2 2023 National Championship banner drop, and skydivers landing in the center circle with the match ball.
Ballard FC displayed early dominance, with a handful of early opportunities and in the 25th minute, Ballard FC broke the deadlock. Peter Kingston orchestrated a brilliant move, skillfully dribbling through Midlakes defenders and then cutting the ball across the six-yard box, where Taketo Onodera was rushing in to head it home, giving the home side an early 1-0 lead. Dick’s Drive-In burgers were hurled into the crowd to celebrate the goal and mark a new club tradition.
Midlakes United responded by growing into the game, but Ballard’s defense remained strong. The visitors managed to equalize in the 37th minute when a defensive mix-up was capitalized on by Cyril Engmann, bringing the score to 1-1.
Despite the setback, Ballard continued to press and the match ramped up further. A yellow card was shown to Midlakes’ defender Evan Aune in the 34th minute, and another to Ballard’s Khai Brisco just before halftime. The first half ended with the score tied at 1-1.
Ballard FC came out flying in the second half. Within three minutes, Ballard FC regained the lead. A bouncing ball in the box was met by a spectacular volley by Joe Dale into the top corner, making it 2-1.
In the 51st minute, Ballard FC goalkeeper Charlie Lanphier made an important double save from a Midlakes’ corner to maintain the one goal lead.
6 minutes later, a Peter Kingston cornerkick was headed clear by Midlakes United out to the top of the box where Taketo Onedera was waiting once again. Onedera surged onto the floating ball with a thunderous strike flying from 25 yards into the back of the net, a truly world class finish to get his second of the match.
Ballard FC maintained pressure, making strategic substitutions to keep energy levels high. In the 63rd minute new attacking options in Charlie Gaffney, Austin Brummett, and Ray Mendez, came on.
Ten minutes later, with the scoreline at 3-1, Ballard FC made two more changes bringing on Cameron Yriondo at holding midfield and Luke Hammond at fullback to help see out the game.
In the 82nd minute, Ray Mendez, assisted by Peter Kingston, beautifully finished off a smart give and go move down the left hand side, putting Ballard FC a comfortable 3 goals up.
The match ended with Ballard firmly in control, securing a comprehensive victory to delight the fans under the Memorial Stadium lights.
Ballard FC’s dominant performance, clinical finishing, and tactical prowess ensured a memorable home opener, setting a positive tone for the season ahead.
Full Time Score: Ballard FC 4-1 Midlakes United
HOW WE LINED UP:
BALLARD FC XI: Charlie Lanphier, Christian Engmann, Leo Burney, Khai Brisco, Demian Alvarez, Sean Sent, Taketo Onodera, Peter Kingston, Richie Aman, Joe Dale, Daniel Burko
SUBS: Charlie Gaffney, Austin Brummett, Ray Mendez, Cameron Yriondo, Luke Hammond
WHAT’S NEXT?
Ballard FC will now be preparing to take on FC Olympia away from home on Wednesday, May 29th. FC Olympia lost their first game of the season 4-1 against the Tacoma Stars, so will be eager to try and take some points away from the matchup.
Ballard FC’s next home game is Saturday June 1st at 7:00pm against West Seattle Junction FC. Get your tickets now!
