Triumph unable to overcome early deficit; exit Cup in third round
Louisville, KY (April 16, 2024) – The Greenville Triumph Soccer Club’s hopes of reaching the U.S. Open Cup Fourth Round for the first time were dashed on Wednesday night, as the team fell to perennial USL Championship power, Louisville City 3-1 on Wednesday. Despite a valiant effort by, Greenville local, Hayden Anderson to score the Triumph’s lone goal in stoppage time, goals early in the first and second half for Louisville prevented Greenville from gaining the upper hand.
Greenville’s uphill battle against one of the Championship’s strongest sides grew steeper early, after Greenville allowed a Louisville goal off a corner kick in just the second minute of action. Despite quickly falling behind, Greenville showed resilience, clawing their way back into contention as the first half progressed. Ben Zakowski’s pinpoint pass to Leo Castro provided a moment of promise, hinting at Greenville’s ability to unlock Louisville’s defense. However, despite their efforts, Greenville found themselves trailing 1-0 at halftime, setting the stage for a tense second half.
As the second half kicked off, Louisville wasted no time in extending their lead, putting Greenville on the back foot once again after a goal by Wilson Harris in the 49th minute. The high press from Louisville limited Greenville’s options, stifling their attempts to create meaningful chances. Despite this, Greenville refused to capitulate, mounting a desperate counterattack in the dying moments of the match. In the 85th minute, hope ignited within the Greenville faithful as a lofted long ball caused havoc in Louisville’s penalty area. A flurry of shots ensued, with Hayden Anderson, Castro, and Zakowski all denied by a wall of defenders and the goalkeeper. Midway through stoppage time, Hayden Anderson’s efforts finally found the back of the net for GTSC’s first goal, sparking hope in the final minutes. The late resurgence couldn’t convert again, however, as Greenville’s hopes were dashed when a quick counterattack goal sealed the evening for Louisville.
Greenville bid farewell to its 2024 Open Cup campaign by matching its longest run in club history (Third Round), losing to clubs from higher leagues both times. The team quickly turns their eyes back to league play this Sunday when they resume League One competition against rival, South Georgia Tormenta in the first leg of the Peach States Derby.
