Indy Eleven Men Grab Vital 1-0 win at Birmingham
A goal in the 4th minute from Cam Lindley was enough for Indy to grab their 2nd league win of the year.
The Indy Eleven Men were able to travel down to Birmingham Legion and get a massive 3 points in their 1-0 win. The Eleven have only won one match all season in league play (1-5-3) up to this match. Pressure was mounting on McAuley’s side to break this poor start. This moment may end up being a turning point for the club - who are now out of the US Open Cup and control their destiny in the USL Cup.
Indy got their lead early after Cam Lindley was able to connect on Jack Blake’s pass to put the visitors ahead 1-0 in the 4th minute. Fan have been clamoring to see more Lindley, and with this fast start - felt justified in their cries. The Carmel, Indiana native and former MLS product (Chicago and Orlando), has been a fan favorite since his arrival to Indy. After last night’s start - his first - Lindley is up to 307 minutes from 14 matches.
From the early goal, Indy was put in the perfect position to do what this team is designed to do - bunker down and counter. The Eleven really started to park the bus around the 58th minute, but because Birmingham’s poor attacking, the Eleven’s defense looked impenetrable. Utlimatley, the Legion were unable to crack Indy’s defense. Given Hunter Sulte his 1st shutout of the campaign.
Outside of grabbing a massive win on the road, coming into the match, Birmingham were a few spots above Indy in the Eastern Conference. After the win, Indy has moved into 7th place (a playoff spot) while Birmingham drops out of the top 8 into 9th. Here’s how the table looks after last night’s match:
Indy will play the Legion once again this month when they travel up to play in the USL Cup on the 28th. Outside of the top 3 teams (Loudoun - wow what a surprise!), the Eastern Conference will be a battle for the remaining playoff positions. With Pittsburgh coming to town the 14th, June very well may be one of the most important months of Indy’s season.
Next Match: USL-Championship vs Pittsburgh Riverhounds on June 14th at 7pm EST from Michael A. Carroll Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana