1:1 Louisville (4:3) New York Ownby Flemmings 11.04.17 · Playoff

The location might have been different, but it looked to be a carbon copy of last year's USL Eastern Conference final: RBNY II vs Louisville. The Kentuckians got on board first, Metro Juniors responded, and it was now up to PKs. Surely, the perfect postseason run would continue?

Alas, it was not to be, as Louisville emerged victorious after RBNY II missed its last two penalty kicks. The reserve team can still hold its head high, after another excellent playoff run.

Louisville opened the scoring in the 12th minute, when RBNY II defenders failed to clear the ball, and Brian Ownby placed one net. Evan Louro could have probably done better. The response came in the 57th, on a counterattack. A Stefano Bonomo flick sprung Junior Flemmings, who went up the left side, beat three defenders, and scored from an acute angle.

After overtime failed to produce a goal, it was up to penalties. Bonomo, Douglas Martinez, and Florian Valot scored for Metro, but Ben Mines had his shot saved. Then, Ethan Kutler suffered the same fate, with the ball going off the crossbar and out. Louisville would convert their last three kicks to earn the victory.

A disappointing loss, but another stellar season for Metro Junior and John Wolyniec. A revolving lineup every week, and once again they prove to be one of USL's top sides. Will we see someone from this team on the senior roster next year?

We wouldn't doubt it.