So that’s what a loss feels like. Ooof…

Asheville City was handed their first ever loss on Thursday night, courtesy of the Knoxville Force. Located in the middle of Knoxville, Sansom Sports Complex (“complex” is a debatable term for this area of land) played host to the second-straight meeting between the Force and the Blues. The Blues salvaged a late draw with a PK in the first round; this time, however, the Force held Asheville off and won by a single goal, 3–2.

(Photo Credit: Alex Hamilton)

Upon arrival, the Force supporters, also known as “Scruff City Syndicate,” were more than hospitable. All of the Blues in attendance were immediately invited to hang out prematch with the Syndicate. Although not nearly as voluminous as the Blues, the supporters in Knoxville were fine hosts and I know I am planning on a return trip next season.

Knoxville got on the board quickly, almost too quickly. In the 5th minute, none other than the thorn himself, Tim Baker turned at the 18' and put one in the corner, putting Asheville into a hole from the start.

But Asheville retaliated before the half and the Cameroonian, Elma N’For, couldn’t have asked for a prettier debut goal when he headed one home on a long centering ball from Jack Miller. Halftime would once again see a 1–1 tie.

(Photo Credit: Alex Hamilton)

The second half started in the same manner, even quicker in fact. Two minutes in, Joe Pickering found a ricocheting corner and bicycled it beautifully past a stunned Siegfried. There was nothing anyone could have done about that skilled ball.

But for the boys in blue, Sir Thomas of Deeley tied it right back up in the 55th minute by being in the right place to finish a rebound from a ball that was drilled off of the post by Blues captain Ryan Murphy. Another jolt of momentum and the two sides were locked up again.

This go ‘round, however, a late PK would be given to the Force for a chance to take the lead. Ashley Kelynack vs. Parker Siegfried in the 72nd minute: Parker blocked the initial attempt to his right, but it bounced straight back to Kelynack who one-touched it in before a Blues defender could supply the help.

Parker Siegfried saves a PK in the 72' (Photo Credit: Alex Hamilton)

A few late attempts from ACSC would keep the game exciting, but ultimately to no avail as Asheville City loses its first match.

Tonight, the Blues travel to Charlotte to face FC Carolina United at Queens University, a team rebranded this season from their prior Rock Hill, SC days as Carolina Discoveries FC. (editor’s note: this isn’t exactly clear from their online presence, but we think it’s accurate.)

Kickoff (all year long) is again at 7:30pm. Asheville has a chance to jump from fifth into first place with a win tomorrow. Big stuff indeed in a tight Southeast Conference.

Let’s rally behind these boys. I know ours Blues love the rowdies, and as with anyone, they respond well to crowd support. See you at Queens in a few hours. #PTCB!