Because of flooding along the Meramec River that damaged Soccer Park, Friday will mark the team’s first match at home since March 22. STLFC has been practicing at St. Louis Scott Gallagher’s complex in Collinsville.

“The players and coaching staff, we understand the situation and know that the club has done everything in its power to get the Soccer Park up and running again,” said Preki, whose team’s May 6 game at home against the Rochester Rhinos was postponed until July 5. “Still, it’s hurt us because of the layoff and the schedule changes. It’s important for a team to get into a rhythm between practicing and playing, and we’ve struggled at times because of that.

“But now, hopefully we can get back into a little more of a routine.”

The addition of U.S. Open Cup play also creates issues. In Wichita, STLFC persevered in spite of some less-than-ideal playing conditions.