Not long after the visitors’ chance, STLFC created a dangerous flurry after Blackwood won a challenge deep in the visitors’ zone. The ball fell to Cicerone, who forced Red Bulls II keeper Evan Louro to make a diving stop. On the rebound, Greig had his low shot kicked out by Louro.

Not long after that, during another flurry in front of the Red Bulls II net, a visiting player fouled STLFC’s Kadeem Dacres, who fell into and knocked down teammate Masta Kacher resulting in a penalty kick.

STLFC captain Sam Fink converted in the 70th minute to stretch the home team’s lead to 2-0.

“I like having that responsibility,” said Fink, a central defender who starred at Edwardsville High. “I feel that if you pick your spot with conviction, you’re always going to have a better chance of making it than missing it.”

STLFC reserve Paris Gee had a quality chance late in regulation. After moving into the box, he used a pullback move to get away from a pair of defenders. But he shot the ball wide past the near post.

The shutout was fifth of the season for Gomez, a Webster Groves High product.