Tacoma Defiance at Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC: live stream, game time, and lineups

The last two times the Tacoma Defiance (then S2) have played in Colorado Springs the weather has been miserable, with snow, wind and freezing rain all making appearances. As a result the soccer was similarly miserable. When the Defiance and Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC meet tonight the conditions will be quite a bit different with temperatures set to be above 80ºF at kickoff. Unfortunately the Switchbacks’ pitch—which has long been one of the worst in the USL—will likely still have a significant impact on play. It will make it difficult for the Defiance to implement their standard gameplan of possession and quick passing through the midfield. Passing around the back will be a walk along the cliff’s edge, so the Defiance will need to get some hold up play from Justin Dhillon to start their attack further upfield. To help out the midfielders will need to get into the attacking half quickly so they can collect the second balls off of Dhillon.

This will be the Defiance’s best chance all year to get a win away from home and it could be important for them to do so. Last season their first away win came in the last game of the season. It is imperative that the Defiance prove to themselves that they are capable of winning away from home if they want to avoid that same fate this season.

The Switchbacks attack is a two-man affair. Jordan Burt and Shane Malcolm account for well over half of their goals. If the Defiance can stifle those two they have a decent chance at getting a win, especially if Dhillon can score for the sixth match in a row.

nos audietis in somniis | nos audietis in altum

you will hear us in your sleep | you will hear us from the deep

this is our Sound

Keys to the Game:

• Be EXTREMELY careful passing around the back.
• Get some hold up play.
• Figure out how to defend set pieces.

Lineups

How to Watch

Match date/time: 5:00 PM PT, Saturday, June 8, 2019

Venue: Weidner Field, Colorado Springs, Fountain Creek Watershed, Arkansas River Basin, North America

Streaming: ESPN+

How I'm watching

Outfit: Our Sound T-shirt

Where: Near the Green River