After a big win in front of their home crowd, Ballard FC will take a quick trip east to Bellevue College, squaring off against Midlakes United this Friday at 7:00 PM.
With the relatively close distance between the two teams, Ballard FC fans may see this as the potential away day. If you’re making the trip, make sure to check out the Beer Garden where proceeds will support The Sophia Way and their mission to “provide shelter, safety, and stability to women on the Eastside.” You can get tickets to Friday’s match here!
Now, let’s meet the hosts.
Midlakes United currently sit fourth in the division standings with 13 points from nine matches. They are coming off a big 3-0 victory over the Tacoma Stars on Tuesday with goals from Habib Barry, Jack-Ryan Jeremiah, and Cooper Brunell. Midlakes will look to replicate this performance on Friday as they make a late-season playoff push.
The Midlakes roster includes lots of local talent from schools such as the University of Washington, Seattle University, Seattle Pacific University, and the University of Puget Sound. The roster also features four former Ballard FC players: captain Bailey Letherman, Zane Baumgardt, Evan Aune, and Kevin Galiano. Unfortunately, Aune suffered a long-term injury after starting the first five matches of the season. Letherman and Baumgardt have been consistent starters all summer, and Galiano has provided some attacking output from the bench.
Last time out, Ballard FC defeated Midlakes 4-1 in their home opener. Taketo Onodera scored twice alongside goals from Joe Dale and Ray Mendez. Although the final score reflects a dominant win for Ballard, the match was close for awhile with a 1-1 scoreline at halftime. Midlakes’ goal came from a defensive miscommunication and Nii Engmann, Christian’s brother, pounced to tap in the equalizer. Christian will be eager to help keep a clean sheet as the brothers will face off again this Friday.
If you cannot make it to the match, you can watch the live stream or watch live at the Reuben’s Brews Ballard Taproom.
After Friday’s match, Ballard FC will return home to Memorial Stadium as they host Capital FC Atletico for Pride and Impact Night at 6:00 PM. Read more about Sunday’s match and get your tickets today!
