West Community Stadium was reduced to approximately 25 percent capacity for this match--from 5500 to 1375 fans--and attendance was restricted to season ticket and partial plan ticket holders. Seats were blocked off in places to allow for social distancing. Ushers did temperature checks of fans as they came to the gate; fortunately, I was fine.
I found my seat in the grandstand and joined with my colleagues in cheering on our side. Saint Louis FC lost 2-0 at Indy Eleven on 11 July--the first match after the season restart. The visitors came out today with a strong offensive effort, but could not score. Tyler Blackwood scored against the run of play in the 24th minute to give the home side the lead. The Saint Louis FC defense withstood Indy Eleven's best effort (Indy outshot Saint Louis 20-2) to run out 1-0 winners today.
There were hydration breaks during the game, well into each half, so that the players and officials could get water or sports drink into them in this high heat. Fortunately, nobody on the pitch seemed to have had any heat related problems.
After the match, the Saint Louis FC players came over to our section to acknoledge our support, and to serenade us in song.
After the match, I walked over to the St. Louligans tailgate area, where I helped take down the tent used for the raffle. Then, I got in my car and drove home.
Saint Louis FC now has 3 wins and a loss, and play at Memphis 901 FC at the weekend.
Later.
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