Lions have their chances but can’t convert in narrow loss

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By David DiCenzo, Contributing Writer 1:19 AM Sunday, May 8, 2011

BELLBROOK — The Dayton Dutch Lions’ performance was much improved, though the result was similar Saturday. A Maxwell Griffin strike in the 29th minute gave Orlando City a 1-0 win over the Lions at Miami Valley South Stadium.

DDL FC, despite better play, is still without a point after its fourth straight loss of the new United Soccer Leagues Pro season.

“I think we played our best game,” said coach Ivar van Dinteren. “We deserved a (better) result today. I’m disappointed, not with the guys but with the loss. We played well and lost so it hurts more.”

After a much more disciplined start than in recent weeks, the Lions had a chance in the 17th minute when George Davis IV took a feed from Lucien Seymour, cut inside and sent a right-footed shot over goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo’s net.

Griffin, who entered Saturday tied for the USL Pro scoring lead with four goals, found the back of the net when he caught Dayton’s Brian Visser off his line and chipped the ball over the keeper’s outstretched arms.

“We had six or seven good early chances and they get one chance and they score,” said van Dinteren.

DDL FC went forward early in the second half and produced two good opportunities, a smashing left-footed strike from Brett Jones that rang off the football uprights and then a low shot by Seymour that Gallardo saved. Dayton’s best opportunity came midway through the half when Seymour shot from in close but a sprawling defender blocked the attempt.

“We want to hold the ball, from the back to the midfield and then to the wingers,” said Seymour. “It’s getting better.”

The Lions had a goalkeeper red-carded for the second straight week when Visser was ejected late for a harsh tackle.

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