Today’s game
Who: Dayton Dutch Lions vs. Forest City London
When: 1 p.m.
Where: Miami Valley South Stadium, Bellbrook
Tickets: Visit www.dutchlionsfc.com
XENIA — The ability to focus is an integral part of a soccer goalkeeper’s skill set. In Oscar Moens’ case, his has been razor sharp.
The veteran Dayton Dutch Lions keeper hasn’t always seen an abundance of action in his own end this season, but with three clean sheets in five Premier Development League matches, it’s clear Moens can still bear down when necessary.
“It’s not difficult,” the 37-year-old said Friday after DDL FC’s training session. “You just know that you have to be focused for one and a half hours.”
Experience in various European leagues has made Moens the mentally tough keeper he is, but even in the latter stages of a distinguished career his reflexes and size make him a commanding physical presence in goal.
His decision to come to Dayton has been critical for the first-year Lions. It started when Moens received a call from his former teammate and DDL co-owner Erik Tammer.
“It was the right moment,” said Moens, who played for high-profile Dutch sides like AZ Alkmaar and PSV Eindhoven. “Erik said, 'What about Dayton?’ and I said 'OK.’
“I’m always interested in traveling to other countries. It’s been a great experience. I like it here.”
In the Hunt
The Lions qualified for the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup when they went on the road and defeated the Kalamazoo Outrage 4-1 last week.
“It was one of our goals,” coach Sonny Silooy said. “Our second is to stay in as long as possible. But that’s not easy. We want to play against an MLS team.”
The draw was announced this past week, and DDL FC will face the D2 Rochester Rhinos in Rochester on Tuesday, June 15.
The prestigious national championship tourney dates back to 1914. The Dewar Challenge Trophy and $100,000 go to the winner.
Eyes on South Africa
DDL FC has had a busy schedule of late, but now that the World Cup is only days away, players are beginning to turn their attention to soccer’s grandest stage. Those of American and Dutch origin obviously are rooting for different camps.
“I don’t know the draw, but it would be great to see them (USA and Holland) meet,” Lions midfielder/defender Bret Jones said.
Moens is the only DDL FC player with any senior national team experience, having earned two caps with the powerhouse Dutch team. The last came back in 2001, a 1-1 draw with Denmark.
The goalkeeper said it was an unbelievable personal experience to play at the “highest level,” but as for this year’s talented Netherlands squad he sees business as usual — nice play but no substantial run.
“Tournaments are always the same for Holland,” he said. “They will play attractive football.”
As for the Americans’ major test against England on June 12, Jones made a bold prediction.
“2-1 USA,” he said. “I have to stay true to my country.”
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