Despite scoring the first #HellisReal derby goal in MLS, Darren Mattocks said it’s not something he’s thought about, especially with the rematch coming Sunday at Nippert Stadium. (6 p.m. kickoff, TV: FS1, Stream: FoxSportsGo, Radio: WJDO, limited tickets available)
The Jamaica international said FC Cincinnati’s focus is building off the 2-2 draw at Columbus Crew SC on Aug. 10, and rebounding from the 4-1 loss to New York City FC this past weekend.
“It’s great timing, especially after this loss to NYCFC,” Mattocks said. “It’s a pretty good match to bounce back on.
Sunday’s rematch of the #HellisReal Derby marks the first time the Crew visit Nippert Stadium since 2017. That year, Cincinnati memorably beat the visitors, 1-0, in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. At the time, FCC were a USL side, while Columbus was the lone Ohio team in MLS.
That’s changed, of course.
“A game like this means so much to the fans and to the club,” Mattocks said. “It’s a big rivalry, so we have to go out there, put our best foot forward and give everything we’ve got. Our last game wasn’t good enough, but this is a perfect game to bounce back.”
