After a 81 minute rain delay, Sporting KC was eliminated from the U.S. Open Cup by the Richmond Kickers 2-0. It was the quarterfinal round of the U.S. Open Cup and Sporting even had the home field advantage at Livestrong Sporting Park. KC gave up two second half goals to the Kickers who is out of the USL PRO league. It’s the sixth time in team history that they have been shutout in the Lamar Hunts tournament.

The loss snapped a 12 match unbeaten streak in all competition which was tied for the longest in team history. It was also the first loss in the new Livestrong Sporting Park which opened back in early June. The last loss that Sporting suffered was back on May 21st against the Seattle Sounders who are currently ranked #1 in the MLS power rankings. Sporting is still on a 10 game unbeaten streak in MLS play going 5-0-6 in that span. They had to start the season with 10 road games, which put them in the hole in the standings. Now that the club has a new home stadium to play in, they have made huge strides in the standings and are looking like a contender again. The club still has work to do, but the majority of their schedule is at home and they have a couple more games left than most teams.

The team has great talent and they seemed to be rejuvenated with the opening of the new stadium and the ability to play in front of their fans. Even though they have been knocked out of the U.S. Open Cup, they are still in great shape for the MLS playoffs if they continue the way they’re going. They have a tough Friendly coming up next week against Newcastle of the EPL, a powerhouse league overseas.

To cheer on Sporting KC at the new Livestrong Sporting Park in Kansas City, KS visit www.ticketsforless.com or call their friendly staff at 913-685-3322 for the best prices around.