KC Reporter

Sporting Kansas City II was defeated 3-0 by St. Louis CITY2 on Sunday night at Energizer Park. With this result, Sporting KC II has been eliminated from MLS NEXT Pro playoff contention.

The match saw an own goal from Maouloune Goumballe in the 21st minute, giving St. Louis CITY2 the lead. Miguel Perez scored twice for the home team, once in each half. Interim head coach Ike Opara started Jacob Molinaro as goalkeeper and used a back three of Gael Quintero, Pierre Lurot, and Nati Clarke.

For much of the first 20 minutes, both teams struggled to create scoring chances. The opening goal came when a free kick was headed into SKC II's net after bouncing through traffic. Perez extended St. Louis’ lead in the 34th minute with a close-range header.

At halftime, no changes were made to SKC II’s lineup. Early in the second half, Sporting KC II had opportunities but could not convert them into goals. Johann Ortiz hit the post after being set up by Beckham Uderitz, while Medgy Alexandre forced a save from Lucas McPartlin.

Kashan Hines and Carter Derksen came on as substitutes in the second half for SKC II but were unable to help turn things around. Perez added his second goal just before the 80th minute to secure St. Louis’ victory.

Sporting Kansas City II will play their next two matches at home: against Colorado Rapids 2 on August 31 and Real Monarchs on September 6 at Children’s Mercy Victory Field. Tickets are available for $10 on SeatGeek.com.