League Two News

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO (July 9th, 2025) – After claiming victory in the inaugural “Crusade for the Crown,” the Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati men weren’t able to claim a season sweep over fellow KHFC team Columbus.

A relatively timid first half saw chances at both ends, with KHFC Cincinnati goalkeeper Scott Williams being forced to make some acrobatic diving saves. KHFC Cincinnati would call KHFC Columbus goalkeeper Gavin Krenecki into action on the other end, with Thomas de Graauw and Brock Kiper coming the closest.

It seemed as though things would remain level at zero heading into the half, but an ill-timed challenge set up KHFC Columbus with a free kick from about 25 yards out in the center of the pitch. Deep into stoppage time, KHFC Columbus had themselves a golden chance.

Forward Ryko Bodurov would be the lone player to stand over the free kick, attempting to snatch a goal at the death of the first half. He stepped up and struck a bending free kick with his right foot, clearing the wall but not the crossbar, as the ball would ricochet off the underside of the bar. However, in an ill-fated turn of events, the ball would bounce off the back of the diving Williams in goal and deflect into the back of the net, granting KHFC Columbus the lead at the break.

Out of the break, KHFC Cincinnati was determined to not allow KHFC Columbus to pull away, as they began to pile on the pressure in search of an equalizer. Midfielder Parker Grinstead had an early attempt, but placed it over the bar just four minutes into the half. Forward Bennett Painter won a corner for KHFC Cincinnati just five minutes later, but the resulting header from Ekene Okeke was directed into the hands of the waiting Krenecki.

It wouldn’t be until a 63rd minute substitution that KHFC Cincinnati would find some life, as forward Noah Amissah entered the game. And then, just two minutes later, he found himself with the ball in a golden opportunity.

After winning the ball in midfield, it was Grinstead who would charge forward with the ball, dribbling his way through multiple KHFC Columbus defenders. The midfielder would then play a line-splitting through ball into the path of Amissah, who would take a touch and make no mistake about the finish, rifling his shot into the back of the net to tie the game at 1-1.

It felt as though new life had been breathed into KHFC Cincinnati, who continued to look dangerous on the break. But against the run of play, it would be KHFC Columbus who struck next.

After a turnover in midfield, KHFC Columbus quickly worked the ball into the box, where it found the waiting feet of Caleb Borneo. The KHFC Columbus forward made no mistake on the finish, bringing an end to the parity and restoring KHFC Columbus’s lead just 12 minutes after Amissah’s goal.

KHFC Cincinnati would send more men forward in an attempt to nab something from the game, but in doing so, allowed for an overload in the box by KHFC Columbus players in the 84th minute.

It would be Borneo assisting this time as the forward would cut the ball back to a wide open Nicholas Isaac, who slotted the ball home and cemented the lead at two.

Despite their best efforts, KHFC Cincinnati couldn’t find another, as Amissah’s goal proved to be the only one in it for them as they would fall 3-1.

This marked the final home game of the season for the KHFC Cincinnati men, who will wrap up their season on the road against Fort Wayne on Saturday. Fans are encouraged to make the trip to support the team one final time!

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO (July 9th, 2025) – Following a week and a half break, the Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati men will hit the field again to face rivals Kings Hammer FC Columbus in the season’s final rendition of the “Crusade for the Crown.”

KHFC Cincinnati enters this matchup in a bit of a rut, taking just one point from their four matches since that first crusade against KHFC Columbus. That first crusade against Columbus did mark the most recent victory for Cincinnati though, winning 2-0 on the road last month. They’ll hope that the same fixture at home could produce some more good fortune and snap the winless streak.

On the flip side, it was a rough start to life in USL League Two for KHFC Columbus, but they’ve appeared to figure it out as of late. After a loss to Dayton Dutch Lions FC held Columbus with just a point through seven matches, something must’ve clicked as they’ve now rattled off four straight wins, all of which have been over the top three teams in the Valley Division.

Despite the contrasting recent results, these teams find themselves only four points apart, albeit both already mathematically eliminated from the playoffs. But come kickoff, neither team will care about their standings as far as the playoffs knowing their pride and bragging rights are on the line, with a long offseason staring Columbus in the face if Cincinnati can complete the double.

Expect a few post Fourth of July fireworks when things kickoff at 7:00 p.m. at the Lindner Family Sports Complex. This is also the final home game for KHFC Cincinnati, meaning this is the last chance for fans to catch the team in action until next season. Those fans who don’t want to miss the team can attend the game by purchasing tickets here. The game can also be streamed via Sports Engine Play here.

Match Details:

Wednesday, July 9th – 7:00 p.m. – CHCA’s Lindner Family Sports Complex

Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati (2-5-3) vs Kings Hammer FC Columbus (4-5-1). Kings Hammer FC staff and players thank you for your support during the 2025 USL 2 League season. Find us on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube to keep updated on everything Kings Hammer FC.

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO (June 28th, 2025) – After a losing on a goal in stoppage time to Lexington SC at the midweek, the Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati men would return home to face West Virginia United in what they hoped was a different result.

Before a ball could be kicked though, a brief thunderstorm would delay kickoff by 75 minutes, meaning the scheduled 7:00 p.m. start time became an 8:15 p.m. start time. The delay certainly didn’t put West Virginia off, as forward Jack Kay would find the back of the net from close range just eight minutes into the game.

Kay had the chance to double WVU’s advantage in the 17th minute when he was played in one-on-one, but fluffed his opportunity when his chip went sailing over the bar.

KHFC’s best chance of the half wouldn’t come until five minutes from the break, as a scramble following a corner ended with Thomas De Graauw finding the ball bouncing his way. The midfielder took on the volley, striking the ball pure, beating the goalkeeper but not the crossbar, clattering off the underside and rebounding back into play.

The Hammers didn’t have to wait 40 minutes for their next big chance as just five minutes after the break, the referee awarded KHFC an indirect free kick in the West Virginia box after he ruled that WVU goalie Thomas Macauley held the ball for more than six seconds. Parker Grinstead would lay the ball off Diego Hoenderkamp, but his shot would be deflected. KHFC forward Brock Kiper would retain possession, but couldn’t put his shot on target.

Despite an exciting start to the second half, the remainder would be a bit slow, with both teams failing to convert their chances at each end. In the 83rd minute though, a poor clearance from KHFC would gift West Virginia forward Lorenzo Grispello the ball inside the 18-yard box, and after smashing the ball as hard as he could into the back of the net, WVU would find themselves firmly in control with a 2-0 lead.

Late drama would see KHFC defender Weston Jonke sent off after picking up his second yellow card of the match, which more or less sealed KHFC’s fate. Down to 10 men, they fought the best they could, but ended up falling 2-0 at home.

The Hammers now find themselves sliding to fifth in the Valley Division, and officially out of contention for the playoffs. But the season is far from over, with KHFC being back in action at the Lindner Family Sports Complex on July 9th for one final home match. Fans are encouraged to attend!

SYMMES TOWNSHIP (June 28th, 2025) – The KHFC Cincinnati Men prepare for their third and final match of the season against Valley Division newcomers, West Virginia United.

During their road match against Lexington SC on Wednesday, the KHFC Men’s team was able to put a goal on the board but ultimately fell short, leaving Lexington without any points.

Last time they saw each other, KHFC Cincinnati and West Virginia played an even match on West Virginia’s home turf. Both sides showed up to play and each team was able to find the back of the net twice. The match would end in a draw, 2-2.

West Virginia United comes into tonight’s match with two back-to-back wins, and now sits in third place. Last weekend, the West Virginia guys were able to shut out Valley Division #1 place holders Fort Wayne FC, scoring two goals on them in the 90 minutes. This past Wednesday, West Virginia took on the Dayton Dutch Lions and, in a close match, also came away with the lead, 2-3.

Since they last met, Lexington SC still sits in the second place spot and the Hammers have pulled up to third. A win tonight would certainly show what fans know KHFC Cincinnati can do, even when odds might be against them.

The two teams will take the pitch for a 7pm kickoff here at home at the Lindner Family Sports Complex. Those unable to attend can, as always, stream the game via Sports Engine Play.

Match Details:

Saturday, June 28th – 7:00 p.m. – CHCA’s Lindner Family Sports Complex

Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati (2-4-3) vs West Virginia United (3-4-1). Kings Hammer FC staff and players thank you for your support during the 2025 USL 2 League season. Find us on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube to keep updated on everything Kings Hammer FC.

LEXINGTON, KY (June 25th, 2025) – The KHFC Cincinnati men head south today in hopes of bringing home 3 points from the road against Lexington SC after a draw at home this past Monday.

A heated match ending in a draw was not the outcome KHFC Cincinnati’s Men were looking for earlier this week, and they will no doubt have something to prove coming onto the pitch tonight. The team will need to be all in today to secure themselves 3 points from their road match.

Earlier this season, KHFC Cincinnati and Lexington SC met each other for the first time this year on KHFC’s home turf. In the heat and humidity, both teams pressed hard to put goals on the board. In the end, Lexington would get the best of the KHFC guys, scoring 3 goals in the 90 minute match and returning home with all 3 points.

In a surprising upset this past weekend, Lexington SC fell to KHFC Cincinnati’s sibling club, KHFC Columbus, at their recent match in New Albany. The Valley Division fifth place club played a fantastic game at their home field, allowing them to steal two goals from Lexington and only give up one. Prior to this, the only other team to defeat Lexington this season was previous Valley Division champions, Fort Wayne FC. Adding another tally to their loss column was no doubt a blow for Lexington SC, and could indicate a change in the tides for the team.

Since they last met, Lexington SC still sits in the second place spot and the Hammers have pulled up to third. A win tonight would certainly show what fans know KHFC Cincinnati can do, even when odds might be against them.

The two teams will take the pitch for a 7pm kickoff at the Lexington SC Athletic Complex. Those unable to attend can, as always, stream the game via Sports Engine Play by clicking the link here.

Match Details:

Wednesday, June 25th – 7:00 p.m. – Lexington SC Athletic Complex

Lexington SC (5-2-2) vs Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati (2-3-3). Kings Hammer FC staff and players thank you for your support during the 2025 USL 2 League season. Find us on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube to keep updated on everything Kings Hammer FC.

SYMMES TOWNSHIP (June 24th, 2025) – After having to reschedule the game due to inclement weather, the KHFC Cincinnati Men hosted Dayton Dutch Lions FC Monday night for a heated rematch, both in temperature and energy.

From the get-go, odds were stacked against both teams as they prepared to kickoff in 93 degree weather with the sun beating down on the pitch. The men kicked things off, passing possession back and forth for the beginning of the first half. Dayton was able to take a few solid shots, including from Ishmael Mensah and Farouq Ogundare, but both were denied.

In the 25th minute, KHFC was forced to play a man down as Casey Welage went off with an unknown injury. At the next opportunity, they brought in Bennett Painter to replace him for the remainder of the match.

KHFC pressed on, and continued to try and capitalize on their opportunities, with Thomas De Graauw taking an impressive shot right on target in the 28th minute. Unfortunately for De Graauw, Dayton’s keeper, Alessandro Malterer, was right where he needed to be and made the save. Seemingly in retaliation, Dayton pushed through KHFC’s defense and created an incredible opportunity for Jeongbin Kim to attempt a header into goal, but it went just wide. Neither team could find the back of the net and the score remained 0-0.

Following a hydration break and a lucky foul called on Dayton’s Zakaria Amro resulting in a KHFC penalty kick, the boys would be awarded the first goal of the night in the 41st minute, shot by KHFC forward Brock Kiper. The energy shifted on the pitch as the KHFC team suddenly seemed energized and more eager to push through Dayton’s defense.

As the first half ticked away, KHFC took 3 more shots towards the net, 2 of them going just high and one being deflected by Dayton. Shortly after this string of shots, KHFC’s Painter was able to snag the ball and passed it up to Diego Hoenderkamp, who took the shot and scored in the 45th minute. The halftime score read 2-0, KHFC Cincinnati.

Immediately following the half time whistle, things intensified as shouts and groans rang out on the pitch. A huddle of players from both teams began to form as each side chirped at each other and the center referee. A yellow card warning was issued to KHFC newcomer Weston Jonke and Dayton’s Ishmael Mensah.

At the beginning of the second half, KHFC was up 2-0. Dayton made some key half time substitutions, including bringing on goalkeeper Cameron Maung-Maung for Malterer, and Parker Burke for Jeongbin Kim. These substitutions would quickly pay off for Dayton as Burke capitalized on a service from Alex Bucher, scoring Dayton’s first goal of the match in the 48th minute and bringing the score to 2-1.

In the 53rd minute, another opportunity opened for Dayton, allowing Adebayo Dikko to score Dayton’s second goal of the match. The score was now at a draw, and KHFC Cincinnati responded by subbing off W. Jonke, Kiper and Frakes, and bringing on some fresh legs in Parker Grinstead, Alex Dorko, and Dakota Jonke.

The sun was going down but the energy on the pitch continued to heat up. Pushing and aggressive fouls would lead to a number of cards being issued, including a yellow card to KHFC’s Ekene Okeke in the 61st minute, a red card to Dayton’s Joshua Cline in the 68th minute, and a yellow card to Dayton’s Ogundare in the 69th minute.

Both teams made substitutions in the 70th minute stretch, with Dayton bringing on Nore Sumner for Mensah and KHFC bringing on Bennett Gerak and Nate Mefford for goal-scored Hoenderkamp and Dom Breidenbach. Shortly after KHFC made their substitutions, Dayton’s Ogundare received his second yellow card warning of the match, resulting in a red card and his removal from the remainder of the match.

Each team would trade possession for the remainder of the match as they tried to secure the win, but ultimately neither would find the back of the net again. The final score would be a draw, 2-2. KHFC Cincinnati and Dayton Dutch Lions FC would each receive one point.

The men are on the road to Lexington for their next match on Wednesday, June 25th for a 7pm kickoff. Fans are encouraged to travel and support the boys if they’re able or stream the match on SportsEngine Play.

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO (June 18th, 2025) – Following a narrow loss at home, the Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati men will look to pick up three points when they remain at home to host Dayton Dutch Lions FC.

A 1-0 loss to division leaders Fort Wayne FC certainly stung for KHFC, especially considering they were the dominant team for much of the match. But they’ll now have to force the memories of that loss out of their mind when Dayton comes south to the Lindner Family Sports Complex.

Earlier this season, KHFC and Dayton played to a scoreless draw at DOC Stadium in Dayton. That mild affair started a four game winless run for KHFC, but they can’t afford another one of those if they hope to make the USL League Two Playoffs this season.

The Hammers sit nine points back from second place Lexington, but with five games to go, they aren’t necessarily out of it yet. A win here would go a long way in the table and for their confidence too as they are set to travel to Lexington after this game. Of course, the focus is solely on the nearest game ahead of them.

As far as Dayton are concerned though, any points will suffice as they find themselves where few would envy to be: second to last, just three points clear of last place KHFC Columbus. They do enter this game in Cincy on a bit of a high note though, after dispatching of KHFC Columbus 2-1 on the road in New Albany.

Will Dayton make it two straight wins against KHFC teams, or will KHFC Cincinnati continue their stellar play to a victory this time? Fans can find out by attending the game at the Lindner Family Sports Complex, which they are encouraged to do. Those unable to attend can, as always, stream the game via Sports Engine Play.

Tickets for the 7:00 p.m. kickoff can be found here!

Match Details:

Wednesday, June 18th – 7:00 p.m. – Lindner Family Sports Complex

Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati (2-3-2) vs Dayton Dutch Lions FC (1-4-1).Kings Hammer FC staff and players thank you for your support during the 2025 USL 2 League season. Find us on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube to keep updated on everything Kings Hammer FC.

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO (June 14th, 2025) – After a hard fought 90 minutes, the Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati men fell just short to Fort Wayne FC thanks in part to a late goal.

Entering the game off of a victory against rivals Columbus, spirits were high in the KHFC Cincinnati camp as they welcomed division leader Fort Wayne to town. And those high spirits were on full display early on as KHFC would earn a corner less than a minute into the game, although nothing would come from it.

Fort Wayne would get the first shot of the game though as Mamadou Diarra forced a save out of KHFC goalkeeper Jack Moxom in the 5th minute. Moxom would then start a beautiful counterattack the other way, finding Noah Amissah in the attacking half. Amissah would bring the ball down, and after some beautiful back and forth passing, midfielder Nick McHenry would have a chance from inside the box, but his shot would be saved by Fort Wayne goalie Aurie Briscoe.

McHenry would get another chance less than 10 minutes later as defender Wade Stinson would rise above the Fort Wayne defense to win a header, nodding it into the path of the midfielder, but McHenry’s shot would go over the top of the bar.

The game began to find a rhythm over the next quarter of an hour with both teams fashioning chances of their own, but none were better than KHFC forward Noah Amissah’s in the 30th minute. After being played through from a ball over the top, Amissah would strike the ball with pace, but once again Briscoe would save for Fort Wayne.

Despite KHFC having the more of the momentum, Fort Wayne continued to keep them honest in defence, especially in the 34th minute when a cross from the left side found Fort Wayne forward Matthew Catavolo unmarked at the back post. Catavolo would take a shot on the half volley, but Jack Moxom continued his stellar first half in goal by reacting quickly to make a close range save.

Early in the second half, Fort Wayne began to see more of the ball which led to two shots within the first five minutes from Mamadou Diarra, both of which resulted in saves. 

KHFC would still keep some of their momentum, as Wade Stinson once ahead got his head to a corner, except this time he drove it towards the far post, where it whizzed just inches wide of the upright.

The Hammers would continue to pile on the pressure, getting chance after chance from close range. But no matter how hard they tried, they just couldn’t find that breakthrough.

Fort Wayne were keeping themselves in the game, and then, late on, found a way to put themselves fully in control. After a scramble in the box off of an 81st-minute corner, Fort Wayne defender Thiago Dias would find the ball at his feet. Dias made no mistake about it, and ripped home a shot from just within the six yard box, rippling the back of the net and putting the visitors ahead 1-0.

KHFC would continue to push for a goal of their own, this time with a bit more urgency. Stinson would once again get his head to a ball, but couldn’t hit the target. McHenry would get a chance as well, but couldn’t beat Briscoe in goal.

Fort Wayne trickled away the last few minutes of stoppage time and walked away with all three points on the road.

The Hammers now find themselves in a precarious situation, sitting nine points behind second place Lexington SC with only five games remaining. This means, that mathematically speaking, KHFC needs to win three of their last five games. But after a very strong showing tonight– despite the loss– it’s reasonable to imagine that happening.

They’ll be back in action at home against Dayton Dutch Lions FC on Wednesday, June 18th, and fans are encouraged to cheer them on as they begin their run in!

SYMMES TOWNSHIP, OHIO (June 14th, 2025) – After crusading to Columbus to conquer fellow KHFC team Kings Hammer FC Columbus, the newly crowned Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati men will return to Cincy in hopes of getting revenge against Fort Wayne FC.

        A 2-0 victory in the inaugural “Crusade for the Crown” seems like it has the KHFC Cincinnati men back on the right track after being winless in their last four, albeit two of those ending in draws. Now, with four games to go in the season, the playoffs could be a very real possibility for KHFC.

        The Hammers sit eight points behind Fort Wayne FC, meaning that a win would put them only five points away with three games to go, a very realistic margin to overcome. That, of course, relies on a win against Fort Wayne. A loss, on the other hand, begins to paint a grim picture.

        Earlier this season, when the two met in Indiana, a very even first half ended 0-0. For a long time, KHFC was in the game before Fort Wayne eventually took control of the match after the break, winning 3-1.

        Now, back in Cincinnati, KHFC will no doubt be aiming to be the team with control in the second half. While this game may not demand a win mathematically for the Hammers to stay in contention, it would certainly be unhelpful to lose.

        As mentioned earlier, a loss makes the road to the playoffs a lot more difficult. Fort Wayne FC would go 11 points clear of third place. KHFC, meanwhile, would find themselves nine points behind Lexington SC, meaning the only way to the playoffs would be winning three of the last five while Lexington loses three of their last five. 

It’s not impossible considering KHFC and Lexington play each other on the final matchday, but it would take a lot of hard work and a bit of a blessing from lady luck.

All told, this upcoming match against Fort Wayne is the biggest game of the season to date. Fans are more than encouraged to head to the Lindner Family Sports Complex at CHCA and voice their support for the Hammers. A great backing from the fans could give them a boost that starts a magical run in.

Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m., and tickets for the match can be purchased here!

Match Details:

Saturday, June 14th – 7:00 p.m. – Lindner Family Sports Complex

Kings Hammer FC Cincinnati (2-2-2) vs Fort Wayne FC (5-0-1).

Kings Hammer FC staff and players thank you for your support during the 2025 USL 2 League season. Find us on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube to keep updated on everything Kings Hammer FC.