Recap: Forward Madison falls 1-0 to Red Wolves in inaugural match

In the first match of their inaugural USL League One season, Forward Madison FC hit the road to visit the Chattanooga Red Wolves, falling 1-0.

Manager Daryl Shore chose a 4-3-3 as his side’s opening formation. All four of Minnesota United’s loanees found their way into the starting lineup. Dayne St. Clair started in goal, Carter Manley at right back (before an early tactical switch to the left), Wyatt Omsberg at centerback and Mason Toye as the striker. Former Loon Connor Tobin, starting at centerback, wore the captain’s armband. Jiro Barriga Toyama, who gained plenty of fans after scoring a hat trick in a friendly for the Loons, started on the left wing.

Madison looked to be the better team of the first half, maintaining more than 60% possession and putting two shots on target. Neither team scored, but the Flamingos had some flashes of fun.

Of course, a good number of traveling supporters made the trek to back the Flamingos in their first match.

Despite continuing to play as the better side, the Red Wolves pulled ahead just after the hour mark via a fantastic finish.

Zaire Bartley replaced Jiro for Madison’s first substitution. Jeff Michaud made way for Brandon Eaton for the second.

Chattanooga was able to hold on to their lead, so, despite playing well, Forward Madison fell 1-0 in their first regular season match.