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Craig Picking up Pace in Louisville’s Back Line

By NICHOLAS MURRAY - nicholas.murray@uslsoccer.com, 07/27/16, 12:33PM EDT

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New addition has become fixture in lineup over recent weeks for City


Photo courtesy Adrian Kraus / Rochester Rhinos

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – One of the new faces for Louisville City FC this preseason was Paco Craig, as the English defender looked to make his way into the professional ranks after a standout PDL career with the Ocala Stampede.

In recent weeks, it’s become evident that transition has been a successful one, with Craig now establishing himself as a regular in Louisville’s back line. Craig has gone the full 90 minutes in six games since his first start for the club on June 18 against Rochester.

“Paco's been great for us coming in – big guy, technical and very strong in the air,” Louisville goalkeeper Greg Ranjitsingh told the club’s website this week. “As a goalkeeper, to have such quality in front of you, it makes me feel comfortable. It makes me feel at ease during the game.

“I'm glad to have the back four in front of me to ease off the pressure.”

At 6-foot-2, Craig helped Ocala claim back-to-back Southeast Division titles in 2014 and 2015, and earned All-Southern Conference selection last year for his stellar performances in the back line. After completing a stellar college career with Division II power Young Harris College, Craig arrived in camp with Louisville and quickly made big impression.

"We always felt as if Paco had the potential to break in," said Louisville Coach James O'Connor. "He just had to be patient. He's trained really well. He's given some really strong performances in training, which led to his opportunity. Then he's played very well in the games."

With Louisville looking to hold onto its first-place position in the Eastern Conference this weekend as it hosts Orlando City B at Slugger Field, Craig is set to be at the forefront as City looks to rebound from only its second defeat of the season.

For the long-term, though, Craig appears ready for whatever may come as he takes the opportunity he’s been handed with aplomb.

“I think, all in all, it's gone really well,” Craig said. “I just had to put in as many tough training sessions as I could and bide my time – get patient – and now that I've gotten on the team, I'm absolutely delighted.” 

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