Crystal Palace to FC Cincy: 'Win, win, win!'
The English Premier League's Crystal Palace FC have thrown its support behind Futbol Club Cincinnati ahead of Cincinnati's opening-round United Soccer League playoff match Sunday.
Prior to a Premier League match against Everton FC, Crystal Palace crafted a video of manager Alan Pardew and the club's players wishing Cincinnati luck in the fast-approaching playoffs. FC Cincinnati released the video Saturday.
Palace and FC Cincinnati forged a kind of bond during Palace's July visit to the Queen City. Pardew made reference to his club's memorable stay in Cincinnati, which included a sold-out exhibition match against FC Cincinnati and several community events in the days leading up to the game. Pardew was also seen taking in a bit of Downtown Cincinnati's night life the night before the July 16 friendly.
"They looked after us so well when we went out there," Pardew said in the video. "I want to wish them all the best. Make sure you win. Nothing else matters – win, win, win! Best of luck to everyone in Cincinnati. Best regards from everyone on the Palace."
That's quite a gesture from a Premier League side in the middle of its season.
FC Cincinnati opens its USL playoff run Sunday at Nippert Stadium against Charleston Battery. The match is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m.