Less then two days from earning a draw at home, the Northern Virginia Royals fell 1-0 to the Fredericksburg Gunners on the road Monday evening. Fredericksburg midfielder Onesimus Ikungo scored the solo goal in an aggressive match that saw seven cautions issued on the evening.

 

The growing local rivalry between the Royals and the Gunners was on display Monday night as passionate play quickly escalated into violent tackles and building tempers from both sides of the pitch. Fredericksburg seemed to be more under the scrutiny of the referee early on, as the Gunners were issued the first three yellow cards during the initial forty-five minutes.

 

Following the scoreless first half, the Gunners wasted little time in finding the net. Ikungo’s goal in the 51st minute, from the assist of teammate Miguel Casajuana, eventually proved to by the game winner.

 

Frustration and emotion continued to run high, and the visiting Royals quickly equaled the Gunners first half cautions with three of their own. The Gunner’s single goal held firm as the final whistle saw the home side eke out the 1-0 victory.

 

The Royals (0-3-2) are still seeking their first win of the 2009 season.

 

The Royals head to Williamsburg, VA, this coming weekend for a pair of matches against the Virginia Legacy. Northern Virginia kicks offs against the Legacy on Saturday, May 30th at 7:00PM and then the following day at 5:00PM