Edward Davis delivered a flawless individual performance on Saturday, firing a hat-trick and earning a perfect 10.0 match rating, yet it still wasn't enough to prevent Loudoun United from slipping to a 5-4 defeat against Colorado Springs Switchbacks.
The striker was relentless throughout, registering seven shots with five on target. Each of his three goals was clinical, but defensive lapses at the other end allowed the visitors to edge what became one of the season's most entertaining fixtures in the USL Championship.
Five on target, three in the net
Davis needed just seven attempts to record his treble, converting at a rate that underlined his sharpness in front of goal. His finishing was the lone bright spot for Loudoun, who found themselves chasing the game despite his best efforts. Colorado Springs, though less precise in their own buildup, capitalised on defensive errors to stay one goal ahead when it mattered.
The defeat leaves Loudoun rueing what might have been. A hat-trick from your number nine should be a platform for three points, not a footnote in a loss. Davis can take solace in a near-faultless display, but the wider team will need to tighten up if they're to turn such moments into results.