On March 23rd, at the 성남 탄천종합운동장, the 화성FC faced off against the home side 성남FC for the opening match of the K League 2 season, where they lost 0-2. This marked the debut of newly appointed manager 차두리, who had high hopes heading toward the match. Unfortunately for him and his squad, they couldn't capitalize on the opportunities to secure points.
Despite the defeat, the match showcased several positives for 화성FC. They controlled 62% of possession and made 429 passes compared to 성남FC's 218. Both teams registered 11 shots on goal, highlighting 화성FC's attacking ambitions. Early on, 화성FC looked poised to take the lead as well, with 전성진 scoring what appeared to be the opening goal just two minutes after the whistle. Alas, it was ruled out after video review.
Ironically, more setbacks followed. Within the first 18 minutes, 신재원 allowed 성남FC to score, signifying their resurgence after last season's disappointing performance, where they finished at the bottom of the league.
Come the second half, and the situation worsened for 화성FC as 홍창범 found the net for 성남FC, leaving 화성FC to scramble for answers with less than half of the match left.
After the conclusion of the match, 차두리 emphasized the efforts of his team, stating, "매 경기 절실한 마음과 열정으로 화성이 재밌는 축구를 하겠다. 팬들이 ‘다음에 또 가자’고 하는 축구를 하겠다. 많은 응원 부탁드린다. 재밌는 축구를 한다는 말을 듣고 싶다." These remarks were meant to inject optimism, as he noted his intention to develop exciting football to win over fans and the local community.
Recognizing the challenge of his new managerial position, 차두리 promised, "화성 경기를 보고 다음에 또 보고 싶은 마음이 들도록 하겠다. 화성시민들의 마음을 사로잡겠다," asserting his commitment to captivating the hearts of the 화성 loyal.
Reflecting on the experience, 차두리 acknowledged the performance considering the team's limited experience, as several players were new to K League 2 action. Despite the first game's outcome not being favorable, the aspect of teamwork and coordination improved significantly from their time at K3 level, laying the groundwork for future matches.
Looking forward, 화성FC is set to return to the pitch on March 2nd for their first home game against 충남아산, hoping to turn their fortunes around and gain pivotal points early on.