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It was starting to feel like Karl Ouimette might never play again for Jacksonville Armada. The 24-year-old defender is on loan from New York Red Bulls until the end of the current NASL season, but his playing time dried up after Tony Meola was relieved of his duties as Armada head coach and technical director.
But Ouimette has finally recorded his first competitive appearance for Jacksonville since Meola's departure. It wasn't a long stint on the field: he was late sub brought in to help the Armada kill time and close out a win.
Ouimette will replace Keita in the 90th minute. @JaxArmadaFC just minutes away from first win in 6 games. #JAXvOKC
— Clayton Freeman (@CFreemanJAX) September 25, 2016
Unfortunately, an even later penalty denied Jackonsville three points.
PK for OKC! Jerome whistled for tripping Danso in the box. #JAXvOKC
— Clayton Freeman (@CFreemanJAX) September 25, 2016
The Armada remains firmly rooted to the bottom of the NASL table, with seven games left to play in the Fall season schedule.
A minute or two off the bench does not suggest Ouimette has won the confidence of Jacksonville coach Mark Lowry. The pattern of the player's appearances before and after Meola's exit from the club (August 7) tells its own story.
The defender is expected to have the chance to showcase his ability for Canada in the upcoming October international window. Perhaps when he returns from international duty, he will find his club a little more willing to give him a shot on the field.