Charlotte blanks Pittsburgh 4-0, Game 2 Saturday
Published on August 18, 2006 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Eagles News Release
(Washington, PA) - The Charlotte Eagles took another big step in defending their National Championship title tonight with a 4-0 win over the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in game one of the two game semi-final series. Charlotte and Pittsburgh play game two tomorrow night, Sat., Aug. 19th in Charlotte to wrap up the aggregate goal series.
The defending champion Eagles got off to a quick lead with a goal by defender Ben Meek in the second minute. Meek's goal was scored with a header off the corner kick assist from Dustin Swinehart. The Eagles held on to the 1-0 lead through the first half.
Charlotte extended its lead to two goals in the 59th minute; this time by veteran defender Josh Rife. Jacob Coggins set up the goal with the serve into Rife who flicked it in with a header.
Ukrainian born forward Andriy Buddny scored the Eagles third goal in the 64th minute of play. Eagles forward Taurai Daka fired a shot in toward goal. Andriy Buddny got a touch on the ball to finish at close range.
UNCC graduate, Adam Ruud wrapped up the scoring in the 86th minute with the Eagles' fourth goal. Ben Johnson made a beautiful pass forward, splitting the defense and connecting with the run of Ruud. Ruud, on the breakaway, touched the ball around Pittsburgh goalkeeper McNelis for the goal.
Despite the 4-0 loss, the Riverhounds did create several opportunities at the Charlotte net in the first half with 12 shot attempts. However, with the combination of several shots hitting the post and Eagles' goalkeeper Dan Benton's ten saves on the night, Pittsburgh could not finish.
Charlotte and Pittsburgh play the second and final game of their Semi-Final series tomorrow night, Saturday Aug. 19th at Waddell Stadium in Charlotte. Kickoff is slated for 7:00 pm. Charlotte takes a series four goal advantage into the game. A win, tie or loss by 3 or fewer goals will send Charlotte on to the National Championship Final against the winner of the Richmond/Cincinnati series. Richmond won the first game of that series 2-1.
Fans interested in attending the Charlotte Eagles home semi-final match on Saturday, August 19th can purchase tickets at the gate. Playoff tickets are being sold at the same great regular season rates of $10 for adults and $7 for youth. Season Tickets are not valid for the playoffs.
United Soccer League Championship Stories from August 18, 2006
- Charlotte blanks Pittsburgh 4-0, Game 2 Saturday - Charlotte Eagles
- Kickers take lead with 2-1 win over Cincinnati - Richmond Kickers
- Eagles Defeat Hounds 4-0 - Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
- Cincinnati Kings Lose First-Ever Playoff Game at Richmond - Cincinnati Kings
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