Sports stats



USL Charlotte Independence

Charlotte Tops Montreal 1-0 for First Road Win

August 26, 2015 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Independence News Release


Charlotte Independence vs. Montreal FC
Charlotte Independence vs. Montreal FC
(Charlotte Independence)

MONTREAL, QC (Aug. 26, 2015) - The Charlotte Independence wrote franchise history on Wednesday night, recording a 1-0 victory on the road against FC Montreal. A strong performance from resurgent goalkeeper John Berner and a cohesive back four saw Charlotte record its fifth clean sheet of the season. Substitute forward Caleb Calvert provided the difference with a poacher's finish in the 74th minute.

The heavy-passing style that Charlotte seems to be flourishing under provided the Independence with the majority of chances throughout the game. In the first half, Carlos Alvarez made a nuisance of himself on the right flank and combined with Enzo Martinez several times to work the ball into the box. Montreal's defense packed themselves in tightly and refused to give any space to the shifty duo.

Montreal was not without its moments, however. Berner was called on more than once to keep the score level. He produced a number of fine saves on the night, perhaps none more spectacular than a diving effort in the 52nd minute to end a dangerous breakaway.

Eventually the stingy Montreal defense yielded, just for a moment, and Calvert managed to make his mark. A 74th minute corner kick was initially punched away, but only as far as midfielder Paolo Del Piccolo. Del Piccolo curled in an impressive cross and a dashing Calvert flicked his header into the far post.

Berner was forced into action again after the restart and kept the lead intact with another diving save, this one low and to his right.

The victory extends the Independence's unbeaten streak to eight games and provides a vital three points as the season winds down. The Independence are now in sixth place, occupying the final playoff spot. A tough streak of road games still awaits the Queen City side, but if Charlotte's recent form is to continue, a playoff berth is within grasp.

The Independence now travel southwest to face Toronto FC II in a Sunday matinee. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00pm at the Ontario Soccer Centre.

Check out the Charlotte Independence Statistics




Images from this story

Charlotte Independence vs. Montreal FC
Charlotte Independence vs. Montreal FC
 Charlotte Independence vs. Montreal FC
Charlotte Independence vs. Montreal FC
  

• Discuss this story on the United Soccer League Championship message board...

United Soccer League Championship Stories from August 26, 2015


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central