Eagles Fight Hard for 1-1 Draw Against Harrisburg
July 15, 2011 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Eagles News Release
CHARLOTTE, NC: The Charlotte Eagles and Harrisburg City Islanders fought an epic battle for a 1-1 draw. The City Islander scored first, just seconds into the game, as Nelson Becerra drilled a volley into the upper 90, past Eric Reed. In the 66th minute Luke Williams capitalized off a Harrisburg mistake evening the score to 1-1.
Harrisburg did not waste any time as Becerra drilled a volley from 25 yards out, placing it over Reed's reach in the first minute of play.
The Eagles were able to find some composure after the initial goal, but were still a step behind Harrisburg's speed of play in the midfield.
Reed made a spectacular one on one save in the 16th minute to keep Harrisburg within reach.
The Eagles' offense, stepped up their play a bit after the first 15 minutes of play and was able to produce a couple of promising possessions in the first half of play.
Jorge Herrera had the best chance of the half, in the 25th minute, placing his shot on the ground to the far post just missing wide.
Harrisburg did a great job winning balls in the midfield and keeping the Eagles off balance. Harrisburg was able to control the first half of play and went into halftime up 1-0 over the Eagles.
The Eagles came out much stronger in the beginning of the second half. Stepping up their midfield play, the Eagles found more success feeding their flanks and applying pressure through crossing the ball into Harrisburg's box.
Alan Sanchez gives Harrisburg a scare in the 64th minute blasting a shot that hit the crossbar after a broken up corner kick.
Luke Williams evened things up, in the 66th minute, capitalizing on Harrisburg's confusion in the defense. Two Harrisburg defenders collided in the box giving William the perfect opportunity to step in and place the ball in the back of the net.
Tension began to mount, with 20 minutes left in the game, the nature of the game became much more aggressive.
In the 88th minute, Herrera shot on a near open net as a Harrisburg defender made a great diving kick save to keep the game even.
Chase Harrison, Harrisburg's keeper, was able to make one last amazing save as he smothered a bullet from Josh Rife.
After a great match the Harrisburg City Islanders and the Charlotte Eagles each earned a point, with a 1-1 final.
Catch the Charlotte Eagles back at home Friday, July 22, 2011. Purchase your tickets at www.CharlotteEagles.com.
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