Eagles Host Rochester Rhinos Friday Night
Published on July 28, 2011 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Eagles News Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C.--After getting three of a possible six points against the Wilmington Hammerheads this past weekend, the Charlotte Eagles are still in fifth place in the American Division. Four teams from the division earn playoff berths.
With five games remaining, the Eagles are in fifth place, four points behind the Charleston Battery. Only winning one game against the Hammerheads puts his team in a difficult position, Eagles' coach Mark Steffens says. "Splitting with Wilmington puts our backs against the wall a little."
The Eagles continue their push for the playoffs Friday at 7:00 p.m. at Charlotte Christian Stadium when they host the National Division leaders Rochester Rhinos.
Steffens says it will be a tough task for his team. "Rochester always fields a good team, and with Bob Lilley as the head coach, I know he will have his guys ready for battle this weekend."
Rochester beat the Pittsburgh Riverhounds this past Friday 3-0 and have won three of their last five games.
Leading the Rhinos are forwards Andrew Hoxie and Kendall Jagdeosingh with four goals. Jimmy Banks, also a forward, tops the assist chart with three.
Despite all their success this season, the Rhinos have struggled on the road. Rochester is 3-5-1 away from home and have conceded 12 goals in other stadiums as opposed to four at Sahlen's Stadium.
Charlotte won its latest home game against the Hammerheads 1-0. The lone goal was scored by Walter Moore, who was transferred back to his team in Trinidad Monday following the end of his loan.
The next day, the Eagles lost 3-0 to the Hammerheads in Wilmington. Such up-and-down play has been characteristic of the Eagles this year. In their past seven games, Charlotte is 3-3-1.
"Our squad is playing fairly well, as we are creating numerous scoring opportunities," Steffens says. "We just need to do a better job of finishing."
Forwards Sallieu Bundu and Darren Toby lead the Eagles with five and four goals respectively. Midfielder Jorge Herrera is the team and league leader in assists with six.
With five games remaining, the Eagles need a run of good form to overtake the Battery, whom Charlotte will play in the season finale.
"I feel it's vital for us to win our last two home games," Steffens says. "If we don't the playoff road will become extremely steep."
Charlotte will travel to Rochester to play the Rhinos next week play the Pittsburgh Riverhounds the next day. Then the Eagles will host the Harrisburg City Islanders before traveling to Charleston.
Friday Night is Camper Appreciation Night. All campers are invited to be at the field at 5:30 PM for camp games with some of their favorite coaches. All campers are also invited to participate in a halftime parade around the field.
To buy reduced tickets or if you have ticket questions, visit www.charlotteeagles.com or call 704-841-8644x27.
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- Eagles Host Rochester Rhinos Friday Night - Charlotte Eagles
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