Eagles Take Huge Step to Playoffs
August 20, 2014 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Eagles News Release
Charlotte, NC -- The Charlotte Eagles continued their march to the playoffs with a victory over Orlando behind two second half goals from Wells Thompson. Charlotte now sits, for the moment, in the 8th and final playoff spot on 30 points with a record of 9-13-3.
The club's exchanged possession in the opening 15 minutes as Orlando had a corner which was cleared away from danger. Charlotte had some early chances as a Gideon Asante shot was too high followed by a Jorge Herrera first-time shot that was right at Miguel Gallardo.
Herrera and Boggs combined well shortly after the quarter-hour mark but Boggs' shot was denied again by Gallardo. Lions forward Corey Hertzog tested Alec Kann with a half-volley shot but Kann punched clear in the 20th minute to keep the game scoreless.
Orlando continued putting the pressure on Charlotte in the final ten minutes of the first half but their two corners couldn't produce the games first goal. The visitors came close just before the break but a Ceren free-kick from the top of the box by Orlando struck the wall.
Charlotte had the best chance early in the second half as Herrera got on the end of a Johnny Leathers cross but his shot was absorbed by Brad Rusin.
The Eagles opened the scoring in the 72nd minute as Zak Boggs dropped a pass to Wells Thompson who took a touch and fired a shot past Gallardo to the far post. Second half sub Gui Brandao tested Gallardo shortly after entering the match in the 83rd minute but his right footed shot was parried over the bar.
Wells Thompson added his brace in second half stoppage time after he dispossessed Boden just inside Orlando territory. Thompson fired a shot just under the crossbar to seal the victory for the home side.
Alec Kann made three saves on the night to preserve the clean sheet.
Charlotte will return home and host the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Friday, August 29th at 7 pm at Queens Sports Complex.
United Soccer League Championship Stories from August 20, 2014
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- Eagles Take Huge Step to Playoffs - Charlotte Eagles
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