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Charlotte Independence

Independence Come from Behind Twice, Continue Unbeaten Streak

March 31, 2018 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Independence News Release


Matthews (NC) - Jorge Herrera's brace helped the Charlotte Independence (2-0-1) tie Atlanta United II (1-0-1) in what was a thrilling game at the Sportsplex at Matthews.

"I give a lot of credit to my teammates because it's not easy to come back and we had to do that twice tonight," said Herrera. "At the end of the day, we are not happy because this is a home game and we need to win these games but we walk away with a point which is better than nothing at all."

After an evenly matched first half, the Independence trailed for the first time all season after an own goal in the 28th minute. The Independence responded very well by creating a couple of good chances immediately after Atlanta's goal. Jorge Herrera drew the Independence level in the 37th minute. This was Herrera's third consecutive game with a goal.

"The measure of a good team is how you do when you give up the first goal and if you can get back in games and get something out of it," said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. "We managed to today and that's a credit to the guys on the field."

The start of the second half mirrored the first half. Even though the Independence saw advantages in possession, shots on goal, and corners, Atlanta managed to break the deadlock against the run of play after a brilliant individual effort from Lagos Kunga.

In the 87th minute, Charlotte again drew level after being behind when Joel Johnson whipped a ball into the box into the box to Jorge Herrera who slammed it home and helped secure the Independence a point.

"To have to come back twice, I give our group credit but it was a tough spot to be in," said Coach Jeffries. "We have always been able to play on the front foot in our other games, so this was really our first test in having to bounce back from being down a goal."

South Korean international and Independence defender Jung-soo Lee made his highly anticipated debut for the Independence and did not disappoint.

"I thought he did well," said Jeffries. "His passing out of the back is exceptionally good, so that was a nice plus for us. We didn't skip a beat with him back there. I think he made a lot of good defensive plays, stepped in and won some balls, he is very strong in the air and he won his fair share of headers. I thought it was a good debut."

After earning seven points in the first three games, Charlotte will play their first game away from the Sportsplex at Matthews as they face Nashville next Saturday. The official watch party will be held at Noda Brewing at 8:30 PM.

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