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USL Charlotte Independence

Independence Rematch at Orlando Ends in 1-1 Draw

July 2, 2016 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Independence News Release


MELBOURNE, FL ??" The Charlotte Independence on Saturday night earned a 1-1 draw in their second meeting with Orlando City B at Titan Soccer Complex. Early domination by the Independence proved not enough for the second half energy of Orlando, who came from behind to keep themselves at their respective rankings in the Eastern Conference standings.

Early back and forth possession lead to many quick opportunities for the Independence and in the 10th minute of play, Patrick Slogic placed a dangerous cross into the box from the left side. The ball was just out of reach for a lunging Independence forward, who tapped the ball into the hands of Orlando goalkeeper Mark Ridgers.

Later into the match the Independence gained slightly more possession placing attack after attack on the Orlando defense. It was not until the 24th minute when Lewis Hilton of the Independence played a dangerous ball into the box. The play caused confusion in the air when Brian Brown snuck in behind the Orlando defense to touch the ball past Ridgers, giving the Independence their first goal of the game and the 1-0 lead.

Following the goal, Orlando began to create more of an attack but were unable to break down the solid Independence defense. Orlando's lone opportunity came during extra time when a cross from Pierre De Silva found Richie Laryea at the back post. Laryea sent the volley soaring over the cross bar, leaving the score 1-0 in favor of the Independence at halftime.

The second half began with a change of pace for Orlando, as the Lions came out in the 47th minute with a big offensive attack. A drive down the right hand side lead to a cross into the box which found the feet of forward Michael Cox, who touched it past Independence goalkeeper John Berner. The early second half goal would advance the score 1-1.

Back and forth possession slowed down the game further into the second half allowing the Independence to create an opportunity in the 65th minute. The Independence created momentum up the right side of the field finding the feet of Caleb Calvert, who sent the ball soaring just over the cross bar.

Four substitutions by the Independence would bring about some solid offensive opportunities including a chance in the 90th minute when a low shot from Paul Clowes rolled just wide of the goal.

Despite many offensive efforts and because of many defensive saves, neither team was able to find the back of the net for a second time. The final score would remain 1-1.

The Independence (7-4-4) next week return home to Ramblewood Stadium for a three-game stretch, beginning with a rematch against the Wilmington Hammerheads (5-5-5) on Saturday, July 9. The first meeting between these teams at Wilmington on May 10 ended in a 1-1 draw. The Hammerheads are coming off a recent win over Toronto FC II. The game against Wilmington will be followed by an exhibition match with Swansea City of the Premier league on Wednesday, July 13, and another league match against New York Red Bulls II on Saturday, July 16.

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