Islanders Take on Charlotte Saturday
May 13, 2015 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Penn FC News Release
Harrisburg - After a successful road stint the Harrisburg City Islanders finally return home to face the Charlotte Independence on City Island this Saturday, May 16 at 7 p.m.
After dropping the first two games of the season the Islanders have rallied to go undefeated in their last four and have catapulted themselves into the top four in the USL Eastern Conference standings.
Their most recent game was a win on the road against the New York Red Bulls II. Jose Barril slipped behind the defense to grab the equalizer and his first goal of the year. The game seemed to be heading for a draw until and own goal broke it. Neil Shaffer swung a cross into the box that met the head of Enric Valles and a Red Bull defender behind his goalie.
Charlotte and Harrisburg already met once this season and played to a 1-1 draw in American Memorial Legion Stadium less than a month ago. Ryan Finley scored early in the game and then Dante Leverock came through with the equalizer shortly after halftime.
"Last time we played Charlotte they took it to us in the first half. Luckily, we were able to get it together and reversed the game after halftime leaving with a tie. I expect Saturday to be another tough match." Said Islanders Head Coach, Bill Becher.
Only two points separate Harrisburg and Charlotte in the standings and a win for the Islanders could put distance between them and the rest of the league. As of today there are six teams separated by only two points.
Charlotte has posted shutouts in their past two games and have only given up eight goals on the season so far. Goalkeeper Josh Berner has a 1.33 GAA on the season and has 16 saves. Ryan Finley is the points leader for the Independence with seven points (3G, 1A).
On the other hand, the Islanders have scored nine goals in their last four games with seven of them coming from different players. The Islanders leading scorer is Ken Tribbett (2G). City has shown scoring depth in their past 3 road matches, which will be a tough test against a staunch Independence defense.
Additionally, Harrisburg's defense has been solid as of late. Nick Noble recorded his first shutout of the year against Wilmington and has only given up three goals in the past four games.
"In this league you have to win your home games." Becher added, "We have had a great week of practice and look forward to Saturday."
Saturday is Teacher Appreciation Night sponsored by Musselman's at Skyline Sports Complex. All Central Pennsylvania teachers will be able to register for a free ticket and the first 100 will receive a lunch bag filled with great items, coupons and offers from partner. Teachers can use this online link by Friday, May 15 5pm: http://bit.ly/1AUDPeQ
The Islanders next match will be back on the road when they continue the fight for the Keystone Derby Trophy against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday, May 30 at 7 p.m. in Highmark Stadium. For more information please visit cityislanders.com or call (717) 441-GOAL (4625).
United Soccer League Championship Stories from May 13, 2015
- Islanders Take on Charlotte Saturday - Penn FC
- USL Discipline Report: Week 8 - USL
- Preview: Saint Louis FC Hosts Toronto FC II - Saint Louis FC
- Thompson in Line for Messi Showdown at Copa America - Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
- FC Montreal Hosts the Charleston Battery on Thursday - FC Montreal
- USL Partners with HOK to Launch Stadium Development Initiative - USL
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