Match Preview: Carolina RailHawks vs Charlotte Independence

May 31, 2016 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
North Carolina FC News Release

CARY, NC - The Carolina RailHawks (NASL) host the Charlotte Independence (USL) for the second time in the Third Round of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup at WakeMed Soccer Park on June 1 at 7:30PM. The match will be streamed live at CarolinaRailHawks.com.

Last year, the historic in-state rivalry between the Triangle and Charlotte areas, which in soccer dates back to 1993, was reignited as Charlotte knocked Carolina out of the tournament in a close 1-0 match. In 2016 preseason, Carolina defeated Charlotte 1-0 at Wingate University. The winner of this match will host New England Revolution (MLS) in the Fourth Round of the US Open Cup on June 15.

Four former RailHawks including brothers Enzo and Alex Martinez, along with Henry Kalungi and Jun Marques Davidson are expected to make a return trip to WakeMed Soccer Park playing for the Independence.

This is the RailHawks' ninth appearance in the US Open Cup, a knockout style tournament that first began in 1914. The RailHawks have thrived in the past with a 16-8 record, advancing to the semifinals in 2007 and to the quarterfinals in 2013 and 2014. A major factor in the RailHawks' success has been the ability to consistently beat MLS teams such as the Chicago Fire and Los Angeles Galaxy.

The Carolina RailHawks currently sit in fifth place in the NASL standings, but five points shy of first place; making the NASL Spring Season Championship within reach. Coming off a 2-1 loss to Orlando City B this past Saturday, Charlotte sits in fifth place in the USL Eastern Conference.

The RailHawks return to NASL action at home on Saturday June 4 hosting Jacksonville Armada FC at 7:30PM ET.

Carolina RailHawks in Action

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