Mintah Harpoons the Hammerheads
June 18, 2005 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Charlotte Eagles News Release
Charlotte, NC - The Charlotte Eagles (6-2-1, 19pts) hosted the Wilmington Hammerheads (7-3-1, 22pts) tonight at Waddell Stadium. Ishmael Mintah scored the lone goal of the match in the 83rd minute to lead the Eagles to victory and pull even with Wilmington at the top of the league standings.
The first half of the match was a physical but even half with scoring opportunities on both ends. Charlotte and Wilmington battled through much of the game at midfield. The Eagles out-shot Wilmington 7-3 in the first half, but neither team could finish their chances.
Charlotte played with more composure and control in the second half. The Eagles had their share of opportunities to score, but didn't really test Hammerheads goalkeeper Creasman with quality shots until Mintah's goal in the 83rd minute. Mintah ran on to a loose ball 25-30 yards out and fired a rocket to the right upper "90". Creasman had no chance at the shot. The goal was Mintah's third of the season.
"The hardest, most difficult shot of the night was the one that we scored. It was an absolute bomb from 25 yards out. We had other easier chances that we should have finished, but could put those in" commented Eagles head coach Mark Steffens.
With tonight's victory the Eagles better their record to 7-2-1, 22pts and share the league standings lead with Wilmington. Wilmington has played one more game. The victory was key for Charlotte coming off a home loss to New Hampshire and heading into the Open Cup Tournament on June 29th in El Paso.
The Eagles have a two game road trip next week facing the New Hampshire Phantoms on June 24th and the Western Mass. Pioneers on June 25th. The Eagles and Lady Eagles return to home field action on Friday, July 1st. The Lady Eagles will be hosting Atlanta at 6:00 pm in a match televised LIVE on Fox Soccer Channel. Following the Lady Eagles game, the Eagles pro team will host the Cincinnati Kings at 8:00 pm. Charlotte Eagles and Lady Eagles tickets can be purchased online at CharlotteEagles.com or at the gate: Adults $8, Students (6-18) $5, Children 5 and under - Free.
United Soccer League Championship Stories from June 18, 2005
- Chad Severs, Matt Tanzini score three points in 3-2 victory - Penn FC
- Mintah Harpoons the Hammerheads - Charlotte Eagles
- Cincinnati Kings End Win Drought With Victory At Pittsburgh - Cincinnati Kings
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