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USL Richmond Kickers

Richmond posts another shutout despite Charlotte attack

May 19, 2007 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Richmond Kickers News Release


RICHMOND, VA - The Richmond Kickers preserved their fourth shutout in five games with a 1-0 win over Charlotte during tonight's Championship rematch. A scoreless first half gave way to a 74th minute goal by 2006 USL2 Rookie of the Year Nowaf Jaman.

Charlotte led the attack, applying pressure early with seven shots, forcing Kickers goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale to make three saves in the first half. Eagles midfielder Adam Ruud had the first scoring opportunity in the 4th minute when his right-footed strike from 18 yards was smothered by Pascale. Six minutes later, Eagles defender Ben Johnson, deep on the right side, crossed a low ball back to forward Dan Harvey at the six-yard spot but his strike went high, just over the crossbar.

Later, Kickers midfielder Mike Burke registered a free kick, headed out of harm's way by the Charlotte defense. The rebound fell to Evan Harding whose 40-yard volley was stopped by Benton in the 37th minute.

Finally, a 45th minute effort by Richmond found forward Nowaf Jaman sending a right-footed cross to Matt Watson at the penalty spot but his header sailed just over the crossbar.

The Kickers opened the second half with a 51st minute cross by Burke, finding Jaman on the left side. Jaman chested the ball down and fired on a half-volley that was deflected by Benton.

Eagles midfielder Jacob Coggins retaliated two minutes later, finding a loose ball at the top of the box after a poor clearance by Kickers defenders but his left-footed shot sailed just high.

The ice was broken in the 74th minute when the Kickers connected on a series of crosses. First, midfielder Trey Alexander sent the ball through the midfield to Watson who carried it into the box. Watson sent a short cross to Burke who fed the ball to a wide-open Jaman on the left side. Jaman finally connected on a left-footed strike into the upper 90 from 12 yards.

Charlotte qualified for the 2007 US Open Cup due to New Hampshire's 3-2 loss at Cleveland and will join Cleveland, Harrisburg and the Kickers, who automatically qualify as the defending USL2 Champion. The Kickers return to the University of Richmond Stadium next Saturday, May 26th to host Crystal Palace Baltimore at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are available in advance via RichmondKickers.com.

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United Soccer League Championship Stories from May 19, 2007


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