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CHARLOTTE (August 12, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence got an 82nd minute goal from Dane Kelly to secure a 1-1 draw with USL Championship Group G leaders Birmingham Legion FC.

With the draw, the Independence remains in third place in the Group G standings and will meet Memphis 901 FC for a second time this season to conclude a three-game homestand this weekend. Kickoff for the rematch at the Sportsplex at Matthews is set for 7 p.m. ET on Saturday, August 15. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.

Wednesday’s match presented a rematch against Group G leaders Legion FC after the visiting team defeated the Independence 4-1 in the Jack's second game of the season.

Independence head coach Mike Jeffries did not make any changes to the starting XI that tied the Charleston Battery 1-1 in its third match of the season but was forced to make an early change as midfielder Derek Gebhard went down with an injury and was replaced by FC Cincinnati loanee Rey Ortiz in the 27th minute.

The match began as a tug of war with first Charlotte and then Legion FC gaining spells of possession. The Jacks’ best chance of the first half came in the 10th minute when Gebhard picked out Kelly after beating his defender one-v-one and whipping a cross through the six-yard box. Making a run to the middle of the box, Kelly tried to connect with Gebhard’s cross with a left-footed volley and hit his effort just outside the left post as the Jacks ultimately generated 9 shots, five on target.

"I thought we played well throughout a tough night with all of the stoppages," said Independence head coach Mike Jeffries. "We managed the game well, both offensively and defensively."

"We are gutted about the result and know that we need to manage the end of the game better. It's really disappointing to give up a goal and lose out on two points."

The Jacks started the second half well as the two teams traded chances pushing for a winner. In the 80th minute, Legion FC midfielder Anderson Asiedu received his second yellow card of the match and the visitors were forced to play the final ten minutes down a man.

After Asiedu was sent off, Jeffries turned to his bench for fresh legs, bringing on attacker Guido Vadala and midfielder Luke Haakenson.

Moments later, the Jacks continued to push for a goal and was rewarded in the 82nd minute when Kelly found the back of the net off a header by Haakenson. The goal was Kelly’s third of the season and the 80th of his USL career, the first in the league’s history to reach that figure.

On the other end, Legion FC pushed numbers forward, including netminder Matt Vanoekel, for a corner kick in stoppage time. A deflected ball fell perfectly for Legion FC midfielder Mikey Lopez who drilled home an equalizer for the visitors in the 93rd minute.

Next on the Schedule: The Independence finish a three-game stretch at the Sportsplex at Matthews against Group G opponent Memphis 901 FC on Saturday, August 15 at 7 p.m. ET and broadcast live on ESPN+. The match against Memphis will be the second meeting between the Group G opponents this year.

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

CHARLOTTE (August 12, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence got an 82nd minute goal from Dane Kelly to secure a 1-1 draw with USL Championship Group G leaders Birmingham Legion FC.

With the draw, the Independence remains in third place in the Group G standings and will meet Memphis 901 FC for a second time this season to conclude a three-game homestand this weekend. Kickoff for the rematch at the Sportsplex at Matthews is set for 7 p.m. ET on Saturday, August 15. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.

Wednesday’s match presented a rematch against Group G leaders Legion FC after the visiting team defeated the Independence 4-1 in the Jack’s second game of the season.

Independence head coach Mike Jeffries did not make any changes to the starting XI that tied the Charleston Battery 1-1 in its third match of the season but was forced to make an early change as midfielder Derek Gebhard went down with an injury and was replaced by FC Cincinnati loanee Rey Ortiz in the 27th minute.

The match began as a tug of war with first Charlotte and then Legion FC gaining spells of possession. The Jacks’ best chance of the first half came in the 10th minute when Gebhard picked out Kelly after beating his defender one-v-one and whipping a cross through the six-yard box. Making a run to the middle of the box, Kelly tried to connect with Gebhard’s cross with a left-footed volley and hit his effort just outside the left post as the Jacks ultimately generated 9 shots, five on target.

“I thought we played well throughout a tough night with all of the stoppages,” said Independence head coach Mike Jeffries. “We managed the game well, both offensively and defensively.”

“We are gutted about the result and know that we need to manage the end of the game better. It’s really disappointing to give up a goal and lose out on two points.”

The Jacks started the second half well as the two teams traded chances pushing for a winner. In the 80th minute, Legion FC midfielder Anderson Asiedu received his second yellow card of the match and the visitors were forced to play the final ten minutes down a man.

After Asiedu was sent off, Jeffries turned to his bench for fresh legs, bringing on attacker Guido Vadala and midfielder Luke Haakenson.

Moments later, the Jacks continued to push for a goal and was rewarded in the 82nd minute when Kelly found the back of the net off a header by Haakenson. The goal was Kelly’s third of the season and the 80th of his USL career, the first in the league’s history to reach that figure.

On the other end, Legion FC pushed numbers forward, including netminder Matt Vanoekel, for a corner kick in stoppage time. A deflected ball fell perfectly for Legion FC midfielder Mikey Lopez who drilled home an equalizer for the visitors in the 93rd minute.

Next on the Schedule: The Independence finish a three-game stretch at the Sportsplex at Matthews against Group G opponent Memphis 901 FC on Saturday, August 15 at 7 p.m. ET and broadcast live on ESPN+. The match against Memphis will be the second meeting between the Group G opponents this year.

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

GOAL SCORING RUNDOWN:

CLT – Dane Kelly (Luke Haakenson), 82nd minute: Enzo Martinez played a ball into the top of the box to Luke Haakenson who headed a ball straight down to an on running Dane Kelly inside the area. Kelly took a couple of touches, turned and fired a right-footed shot from six yards out and into the left corner net. CLT 1, BHM 0

BHM – Mikey Lopez, 93rd minute: Off of a corner kick, Legion FC goalkeeper Matt Vanoekel connected with a header at the back post and sent the ball into the middle of the box. Inside the six-yard box, Mikey Lopez collected the loose ball and fired a right-footed shot beyond the reach of Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller to tie the match. CLT 1, BHM 1

GOAL SCORING RUNDOWN:

CLT – Dane Kelly (Luke Haakenson), 82nd minute: Enzo Martinez played a ball into the top of the box to Luke Haakenson who headed a ball straight down to an on running Dane Kelly inside the area. Kelly took a couple of touches, turned and fired a right-footed shot from six yards out and into the left corner net. CLT 1, BHM 0

BHM – Mikey Lopez, 93rd minute: Off of a corner kick, Legion FC goalkeeper Matt Vanoekel connected with a header at the back post and sent the ball into the middle of the box. Inside the six-yard box, Mikey Lopez collected the loose ball and fired a right-footed shot beyond the reach of Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller to tie the match. CLT 1, BHM 1

Match: Charlotte Independence vs. Birmingham Legion FC
Date: August 12, 2020
Venue: Sportsplex at Matthews
Competition: USL Championship
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET

Scoring Summary:             1          2          F

CLT                                      0          1          1 

BHM                                    0          1          1

CLT: Dane Kelly (Luke Haakenson)               82nd minute

BHM: Mikey Lopez                                         93rd minute

LINEUPS:

CLT: 33-Brandon Miller; 3-Hugh Roberts, 4-Duke Lacroix, 18-Aaron Maund, 22-Joe Johnson 4-Jake Areman (15-Luke Haakenson), 11-Valentin Sabella(23-Guido Vadala), 21-Junior Etou, 27-Derek Gebhard (7-Rey Ortiz), 9-Dane Kelly (32-Tresor Mbuyu), 19-Enzo Martinez(captain)

Subs Not Used: 1-Austin Pack, 17- Clay Dimmick, 20-Oscar Ramsey

Head Coach: Mike Jeffries

BHM: 1-Matt Vanoekel(captain), 18-Trevor Spangenberg, 21-Alex Crognale, 30-Razak Cromwell, 24-Jonathan Dean, 22-Mathieu Laurent, 3-Boluwatife Akinyode, 6-Anderson Asiedu, 12-Eli Crognale(13-Jake Rufe), 8-Bruno Lapa( 2-Marcos Ugarte), 5-Mikey Lopez, 10-Propser Kasim(17-Jaden Servania), 14-Rudolf Mensah(11-Neco Brett), 7-Brian Wright(20-Braxton Najib)

Subs Not Used: 0- Ford Parker, 16- Daigo Kobayashi

Head Coach: Tom Soehn

Stats Summary CLT/ BHM:

Shots: 14 / 11 

Shots on Goal: 8 / 6

Saves: 5 / 7 

Corner Kicks: 4 / 7 

Fouls: 8 / 12

Offside: 1/ 2 

Possession: CLT – 50.7%, BHM – 49.3%

Misconduct Summary:                
BHM – Mikey Lopez (caution)……………..4th minute

BHM – Eli Crognale (caution)…………….46th minute

CLT – Junior Etou (caution)………………..52nd minute

BHM – Prosper Kasim (caution)…………..56th minute

BHM – Anderson Asiedu (caution)…………68th minute

BHM – Anderson Asiedu (caution/red card) 80th minute

Officials:
Referee: John Matto
Assistant Referee 1: Ryan Graves
Assistant Referee 2: Caleb Fearing
Fourth Official: Joshua Escobar

Match: Charlotte Independence vs. Birmingham Legion FC
Date: August 12, 2020
Venue: Sportsplex at Matthews
Competition: USL Championship
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET

Scoring Summary:             1          2          F

CLT                                      0          1          1 

BHM                                    0          1          1

CLT: Dane Kelly (Luke Haakenson)               82nd minute

BHM: Mikey Lopez                                         93rd minute

LINEUPS:

CLT: 33-Brandon Miller; 3-Hugh Roberts, 4-Duke Lacroix, 18-Aaron Maund, 22-Joe Johnson 4-Jake Areman (15-Luke Haakenson), 11-Valentin Sabella(23-Guido Vadala), 21-Junior Etou, 27-Derek Gebhard (7-Rey Ortiz), 9-Dane Kelly (32-Tresor Mbuyu), 19-Enzo Martinez(captain)

Subs Not Used: 1-Austin Pack, 17- Clay Dimmick, 20-Oscar Ramsey

Head Coach: Mike Jeffries

BHM: 1-Matt Vanoekel(captain), 18-Trevor Spangenberg, 21-Alex Crognale, 30-Razak Cromwell, 24-Jonathan Dean, 22-Mathieu Laurent, 3-Boluwatife Akinyode, 6-Anderson Asiedu, 12-Eli Crognale(13-Jake Rufe), 8-Bruno Lapa( 2-Marcos Ugarte), 5-Mikey Lopez, 10-Propser Kasim(17-Jaden Servania), 14-Rudolf Mensah(11-Neco Brett), 7-Brian Wright(20-Braxton Najib)

Subs Not Used: 0- Ford Parker, 16- Daigo Kobayashi

Head Coach: Tom Soehn

Stats Summary CLT/ BHM:

Shots: 14 / 11 

Shots on Goal: 8 / 6

Saves: 5 / 7 

Corner Kicks: 4 / 7 

Fouls: 8 / 12

Offside: 1/ 2 

Possession: CLT – 50.7%, BHM – 49.3%

Misconduct Summary:                
BHM – Mikey Lopez (caution)……………..4th minute

BHM – Eli Crognale (caution)…………….46th minute

CLT – Junior Etou (caution)………………..52nd minute

BHM – Prosper Kasim (caution)…………..56th minute

BHM – Anderson Asiedu (caution)…………68th minute

BHM – Anderson Asiedu (caution/red card) 80th minute

Officials:
Referee: John Matto
Assistant Referee 1: Ryan Graves
Assistant Referee 2: Caleb Fearing
Fourth Official: Joshua Escobar

Charlotte Independence vs. Birmingham Legion FC
2020 USL Championship – Group G
Sportsplex at Matthews; Matthews, N.C.

7p.m. ET (ESPN+)
Aug. 12, 2020
Presented by Accuvision

CHARLOTTE (August 11, 2020) – Exactly one week to the day following the Independence's disappointing 4-1 defeat to Birmingham Legion FC, the side will get a chance at payback when it hosts Legion FC in a USL Championship, Group G rematch on Saturday, August 12th at the Sportsplex at Matthews. Independence-Legion FC kicks-off at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+, presented by Accuvision. 

"It’s great for us to be back at the Sportsplex at Matthews for three straight games," said Independence manager Mike Jeffries. "It’s still early in the year and it’s such a strange season because there are so few games early on but the guys are handling it well."

In their last match, the Independence earned one point in a 1-1 draw against the Charleston Battery. Dane Kelly scored as the Independence hosted its first home match at the Sportsplex at Matthews in 294 days. 

“The Charleston match was progress in terms of where we were a couple of days ago," said Jeffries. “To make the kind of progress that we have made has been more than what we’ve hoped for.”

With five points in four games, Mike Jeffries' side currently sit in third place in the Group G standings but have two games in hand on Legion FC and Memphis 901 FC.  

"I do feel like it’s a decent step forward overall," stated Jeffries. "Only four games in, the guys feel like there’s far more that we are capable of."

Legion FC have started the return to play season strong with 13 points in six games and currently sit in first place in Group G. Last time out, Tom Soehn’s side defeated Atlanta United 2, 1-0, for their second win in a row and fourth in six matches.

The two Group G sides faced each other last Wednesday, August 5th at BBVA Compass Field, with the Independence dropping points for the first time this season in a 4-1 defeat.

"The guys will come out with something to prove against a Birmingham [Legion FC] team that beat us pretty handily a couple of days ago," said Jeffries. "Birmingham are a tremendous side that are a challenge to play through defensively and possess a lot of dynamic options in the attack."

Charlotte Independence vs. Birmingham Legion FC
2020 USL Championship – Group G
Sportsplex at Matthews; Matthews, N.C.

7p.m. ET (ESPN+)
Aug. 12, 2020
Presented by Accuvision

CHARLOTTE (August 11, 2020) – Exactly one week to the day following the Independence’s disappointing 4-1 defeat to Birmingham Legion FC, the side will get a chance at payback when it hosts Legion FC in a USL Championship, Group G rematch on Saturday, August 12th at the Sportsplex at Matthews. Independence-Legion FC kicks-off at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+, presented by Accuvision. 

“It’s great for us to be back at the Sportsplex at Matthews for three straight games,” said Independence manager Mike Jeffries. “It’s still early in the year and it’s such a strange season because there are so few games early on but the guys are handling it well.”

In their last match, the Independence earned one point in a 1-1 draw against the Charleston Battery. Dane Kelly scored as the Independence hosted its first home match at the Sportsplex at Matthews in 294 days. 

“The Charleston match was progress in terms of where we were a couple of days ago,” said Jeffries. “To make the kind of progress that we have made has been more than what we’ve hoped for.”

With five points in four games, Mike Jeffries’ side currently sit in third place in the Group G standings but have two games in hand on Legion FC and Memphis 901 FC.  

“I do feel like it’s a decent step forward overall,” stated Jeffries. “Only four games in, the guys feel like there’s far more that we are capable of.”

Legion FC have started the return to play season strong with 13 points in six games and currently sit in first place in Group G. Last time out, Tom Soehn’s side defeated Atlanta United 2, 1-0, for their second win in a row and fourth in six matches.

The two Group G sides faced each other last Wednesday, August 5th at BBVA Compass Field, with the Independence dropping points for the first time this season in a 4-1 defeat.

“The guys will come out with something to prove against a Birmingham [Legion FC] team that beat us pretty handily a couple of days ago,” said Jeffries. “Birmingham are a tremendous side that are a challenge to play through defensively and possess a lot of dynamic options in the attack.”

LAST MATCH: The Charlotte Independence opened its campaign at home with a 1-1 draw against the Charleston Battery. Dane Kelly scored as the Independence hosted its first home match at the Sportsplex at Matthews in 294 days.

With the team playing its second game in four days, Jeffries rotated his squad, making two changes to the starting lineup from last game. The match came to life after the half-hour mark as the Independence took the lead in the 38th minute of play when forward Dane Kelly curled a right-footed effort past Battery goalkeeper Phil Breno for the forward’s second goal of the season and 79th in his USL career. The match would finish level at 1-1. 

LAST TIME THEY MET: The Independence and Legion FC faced off last week on Wednesday, August 5th at BBVA Compass Field. The Independence dropped points for the first time this season in a 4-1 defeat to Legion FC as Neco Brett, Bruno Lapa and Brian Wright scored for the home side to give Birmingham a cushion atop the group. 

Series History (W-L-D) 
Independence Record vs. Birmingham Legion FC: (1-1-1)
Independence Home Record vs. Birmingham Legion FC: (1-0-0) 
Independence Away Record vs. Birmingham Legion FC: (0-1-1)

2020 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE USL CHAMPIONSHIP ROSTER BY POSITION

GOALKEEPERS: Lucas Hatsios, Brandon Miller, Austin Pack

DEFENDERS: Owen Barber, Clay Dimick, Shalom Dutey, Duke Lacroix, Aaron Maund, Dylan Mitchiner, Joel Johnson, Rey Ortiz, Hugh Roberts, Joey Skinner

MIDFIELDERS: Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Derek Gebhard, Kevan George, Luke Haakenson, Valentin Sabella, Oscar Ramsay

FORWARDS: Enzo Martinez, Tresor Mbuyu, Dane Kelly, Guido Valada

2020 BIRMINGHAM LEGION FC USL CHAMPIONSHIP ROSTER BY POSITION

GOALKEEPERS: Ford Parker, Trevor Spangenberg, Matt Vanoekel

DEFENDERS: Alex Crognale, Razak Cromwell, Jonathan Dean, Mathieu Laurent, Jake Rufe

MIDFIELDERS: Boluwatife Akinyode, Anderson Asiedu, Eli Crognale, Daigo Kobayashi, Bruno Lapa, Mikey Lopez, Braxton Najib, Jaden Servania, Marcos Ugarte

FORWARDS: Neco Brett, Propser Kasim, Rudolf Mensah, Brian Wright

LAST MATCH: The Charlotte Independence opened its campaign at home with a 1-1 draw against the Charleston Battery. Dane Kelly scored as the Independence hosted its first home match at the Sportsplex at Matthews in 294 days.

With the team playing its second game in four days, Jeffries rotated his squad, making two changes to the starting lineup from last game. The match came to life after the half-hour mark as the Independence took the lead in the 38th minute of play when forward Dane Kelly curled a right-footed effort past Battery goalkeeper Phil Breno for the forward’s second goal of the season and 79th in his USL career. The match would finish level at 1-1. 

LAST TIME THEY MET: The Independence and Legion FC faced off last week on Wednesday, August 5th at BBVA Compass Field. The Independence dropped points for the first time this season in a 4-1 defeat to Legion FC as Neco Brett, Bruno Lapa and Brian Wright scored for the home side to give Birmingham a cushion atop the group. 

Series History (W-L-D) 
Independence Record vs. Birmingham Legion FC: (1-1-1)
Independence Home Record vs. Birmingham Legion FC: (1-0-0) 
Independence Away Record vs. Birmingham Legion FC: (0-1-1)

2020 CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE USL CHAMPIONSHIP ROSTER BY POSITION

GOALKEEPERS: Lucas Hatsios, Brandon Miller, Austin Pack

DEFENDERS: Owen Barber, Clay Dimick, Shalom Dutey, Duke Lacroix, Aaron Maund, Dylan Mitchiner, Joel Johnson, Rey Ortiz, Hugh Roberts, Joey Skinner

MIDFIELDERS: Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Derek Gebhard, Kevan George, Luke Haakenson, Valentin Sabella, Oscar Ramsay

FORWARDS: Enzo Martinez, Tresor Mbuyu, Dane Kelly, Guido Valada

2020 BIRMINGHAM LEGION FC USL CHAMPIONSHIP ROSTER BY POSITION

GOALKEEPERS: Ford Parker, Trevor Spangenberg, Matt Vanoekel

DEFENDERS: Alex Crognale, Razak Cromwell, Jonathan Dean, Mathieu Laurent, Jake Rufe

MIDFIELDERS: Boluwatife Akinyode, Anderson Asiedu, Eli Crognale, Daigo Kobayashi, Bruno Lapa, Mikey Lopez, Braxton Najib, Jaden Servania, Marcos Ugarte

FORWARDS: Neco Brett, Propser Kasim, Rudolf Mensah, Brian Wright

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

– Five players have scored for the Independence in the 2020 USL Championship: Dane Kelly (2), Derek Gebhard, Luke Haakenson, Enzo Martinez, Valentin Sabella (1)

– Two players have recorded at least one assist for the Independence this year: Martinez,  Jake Areman (1)

– Independence forward Dane Kelly can become the first player in USL Championship history to score 80 career league goals. Kelly, who scored his 79th USL goal in a 1-1 draw against the Charleston Battery, leads the Jacks in goals this season with two. 

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

– Five players have scored for the Independence in the 2020 USL Championship: Dane Kelly (2), Derek Gebhard, Luke Haakenson, Enzo Martinez, Valentin Sabella (1)

– Two players have recorded at least one assist for the Independence this year: Martinez,  Jake Areman (1)

– Independence forward Dane Kelly can become the first player in USL Championship history to score 80 career league goals. Kelly, who scored his 79th USL goal in a 1-1 draw against the Charleston Battery, leads the Jacks in goals this season with two. 

ABOUT THE CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE: The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team joined the United Soccer League (USL) Championship as an expansion team in September 2014. An ownership group led by Jim McPhilliamy, the President & Managing Partner of Major League Lacrosse’s Charlotte Hounds, acquired the USL franchise rights from the Charlotte Eagles. McPhilliamy and his investment group founded Queen City Sports Club with the goal of making Charlotte a better place to live through annual increases in both the quality and quantity of events that are provided for the community.

 In the fall of 2018, Queen City Sports Club and the Charlotte Independence signed a 10-year lease to move to American Legion Memorial Stadium following a revitalization of the historic landmark set for the spring of 2021.

COMPETITION FORMAT: The 35 Championship’s clubs will be divided into eight regionalized groups and are set to play 263 games over 13 weeks to decide which 16 teams will advance to the 2020 USL Championship Playoffs, which will open in the second weekend of October.

Games completed prior to the season suspension in March will be counted and are included in the schedule.

The top two teams from each group in the regular season will advance to the 2020 USL Championship Playoffs, producing a field of 16 teams overall in a regionalized single-elimination bracket. Group winners will be paired with Group runners-up in the Round of 16, with home advantage being determined by record for the remainder of the bracket.

· Click Here for the Jacks' 2020 USL Championship Schedule

· Click Here for the Complete Revised 2020 USL Championship Schedule

Every game of the 2020 USL Championship season will air on the ESPN family of networks, with broadcasts on ESPN2, ESPNews, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ bringing all the excitement of the first league in the United States to return to play in home markets directly to homes across the United States.

For live match updates, follow @Independence on Twitter, or tune in as the match will air live on ESPN+.

ABOUT THE CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE: The Charlotte Independence professional soccer team joined the United Soccer League (USL) Championship as an expansion team in September 2014. An ownership group led by Jim McPhilliamy, the President & Managing Partner of Major League Lacrosse’s Charlotte Hounds, acquired the USL franchise rights from the Charlotte Eagles. McPhilliamy and his investment group founded Queen City Sports Club with the goal of making Charlotte a better place to live through annual increases in both the quality and quantity of events that are provided for the community.

 In the fall of 2018, Queen City Sports Club and the Charlotte Independence signed a 10-year lease to move to American Legion Memorial Stadium following a revitalization of the historic landmark set for the spring of 2021.

COMPETITION FORMAT: The 35 Championship’s clubs will be divided into eight regionalized groups and are set to play 263 games over 13 weeks to decide which 16 teams will advance to the 2020 USL Championship Playoffs, which will open in the second weekend of October.

Games completed prior to the season suspension in March will be counted and are included in the schedule.

The top two teams from each group in the regular season will advance to the 2020 USL Championship Playoffs, producing a field of 16 teams overall in a regionalized single-elimination bracket. Group winners will be paired with Group runners-up in the Round of 16, with home advantage being determined by record for the remainder of the bracket.

· Click Here for the Jacks’ 2020 USL Championship Schedule

· Click Here for the Complete Revised 2020 USL Championship Schedule

Every game of the 2020 USL Championship season will air on the ESPN family of networks, with broadcasts on ESPN2, ESPNews, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ bringing all the excitement of the first league in the United States to return to play in home markets directly to homes across the United States.

For live match updates, follow @Independence on Twitter, or tune in as the match will air live on ESPN+.

For a limited time, the entire Charlotte Independence online store is 30% off (discount applied at checkout).  

You can order your own Jack's kit right now by visiting  https://www.shophttps://www.charlotteindependence.com/ before the sale ends next week. 

For a limited time, the entire Charlotte Independence online store is 30% off (discount applied at checkout).  

You can order your own Jack’s kit right now by visiting  https://www.shophttps://www.charlotteindependence.com/ before the sale ends next week. 

CHARLOTTE (August 8, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence opened its campaign at home with a 1-1 draw against the Charleston Battery. Dane Kelly scored as the Independence hosted its first home match at the Sportsplex at Matthews in 294 days. 

"It was much better overall," said Independence head coach Mike Jeffries. "I'm disappointed that we weren’t able to get three points, we had good opportunities and tried to push the game but overall the movement with the ball was much better than a few days ago."

"We obviously did a lot better job defensively, I thought we kept our shape and kept them in front of us and limited chances for them so from that standpoint we were really good."

With the team playing its second game in four days, Jeffries rotated his squad, making two changes to the starting lineup from last game. The match came to life after the half-hour mark as the Independence took the lead in the 38th minute of play when forward Dane Kelly curled a right-footed effort past Battery goalkeeper Phil Breno for the forward’s second goal of the season and 79th in his USL career. 

"It was a relief," said Kelly. "To get that goal it was definitely a confidence booster."

Moments later, the Battery responded well and found an equalizer as a shot from forward Zeiko Lewis deflected off Independence defender Aaron Maund and into the back of the net to level the score for the visitors in the 42nd minute.

The second half saw more of the same, as both teams traded periods of control and offensive chances at both ends of the field. As the match progressed, the Jacks established itself as the dominant force, amassing a 15-13 shot advantage, including 5-3 shots on goal, while limiting the Battery to counter attacks, several of which proved dangerous.

In the 85th minute, Kelly was clear in on goal after beating two Battery defenders at midfield but was taken down from behind at the top of the box by Battery defender Rennico Clarke. For his actions, Clarke received a red card and the Battery were forced to play with ten men for the remainder of the match.  

"We will be frustrated with tonight and then move on," said Jeffries. "The guys will come out with something to prove against a Birmingham [Legion FC] team that beat us pretty handily a week ago." 

With the result tonight and North Carolina FC beating Memphis 901 FC, 1-0, Mike Jeffries' side currently sit in third place in the USL Championship Group G standings.

Next on the Schedule: The Independence will return to Group G play against Birmingham Legion FC on Wednesday, August 12 at 7 p.m. ET at the Sportsplex at Matthews and broadcast live on ESPN+. The match against Legion FC will be the second meeting between the Group G opponents this year.

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

CHARLOTTE (August 8, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence opened its campaign at home with a 1-1 draw against the Charleston Battery. Dane Kelly scored as the Independence hosted its first home match at the Sportsplex at Matthews in 294 days. 

“It was much better overall,” said Independence head coach Mike Jeffries. “I’m disappointed that we weren’t able to get three points, we had good opportunities and tried to push the game but overall the movement with the ball was much better than a few days ago.”

“We obviously did a lot better job defensively, I thought we kept our shape and kept them in front of us and limited chances for them so from that standpoint we were really good.”

With the team playing its second game in four days, Jeffries rotated his squad, making two changes to the starting lineup from last game. The match came to life after the half-hour mark as the Independence took the lead in the 38th minute of play when forward Dane Kelly curled a right-footed effort past Battery goalkeeper Phil Breno for the forward’s second goal of the season and 79th in his USL career. 

“It was a relief,” said Kelly. “To get that goal it was definitely a confidence booster.”

Moments later, the Battery responded well and found an equalizer as a shot from forward Zeiko Lewis deflected off Independence defender Aaron Maund and into the back of the net to level the score for the visitors in the 42nd minute.

The second half saw more of the same, as both teams traded periods of control and offensive chances at both ends of the field. As the match progressed, the Jacks established itself as the dominant force, amassing a 15-13 shot advantage, including 5-3 shots on goal, while limiting the Battery to counter attacks, several of which proved dangerous.

In the 85th minute, Kelly was clear in on goal after beating two Battery defenders at midfield but was taken down from behind at the top of the box by Battery defender Rennico Clarke. For his actions, Clarke received a red card and the Battery were forced to play with ten men for the remainder of the match.  

“We will be frustrated with tonight and then move on,” said Jeffries. “The guys will come out with something to prove against a Birmingham [Legion FC] team that beat us pretty handily a week ago.” 

With the result tonight and North Carolina FC beating Memphis 901 FC, 1-0, Mike Jeffries’ side currently sit in third place in the USL Championship Group G standings.

Next on the Schedule: The Independence will return to Group G play against Birmingham Legion FC on Wednesday, August 12 at 7 p.m. ET at the Sportsplex at Matthews and broadcast live on ESPN+. The match against Legion FC will be the second meeting between the Group G opponents this year.

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

GOAL SCORING RUNDOWN:

CLT – Dane Kelly 38th minute: Independence forward Dane Kelly pounced on a ball on the left wing and dribbled towards the end line. A change of pace took Kelly around a Battery defender and inside the left side of the penalty area where the forward curled a right-footed shot over the head of Battery goalkeeper Phil Breno and into the back of the net. CLT 1, CHS 0

CHS – Own Goal (Charlotte) 42nd minute: Forward Zeiko Lewis received a ball chipped over the top and into the right side of the penalty area. Lewis fired a one-timed shot that deflected off Independence defender Aaron Maund and into the Jacks’ goal. CLT 1, CHS 1

GOAL SCORING RUNDOWN:

CLT – Dane Kelly 38th minute: Independence forward Dane Kelly pounced on a ball on the left wing and dribbled towards the end line. A change of pace took Kelly around a Battery defender and inside the left side of the penalty area where the forward curled a right-footed shot over the head of Battery goalkeeper Phil Breno and into the back of the net. CLT 1, CHS 0

CHS – Own Goal (Charlotte) 42nd minute: Forward Zeiko Lewis received a ball chipped over the top and into the right side of the penalty area. Lewis fired a one-timed shot that deflected off Independence defender Aaron Maund and into the Jacks’ goal. CLT 1, CHS 1

Match: Charlotte Independence vs. Charleston Battery
Date: August 8, 2020
Venue: Sportsplex at Matthews
Competition: USL Championship
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET

Scoring Summary:             1          2          F

CLT                                      1         0         1 

CHS                                    1          0          1

CLT – Dane Kelly                            38th minute

CHS – Own goal (Charlotte)           42nd minute

LINEUPS:

CLT: 33-Brandon Miller; 3-Hugh Roberts; 14-Duke Lacroix; 18-Aaron Maund; 22-Joe Johnson; 4-Jake Areman(15-Luke Haakenson); 11-Valentin Sabella(23- Guido Vadala); 21-Junior Etou; 27-Derek Gebhard(7-Rey Ortiz); 9-Dane Kelly, 19- Enzo Martinez(captain)

Subs Not Used:1-Austin Pack, 17-Clay Dimmick, 20-Oscar Ramsey, 32-Tresor Mbuyu

Head Coach: Mike Jeffries

CHS: 1-Phil Breno; 17-Logan Gdula; 5-Leland Archer(4-Rennico Clarke); 14-Jared Vanschaik(captain); 20-AJ Patterson(2-Jay Bolt); 6-Robbie Crawford; 21-Angelo Kelly(13-Angelo Kelly); 8-Romario Piggott(16-Stavros Zorokostas); 19-Dante Marini(12-Deshawon Nembhard); 10-Zeiko Lewis; 11-Nicque Paley

Subs Not Used: 0-Darian McCauley, 9-Arthur Basua

Head Coach: Michael Anhaeuser

Stats Summary CLT/ CHS:

Shots: 15 / 13

Shots on Goal: 5/ 3

Saves: 3 / 5

Corner Kicks: 5 / 5

Fouls: 10 / 15

Offside: 1/2

Misconduct Summary:
CLT– Junior Etou (caution)                      15th minute

CHS – Rennico Clarke (red card)             85th minute

CLT– Luke Haakenson (caution)               90th minute

Officials:
Referee: Sergii Demianchuk
Assistant Referee 1: Ryan Star
Assistant Referee 2: Eric Wood
Fourth Official: Sara Gaddes

 

Match: Charlotte Independence vs. Charleston Battery
Date: August 8, 2020
Venue: Sportsplex at Matthews
Competition: USL Championship
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET

Scoring Summary:             1          2          F

CLT                                      1         0         1 

CHS                                    1          0          1

CLT – Dane Kelly                            38th minute

CHS – Own goal (Charlotte)           42nd minute

LINEUPS:

CLT: 33-Brandon Miller; 3-Hugh Roberts; 14-Duke Lacroix; 18-Aaron Maund; 22-Joe Johnson; 4-Jake Areman(15-Luke Haakenson); 11-Valentin Sabella(23- Guido Vadala); 21-Junior Etou; 27-Derek Gebhard(7-Rey Ortiz); 9-Dane Kelly, 19- Enzo Martinez(captain)

Subs Not Used:1-Austin Pack, 17-Clay Dimmick, 20-Oscar Ramsey, 32-Tresor Mbuyu

Head Coach: Mike Jeffries

CHS: 1-Phil Breno; 17-Logan Gdula; 5-Leland Archer(4-Rennico Clarke); 14-Jared Vanschaik(captain); 20-AJ Patterson(2-Jay Bolt); 6-Robbie Crawford; 21-Angelo Kelly(13-Angelo Kelly); 8-Romario Piggott(16-Stavros Zorokostas); 19-Dante Marini(12-Deshawon Nembhard); 10-Zeiko Lewis; 11-Nicque Paley

Subs Not Used: 0-Darian McCauley, 9-Arthur Basua

Head Coach: Michael Anhaeuser

Stats Summary CLT/ CHS:

Shots: 15 / 13

Shots on Goal: 5/ 3

Saves: 3 / 5

Corner Kicks: 5 / 5

Fouls: 10 / 15

Offside: 1/2

Misconduct Summary:
CLT– Junior Etou (caution)                      15th minute

CHS – Rennico Clarke (red card)             85th minute

CLT– Luke Haakenson (caution)               90th minute

Officials:
Referee: Sergii Demianchuk
Assistant Referee 1: Ryan Star
Assistant Referee 2: Eric Wood
Fourth Official: Sara Gaddes

 

CHARLOTTE (August 8, 2020) – Independence head coach  Mike Jeffries speaks to https://www.charlotteindependence.com ahead of the Jacks' Southern Derby clash against the Charleston Battery. Jeffries details the Jacks' key points to the game, presented by Harris Teeter. 

CHARLOTTE (August 8, 2020) – Independence head coach  Mike Jeffries speaks to https://www.charlotteindependence.com ahead of the Jacks’ Southern Derby clash against the Charleston Battery. Jeffries details the Jacks’ key points to the game, presented by Harris Teeter. 

BIRMINGHAM (August 5, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence dropped points for the first time this season in a 4-1 defeat to Birmingham Legion FC in USL Championship, Group G play at BBVA Compass Field. Neco Brett, Bruno Lapa and Brian Wright scored for the home side to give Birmingham a cushion atop Group G before the two sides meet again later this month at the Sportsplex at Matthews.

Legion FC held the better of attack in the early going, scoring two times in the first 15 minutes of the match through Dean and Brett. After the goals, the Independence and Legion FC traded chances throughout the remainder of the first-half with forwards Dane Kelly and Enzo Martinez creating opportunities for the Jacks, while Lapa looked dangerous for the home side.

Trailing 2-0, Independence head coach Mike Jeffries turned to his bench, bringing on Rey Ortiz for Guido Vadala at the start of the second half. However, it was Legion FC that scored the third goal of the match as Lapa connected on a pass by Dean at the top of the box and rocketed his shot past Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller in the 52nd minute.

While the Independence found some dangerous moments in transition, the team struggled to threaten inside the Birmingham box. Legion FC didn’t back down and added to its lead in the 66th minute as Brett scored his second of the evening.

The Jacks capped the scoring – a well-taken penalty kick conversion by Martinez – in the 76th minute. The goal was the first of the campaign for Martinez.

The two Group G opponents will meet again in a week as the Independence host Legion FC on Wednesday, August 12th at the Sportsplex at Matthews.

Next on the Schedule: The Independence will host the Charleston Battery on Saturday, August 8th at 7 p.m. ET at the Sportsplex at Matthews and broadcast live on ESPN+. The match against the Battery will be the Independence’s first home game in 294 days. 

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

BIRMINGHAM (August 5, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence dropped points for the first time this season in a 4-1 defeat to Birmingham Legion FC in USL Championship, Group G play at BBVA Compass Field. Neco Brett, Bruno Lapa and Brian Wright scored for the home side to give Birmingham a cushion atop Group G before the two sides meet again later this month at the Sportsplex at Matthews.

Legion FC held the better of attack in the early going, scoring two times in the first 15 minutes of the match through Dean and Brett. After the goals, the Independence and Legion FC traded chances throughout the remainder of the first-half with forwards Dane Kelly and Enzo Martinez creating opportunities for the Jacks, while Lapa looked dangerous for the home side.

Trailing 2-0, Independence head coach Mike Jeffries turned to his bench, bringing on Rey Ortiz for Guido Vadala at the start of the second half. However, it was Legion FC that scored the third goal of the match as Lapa connected on a pass by Dean at the top of the box and rocketed his shot past Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller in the 52nd minute.

While the Independence found some dangerous moments in transition, the team struggled to threaten inside the Birmingham box. Legion FC didn’t back down and added to its lead in the 66th minute as Brett scored his second of the evening.

The Jacks capped the scoring – a well-taken penalty kick conversion by Martinez – in the 76th minute. The goal was the first of the campaign for Martinez.

The two Group G opponents will meet again in a week as the Independence host Legion FC on Wednesday, August 12th at the Sportsplex at Matthews.

Next on the Schedule: The Independence will host the Charleston Battery on Saturday, August 8th at 7 p.m. ET at the Sportsplex at Matthews and broadcast live on ESPN+. The match against the Battery will be the Independence’s first home game in 294 days. 

Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Match: Charlotte Independence at Birmingham Legion FC
Date: August 5, 2020
Venue: BBVA Compass Field
Competition: USL Championship – Group G
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. local/8:00 p.m. ET

Scoring Summary:             1          2          F

CLT                                      0          1          1 

BHM                                    2          2          4

BHM – Jonny Dean                5th minute
BHM – Neco Brett                 11th minute
BHM – Bruno Lapa (Dean)    52nd minute
BHM – Neco Brett (Wright)   66th minute
CLT – Enzo Martinez            76th minute

LINEUPS:

CLT: 33-Brandon Miller; 22-Joel Johnson (17-Clay Dimick), 18-Aaron Maund, 3-Hugh Roberts; 21-Junior Etou (4-Jake Areman), 15-Luke Haakenson, 27-Derek Gebhard (11-Valentin Sabella), 23- Guido Vadala (7-Rey Ortiz,),19-Enzo Martinez (Capt.), 9-Dane Kelly (32-Tresor Mbuyu)

Subs Not Used: 1-Austin Pack, 20-Oscar Ramsay

Head Coach: Mike Jeffries

BHM: 1-Matt Vanoekel (Capt.); 5-Mikey Lopez (10-Prosper Kasim), 6-Anderson Asiedu, 7-Brian Wright (17- Jaden Servania), 8-Bruno Lapa (20-Braxton Najib), 11-Neco Brett (14- Rudolf Mensah), 12-Eli Crognale, 13-Jake Rufe, 16-Daigo Kobayashi (2-Marcos Ugarte), 21-Alex Crognale, 24-Jonathan Dean

Subs Not Used: 18-Trevor Spangenberg

Head Coach: Tommy Soehn 

Stats Summary CLT/ BHM:

Shots: 0 / 13

Shots on Goal: 0/ 8

Saves: 4 / 0

Corner Kicks: 0 / 3

Fouls: 4 / 14

Offside: 1/ 2

Misconduct Summary:
CLT – Guido Vadala (caution)           29th minute

Officials:
Referee: Matt Thompson
Assistant Referee 1: Ryan Star
Assistant Referee 2: Eric Wood
Fourth Official: Sara Gaddes

 

 

Match: Charlotte Independence at Birmingham Legion FC
Date: August 5, 2020
Venue: BBVA Compass Field
Competition: USL Championship – Group G
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. local/8:00 p.m. ET

Scoring Summary:             1          2          F

CLT                                      0          1          1 

BHM                                    2          2          4

BHM – Jonny Dean                5th minute
BHM – Neco Brett                 11th minute
BHM – Bruno Lapa (Dean)    52nd minute
BHM – Neco Brett (Wright)   66th minute
CLT – Enzo Martinez            76th minute

LINEUPS:

CLT: 33-Brandon Miller; 22-Joel Johnson (17-Clay Dimick), 18-Aaron Maund, 3-Hugh Roberts; 21-Junior Etou (4-Jake Areman), 15-Luke Haakenson, 27-Derek Gebhard (11-Valentin Sabella), 23- Guido Vadala (7-Rey Ortiz,),19-Enzo Martinez (Capt.), 9-Dane Kelly (32-Tresor Mbuyu)

Subs Not Used: 1-Austin Pack, 20-Oscar Ramsay

Head Coach: Mike Jeffries

BHM: 1-Matt Vanoekel (Capt.); 5-Mikey Lopez (10-Prosper Kasim), 6-Anderson Asiedu, 7-Brian Wright (17- Jaden Servania), 8-Bruno Lapa (20-Braxton Najib), 11-Neco Brett (14- Rudolf Mensah), 12-Eli Crognale, 13-Jake Rufe, 16-Daigo Kobayashi (2-Marcos Ugarte), 21-Alex Crognale, 24-Jonathan Dean

Subs Not Used: 18-Trevor Spangenberg

Head Coach: Tommy Soehn 

Stats Summary CLT/ BHM:

Shots: 0 / 13

Shots on Goal: 0/ 8

Saves: 4 / 0

Corner Kicks: 0 / 3

Fouls: 4 / 14

Offside: 1/ 2

Misconduct Summary:
CLT – Guido Vadala (caution)           29th minute

Officials:
Referee: Matt Thompson
Assistant Referee 1: Ryan Star
Assistant Referee 2: Eric Wood
Fourth Official: Sara Gaddes

 

 

CHARLOTTE (August 3, 2020) – The Independence travel to Birmingham Legion FC in their second Group G game of the season on Wednesday night.

Check in on the Jacks' build-up for the encounter in our latest gallery from the training ground…

Photos by Adam Cosgrove

CHARLOTTE (August 3, 2020) – The Independence travel to Birmingham Legion FC in their second Group G game of the season on Wednesday night.

Check in on the Jacks’ build-up for the encounter in our latest gallery from the training ground…

Photos by Adam Cosgrove

CHARLOTTE (July 31, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence are excited to be hosting the Charleston Battery on August 8 and Birmingham Legion FC on August 12. The games will take place at our home stadium, the Sportsplex at Matthews, but will be played without fans in the stands in the best interest of our fans, players and club staff.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the overriding priority of both the Club and the USL has been the health and wellbeing of everyone involved. We are hopeful that fans will be allowed back at games later this season if North Carolina continues to progress in its fight against Covid-19.

Although it is disappointing not to have fans at our first home games of the season, let us not forget what is truly important – beating this virus.

Strict protocols have been put in place to ensure that the Sportsplex at Matthews is as safe as possible for everybody present. These protocols include safety measures for fans when the governor and the county allow for fans to be present.

The Independence would like to thank our partners at Novant Health as well as all our community leaders, advocates, medical staff and volunteers that help on the front lines in our battle against Covid-19.

The Jacks’ first home of the season against the Charleston Battery on Saturday, August 8th at the Sportsplex at Matthews, will be presented by Chick-fil-A and broadcast live on ESPN+ at 7 p.m. The following match against Birmingham Legion FC on Wednesday, August 12th at the Sportsplex at Matthews, will be presented by Accuvision Eye Care and broadcast live on ESPN+ at 7 p.m.

· Click Here for the Jacks' 2020 USL Championship Schedule

· Charlotte Independence Comes From Behind Twice to Earn a 2-2 Draw on the Road vs Memphis 901 FC

UPDATED SCHEDULE

August

Wednesday 5 – Birmingham Legion FC (A)
Saturday 8 – Charleston Battery (H)
Wednesday 12 – Birmingham Legion FC (H)
Saturday 15 – Memphis 901 FC (H)
Sunday 23 – Miami FC (A)
Wednesday 26 – North Carolina FC (H)
Saturday 29 – Birmingham Legion FC (H)

September

Wednesday 2 – Memphis 901 FC (A)
Saturday 5 – North Carolina FC (H)
Saturday 12 – Birmingham Legion FC (A)
Saturday 19 – North Carolina FC (A)
Wednesday 23 – Miami FC (H)
Saturday 26 – Memphis 901 FC (H)
Wednesday 30 – North Carolina FC (A)

CHARLOTTE (July 31, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence are excited to be hosting the Charleston Battery on August 8 and Birmingham Legion FC on August 12. The games will take place at our home stadium, the Sportsplex at Matthews, but will be played without fans in the stands in the best interest of our fans, players and club staff.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the overriding priority of both the Club and the USL has been the health and wellbeing of everyone involved. We are hopeful that fans will be allowed back at games later this season if North Carolina continues to progress in its fight against Covid-19.

Although it is disappointing not to have fans at our first home games of the season, let us not forget what is truly important – beating this virus.

Strict protocols have been put in place to ensure that the Sportsplex at Matthews is as safe as possible for everybody present. These protocols include safety measures for fans when the governor and the county allow for fans to be present.

The Independence would like to thank our partners at Novant Health as well as all our community leaders, advocates, medical staff and volunteers that help on the front lines in our battle against Covid-19.

The Jacks’ first home of the season against the Charleston Battery on Saturday, August 8th at the Sportsplex at Matthews, will be presented by Chick-fil-A and broadcast live on ESPN+ at 7 p.m. The following match against Birmingham Legion FC on Wednesday, August 12th at the Sportsplex at Matthews, will be presented by Accuvision Eye Care and broadcast live on ESPN+ at 7 p.m.

· Click Here for the Jacks’ 2020 USL Championship Schedule

· Charlotte Independence Comes From Behind Twice to Earn a 2-2 Draw on the Road vs Memphis 901 FC

UPDATED SCHEDULE

August

Wednesday 5 – Birmingham Legion FC (A)
Saturday 8 – Charleston Battery (H)
Wednesday 12 – Birmingham Legion FC (H)
Saturday 15 – Memphis 901 FC (H)
Sunday 23 – Miami FC (A)
Wednesday 26 – North Carolina FC (H)
Saturday 29 – Birmingham Legion FC (H)

September

Wednesday 2 – Memphis 901 FC (A)
Saturday 5 – North Carolina FC (H)
Saturday 12 – Birmingham Legion FC (A)
Saturday 19 – North Carolina FC (A)
Wednesday 23 – Miami FC (H)
Saturday 26 – Memphis 901 FC (H)
Wednesday 30 – North Carolina FC (A)