CHARLESTON, SC – Two playoff bound teams meet Saturday night as the Charleston Battery takes on Eastern Conference rivals Rochester Rhinos at MUSC Health Stadium.
Both Charleston and Rochester clinched playoff berths on Wednesday night. The Battery traveled back to Richmond for a make-up match with the Kickers. Justin Portillo’s 68th minute equalizer sealed a top eight finish for Charleston.
The Rhinos advanced to the playoffs despite being idle Wednesday night. Wilmington and Bethlehem both failed to win, ensuring a playoff spot for Rochester.
In their last match, the Rhinos earned a dramatic draw on the road against the Hammerheads. Wal Fall’s 93rd minute header cancelled out what looked to be a Wilmington stoppage time winner, allowing Rochester to escape with a point.
Charleston has only lost one match in its previous twelve, amassing a 5-1-6 record over that run. The stretch of games included matches against all eight teams currently in the playoffs. The Battery regained its form at home last Saturday, beating the Charlotte Independence, 1-0, in a pivotal Eastern Conference match.
With five of the top eight teams separated by just three points in the table, Saturday’s match has implications on playoff positioning. The Battery have a point advantage and a game in hand on Rochester, giving the hosts the edge. The tight table means both Charleston and Rochester can still earn a top four finish and a first round home game despite being in sixth and seventh place heading into the match.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 pm, gates open at 6:00 pm. The match can be live streamed via the USL Match Center.
