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Charlotte Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries spoke to https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence following the club's 1-0 win over North Carolina FC in the final game of the 2020 USL Championship regular season.
Charlotte Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries spoke to https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence following the club’s 1-0 win over North Carolina FC in the final game of the 2020 USL Championship regular season.
CHARLOTTE (Oct. 3, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence earned a spot in the 2020 USL Championship playoffs and a late, dramatic 1-0 victory on the road against North Carolina FC on Saturday, courtesy of a goal from Valentin Sabella four minutes into second half stoppage time. The triumph clinched the Jacks’ third appearance in postseason play and first since 2017.
In Saturday night’s other Group G match, Memphis 901 FC beat Birmingham Legion FC 3-1, leaving the Jacks three points clear of Legion FC. With the win tonight and Birmingham’s loss to Memphis, the Independence finish USL Championship Group G play in first place with a record of 8-4-4 (28 points) and are now guaranteed to host at least one playoff game at the Sportsplex at Matthews.
“What a great year it has been for us,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “The game unfolded exactly how I thought it would unfold, especially in the second half with them throwing everything at us. We did a great job of weathering those storms and the guys came up with some unbelievable plays.”
“I can’t say enough about the courage, fight, and grit that we showed tonight to hang in there and get the result.”
Jeffries made three changes to the starting lineup that lost to Memphis 901 FC on September 26, as Clay Dimick replaced Joel Johnson in the backline and Rey Ortiz and Luke Haakenson stepped back into the midfielder. The full XI: Brandon Miller, Clay Dimick, Duke Lacroix, Hugh Roberts, Aaron Maund, Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Rey Ortiz, Luke Haakenson, and Dane Kelly.
After a scoreless first half, both sides threw numbers forward in transition, looking to exploit space in behind. That strategy nearly paid off in the 68th minute as Kelly danced past a defender in the box and got a clean look at goal, only to send his header over the crossbar.
With the fixture heading late into stoppage time and seeming destined for a draw, Sabella would send the Jacks into bedlam and into the playoffs, capitalizing on an Independence counterattack and a pass from Kelly in midfield. The winger raced past the NCFC backline and powered the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper, securing three massive points on the road.
Next on the Schedule: The Independence will face the Charleston Battery at the Sportsplex at Matthews in the first round of the 2020 USL Championship playoffs. This will be the Jacks' first-ever home playoff match, with the date and time still to be determined.
CHARLOTTE (Oct. 3, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence earned a spot in the 2020 USL Championship playoffs and a late, dramatic 1-0 victory on the road against North Carolina FC on Saturday, courtesy of a goal from Valentin Sabella four minutes into second half stoppage time. The triumph clinched the Jacks’ third appearance in postseason play and first since 2017.
In Saturday night’s other Group G match, Memphis 901 FC beat Birmingham Legion FC 3-1, leaving the Jacks three points clear of Legion FC. With the win tonight and Birmingham’s loss to Memphis, the Independence finish USL Championship Group G play in first place with a record of 8-4-4 (28 points) and are now guaranteed to host at least one playoff game at the Sportsplex at Matthews.
“What a great year it has been for us,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “The game unfolded exactly how I thought it would unfold, especially in the second half with them throwing everything at us. We did a great job of weathering those storms and the guys came up with some unbelievable plays.”
“I can’t say enough about the courage, fight, and grit that we showed tonight to hang in there and get the result.”
Jeffries made three changes to the starting lineup that lost to Memphis 901 FC on September 26, as Clay Dimick replaced Joel Johnson in the backline and Rey Ortiz and Luke Haakenson stepped back into the midfielder. The full XI: Brandon Miller, Clay Dimick, Duke Lacroix, Hugh Roberts, Aaron Maund, Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Rey Ortiz, Luke Haakenson, and Dane Kelly.
After a scoreless first half, both sides threw numbers forward in transition, looking to exploit space in behind. That strategy nearly paid off in the 68th minute as Kelly danced past a defender in the box and got a clean look at goal, only to send his header over the crossbar.
With the fixture heading late into stoppage time and seeming destined for a draw, Sabella would send the Jacks into bedlam and into the playoffs, capitalizing on an Independence counterattack and a pass from Kelly in midfield. The winger raced past the NCFC backline and powered the ball over the onrushing goalkeeper, securing three massive points on the road.
Next on the Schedule: The Independence will face the Charleston Battery at the Sportsplex at Matthews in the first round of the 2020 USL Championship playoffs. This will be the Jacks’ first-ever home playoff match, with the date and time still to be determined.
GOAL SCORING RUNDOWN:
CLT – Valentin Sabella (Dane Kelly), 90+4 minute: Off of a counterattack, Dane Kelly picked out a pinpoint cross to the top of the box to an unmarked Valentin Sabella. From just outside the top of the six-yard box, the winger took one touch and sent a powerful right-footed shot into the top right corner for the game-winning goal. CLT 1, NC 0
Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
CLT 0 1 1
NC 0 0 0
CLT – Valentin Sabella (Dane Kelly) 90+4 minute
LINEUPS:
CLT: 33-Brandon Miller; 17-Clay Dimick,18-Aaron Maund (22-Joel Johnson, 12’), 3-Hugh Roberts, 14-Duke Lacroix, 4-Jake Areman, 7-Rey Ortiz (27-Derek Gebhard, 73’), 15-Luke Haakenson (11-Valentin Sabella, 73’), 21-Junior Etou, 19-Enzo Martinez(captain), 9-Dane Kelly
Subs Not Used: 1-Austin Pack, 20-Oscar Ramsay, 23-Guido Vadala, 90-Christian Chaney
Head Coach: Mike Jeffries
NC: 1-Alex Tambakis; 30-Akeem Ward, 4-Alex Comsia, 20-Conor Donovan, 27-D.J. Taylor, 7-Pecka (21-Daniele Proch, 81’), 16-Graham Smith (10-Nazmi Albadawi, 81’), 17-Ben Speas (captain) (92-Hadji Barry,55’), 8-Andre Fortune, 2-Manny Perez, 9-Marios Lomis (11-Robbie Kristo, 55')
Subs Not Used: 24-Paolo Pita, 5-Sam Brotherton, 15-Malick Mbaye,31-Steven Miller
Head Coach: Dave Sarachan
Stats Summary CLT/ NC:
Shots: 8 / 12
Shots on Goal: 2 / 4
Saves: 4 / 2
Corner Kicks: 3 / 3
Fouls: 15 / 12
Offside: 3 / 0
Misconduct Summary:
CLT – Luke Haakenson (caution) 45+ 1 minute
CLT – Dane Kelly (caution) 88th minute
CLT – Derek Gebhard (caution) 90+1 minute
CLT – Valentin Sabella(caution) 90+5 minute
GOAL SCORING RUNDOWN:
CLT – Valentin Sabella (Dane Kelly), 90+4 minute: Off of a counterattack, Dane Kelly picked out a pinpoint cross to the top of the box to an unmarked Valentin Sabella. From just outside the top of the six-yard box, the winger took one touch and sent a powerful right-footed shot into the top right corner for the game-winning goal. CLT 1, NC 0
Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
CLT 0 1 1
NC 0 0 0
CLT – Valentin Sabella (Dane Kelly) 90+4 minute
LINEUPS:
CLT: 33-Brandon Miller; 17-Clay Dimick,18-Aaron Maund (22-Joel Johnson, 12’), 3-Hugh Roberts, 14-Duke Lacroix, 4-Jake Areman, 7-Rey Ortiz (27-Derek Gebhard, 73’), 15-Luke Haakenson (11-Valentin Sabella, 73’), 21-Junior Etou, 19-Enzo Martinez(captain), 9-Dane Kelly
Subs Not Used: 1-Austin Pack, 20-Oscar Ramsay, 23-Guido Vadala, 90-Christian Chaney
Head Coach: Mike Jeffries
NC: 1-Alex Tambakis; 30-Akeem Ward, 4-Alex Comsia, 20-Conor Donovan, 27-D.J. Taylor, 7-Pecka (21-Daniele Proch, 81’), 16-Graham Smith (10-Nazmi Albadawi, 81’), 17-Ben Speas (captain) (92-Hadji Barry,55’), 8-Andre Fortune, 2-Manny Perez, 9-Marios Lomis (11-Robbie Kristo, 55′)
Subs Not Used: 24-Paolo Pita, 5-Sam Brotherton, 15-Malick Mbaye,31-Steven Miller
Head Coach: Dave Sarachan
Stats Summary CLT/ NC:
Shots: 8 / 12
Shots on Goal: 2 / 4
Saves: 4 / 2
Corner Kicks: 3 / 3
Fouls: 15 / 12
Offside: 3 / 0
Misconduct Summary:
CLT – Luke Haakenson (caution) 45+ 1 minute
CLT – Dane Kelly (caution) 88th minute
CLT – Derek Gebhard (caution) 90+1 minute
CLT – Valentin Sabella(caution) 90+5 minute
The Charlotte Independence are taking on North Carolina FC at Sahlen’s Stadium, WakeMed Soccer Park (7:00 p.m. ET; ESPN+) in their final game of the 2020 USL Championship season. Here is the Adidas Starting XI:
The Charlotte Independence are taking on North Carolina FC at Sahlen’s Stadium, WakeMed Soccer Park (7:00 p.m. ET; ESPN+) in their final game of the 2020 USL Championship season. Here is the Adidas Starting XI:
Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries makes three alterations to the starting lineup that lost to Memphis 901 FC on September 26, with Clay Dimick replacing Joel Johnson, and Rey Ortiz and Luke Haakenson returning to the attack.
Charlotte: Miller, Dimick, Roberts, Maund, Lacroix, Areman, Etou, Martinez, Haakenson, Ortiz, Kelly
Subs: Pack, Johnson, Ramsay, Sabella, Vadala, Gebhard, Chaney
Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries makes three alterations to the starting lineup that lost to Memphis 901 FC on September 26, with Clay Dimick replacing Joel Johnson, and Rey Ortiz and Luke Haakenson returning to the attack.
Charlotte: Miller, Dimick, Roberts, Maund, Lacroix, Areman, Etou, Martinez, Haakenson, Ortiz, Kelly
Subs: Pack, Johnson, Ramsay, Sabella, Vadala, Gebhard, Chaney
Charlotte Independence vs. North Carolina FC
2020 USL Championship – Group G
Sahlen’s Stadium, WakeMed Soccer Park; Cary, N.C.
7 p.m. ET (ESPN+)
October 3, 2020
Charlotte Independence vs. North Carolina FC
2020 USL Championship – Group G
Sahlen’s Stadium, WakeMed Soccer Park; Cary, N.C.
7 p.m. ET (ESPN+)
October 3, 2020
CHARLOTTE (Oct. 2, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence face North Carolina FC at Sahlen’s Stadium, WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. ET and broadcast live on ESPN+. The meeting will be the final match for the Jacks in the 2020 USL Championship regular-season.
WATCH – Saturday, 7 p.m. ET: Watch NCvCLT live on ESPN+
"For us, playoff mentality starts early," said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. "We know what we have to do coming into the game and we know that they are going to come out firing knowing that they need a win."
"The guys are excited and ready for the game."
CHARLOTTE (Oct. 2, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence face North Carolina FC at Sahlen’s Stadium, WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 7 p.m. ET and broadcast live on ESPN+. The meeting will be the final match for the Jacks in the 2020 USL Championship regular-season.
WATCH – Saturday, 7 p.m. ET: Watch NCvCLT live on ESPN+
“For us, playoff mentality starts early,” said Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries. “We know what we have to do coming into the game and we know that they are going to come out firing knowing that they need a win.”
“The guys are excited and ready for the game.”
On Saturday night, the Independence have a chance to secure a third postseason berth. Listed below is a scenario that would see the Jacks clinch a spot in the 2020 USL Championship playoffs.
The Independence will clinch a playoffs berth with:
The Independence (7-4-4; 25 points) are tied with Birmingham Legion FC (7-4-4; 25 points) atop the Group G standings, followed by North Carolina FC (6-7-1; 19 points) and Memphis 901 FC (3-7-4; 13 points).
In their last match, the Jacks fell 3-1 to Memphis 901 FC at the Sportsplex at Matthews. Dane Kelly scored the lone goal for the Jacks, his 11th of the season and 88th of his Championship career.
"Dane’s success this past month is a reflection of his commitment to excellence," said Jeffries. "He works hard daily to improve his play in front of goal and spends extra time each day taking care of his body to maintain fitness and sharpness."
North Carolina FC face the Jacks after defeating the New York Red Bulls II in Richmond, VA on Wednesday night, 3-0. Dave Sarachan's side currently sit in third place in the Group G standings and must defeat the Independence to keep their USL playoff chances alive.
"It will certainly be a challenge for us as we try to move the ball and break them down," continued Jeffries. "They have managed to get goals early in games lately and have put themselves in a position to play ahead which is something we will need to prevent."
On Saturday night, the Independence have a chance to secure a third postseason berth. Listed below is a scenario that would see the Jacks clinch a spot in the 2020 USL Championship playoffs.
The Independence will clinch a playoffs berth with:
The Independence (7-4-4; 25 points) are tied with Birmingham Legion FC (7-4-4; 25 points) atop the Group G standings, followed by North Carolina FC (6-7-1; 19 points) and Memphis 901 FC (3-7-4; 13 points).
In their last match, the Jacks fell 3-1 to Memphis 901 FC at the Sportsplex at Matthews. Dane Kelly scored the lone goal for the Jacks, his 11th of the season and 88th of his Championship career.
“Dane’s success this past month is a reflection of his commitment to excellence,” said Jeffries. “He works hard daily to improve his play in front of goal and spends extra time each day taking care of his body to maintain fitness and sharpness.”
North Carolina FC face the Jacks after defeating the New York Red Bulls II in Richmond, VA on Wednesday night, 3-0. Dave Sarachan’s side currently sit in third place in the Group G standings and must defeat the Independence to keep their USL playoff chances alive.
“It will certainly be a challenge for us as we try to move the ball and break them down,” continued Jeffries. “They have managed to get goals early in games lately and have put themselves in a position to play ahead which is something we will need to prevent.”
LAST TIME THEY MET: Charlotte and North Carolina FC most recently met last month on Saturday, Sept. 19 as the Independence won its seventh game and fourth in a row by defeating North Carolina FC, 1-0, at Sahlen’s Stadium, WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, N.C. The win marked the first time in franchise history that the Jacks claimed all three points on the road against North Carolina FC.
Aaron Maund tallied his first goal of the season for the Jacks and Jake Areman recorded an assist for the second straight game. Goalkeeper Brandon Miller and the Independence backline earned their third shutout of the 2020 USL Championship season.
After a scoreless first half, the Independence’s breakthrough came in the 51st minute when Maund scored his first goal of the season on a hard-working play in the box where he headed home a cross off of a set piece by Areman.
LAST TIME OUT: The Independence fell 3-1 to Memphis 901 FC at the Sportsplex at Matthews in its penultimate match of the 2020 USL Championship regular season. An opening goal by Independence forward Dane Kelly was canceled out by an incredible strike from Jose Baxter in the 41st minute. Moments later, Memphis 901 FC took the lead via Cal Jennings, assisted by Leston Paul, as the forward split Charlotte’s defense on a through pass and tucked the ball into the bottom right corner. In the second half, Memphis continued to push forward and press high and Jennings scored his second goal of the match in the 86th minute.
SERIES HISTORY (W-L-D)
Independence Record vs. North Carolina FC: (3-4-1)
Independence Home Record vs. North Carolina FC: (2-3-0)
Independence Away Record vs. North Carolina FC: (1-1-1)
STATISTICAL SNAPSHOT
CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE
Leading Scorer(s): Dane Kelly (11)
Assist Leader(s): Jake Areman (4)
Goals Per Game: 1.53
Saves Per Game: 3.8
Goals Against Average: 1.5
Shots on Target Per Game: 4.93
NORTH CAROLINA FC
Leading Scorer(s): Andre Fortune (6)
Assist Leader(s): Pecka, Speas, Taylor (2)
Goals Per Game: 1.21
Saves Per Game: 2.71
Goals Against Average: 1.4
Shots on Target Per Game: 3.5
LAST TIME THEY MET: Charlotte and North Carolina FC most recently met last month on Saturday, Sept. 19 as the Independence won its seventh game and fourth in a row by defeating North Carolina FC, 1-0, at Sahlen’s Stadium, WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, N.C. The win marked the first time in franchise history that the Jacks claimed all three points on the road against North Carolina FC.
Aaron Maund tallied his first goal of the season for the Jacks and Jake Areman recorded an assist for the second straight game. Goalkeeper Brandon Miller and the Independence backline earned their third shutout of the 2020 USL Championship season.
After a scoreless first half, the Independence’s breakthrough came in the 51st minute when Maund scored his first goal of the season on a hard-working play in the box where he headed home a cross off of a set piece by Areman.
LAST TIME OUT: The Independence fell 3-1 to Memphis 901 FC at the Sportsplex at Matthews in its penultimate match of the 2020 USL Championship regular season. An opening goal by Independence forward Dane Kelly was canceled out by an incredible strike from Jose Baxter in the 41st minute. Moments later, Memphis 901 FC took the lead via Cal Jennings, assisted by Leston Paul, as the forward split Charlotte’s defense on a through pass and tucked the ball into the bottom right corner. In the second half, Memphis continued to push forward and press high and Jennings scored his second goal of the match in the 86th minute.
SERIES HISTORY (W-L-D)
Independence Record vs. North Carolina FC: (3-4-1)
Independence Home Record vs. North Carolina FC: (2-3-0)
Independence Away Record vs. North Carolina FC: (1-1-1)
STATISTICAL SNAPSHOT
CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE
Leading Scorer(s): Dane Kelly (11)
Assist Leader(s): Jake Areman (4)
Goals Per Game: 1.53
Saves Per Game: 3.8
Goals Against Average: 1.5
Shots on Target Per Game: 4.93
NORTH CAROLINA FC
Leading Scorer(s): Andre Fortune (6)
Assist Leader(s): Pecka, Speas, Taylor (2)
Goals Per Game: 1.21
Saves Per Game: 2.71
Goals Against Average: 1.4
Shots on Target Per Game: 3.5
– Eight players have scored for the Independence in the 2020 USL Championship season: Dane Kelly (11), Luke Haakenson (3), Derek Gebhard, Enzo Martinez (2), Jake Areman, Aaron Maund, Rey Ortiz, Valentin Sabella (1)
– After reaching double-digit goals this season (11), Kelly has reached double-digit goals in a season for the sixth time in his career, the most of any player in the Championship’s history.
– With his hat trick against North Carolina FC, Kelly now holds the record with the most hat tricks in league history (4).
– Nine players have recorded at least one assist for the Independence this year: Areman (4), Joel Johnson, (3), Aaron Maund, Haakenson, (2), Guido Vadala, Gebhard, Kelly, Martinez, Sabella (1)
– Seven players have recorded a goal and an assist for the Jacks this season: Areman, Gebhard, Haakenson, Kelly, Martinez, Maund, Sabella
– Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller's 57 saves is ranked first in the Championship this season.
– Miller became the fifth player in the Championship’s history to record 35 regular season shutouts. He has four total this season and 37 in his career.
– Martinez, Miller, Duke Lacroix, and Hugh Roberts are the only players to play all 1,350 minutes for the Jacks this season thus far.
– Eight players have scored for the Independence in the 2020 USL Championship season: Dane Kelly (11), Luke Haakenson (3), Derek Gebhard, Enzo Martinez (2), Jake Areman, Aaron Maund, Rey Ortiz, Valentin Sabella (1)
– After reaching double-digit goals this season (11), Kelly has reached double-digit goals in a season for the sixth time in his career, the most of any player in the Championship’s history.
– With his hat trick against North Carolina FC, Kelly now holds the record with the most hat tricks in league history (4).
– Nine players have recorded at least one assist for the Independence this year: Areman (4), Joel Johnson, (3), Aaron Maund, Haakenson, (2), Guido Vadala, Gebhard, Kelly, Martinez, Sabella (1)
– Seven players have recorded a goal and an assist for the Jacks this season: Areman, Gebhard, Haakenson, Kelly, Martinez, Maund, Sabella
– Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller’s 57 saves is ranked first in the Championship this season.
– Miller became the fifth player in the Championship’s history to record 35 regular season shutouts. He has four total this season and 37 in his career.
– Martinez, Miller, Duke Lacroix, and Hugh Roberts are the only players to play all 1,350 minutes for the Jacks this season thus far.
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, Randy Mendoza, Dylan Mitchiner, Joel Johnson, Hugh Roberts, Joey Skinner
MIDFIELDERS: Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Derek Gebhard, Kevan George, Luke Haakenson, Rey Ortiz, Valentin Sabella, Oscar Ramsay
FORWARDS: Christian Chaney, Enzo Martinez, Tresor Mbuyu, Dane Kelly, Guido Valada
2020 NORTH CAROLINA FC USL CHAMPIONSHIP ROSTER BY POSITION
GOALKEEPERS: Alex Tambakis, Paulo Pita, Trace Alphin, Nicholas Holliday
DEFENDERS: Alex Comsia, Sam Brotherton, Malick Mbaye, Conor Donovan, D.J. Taylor, Akeem Ward
MIDFIELDERS: Manny Perez, Pecka, Andre Fortune, Nazmi Albadawi, Ben Speas, Steven Miller, Shane De Leon, Luke Hille
FORWARDS: Marios Lomis, Robert Kristo, Daniele Proch, Hadji Barry
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, Randy Mendoza, Dylan Mitchiner, Joel Johnson, Hugh Roberts, Joey Skinner
MIDFIELDERS: Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Derek Gebhard, Kevan George, Luke Haakenson, Rey Ortiz, Valentin Sabella, Oscar Ramsay
FORWARDS: Christian Chaney, Enzo Martinez, Tresor Mbuyu, Dane Kelly, Guido Valada
2020 NORTH CAROLINA FC USL CHAMPIONSHIP ROSTER BY POSITION
GOALKEEPERS: Alex Tambakis, Paulo Pita, Trace Alphin, Nicholas Holliday
DEFENDERS: Alex Comsia, Sam Brotherton, Malick Mbaye, Conor Donovan, D.J. Taylor, Akeem Ward
MIDFIELDERS: Manny Perez, Pecka, Andre Fortune, Nazmi Albadawi, Ben Speas, Steven Miller, Shane De Leon, Luke Hille
FORWARDS: Marios Lomis, Robert Kristo, Daniele Proch, Hadji Barry
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+.
CHARLOTTE (Sept. 30, 2020) – On Wednesday night, the Charlotte Independence have a chance to secure a third postseason berth. Listed below is a scenario that would see the Jacks clinch a spot in the 2020 USL Championship playoffs.
The Independence will clinch a playoffs berth if:
The Independence (7-4-4; 25 points) are tied with Birmingham Legion FC (7-4-4; 25 points) atop the Group G standings, followed by North Carolina FC (5-7-1; 16 points) and Memphis 901 FC (3-7-4; 13 points).
CHARLOTTE (Sept. 30, 2020) – On Wednesday night, the Charlotte Independence have a chance to secure a third postseason berth. Listed below is a scenario that would see the Jacks clinch a spot in the 2020 USL Championship playoffs.
The Independence will clinch a playoffs berth if:
The Independence (7-4-4; 25 points) are tied with Birmingham Legion FC (7-4-4; 25 points) atop the Group G standings, followed by North Carolina FC (5-7-1; 16 points) and Memphis 901 FC (3-7-4; 13 points).
This season also marks the first iteration of the league’s new playoff format, where two teams from eight groups will qualify and each round features single-elimination matches. The 16-team bracket will remain in a regionalized single-elimination bracket, with the four group winners in each conference earning hosting rights for the Eastern and Western Conference Quarterfinals. Following the opening round, hosting rights will be determined by regular season record.
With one match remaining, the Jacks could finish anywhere from first to third in the Group G standings. Should NCFC win tonight, the Independence will advance with a win or draw against NCFC on October 1 (7 p.m. ET; ESPN+).
This season also marks the first iteration of the league’s new playoff format, where two teams from eight groups will qualify and each round features single-elimination matches. The 16-team bracket will remain in a regionalized single-elimination bracket, with the four group winners in each conference earning hosting rights for the Eastern and Western Conference Quarterfinals. Following the opening round, hosting rights will be determined by regular season record.
With one match remaining, the Jacks could finish anywhere from first to third in the Group G standings. Should NCFC win tonight, the Independence will advance with a win or draw against NCFC on October 1 (7 p.m. ET; ESPN+).
CHARLOTTE (Sept. 28, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence's final regular season game of the 2020 USL Championship season against North Carolina FC at WakeMed Soccer Park will now be played on Saturday, October 3.
The United Soccer League tonight announced the fixture change as a result of North Carolina FC and the New York Red Bulls II agreeing to a neutral site game in place of two separately cancelled fixtures against Loudoun United FC. The pair will face off on Wednesday, September 30 at City Stadium in Richmond with kickoff scheduled for 5 p.m. ET.
Due to the added match for North Carolina FC, Independence-NCFC was switched to Saturday, with kick-off set for 7 p.m. ET. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
The Independence (7-4-4; 25 points), are tied with Birmingham Legion FC (7-4-4; 25 points) atop the Group G standings, followed by North Carolina FC (5-7-1; 16 points) and Memphis 901 FC (3-7-4; 13 points).
Click here to view an updated 2020 fixture list.
CHARLOTTE (Sept. 28, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence’s final regular season game of the 2020 USL Championship season against North Carolina FC at WakeMed Soccer Park will now be played on Saturday, October 3.
The United Soccer League tonight announced the fixture change as a result of North Carolina FC and the New York Red Bulls II agreeing to a neutral site game in place of two separately cancelled fixtures against Loudoun United FC. The pair will face off on Wednesday, September 30 at City Stadium in Richmond with kickoff scheduled for 5 p.m. ET.
Due to the added match for North Carolina FC, Independence-NCFC was switched to Saturday, with kick-off set for 7 p.m. ET. The match will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
The Independence (7-4-4; 25 points), are tied with Birmingham Legion FC (7-4-4; 25 points) atop the Group G standings, followed by North Carolina FC (5-7-1; 16 points) and Memphis 901 FC (3-7-4; 13 points).
Click here to view an updated 2020 fixture list.
CHARLOTTE (Sept. 26, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence fell 3-1 to Memphis 901 FC at the Sportsplex at Matthews in its penultimate match of the 2020 USL Championship regular season.
Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries made four changes from the lineup that started against Miami FC on Wednesday. Joel Johnson replaced Clay Dimick as the right-back, while Dane Kelly returned to the fold after completing his one-game suspension. Making his first start since August 12, Valentin Sabella replaced Rey Ortiz on the wing. The full XI: Brandon Miller, Joel Johnson, Duke Lacroix, Hugh Roberts, Aaron Maund, Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Valentin Sabella, Dane Kelly, and Derek Gebhard.
The Independence took control of the match early as Kelly and Areman combined for several threatening chances in the first half. After a strong build up through the middle in the 18th minute, Areman sent a cross to Kelly in the middle of the box where he was nearly in on goal, but his header went just wide. Six minutes later, Kelly finally found the breakthrough. Areman again played a cross to the back post where Kelly ran into the path of the ball and headed it into the net for a 1-0 lead.
Undeterred, Memphis responded well and pulled level with the Jacks thanks to a thoughtful, curling finish by Jose Baxter in the 41st minute. Baxter beat a defender and hit a powerful right-footed shot from just outside the penalty box that flew straight to the left corner. Moments later, Memphis took the lead in the 43rd minute, with Cal Jennings finishing off a Memphis counterattack with a left-footed strike from inside the box. That’s how the teams would go into the half after a back and forth opening 45 minutes, with everything to play for in the second half.
The Jacks came out with the same dominance in possession but struggled to create chances against a compact, well-drilled Memphis defense. With the game calling out for a moment of brilliance, it unfortunately came from the visitors when Jennings found another opening in the 86th minute, cutting in from the left and curling a shot from outside the box past the outstretched arm of Brandon Miller in the Independence net. The Independence poured men forward but couldn’t find another goal, with Memphis 901 FC ending the match 3-1 winners.
Next on the Schedule: The Independence heads to Cary, N.C. on Wednesday to tackle Group G rival North Carolina FC for their final match of the 2020 Championship regular season. The game will be broadcast beginning at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+.
CHARLOTTE (Sept. 26, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence fell 3-1 to Memphis 901 FC at the Sportsplex at Matthews in its penultimate match of the 2020 USL Championship regular season.
Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries made four changes from the lineup that started against Miami FC on Wednesday. Joel Johnson replaced Clay Dimick as the right-back, while Dane Kelly returned to the fold after completing his one-game suspension. Making his first start since August 12, Valentin Sabella replaced Rey Ortiz on the wing. The full XI: Brandon Miller, Joel Johnson, Duke Lacroix, Hugh Roberts, Aaron Maund, Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Enzo Martinez, Valentin Sabella, Dane Kelly, and Derek Gebhard.
The Independence took control of the match early as Kelly and Areman combined for several threatening chances in the first half. After a strong build up through the middle in the 18th minute, Areman sent a cross to Kelly in the middle of the box where he was nearly in on goal, but his header went just wide. Six minutes later, Kelly finally found the breakthrough. Areman again played a cross to the back post where Kelly ran into the path of the ball and headed it into the net for a 1-0 lead.
Undeterred, Memphis responded well and pulled level with the Jacks thanks to a thoughtful, curling finish by Jose Baxter in the 41st minute. Baxter beat a defender and hit a powerful right-footed shot from just outside the penalty box that flew straight to the left corner. Moments later, Memphis took the lead in the 43rd minute, with Cal Jennings finishing off a Memphis counterattack with a left-footed strike from inside the box. That’s how the teams would go into the half after a back and forth opening 45 minutes, with everything to play for in the second half.
The Jacks came out with the same dominance in possession but struggled to create chances against a compact, well-drilled Memphis defense. With the game calling out for a moment of brilliance, it unfortunately came from the visitors when Jennings found another opening in the 86th minute, cutting in from the left and curling a shot from outside the box past the outstretched arm of Brandon Miller in the Independence net. The Independence poured men forward but couldn’t find another goal, with Memphis 901 FC ending the match 3-1 winners.
Next on the Schedule: The Independence heads to Cary, N.C. on Wednesday to tackle Group G rival North Carolina FC for their final match of the 2020 Championship regular season. The game will be broadcast beginning at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+.
Match: Charlotte Independence vs. Memphis 901 FC
Date: September 26, 2020
Venue: Sportsplex at Matthews
Competition: USL Championship
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
CLT 1 0 1
MEM 2 1 3
CLT – Dane Kelly (Jake Areman) 24th minute
MEM – Jose Baxter (Leston Paul) 41st minute
MEM – Cal Jennings (Leston Paul) 43rd minute
MEM – Cal Jennings 86th minute
LINEUPS:
CLT: 33-Brandon Miller, 3-Hugh Roberts, 18-Aaron Maund (7-Rey Ortiz, 78’), 14-Duke Lacroix, 22-Joel Johnson (17-Clay Dimick, 69'), 4-Jake Areman, 11-Valentin Sabella(15-Luke Haakenson, 46’), 21-Junior Etou(90-Christian Chaney, 86’), 27-Derek Gebhard(23-Guido Vadala, 69’), 9-Dane Kelly, 19-Enzo Martinez(captain)
Subs Not Used: 1-Austin Pack, 20-Oscar Ramsay
Head Coach: Mike Jeffries
MEM: 12-Jimmy Hague, 19- Rece Buckmaster, 5- Triston Hodge, 3- Zach Carroll, 7- Raul Gonzalez, 16- Tommy McCabe, 23- Leston Paul, 21- Duane Muckette(24-Jacob Hauser-Ramsey, 89’), 20- Jose Baxter(captain)( 29- Brandon Allen, 84’), 26- Cal Jennings, 9-Keanu Marsh-Brown(17-Michael Reed, 73’)
Head Coach: Ben Pirmann
Stats Summary CLT/ MEM:
Shots: 18 / 11
Shots on Goal: 9 / 6
Saves: 1 / 2
Corner Kicks: 9 / 0
Fouls: 12 / 9
Offside: 2 / 1
Misconduct Summary:
CLT – Hugh Roberts (caution) 12th minute
MEM – Leston Paul (caution) 20th minute
CLT – Junior Etou (caution) 68th minute
CLT – Clay Dimick (caution) 82nd minute
MEM – Tommy McCabe (caution) 89th minute
Officials:
Referee: Eric Tattersall
Assistant Referee: Justin Howard
Assistant Referee: Jeremy Smith
Fourth Official: Joshua Escobar
Match: Charlotte Independence vs. Memphis 901 FC
Date: September 26, 2020
Venue: Sportsplex at Matthews
Competition: USL Championship
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
CLT 1 0 1
MEM 2 1 3
CLT – Dane Kelly (Jake Areman) 24th minute
MEM – Jose Baxter (Leston Paul) 41st minute
MEM – Cal Jennings (Leston Paul) 43rd minute
MEM – Cal Jennings 86th minute
LINEUPS:
CLT: 33-Brandon Miller, 3-Hugh Roberts, 18-Aaron Maund (7-Rey Ortiz, 78’), 14-Duke Lacroix, 22-Joel Johnson (17-Clay Dimick, 69′), 4-Jake Areman, 11-Valentin Sabella(15-Luke Haakenson, 46’), 21-Junior Etou(90-Christian Chaney, 86’), 27-Derek Gebhard(23-Guido Vadala, 69’), 9-Dane Kelly, 19-Enzo Martinez(captain)
Subs Not Used: 1-Austin Pack, 20-Oscar Ramsay
Head Coach: Mike Jeffries
MEM: 12-Jimmy Hague, 19- Rece Buckmaster, 5- Triston Hodge, 3- Zach Carroll, 7- Raul Gonzalez, 16- Tommy McCabe, 23- Leston Paul, 21- Duane Muckette(24-Jacob Hauser-Ramsey, 89’), 20- Jose Baxter(captain)( 29- Brandon Allen, 84’), 26- Cal Jennings, 9-Keanu Marsh-Brown(17-Michael Reed, 73’)
Head Coach: Ben Pirmann
Stats Summary CLT/ MEM:
Shots: 18 / 11
Shots on Goal: 9 / 6
Saves: 1 / 2
Corner Kicks: 9 / 0
Fouls: 12 / 9
Offside: 2 / 1
Misconduct Summary:
CLT – Hugh Roberts (caution) 12th minute
MEM – Leston Paul (caution) 20th minute
CLT – Junior Etou (caution) 68th minute
CLT – Clay Dimick (caution) 82nd minute
MEM – Tommy McCabe (caution) 89th minute
Officials:
Referee: Eric Tattersall
Assistant Referee: Justin Howard
Assistant Referee: Jeremy Smith
Fourth Official: Joshua Escobar
The Charlotte Independence are taking on Memphis 901 FC at the Sportsplex (7:00 p.m. ET; ESPN+) in USL Championship action. Here is the Adidas Starting XI:
The Charlotte Independence are taking on Memphis 901 FC at the Sportsplex (7:00 p.m. ET; ESPN+) in USL Championship action. Here is the Adidas Starting XI:
Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries makes four changes from the lineup that started against Miami FC on Wednesday. Joel Johnson replaces Clay Dimick as the right-back, while Dane Kelly returns to the fold after completing his one-game suspension.
Making his first start since August 12, Valentin Sabella replaces Rey Ortiz on the wing.
Elsewhere, Derek Gebhard earns his 7th start of the season.
Charlotte: Miller, Johnson, Roberts, Maund, Lacroix, Areman, Etou, Martinez, Sabella, Gebhard, Kelly
Subs: Pack, Dimick, Ramsay, Ortiz, Vadala, Haakenson, Chaney
Independence Head Coach Mike Jeffries makes four changes from the lineup that started against Miami FC on Wednesday. Joel Johnson replaces Clay Dimick as the right-back, while Dane Kelly returns to the fold after completing his one-game suspension.
Making his first start since August 12, Valentin Sabella replaces Rey Ortiz on the wing.
Elsewhere, Derek Gebhard earns his 7th start of the season.
Charlotte: Miller, Johnson, Roberts, Maund, Lacroix, Areman, Etou, Martinez, Sabella, Gebhard, Kelly
Subs: Pack, Dimick, Ramsay, Ortiz, Vadala, Haakenson, Chaney
Charlotte Independence vs. Memphis 901 FC
2020 USL Championship – Group G
Sportsplex at Matthews; Matthews, N.C.
7p.m. ET (ESPN+)
Sept. 26, 2020
Breast Cancer Awareness Night, presented by Novant Health
Charlotte Independence vs. Memphis 901 FC
2020 USL Championship – Group G
Sportsplex at Matthews; Matthews, N.C.
7p.m. ET (ESPN+)
Sept. 26, 2020
Breast Cancer Awareness Night, presented by Novant Health
CHARLOTTE (Sept. 24, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence face Memphis 901 FC at the Sportsplex at Matthews on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. ET and broadcast live on ESPN+. The Jacks host Memphis in what will be their final home fixture of the regular season.
WATCH – 7 p.m. ET: Watch CLTvMEM live on ESPN+
CHARLOTTE (Sept. 24, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence face Memphis 901 FC at the Sportsplex at Matthews on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. ET and broadcast live on ESPN+. The Jacks host Memphis in what will be their final home fixture of the regular season.
WATCH – 7 p.m. ET: Watch CLTvMEM live on ESPN+
After being held to a 0-0 draw against Miami FC on Wednesday, the Independence have a chance to secure a third USL Championship postseason berth with a win or a draw against Memphis 901 FC. With two matches remaining, the Jacks also have a chance to secure home-field advantage in the postseason but will need to finish ahead of Birmingham Legion FC in the Group standings.
"All season it’s been one game at a time and dealing with what’s in front of us and I think that’s our thought process heading into Saturday," said Independence head coach Mike Jeffries. "It’s a quick turn around and unfortunately Memphis 901 FC are going to be really fresh coming in."
In their last match, Memphis 901 FC lost on Sunday evening 4-1 against Louisville City FC. Following the loss in Louisville, Memphis is officially ruled out of playoff contention. Memphis recently made a coaching change, replacing Tim Mulqueen with Ben Pirmann as Interim Head Coach.
"Making the playoffs has been our goal from the beginning of the season, to get back in," said Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller. "It’s been too long since we’ve been [to the playoffs] so that’s our main focus on Saturday."
After being held to a 0-0 draw against Miami FC on Wednesday, the Independence have a chance to secure a third USL Championship postseason berth with a win or a draw against Memphis 901 FC. With two matches remaining, the Jacks also have a chance to secure home-field advantage in the postseason but will need to finish ahead of Birmingham Legion FC in the Group standings.
“All season it’s been one game at a time and dealing with what’s in front of us and I think that’s our thought process heading into Saturday,” said Independence head coach Mike Jeffries. “It’s a quick turn around and unfortunately Memphis 901 FC are going to be really fresh coming in.”
In their last match, Memphis 901 FC lost on Sunday evening 4-1 against Louisville City FC. Following the loss in Louisville, Memphis is officially ruled out of playoff contention. Memphis recently made a coaching change, replacing Tim Mulqueen with Ben Pirmann as Interim Head Coach.
“Making the playoffs has been our goal from the beginning of the season, to get back in,” said Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller. “It’s been too long since we’ve been [to the playoffs] so that’s our main focus on Saturday.”
LAST TIME OUT: The Independence had everything but the winner Wednesday night at the Sportsplex at Matthews as they drew 0-0 against Miami FC.
With the draw, the Independence (7-3-4; 25 points), moved into a tie with Birmingham Legion FC (7-3-4; 25 points) atop the Group G standings, followed by North Carolina FC (4-7-1; 13 points) and Memphis 901 FC (2-7-4; 10 points).
LAST TIME THEY MET: Charlotte and Memphis 901 FC most recently met earlier this month on Saturday, Sept. 3 at AutoZone Park in Memphis. The Independence utilized an own goal and a strike from Luke Haakenson to defeat Memphis 901 FC 2-0.
The game’s first chance served as a pivotal moment. After the Independence conceded a penalty in the eighth minute, Jacks ‘keeper Brandon Miller denied Memphis 901 FC forward Keanu Marsh-Brown from the spot to keep the score level. Miller would go on to make four more saves in the match, giving him a league-leading 47 saves.
The Jacks eventually broke through late in the first half. A 32nd minute corner kick from Jake Areman bounced off a Memphis 901 FC defender at the penalty spot and went beyond the reach of Memphis netminder Tim Howard for the opening goal.
Just before halftime, the Jacks doubled its lead as Aaron Maund found Haakenson on the counter who tucked in the game’s second goal to give the Independence a 2-0 advantage heading into the break. The goal marked Haakenson’s third tally of the season and Maund’s second assist.
SERIES HISTORY (W-L-D)
Independence Record vs. Memphis 901 FC: (4-0-1)
Independence Home Record vs. Memphis 901 FC: (3-0-0)
Independence Away Record vs. Memphis 901 FC: (1-0-1)
STATISTICAL SNAPSHOT
INDEPENDENCE
Leading Scorer(s): Dane Kelly (10)
Assist Leader(s): Jake Areman, Joel Johnson (3)
Goals Per Game: 1.57
Saves Per Game: 3.85
Goals Against Average: 1.4
Shots on Target Per Game: 4.64
MEMPHIS 901 FC
Leading Scorer(s): Cal Jennings(4)
Assist Leader(s): Gonzalez, McCabe, Burch, Segbers (2)
Goals Per Game: 1.38
Saves Per Game: 2.23
Goals Against Average: 2.2
Shots on Target Per Game: 3.15
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, Hugh Roberts, Joey Skinner
MIDFIELDERS: Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Derek Gebhard, Kevan George, Luke Haakenson, Rey Ortiz, Valentin Sabella, Oscar Ramsay
FORWARDS: Christian Chaney, Enzo Martinez, Tresor Mbuyu, Dane Kelly, Guido Valada
2020 MEMPHIS 901 FC USL CHAMPIONSHIP ROSTER BY POSITION
GOALKEEPERS: Jim Barkei, Jimmy Hague, Tim Howard
DEFENDERS: Rece Buckmaster, Marc Burch, Zach Carroll, Liam Doyle, Triston Hodge, Jackson Morse, Jacob Hauser-Ramsey, Mark Segbers
MIDFIELDERS: Jose Baxter, Raul Gonzalez, Jean-Christophe Koffi, Rafael Mentzingen, Dan Metzger, Tommy McCabe, Duane Muckette, Leston Paul, Michael Reed
FORWARDS: Brandon Allen, Pierre Da Silva, Matt Hundley, Cal Jennings, Keanu Marsh-Brown
LAST TIME OUT: The Independence had everything but the winner Wednesday night at the Sportsplex at Matthews as they drew 0-0 against Miami FC.
With the draw, the Independence (7-3-4; 25 points), moved into a tie with Birmingham Legion FC (7-3-4; 25 points) atop the Group G standings, followed by North Carolina FC (4-7-1; 13 points) and Memphis 901 FC (2-7-4; 10 points).
LAST TIME THEY MET: Charlotte and Memphis 901 FC most recently met earlier this month on Saturday, Sept. 3 at AutoZone Park in Memphis. The Independence utilized an own goal and a strike from Luke Haakenson to defeat Memphis 901 FC 2-0.
The game’s first chance served as a pivotal moment. After the Independence conceded a penalty in the eighth minute, Jacks ‘keeper Brandon Miller denied Memphis 901 FC forward Keanu Marsh-Brown from the spot to keep the score level. Miller would go on to make four more saves in the match, giving him a league-leading 47 saves.
The Jacks eventually broke through late in the first half. A 32nd minute corner kick from Jake Areman bounced off a Memphis 901 FC defender at the penalty spot and went beyond the reach of Memphis netminder Tim Howard for the opening goal.
Just before halftime, the Jacks doubled its lead as Aaron Maund found Haakenson on the counter who tucked in the game’s second goal to give the Independence a 2-0 advantage heading into the break. The goal marked Haakenson’s third tally of the season and Maund’s second assist.
SERIES HISTORY (W-L-D)
Independence Record vs. Memphis 901 FC: (4-0-1)
Independence Home Record vs. Memphis 901 FC: (3-0-0)
Independence Away Record vs. Memphis 901 FC: (1-0-1)
STATISTICAL SNAPSHOT
INDEPENDENCE
Leading Scorer(s): Dane Kelly (10)
Assist Leader(s): Jake Areman, Joel Johnson (3)
Goals Per Game: 1.57
Saves Per Game: 3.85
Goals Against Average: 1.4
Shots on Target Per Game: 4.64
MEMPHIS 901 FC
Leading Scorer(s): Cal Jennings(4)
Assist Leader(s): Gonzalez, McCabe, Burch, Segbers (2)
Goals Per Game: 1.38
Saves Per Game: 2.23
Goals Against Average: 2.2
Shots on Target Per Game: 3.15
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, Hugh Roberts, Joey Skinner
MIDFIELDERS: Jake Areman, Junior Etou, Derek Gebhard, Kevan George, Luke Haakenson, Rey Ortiz, Valentin Sabella, Oscar Ramsay
FORWARDS: Christian Chaney, Enzo Martinez, Tresor Mbuyu, Dane Kelly, Guido Valada
2020 MEMPHIS 901 FC USL CHAMPIONSHIP ROSTER BY POSITION
GOALKEEPERS: Jim Barkei, Jimmy Hague, Tim Howard
DEFENDERS: Rece Buckmaster, Marc Burch, Zach Carroll, Liam Doyle, Triston Hodge, Jackson Morse, Jacob Hauser-Ramsey, Mark Segbers
MIDFIELDERS: Jose Baxter, Raul Gonzalez, Jean-Christophe Koffi, Rafael Mentzingen, Dan Metzger, Tommy McCabe, Duane Muckette, Leston Paul, Michael Reed
FORWARDS: Brandon Allen, Pierre Da Silva, Matt Hundley, Cal Jennings, Keanu Marsh-Brown
– Eight players have scored for the Independence in the 2020 USL Championship: Dane Kelly (10), Luke Haakenson (3), Derek Gebhard, Enzo Martinez (2), Jake Areman, Aaron Maund, Rey Ortiz, Valentin Sabella (1)
– After reaching double-digit goals this season (10), Kelly has reached double-digit goals in a season for the sixth time in his career, the most of any player in the Championship’s history.
– With his hat trick against North Carolina FC, Kelly now holds the record with the most hat tricks in league history (4).
– Nine players have recorded at least one assist for the Independence this year: Joel Johnson, Areman (3), Aaron Maund, Haakenson, (2), Guido Vadala, Gebhard, Kelly, Martinez, Sabella (1)
– Seven players have recorded a goal and an assist for the Jacks this season: Areman, Gebhard, Haakenson, Kelly, Martinez, Maund, Sabella
– Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller's 54 saves is ranked first in the Championship this season.
– Miller became the fifth player in the Championship’s history to record 35 regular season shutouts. He has four total this season and 37 in his career.
– Martinez, Miller, Duke Lacroix, and Hugh Roberts are the only players to play all 1,260 minutes for the Jacks this season thus far.
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.
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– Eight players have scored for the Independence in the 2020 USL Championship: Dane Kelly (10), Luke Haakenson (3), Derek Gebhard, Enzo Martinez (2), Jake Areman, Aaron Maund, Rey Ortiz, Valentin Sabella (1)
– After reaching double-digit goals this season (10), Kelly has reached double-digit goals in a season for the sixth time in his career, the most of any player in the Championship’s history.
– With his hat trick against North Carolina FC, Kelly now holds the record with the most hat tricks in league history (4).
– Nine players have recorded at least one assist for the Independence this year: Joel Johnson, Areman (3), Aaron Maund, Haakenson, (2), Guido Vadala, Gebhard, Kelly, Martinez, Sabella (1)
– Seven players have recorded a goal and an assist for the Jacks this season: Areman, Gebhard, Haakenson, Kelly, Martinez, Maund, Sabella
– Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller’s 54 saves is ranked first in the Championship this season.
– Miller became the fifth player in the Championship’s history to record 35 regular season shutouts. He has four total this season and 37 in his career.
– Martinez, Miller, Duke Lacroix, and Hugh Roberts are the only players to play all 1,260 minutes for the Jacks this season thus far.
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.
