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Charlotte Independence Complete Signing of Christian Chaney

CHARLOTTE (Aug. 20, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that the club has signed forward Christian Chaney for the 2020 season. He will be added to the Jacks’ roster pending league and federation approval.
The 25-year-old American joins the Jacks after penning a deal last week.
He will now link up with his new teammates as Mike Jeffries’ squad prepare for the upcoming away clash against Miami FC on Sunday, Aug. 23rd.
“I’m really happy to be here,” Chaney told https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence in an exclusive interview after completing his move. “Coming into the team at this point in the season, I want to contribute as much as I can, score goals, and help the team make a playoff run.”
“With ten matches left in the season, I am hopeful to earn as many minutes as possible and score any chance I get.”
“Ultimately, I was brought in to score goals and that’s what I am going to try and do.”
During his four-year collegiate career at Fresno City College, Chaney was named to the 2013 NSCAA/Continental Tire Junior College All-American team his sophomore season.
Upon graduating, Chaney signed a contract with USL League Two side Fresno Fuego where he was a candidate for the League MVP in 2016, after scoring 13 goals in 12 appearances. His role in the attack fueled the Fuego to a Central Pacific division title and the club’s first playoff appearance in three seasons.
Early in 2016, Chaney signed with FC Ararat Yerevan of the Armenian Premier League after playing against them in a friendly match with the Fuego. Shortly thereafter, the Fresno, Ca. native returned stateside and signed with USL club Sacramento Republic FC in August 2016. Chaney appeared in nine matches for Republic FC in 2017, including one start in 259 minutes played.
Most recently, Chaney made his senior debut for Fresno FC in the USL Championship in 2018. He went on to make 48 appearances for the California side in all competitions and tallied 11 goals.
The forward will wear the No.90 shirt for Charlotte.
CHARLOTTE (Aug. 20, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence announced today that the club has signed forward Christian Chaney for the 2020 season. He will be added to the Jacks’ roster pending league and federation approval.
The 25-year-old American joins the Jacks after penning a deal last week.
He will now link up with his new teammates as Mike Jeffries’ squad prepare for the upcoming away clash against Miami FC on Sunday, Aug. 23rd.
“I’m really happy to be here,” Chaney told https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/charlotteindependence in an exclusive interview after completing his move. “Coming into the team at this point in the season, I want to contribute as much as I can, score goals, and help the team make a playoff run.”
“With ten matches left in the season, I am hopeful to earn as many minutes as possible and score any chance I get.”
“Ultimately, I was brought in to score goals and that’s what I am going to try and do.”
During his four-year collegiate career at Fresno City College, Chaney was named to the 2013 NSCAA/Continental Tire Junior College All-American team his sophomore season.
Upon graduating, Chaney signed a contract with USL League Two side Fresno Fuego where he was a candidate for the League MVP in 2016, after scoring 13 goals in 12 appearances. His role in the attack fueled the Fuego to a Central Pacific division title and the club’s first playoff appearance in three seasons.
Early in 2016, Chaney signed with FC Ararat Yerevan of the Armenian Premier League after playing against them in a friendly match with the Fuego. Shortly thereafter, the Fresno, Ca. native returned stateside and signed with USL club Sacramento Republic FC in August 2016. Chaney appeared in nine matches for Republic FC in 2017, including one start in 259 minutes played.
Most recently, Chaney made his senior debut for Fresno FC in the USL Championship in 2018. He went on to make 48 appearances for the California side in all competitions and tallied 11 goals.
The forward will wear the No.90 shirt for Charlotte.
Dane Kelly Earns Spot on USL Team of the Week After Scoring in Two Straight Games

Tampa, Fla. (August 18, 2020) – Charlotte Independence forward Dane Kelly makes his first USL Championship Team of the Week appearance this season after scoring in consecutive games against Birmingham Legion FC and Memphis 901 FC. The forward's goal against Legion FC was the 80th of his USL career and helped the Independence move into second place in the Group G standings.
Jacks goalkeeper Brandon Miller was voted to the Week 1 Team of the Week. Miller recorded a league-high 10 saves in a 2-1 victory over Sporting Kansas City II and surpassed 300 USL Championship career saves, which has only been achieved five previous times.
The USL Championship announced the Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio for Week 8 of the 2020 regular season on Tuesday, with the Charleston Battery’s Zeiko Lewis earning Player of the Week honors after leading the Battery’s dramatic comeback victory against Atlanta United 2 on Saturday night.
The Bermuda international scored twice, including the game-winner in second-half stoppage time, as the Battery took a 3-2 victory against Atlanta after coming back from a two-goal deficit early in the second half.
Lewis earned 47 percent of the ballot for his performance. Indy Eleven’s Evan Newton received 27 percent of the poll after recording a three-save shutout that included a crucial penalty kick save in his side’s 1-0 victory against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which earned his 50th shutout in the Championship’s regular season all-time.
The Championship’s Player of the Week is selected by the USL National Media Panel, which is made up of representatives from each media market in the Championship.
Tampa, Fla. (August 18, 2020) – Charlotte Independence forward Dane Kelly makes his first USL Championship Team of the Week appearance this season after scoring in consecutive games against Birmingham Legion FC and Memphis 901 FC. The forward’s goal against Legion FC was the 80th of his USL career and helped the Independence move into second place in the Group G standings.
Jacks goalkeeper Brandon Miller was voted to the Week 1 Team of the Week. Miller recorded a league-high 10 saves in a 2-1 victory over Sporting Kansas City II and surpassed 300 USL Championship career saves, which has only been achieved five previous times.
The USL Championship announced the Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio for Week 8 of the 2020 regular season on Tuesday, with the Charleston Battery’s Zeiko Lewis earning Player of the Week honors after leading the Battery’s dramatic comeback victory against Atlanta United 2 on Saturday night.
The Bermuda international scored twice, including the game-winner in second-half stoppage time, as the Battery took a 3-2 victory against Atlanta after coming back from a two-goal deficit early in the second half.
Lewis earned 47 percent of the ballot for his performance. Indy Eleven’s Evan Newton received 27 percent of the poll after recording a three-save shutout that included a crucial penalty kick save in his side’s 1-0 victory against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which earned his 50th shutout in the Championship’s regular season all-time.
The Championship’s Player of the Week is selected by the USL National Media Panel, which is made up of representatives from each media market in the Championship.
USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 8
GK – Evan Newton, Indy Eleven: Newton recorded a three-save shutout – the 50th in the regular season in his Championship career – that included a crucial penalty kick save in a 1-0 win against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.
D – Darnell King, Phoenix Rising FC: King scored once and had two shots on goal among four shots overall, made two interceptions and recoveries and completed 23 of 30 passes in Rising FC’s 2-0 win against San Diego Loyal SC.
D – Ashkanov Apollon, Sacramento Republic FC: Appolon helped Republic FC claim back-to-back victories on the week as he recorded 16 recoveries, won 12 of 20 duels and complete 49 of 57 passes against Reno 1868 FC and Tacoma Defiance.
D – Austin Yearwood, New Mexico United: Yearwood put in a solid defensive shift as New Mexico earned a shutout win on the road in Colorado Springs, winning 5 of 7 duels, completing 46 of 56 passes and two tackles and two clearances.
M – Eli Crognale, Birmingham Legion FC: Crognale put in a strong two-way performance in Legion FC’s victory against North Carolina FC, winning 9 of 10 duels, recording five interceptions and six recoveries while recording one key pass and completing 21 of 27 passes overall.
M – Aodhan Quinn, Orange County SC: Quinn scored in both games as OCSC took victories against San Diego Loyal SC and Las Vegas Lights FC while completing 95 of 119 passes across the two contests.
M – Zeiko Lewis, Charleston Battery: Lewis scored twice, including a stoppage-time winner to cap a three-goal comeback, while also recording four chances created and completing 28 of 38 passes overall against Atlanta United 2.
M – Xavier Baez, Austin Bold FC: Baez recorded a remarkable goal as part of an overall performance that saw him complete 30 of 35 passes, record one key pass, win 4 of 7 duels and make eight recoveries in a road draw with San Antonio FC.
F – Dane Kelly, Charlotte Independence: Kelly scored twice in two games, completed 23 of 29 passes and put five of his nine shots across the games on target as the Independence took four points over the week.
F – Dariusz Formella, Sacramento Republic FC: Formella recorded a pair of goals in Republic FC’s victory against Tacoma Defiance, and was strong as well in Sacramento’s win against Reno 1868 FC as he recorded five chances created and completed 26 of 34 passes over the two contests.
F – Corey Hertzog, Reno 1868 FC: Hertzog struck twice in 1868 FC’s victory against the Portland Timbers 2 to move into third place all-time in the Championship with 65 goals, and completed 16 of 19 passes and one key pass in the 5-2 victory.
Bench: Frederick Due (OC), Danny Barrera (HFD), Malik Johnson (TBR), Nick Ross (ELP), Russell Cicerone (STL), Cameron Iwasa (SAC), Cameron Lancaster (LOU)
USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 8
GK – Evan Newton, Indy Eleven: Newton recorded a three-save shutout – the 50th in the regular season in his Championship career – that included a crucial penalty kick save in a 1-0 win against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.
D – Darnell King, Phoenix Rising FC: King scored once and had two shots on goal among four shots overall, made two interceptions and recoveries and completed 23 of 30 passes in Rising FC’s 2-0 win against San Diego Loyal SC.
D – Ashkanov Apollon, Sacramento Republic FC: Appolon helped Republic FC claim back-to-back victories on the week as he recorded 16 recoveries, won 12 of 20 duels and complete 49 of 57 passes against Reno 1868 FC and Tacoma Defiance.
D – Austin Yearwood, New Mexico United: Yearwood put in a solid defensive shift as New Mexico earned a shutout win on the road in Colorado Springs, winning 5 of 7 duels, completing 46 of 56 passes and two tackles and two clearances.
M – Eli Crognale, Birmingham Legion FC: Crognale put in a strong two-way performance in Legion FC’s victory against North Carolina FC, winning 9 of 10 duels, recording five interceptions and six recoveries while recording one key pass and completing 21 of 27 passes overall.
M – Aodhan Quinn, Orange County SC: Quinn scored in both games as OCSC took victories against San Diego Loyal SC and Las Vegas Lights FC while completing 95 of 119 passes across the two contests.
M – Zeiko Lewis, Charleston Battery: Lewis scored twice, including a stoppage-time winner to cap a three-goal comeback, while also recording four chances created and completing 28 of 38 passes overall against Atlanta United 2.
M – Xavier Baez, Austin Bold FC: Baez recorded a remarkable goal as part of an overall performance that saw him complete 30 of 35 passes, record one key pass, win 4 of 7 duels and make eight recoveries in a road draw with San Antonio FC.
F – Dane Kelly, Charlotte Independence: Kelly scored twice in two games, completed 23 of 29 passes and put five of his nine shots across the games on target as the Independence took four points over the week.
F – Dariusz Formella, Sacramento Republic FC: Formella recorded a pair of goals in Republic FC’s victory against Tacoma Defiance, and was strong as well in Sacramento’s win against Reno 1868 FC as he recorded five chances created and completed 26 of 34 passes over the two contests.
F – Corey Hertzog, Reno 1868 FC: Hertzog struck twice in 1868 FC’s victory against the Portland Timbers 2 to move into third place all-time in the Championship with 65 goals, and completed 16 of 19 passes and one key pass in the 5-2 victory.
Bench: Frederick Due (OC), Danny Barrera (HFD), Malik Johnson (TBR), Nick Ross (ELP), Russell Cicerone (STL), Cameron Iwasa (SAC), Cameron Lancaster (LOU)
Photo Gallery: Three goalscorers as Jacks win first game at home this season
Dane Kelly, Enzo Martinez and Luke Haakenson all netted during the USL Championship Group G rematch. Check out our gallery of photos from the fixture, which moved the Jacks into second place in Group G, below…
Photos by Adam Cosgrove
Dane Kelly, Enzo Martinez and Luke Haakenson all netted during the USL Championship Group G rematch. Check out our gallery of photos from the fixture, which moved the Jacks into second place in Group G, below…
Photos by Adam Cosgrove



















Charlotte Independence 3-2 Memphis 901 FC: Extended Highlights
Haakenson Strike Caps Charlotte Independences 3-2 Come From Behind Win vs. Memphis 901 FC

CHARLOTTE (Aug. 15, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence moved into second place in the USL Championship, Group G standings after defeating Memphis 901 FC 3-2 at the Sportsplex at Matthews.
Dane Kelly continued his scorching form with another goal, while Enzo Martinez scored the equalizer and Luke Haakenson tallied the game-winning goal to give the Jacks three points at home for the first time this season. Joel Johnson added two assists, including Haakenson’s game-winner.
With the win the Independence jumped to second place in the Group G standings and will face a team outside of Group G for the second time this month when they travel to Miami, Fla. to take on Miami FC. Kickoff at Riccardo Silva Stadium is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, Aug. 23. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.
CHARLOTTE (Aug. 15, 2020) – The Charlotte Independence moved into second place in the USL Championship, Group G standings after defeating Memphis 901 FC 3-2 at the Sportsplex at Matthews.
Dane Kelly continued his scorching form with another goal, while Enzo Martinez scored the equalizer and Luke Haakenson tallied the game-winning goal to give the Jacks three points at home for the first time this season. Joel Johnson added two assists, including Haakenson’s game-winner.
With the win the Independence jumped to second place in the Group G standings and will face a team outside of Group G for the second time this month when they travel to Miami, Fla. to take on Miami FC. Kickoff at Riccardo Silva Stadium is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, Aug. 23. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+.

Independence head coach Mike Jeffries shook up his starting XI with three changes to the lineup that began against Birmingham Legion FC, bringing in midfielder Rey Ortiz and forward Tresor Mbuyu for their first starts of the season as well as handing Haakenson his second start in four games.
"It was a big character test for us,” said Jeffries. "One of the things we talked about before the season is that it’s important to get points on days when you concede the first goal. For us to get points again after conceding first is huge.”
Chances were tough to come by for both teams in the opening stages of the match, but a handful of Memphis counterattacks challenged Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller and the Jacks’ defense. That changed soon after, as Memphis strung together a series of dangerous runs before Mark Segber’s strike (aided by a Duane Muckette pass) gave Memphis a 1-0 lead in the 13th minute.
As the first half progressed, the Independence began to carve out more opportunities with Mbuyu, Hugh Roberts and Jake Areman all putting hard shots towards goal. The Jacks’ best chance of the first half came in the 32nd minute after a Mbuyu bicycle-kick slammed off the crossbar.
However, it was Memphis in the opening moments of the second half that scored the second goal of the game though Rafa Mentzingen in the 51st minute. From there on, the Jacks controlled the match. After replacing Mbuyu at halftime, Kelly capitalized on a pass from Johnson out on the right wing to pull a goal back for the hosts in the 53rd minute. The goal was Kelly’s third straight at home and his fourth of 2020.
Moments later, midfielder Junior Etou drew a penalty for the Jacks after being taken down inside the box by Memphis goalkeeper Jimmy Hague. Martinez stepped up and converted from the spot to level the score in the 60th minute. The Independence did not let up, putting the game away with a goal from Haakenson in the 69th minute to complete the comeback.
“I give the guys a ton of credit given our schedule, it would have been easy to fold,” said Jeffries. “I think that’s one of the marks of good teams, finding ways to get results on nights that aren’t perfect.”
Next on the Schedule: The Independence get a break before taking on Miami FC at Riccardo Silva Stadium in Miami, Fla., on Sunday, Aug. 23 (7:30 p.m. ET; ESPN+).
Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Independence head coach Mike Jeffries shook up his starting XI with three changes to the lineup that began against Birmingham Legion FC, bringing in midfielder Rey Ortiz and forward Tresor Mbuyu for their first starts of the season as well as handing Haakenson his second start in four games.
“It was a big character test for us,” said Jeffries. “One of the things we talked about before the season is that it’s important to get points on days when you concede the first goal. For us to get points again after conceding first is huge.”
Chances were tough to come by for both teams in the opening stages of the match, but a handful of Memphis counterattacks challenged Independence goalkeeper Brandon Miller and the Jacks’ defense. That changed soon after, as Memphis strung together a series of dangerous runs before Mark Segber’s strike (aided by a Duane Muckette pass) gave Memphis a 1-0 lead in the 13th minute.
As the first half progressed, the Independence began to carve out more opportunities with Mbuyu, Hugh Roberts and Jake Areman all putting hard shots towards goal. The Jacks’ best chance of the first half came in the 32nd minute after a Mbuyu bicycle-kick slammed off the crossbar.
However, it was Memphis in the opening moments of the second half that scored the second goal of the game though Rafa Mentzingen in the 51st minute. From there on, the Jacks controlled the match. After replacing Mbuyu at halftime, Kelly capitalized on a pass from Johnson out on the right wing to pull a goal back for the hosts in the 53rd minute. The goal was Kelly’s third straight at home and his fourth of 2020.
Moments later, midfielder Junior Etou drew a penalty for the Jacks after being taken down inside the box by Memphis goalkeeper Jimmy Hague. Martinez stepped up and converted from the spot to level the score in the 60th minute. The Independence did not let up, putting the game away with a goal from Haakenson in the 69th minute to complete the comeback.
“I give the guys a ton of credit given our schedule, it would have been easy to fold,” said Jeffries. “I think that’s one of the marks of good teams, finding ways to get results on nights that aren’t perfect.”
Next on the Schedule: The Independence get a break before taking on Miami FC at Riccardo Silva Stadium in Miami, Fla., on Sunday, Aug. 23 (7:30 p.m. ET; ESPN+).
Social: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Match: Charlotte Independence vs. Memphis 901 FC
Date: August 15, 2020
Venue: Sportsplex at Matthews
Competition: USL Championship
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
CLT 0 3 3
MEM 1 1 2
MEM: 2-Mark Segbers (21-Duane Muckette) 13th minute
MEM: 14-Rafa Mentzingen (2-Mark Segbers) 51st minute
CLT: 9-Dane Kelly (22-Joel Johnson) 53rd minute
CLT: 19-Enzo Martinez 60th minute
CLT: 15-Luke Haakenson (22-Joel Johnson) 69th minute
LINEUPS:
CLT: 33-Brandon Miller; 3-Hugh Roberts, 14-Duke Lacroix, 18-Aaron Maund, 22-Joe Johnson, 4-Jake Areman (17-Clay Dimick, 90’), 7-Rey Ortiz(11-Valentin Sabella, 82’), 21-Junior Etou, 32-Tresor Mbuyu (9-Dane Kelly, 45’), 15- Luke Haakenson, 19-Enzo Martinez(captain)
Subs Not Used: 1-Austin Pack, 20-Oscar Ramsey, 23-Guido Vadala, 35-Joey Skinner
Head Coach: Mike Jeffries
MEM: 12-Jimmy Hague; 19-Rece Buckmaster, 8-Marc Burch (captain),5-Triston Hodge(3-Zach Carroll, 82'), 2-Mark Segbers, 23-Leston Paul(70-Matt Hundley, 76’), 17- Michael Reed, 21-Duance Muckette, 14-Rafa Mentzingen (26-Cal Jennings 76’), 9-Keanu Marsh-Brown, 29-Brandon Allen
Subs Not Used: 25-Jim Barkel, 4-Liam Doyle, 7-Raul Gonzalez, 6- Dan Metzger
Head Coach: Tim Mulqueen
Stats Summary CLT/ MEM:
Shots: 14 / 11
Shots on Goal: 6 / 5
Saves: 2 / 3
Corner Kicks: 2 / 8
Fouls: 12 / 18
Offside: 1 / 3
Misconduct Summary:
CLT: 22- Joel Johnson(caution)……………..30th minute
CLT: 14- Duke Lacroix(caution)……….…….. 65th minute
MEM: 2- Mark Segbers………………………..72nd minute
Officials:
Referee: Elvis Osmanovic,
AR: Justin Howard, Colin Ashley
Fourth Official: Izlen Pekensa
Match: Charlotte Independence vs. Memphis 901 FC
Date: August 15, 2020
Venue: Sportsplex at Matthews
Competition: USL Championship
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m. ET
Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
CLT 0 3 3
MEM 1 1 2
MEM: 2-Mark Segbers (21-Duane Muckette) 13th minute
MEM: 14-Rafa Mentzingen (2-Mark Segbers) 51st minute
CLT: 9-Dane Kelly (22-Joel Johnson) 53rd minute
CLT: 19-Enzo Martinez 60th minute
CLT: 15-Luke Haakenson (22-Joel Johnson) 69th minute
LINEUPS:
CLT: 33-Brandon Miller; 3-Hugh Roberts, 14-Duke Lacroix, 18-Aaron Maund, 22-Joe Johnson, 4-Jake Areman (17-Clay Dimick, 90’), 7-Rey Ortiz(11-Valentin Sabella, 82’), 21-Junior Etou, 32-Tresor Mbuyu (9-Dane Kelly, 45’), 15- Luke Haakenson, 19-Enzo Martinez(captain)
Subs Not Used: 1-Austin Pack, 20-Oscar Ramsey, 23-Guido Vadala, 35-Joey Skinner
Head Coach: Mike Jeffries
MEM: 12-Jimmy Hague; 19-Rece Buckmaster, 8-Marc Burch (captain),5-Triston Hodge(3-Zach Carroll, 82′), 2-Mark Segbers, 23-Leston Paul(70-Matt Hundley, 76’), 17- Michael Reed, 21-Duance Muckette, 14-Rafa Mentzingen (26-Cal Jennings 76’), 9-Keanu Marsh-Brown, 29-Brandon Allen
Subs Not Used: 25-Jim Barkel, 4-Liam Doyle, 7-Raul Gonzalez, 6- Dan Metzger
Head Coach: Tim Mulqueen
Stats Summary CLT/ MEM:
Shots: 14 / 11
Shots on Goal: 6 / 5
Saves: 2 / 3
Corner Kicks: 2 / 8
Fouls: 12 / 18
Offside: 1 / 3
Misconduct Summary:
CLT: 22- Joel Johnson(caution)……………..30th minute
CLT: 14- Duke Lacroix(caution)……….…….. 65th minute
MEM: 2- Mark Segbers………………………..72nd minute
Officials:
Referee: Elvis Osmanovic,
AR: Justin Howard, Colin Ashley
Fourth Official: Izlen Pekensa
CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE ANNOUNCE FANS WILL NOT BE PERMITTED AT HOME MATCHES UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
CHARLOTTE (August 14, 2020) – Due to the extension of Governor Cooper’s Phase 2 requirements regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the Charlotte Independence regretfully will not be allowed to have fans at their home games until further notice. If the conditions change and the Governor and Mecklenburg County allows for fans to join us, we will inform you at the earliest possible moment.
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.
Stay safe and we invite you to enjoy all of our games live as they are played on ESPN+.
CHARLOTTE (August 14, 2020) – Due to the extension of Governor Cooper’s Phase 2 requirements regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the Charlotte Independence regretfully will not be allowed to have fans at their home games until further notice. If the conditions change and the Governor and Mecklenburg County allows for fans to join us, we will inform you at the earliest possible moment.
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.
Stay safe and we invite you to enjoy all of our games live as they are played on ESPN+.
WATCH | Hear From Mike Jeffries, Dane Kelly, and Rey Ortiz in Their Full Post-Birmingham Legion FC Press Conference
Late Dane Kelly Goal Earns Charlotte Independence 1-1 Draw With Group G Leaders Birmingham Legion FC

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 Looks for Payback in USL Championship Group G Rematch Against Birmingham Legion FC at the Sportsplex at Matthews

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+.