MIAMI (September 5, 2020) — The Miami FC earned a draw on Saturday night against Group H Rivals Charleston Battery. A late goal at Riccardo Silva Stadium by forward Miguel Gonzalez canceled a first half goal by Stavros Zarokostas.
Miami FC came out swinging early on, applying plenty of pressure in Charlotte’s half. Midfielder Tomas Granitto had the first chance of the night in the 6th minute, as his header at the far post went wide right of the goal.
As the match reached the 20th minute, the pressure continued and midfielder Sebastian Velasquez fired a shot on frame. Goalkeeper Joe Kuzminsky found the Colombian’s shot come straight at him making an easy save.
Miami FC continued to pressure, with forward Romario Williams having two chances prior to the end of the half. His first one sailed over the crossbar, with his second being denied by Kuzminsky.
Just minutes into the second half, Zarokostas would put the visiting side up 1-0 with an unstoppable shot from outside the 18-yard box. Goalkeeper Mark Pais outstretched himself, but there was nothing he could do to avoid the 1-0.
Minutes later, Miami would see their spell of bad luck continue in Charleston’s 18, as Velasquez fired a shot off the post, while Williams’ ensuing shot off the rebound would also hit off the woodwork. Bezecourt saw the Jamaican’s rebound come to him inside the six, but his shot would sail over the bar.
With the match dying down and Miami FC continuing their constant pressure on Charlotte, their reward finally came. A great move by forward Mohamed Thiaw left a Charleston defender out of place, with Thiaw laying off a pass to Granitto. The El Salvador international one-timed his shot on frame but hit off Gonzalez and went into the back of the net.
Miami FC would see the match end in a draw at Riccardo Silva Stadium, despite creating a plethora of chances in the opposing final third.
Up next, Miami will travel to face Atlanta United 2 this upcoming Saturday, September 12 at Fifth Third Bank Stadium in Kennesaw, GA.
