CHARLESTON, S.C. (September 8, 2018) — The Tampa Bay Rowdies lost 1-0 to the Charleston Battery at MUSC Health Stadium on Saturday night.
A 22nd minute goal by forward Patrick Okonkwo was the difference in a match which saw the Rowdies dominate in most of the stat columns.
Prior to going down a goal, forward Junior Flemmings had several chances on goal for the Rowdies but goalkeeper Joe Kuzminsky was able to keep the visitors off the scoresheet.
Charleston would get on the board in the 22nd minute, when Okonkwo beat defender Tarek Morad and went one-on-one with Daniel Vega. His finish hit the left post and went in to give the home side the lead.
Forward Sebastian Guenzatti nearly equalized in the 35th minute, but he was not expecting Leo Fernandes’ cross to make it through to him. His shot trickled just wide of the left post.
The Rowdies continued to dominate the match in the second half but were unable to capitalize on countless chances to equalize.
Most of those chances came after the 74th minute, including several from Guenzatti.
Unable to get a clean shot on frame towards the final minutes, the Rowdies saw their night dwindle down, as Charleston secured the three points.
The Rowdies are back in action this upcoming Saturday, September 15, when they host Atlanta United 2 at Al Lang Stadium. Remember, if the match sells out, the Rowdies will donate 15,000 to pediatric cancer research. For tickets, call 727-222-2000 or click here.
Scoring Summary
Charleston: Patrick Okonkwo – 22nd minute (assisted by Ian Svantesson)
Caution Summary
Charleston: Jay Bolt – 55th minute
Tampa Bay: Sebastian Guenzatti – 81st minute
Charleston: Leland Archer – 90+6 minute
Lineups
Rowdies (3-5-2): GK Daniel Vega; D Hunter Gorskie, Papé Diakité, Tarek Morad; M Afrim Taku, Joe Cole (Alex Morrell 68′), Dominic Oduro, Kwadwo Poku, Leo Fernandes (Zac Portillos 61′); F Junior Flemmings (Georgi Hristov 55′), Sebastian Guenzatti
Charleston (3-4-3): GK Joe Kuzminsky; D Skylar Thomas, Taylor Mueller, Leland Archer; M Nico Rittmeyer, Tah Brian Anunga, Angelo Kelly, Jay Bolt; F Kotaro Higashi (O’Brian Woodbine 76′), Patrick Okonkwo (Victor Mansaray 90+2′), Ian Svantesson (Gordon Wild 62′)
