June 14, 2024 – United Soccer League One (USL1)
Charlotte Independence News Release
CHARLOTTE, NC. – The Charlotte Independence earned a 4-2 victory at home against the Chattanooga Red Wolves SC on Friday night at American Legion Memorial Stadium. The Jacks head to Greenville, South Carolina, on Wednesday, June 19 at 7:00 p.m. against Greenville Triumph SC. Purchase tickets at charlotteindependence.com/tickets.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
Early miscommunication by the Independence gave Chattanooga an advantage with a goal from #10 Mayele Malango in the first minute. The Red Wolves doubled the lead shortly after with another goal by Malango, assisted by #22 Stefan Lukic.
The Jacks responded with sustained pressure as #29 JC ObregĂłn Jr. narrowly missed a chance following a one-on-one breakaway against the Chattanooga goalkeeper. The first half progressed with the Independence creating numerous attacking opportunities. A foul just outside the penalty area by a Chattanooga defender led to a free kick for the Independence. #4 Nick Spielman delivered a cross to ObregĂłn Jr., who headed the ball just over the goal.
In stoppage time of the first half, #14 Luis Alvarez sent a cross into the box, allowing #9 Kharlton Belmar to volley the ball into the net, reducing the deficit to one goal at halftime.
Halftime: Charlotte Independence 1, Chattanooga Red Wolves SC 2.
Charlotte started the second half strong, creating multiple chances in front of goal. The Jacks found success with crosses into the box, and in the 57th minute, #13 Anton Sorenson delivered a firm pass which ObregĂłn Jr. calmly finished to tie the game. This was Sorenson’s first goal contribution of the season.
As the second half progressed, possession fluctuated between both teams. A crucial save by Independence goalkeeper #1 Austin Pack kept Charlotte in the game with just 10 minutes remaining.
In the 83rd minute, Alvarez unleashed a powerful shot into the top right corner, scoring his fifth goal in all competitions and giving the Jacks a lead.
Just minutes later, in the 87th minute, the Independence extended its lead to two goals as #56 Gabriel Obertan lofted a ball into the box for ObregĂłn Jr., who secured his second goal of the night.
Fulltime: Charlotte Independence 4, Chattanooga Red Wolves SC 2.
IN THE NUMBERS:
The Independence scored four unanswered goals.
#9 Kharlton Belmar scored his second goal of the season in all competitions, first in USL League One play.
#29 J.C. ObregĂłn Jr. scored his 10th and…