Charlotte Eagles News Release -- www.charlotteeagles.com
Saturday, April 16, 2011
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The Charlotte Eagles fell in the opening game of their home campaign of the 2011 USL PRO season as Orlando City took a 1-0 victory at Charlotte Christian Stadium on Saturday night. Rob Valentino scored the only goal of the game in the first half off a deflected corner kick.
After the Eagles opened well, Orlando quickly found their composure to even out the game. Orlando's Max Griffin almost found the back of the net in the 29th minute, forcing a corner kick. From the corner, the Eagles were unable to clear the ball into the penalty area and Valentino settled the ball and fired home from four yards out.
Charlotte’s Chris Salvaggione had a few outstanding efforts on goal, but the Eagles struggled to find many openings in the Lions defense which recorded its second straight shutout.
After a morning of thunderstorms and torrential downpours, the day cleared just in time for the Eagles’ home opener. The Eagles’ fans braved the strong winds and a cold night to watch two very evenly matched teams.
The Eagles began the game with a lot of momentum. Walter Moore and Salleiu Bundu were able to connect a few passes in the first minute to give Orlando an early scare. Following Bundu’s initial shot the Eagles were able to build a few positive possessions, but weren’t able to find a breakthrough.
Though the Eagles ended the half down by a goal, they looked strong as they sought the right chemistry to find a goal.
Eagles coach Mark Steffens changed things up with Miguel Ferrer, Alan Sanchez and Luke Williams starting the second half, but the game had a slower feel as both the Eagles and the Lions struggled to mount any scoring opportunities.
Salvaggione was first to test Orlando goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo in the second half with a rifle of a shot from twenty yards out.
Charlotte goalkeeper Eric Reed was tested once in the second half, making a great save in the 83rd minute, but Valentino’s goal would prove to be the only goal the Lions would need.
The Eagles will try to find their first win of the season next Saturday as they host F.C. New York at 7 p.m. at Charlotte Christian Stadium. The Lions, who have now won two consecutive games after falling in their opener, will next host Puerto Rico United on Friday night at the Citrus Bowl at 7:30 p.m.