A goal in each half propelled Saint Louis FC to a 2-0 victory over Charlotte Independence in front of a record crowd of 5,661 Saturday night at World Wide Technology Soccer Park.
With the win, Saint Louis improves to 7-11-9 (27 pts.) on the season while Charlotte moves to 10-7-10 (40 pts.). The result snapped a 12-game unbeaten streak for the Independence
“We defended well and were able to create chances that led to goals tonight,” Head Coach Dale Schilly said. “It was good to see it all come together.”
After a back-and-forth opening half hour of play, Saint Louis FC took a lead it would never relinquish.
In the 29th minute, a loose ball fell to Bryan Gaul at the edge of the penalty area. Gaul took a touch to control before shooting straight at goalkeeper John Berner, but the rebound fell straight to James Musa who tapped home from close range.
Saint Louis added to its advantage less than ten minutes into the second half. After a team effort kept the ball alive in the final third, Patrick Doody curled a ball to the center of the penalty area and Jacob Bushue rose highest to send a looping header into the back of the net. It was Bushue’s first goal of the season.
Goalkeeper Alec Kann made one save in goal to preserve his second straight clean sheet.
“I feel good about the effort our guys put forth against a playoff-level team,” Schilly added. “It gives me a good sense of where we’re headed next season.”
Saint Louis FC will wrap up its inaugural season when it welcomes Louisville City FC to World Wide Technology Soccer Park on Saturday, September 19. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM.
