Shots from Cayelli, Thatcher and Mackin can’t turn around late goal from Charlotte
Rock Hill, SC (May 24, 2023) – The Greenville Liberty suffered its second loss of the season, falling 1-0 on the road to the Charlotte Independence on Wednesday night in Rock Hill. The loss was the club’s first full match loss on the season after a rain-shortened home loss to NC Fusion on May 16th.
The Liberty immediately took control of the match in the fifth minute when Julie Mackin slid a one-time hit into the goal, but a late call by the officials reversed the goal kept the match scoreless. This would be the only score for the remainder of the half, as rocket shots from Thatcher and Cayelli were unable to find the back of the net. Charlotte took a chance midway through the half, with a dangerous ball into the 6-yard box. Fortunately for the visitors, Greenville goalkeeper, Allanah Blye came up with a big save to smother the ball. In the 30th minute, midfielder Marcella Helena went down with an injury and want unable to return the match for Greenville. The change in personnel slowed the Liberty chemistry just before the half as things remained scoreless.
New Liberty goalkeeper, Taylor Fox made her debut after she took over for Blye in the second half. Greenville had growing momentum for the first 10 minutes, but it quickly shifted after a set of substitutions. Charlotte gained possession and refused to relinquish control as the clock continued to tick and Greenville’s depth was tested. Greenville tried to take advantage of counter attacks, but Charlotte denied them each time. The South Carolina side made a trio of substitutions, but Charlotte midfielder, Kennedy Jones found a lapse in defensive coverage during the transition and got a free shot off to put the Independence in front. Ahead 1-0, Charlotte maintained the lead and managed the game for the remainder of time, serving Greenville its second loss this season.
The Greenville Liberty will recover with a six-day break over the Memorial Holiday and return to Paladin Stadium for a 7:30 PM home match on Tuesday, May 30th. Tickets are on sale now!
