North Charlotte Today

Kerwin Vargas scored the lone goal in Charlotte FC’s 1-0 victory against DC United, who were kept quiet for most of the match.

Lineup: Kahlina, Byrne, Malanda, Privett, Uronen, Westwood, Bronico, Diani, Abada, Agyemang, Vargas

From the outset, it was clear that Charlotte FC players were fresh off a break as they energetically moved across the field. In the 3rd minute, Kerwin Vargas took the first shot but missed over the crossbar.

Following this start, both teams settled into a lull. The next real threat came in the 19th minute when a DC United attack led to a shot from Jared Shroud that was blocked and resulted in an unproductive corner.

Charlotte responded in the 24th minute with Vargas capitalizing on a loose ball at DC’s penalty box and managing The Crown’s first shot on target. DC United intensified their efforts but failed to score despite several corners. Jared Shroud made an ambitious attempt from halfway but missed.

The match paused in the 31st minute for a hydration break. Head Coach Dean Smith's talk seemed effective as Charlotte’s offense appeared more lively afterward. In the 37th minute, Liel Abada passed to Patrick Agyemang near goal but a crucial tackle from DC prevented scoring.

Agyemang had another chance after breaking through two center-backs but narrowly missed with his weaker left foot. After several corners, Charlotte finally scored on their fourth attempt with Jere Uronen delivering a cross that Vargas headed into the net for his third goal of the season.

Heading into halftime encouraged by their performance post-hydration break, maintaining momentum was key for Charlotte in the second half.

Second Half Lineup: Kahlina, Byrne, Malanda (Privett), Uronen (Westwood), Bronico (82’), Diani (69’), Abada (69’), Agyemang (82’), Vargas (90+5’) Substitutes: Smalls (69’), Urso (69’), Arfield (82’), Petkovic (82’), Dejaegere (90+5’)

Charlotte maintained pressure on DC United right from the second-half whistle and quickly earned a corner leading to a solid chance for Andrew Privett. Although blocked due to a foul call it demonstrated Charlotte’s intent.

The home team continued their offensive push while DC created few scoring opportunities. In one instance Jared Shroud attempted a curling shot that went wide.

Vargas remained central to nearly every Charlotte attack throughout the night. In the 70th minute he unleashed his fifth shot which deflected off a defender.

As DC pushed forward seeking an equalizer more opportunities opened up for Charlotte including Brandt Bronico's shot striking side netting in 81st minute after receiving pass from Tyger Smalls.

Charlotte FC successfully fended off DC United's efforts marking consecutive victories as they prepare for midweek home clash against Orlando City.

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