The Atlanta Silverbacks, 10-0 winners in their opening round match two weeks ago, were faced with a bigger challenge in their Second Round match. The Silverbacks needed only one goal and a saved penalty kick to overcome the USL-2 leading Charlotte Eagles 1-0.
Charlotte came out hot, and tested Atlanta goalkeeper Ryan McIntosh right away. USL-2 leading goalscorer Jacob Coggins fired a point-blank shot that McIntosh was equal to, making a great save and keeping the game scoreless. Just after halftime, Atlanta struck for the lone goal of the match. In the 47th minute, Rodrigo Rios sent a corner kick in the penalty area that Warren Ukah headed home.
Ten minutes later, Charlotte looked sure to draw level from the penalty spot. Omar Jarun was called for a foul in the penalty area, and Coggins again stepped up to face McIntosh from 12 yards out. McIntosh again denied Coggins a goal and the Atlanta defense held firm as Charlotte pressured for the tying goal in the final minutes of the game, but were unable to find the equalizer.
Scoring
(ATL) Warren Ukah (Rodrigo Rios) 48’