It only took four tries to get this match in, but it was worth the wait. Charm City FC moved closer to a Maryland Open Cup title, and a spot in the USASA Region I Finals, by defeating Baltimore Bays Chelsea in Quarterfinal action 6-5 on penalties after a scoreless draw. This game was plentiful not in scoring, but in physicality.
Charm City earned the majority of scoring chances during regulation, some of which occurred as a result of a 71st minute red card received by Chelsea fullback Matt Shell who committed a serious challenge. However, they could not convert their chances and ended regulation time scoreless. Overtime saw more physical play as Lou Karko of Charm City was ejected in the 112th minute, evening the match at 10 players per side. At this point the clubs settled down and held serve until the penalty shootout arrived. Both goalkeepers did their part to ensure their team was in it to the end. Charm City’s Scott Maguire made 12 saves, while Josh Taylor of Baltimore Bays Chelsea stopped 16 shots.
Once in penalty kicks, the scoring finally arrived. Goals flew in back and forth for both sides, with the clubs ending up tied 5-5 after six rounds. In the seventh round, Chad Muesel stepped up for Charm City, calmly placing the ball in the back of the net. Chelsea’s Jarron Brooks looked to send the shootout to an eighth round, but instead sent his shot wide left, ending the match.
Charm City FC advances to play FC Allyance – who defeated the Maryland Kicks 7-0 the previous week – in the Maryland semifinals, which are scheduled to occur on March 14.