On a chilly night in the Charlotte suburb of Matthews, Crown Legacy made their debut in the historic Lamar Hunt US Open Cup against UPSL club, South Carolina United Heat.
Both sides took their time feeling each other out in the early stages of the match. Each squad would generate some offensive attacks, however, neither side would be able to produce a goal in the first half.
As adjustments were made at halftime on both sides, more aggressive play would take place in the second half. Crown Legacy would hold the advantage on possession, but could not find the breakthrough.
In the 88th minute, the first goal of the match appeared imminent. Crown Legacy would be awarded a penalty. Filip Mirkovic would step to the spot looking to put the hosts on the board. Unfortunately, his shot would sail over the crossbar and keep the match level at 0-0.
Six minutes later, Julian Bravo of Crown Legacy would commit a foul in the box at the other end of the pitch, sending Wilterlynd Inalien to the spot for the visitors. He would convert the penalty in stoppage time, guaranteeing victory.
“We have prepared for this match for a whole month,” said Ivan Vlek of SC United Heat. “With our season starting in a few days, we were thinking about this game and nothing else.”
Crown Legacy becomes the fourth MLS NEXT Pro team to bow out of the U.S. Open Cup in the last three days, joining Austin FC II, Timbers2 and Chattanooga FC. Crown Legacy will continue their season this coming Sunday when Columbus Crew 2 come to Matthews.
