The Chattanooga Red Wolves took on Charlotte Independence for the final time in the regular season on Saturday, September 9th in Charlotte, North Carolina. The last time these two teams met was in Chattanooga where the Red Wolves were able to force a 2-2 draw after being down two goals and two men in a very physical match.
In the opening minutes of the match, Chattanooga had a few early chances, out-shooting Charlotte Independence eight to two in the first 15 minutes. Johnny Felipe had a great chance from long distance which hit the post to keep the score level at zero.
The Red Wolves continued to apply pressure in the final third but were denied by the Charlotte back line. Chattanooga midfielder Omar Gomez also had an impressive shot on goal in the 45th minute which was tipped just over the bar by Charlotte Independence keeper Austin Pack. Both teams went into the locker scoreless as neither team was able to convert in the first 45. Chattanooga ended the first half leading in overall shots at 15 to two.
The Red Wolves started the second half strong and in the 55th minute, Marios Lomis tried his chance with an overhead kick in the box which went just wide of the post. Chattanooga made their first sub of the night with Malango replacing Lomis in the 63rd minute of the match. In the 68th minute, Charlotte found the back of the net first as Mbuyu slotted it just past Red Wolves goalkeeper Carlos Avilez at the near post. Alex Tejera replaced Moe Espinoza in the 70th minute of the match to help strengthen the chances of a Chattanooga equalizer. The first booking of the night went to Red Wolves defender Aarón Lombardi in the 76th minute after a slight shoulder check.
Chattanooga used their final sub of the night as Walter Varela came in for Jonny Felipe. After a set piece from Charlotte Independence, Khori Bennett found the back of the net as Chattanooga was unable to clear it making it 2-0. A frustrated Chattanooga gave away a penalty kick in the box moments later, but the Jacks were denied by a diving save from Avilez. With lightning in the area, both teams were forced to go to the locker room in the final two minutes of regulation time. The match resumed around 10:10 p.m. and Charlotte found the back of the net once more making it 3-0, the final goal of the night.
The Red Wolves looked for their second straight win but were denied by Charlotte Independence who took advantage of their attacking chances. The Red Wolves are back in action at home on September 16th against Union Omaha as they celebrate Hispanic Heritage Night on Noche de Lobos featuring post match fireworks, live DJ, and more.