Kerwin Vargas scored the lone goal in Charlotte FC’s 1-0 victory against DC United who were kept quiet for most 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 buzzed energetically across the field. In the 3rd minute, Kerwin Vargas would shoot the first warning shot, creating space with his signature step-overs, but the following shot sailed over the crossbar.
Following this frenetic start, the game settled into a lull. Both teams took turns probing for opportunities that weren’t readily available, likely working off some rust while maintaining solid and disciplined defensive structures.
The next real threat didn’t come until the 19th minute when a well-constructed DC United attack led to a shot from Jared Shroud. The shot was blocked, resulting in a corner that ultimately yielded nothing.
Charlotte’s response came in the 24th minute. Vargas, capitalizing on a loose ball at the top of DC’s penalty box, deftly maneuvered through the defense and managed to get off The Crown’s first shot on target.
DC United intensified their offensive efforts, winning several more corners but without finding the back of the net. Jared Shroud made an audacious attempt to beat Kristijan Kahlina from the halfway line, trying to catch the Croatian goalkeeper off his line, but it proved overly ambitious.
The match would take a brief pause in the 31st minute for a hydration break, and Head Coach Dean Smith got an opportunity to speak to his team. The talk seemed to help as Charlotte’s offense looked a little more lively coming out of the break.
In the 37th minute, Charlotte FC created their best chance up to this point when Liel Abada slipped a pass to Patrick Agyemang just six yards from goal. However, a crucial tackle from a DC defender likely saved his team from conceding the opener.
Agyemang had another chance to put Charlotte ahead when he pounced on a loose ball over the top. He broke through the two center-backs, creating a one-on-one opportunity out of seemingly nothing. Unfortunately, he was forced to shoot with his weaker left foot, and the ball narrowly missed to right side of the goal.
After a series of corners, Charlotte finally broke through on their fourth attempt of the night. Jere Uronen delivered a pinpoint cross into the six-yard box, where Kerwin Vargas, perfectly positioned, powerfully headed the ball into the back of the net for his third goal of the season.
Heading into halftime, Charlotte could feel encouraged by their strong performance following the hydration break. They were on the front foot, and maintaining this momentum would be key for 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’)
The Crown maintained their relentless pressure on DC United right from the second-half whistle. They quickly earned a corner, creating a solid chance for Andrew Privett. Although his shot was blocked and wouldn’t have counted due to a foul, it demonstrated Charlotte’s intent for the half.
Undeterred, the home team continued to bombard DC’s box with crosses and shots, determined to extend their lead. After a prolonged offensive drought, DC finally created a scoring opportunity. Jared Shroud found some space to open up his hips and attempt a curling shot into the top right corner, but the effort went wide.
Vargas remained a constant threat throughout the night, playing a pivotal role in nearly every Charlotte attack. In the 70th minute, he unleashed his fifth shot of the match, which appeared to be on target until it took a slight deflection off a defender.
As DC United pushed forward in an attempt to salvage a point, more opportunities opened up for Charlotte. In the 81st minute, Brandt Bronico joined the fray, receiving a whizzing cross-field pass from Tyger Smalls, but his shot struck the side netting.
Charlotte FC successfully fended off DC United's efforts to snatch a point, marking consecutive victories for The Crown as they prepare for a midweek home clash against Orlando City.
HONORING BLACK EXCELLENCE | JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION
Join us at The Fortress to celebrate Juneteenth as Charlotte FC takes on Orlando City SC Wednesday June 19 at 7:30!
