Triumph drop first match of 2024 in 1-0 shutout loss
Charlotte, NC (April 12, 2024) – The Greenville Triumph suffered its first defeat of 2024 on Friday, losing 1-0 to the Charlotte Independence Friday night in American Legion Memorial Stadium. Despite early efforts from Greenville’s offense, the club couldn’t solidify a lead and fell to Charlotte 1-0. Friday night’s match was the first between the two clubs since Charlotte knocked Greenville out of the League One Playoffs last fall.
The match’s action came early, as a 12th minute a handball decision against Charlotte led to a penalty kick for Greenville. Lyam MacKinnon stepped up to the spot, having converted a penalty kick in Greenville’s last match versus Northern Colorado. This time MacKinnon’s strike met the outstretched palms of Austin Pack, the 2023 Goalkeeper of the Year, denying Greenville an early advantage.
As the match progressed, the visitor’s attacks intensified. Ben Zakowski savvily cut back and launched a rocket towards goal later in the first half, only to see his blistering shot met by the ball ricocheting off the Pack’s face and out of bounds. Greenville’s attacking onslaught continued, with Zakowski leading the charge. In the 43rd minute, a tantalizing opportunity presented itself as the Monmouth University grad fully extended, aiming a header towards the net. Yet, once again, Pack proved to be an immovable force, deflecting the ball with a fingertip save, leaving the score deadlocked 0-0 at the half.
Despite Greenville’s relentless pressure and near-misses, Charlotte seized the initiative against the run of play. A chipped ball found its way to the waiting Carlos Obregon, who capitalized on the opportunity with a clinical header in the 51st minute. As the match wore on, Greenville fought desperately to claw their way back into contention. However, their efforts were hampered by Charlotte’s swift counterattacks. In the 64th minute, center back and captain, Brandon Fricke was forced to leave the match with an ankle injury following a critical tackle. The league-leaders were unable to mount a comeback in the final moments, sealing the 1-0 defeat.
The Triumph are now 3-1-1 in the regular season, but have a quick turnaround on Tuesday as they face Championship side, Louisville City FC in the U.S. Open Cup.
