CHARLESTON, SC – The Battery (10-5-7) departed for Virginia following training on Tuesday morning in preparation for the team’s match with the Richmond Kickers (11-6-6) Wednesday night.
The match, which kicks off at 7:00 at City Stadium, has major implications on the Eastern Conference playoffs: Richmond currently has a two point lead on Charleston for fourth place, but the Battery have a game in hand. The top four teams in each conference earn the right to host a playoff game, the top eight teams make the playoffs.
The Battery saw its eight-game unbeaten streak come to a grinding halt on Saturday night, losing 3-1 to last-place FC Montreal at MUSC Health Stadium. Maikel Chang scored Charleston’s only goal in the match, continuing his run of good form. The hosts created several quality scoring chances, but couldn’t capitalize. Montreal goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau played well throughout the match, leading his side to its fourth win of the season.
Richmond comes into the match against the Battery riding a seven-game unbeaten streak (6-0-1) that includes wins over New York Red Bulls II at home and Rochester Rhinos on the road. During that seven game run, the Kickers have only given up two goals. Richmond’s last loss was on July 2nd at MUSC Health Stadium.
The Battery won that match comprehensively, jumping out to an early lead and never relenting. Taylor Mueller and Heviel Cordoves scored first-half goals seven minutes apart to help Charleston to three points.
Yudao Imora has led the way for Richmond through the hot streak, scoring six goals in seven games. Imora’s nine goals this season has him tied with Charleston’s Romario Williams and two other players for seventh in the USL.
Following the match in Richmond, the Battery will briefly return to Charleston before leaving for Wilmington for the third of three matches with the Hammerheads this season.