The Charleston Battery enter this weekend’s match against Bethlehem Steel FC in first place in the Eastern Conference despite dropping points at home to Ottawa last weekend. The Battery drew, 2-2, with the USL newcomers, battling back from behind on two separate occasions to earn a hard fought point at MUSC Health Stadium.
Romario Williams scored both goals in last Saturday’s match, bringing his season total to six. Williams’ six goals have him tied for the league lead with FC Cincinnati’s Djiby Fall and San Antonio FC’s Billy Forbes. Following his brace against Ottawa, Williams is now more than halfway to his goal total from the 2016 season (10) after only six matches.
Mirroring Williams’ impressive start, the Battery are five points ahead of where they were in 2016 after six games. This time a year ago, Charleston had a 2-1-3 record (9 pts.) and only scored seven goals. Head Coach Mike Anhaeuser has stated on several occasions that the 2017 squad would be more attack-minded than previous years’ teams and it’s shown on the pitch. The Battery are second in goals scored with 15, just behind San Antonio (18) who have played one more match.
Bethlehem Steel FC enter Saturday’s match coming off of their second win of the season. Both wins have come against FC Cincinnati at Goodman Stadium in Pennsylvania. The Steel defeated FCC, 2-0, at home in early April then finished out the month with a 1-0 win last weekend. Cincinnati played with 10-men in both matches, with Paul Nicholson being sent off in the 23rd minute of the first match and Andy Craven being sent off in second half injury time in the second. Goalkeeper Jake McGuire earned both shutouts against FCC.
Bethlehem have lost the other three matches they’ve played this season, dropping results versus Rochester Rhinos (3-2) and Orlando City B (2-0) at home and Harrisburg City Islanders (3-2) on the road.
Players to Watch
CHARLESTON – Keep an eye on Maikel Chang again this week. Bethlehem have given up eight goals this season most of which have come from counter attacks and moves down the opposing team’s right flank. After a slow start to the season, Chang has scored or had an assist in each of the Battery’s previous three matches. In addition to his contributions on the scoresheet, Chang routinely sparks counter attacks with his ability on the ball and his vision. He’ll be looking to continue his good form and exploit the left side of Bethlehem’s defense Saturday night.
BETHLEHEM – Seku Conneh fits the mold of the type of player that has historically caused Charleston’s defense issues. The 6-2 center forward has pace, plays with physicality, and has a high workrate and good feet. Conneh has scored three goals and registered one assist this season and is close to surpassing his 2016 goal total (5) already. The 21-year old will look to make runs in behind the Battery’s defense to force the center backs to chase and track back towards their own goal.
Game Details
Gates open at 5:30pm, kickoff is scheduled for 7:00pm. We’ll be celebrating Seis de Soccer with dollar beers beginning when gates open. The Three Lions Pub will be open to the public beginning at 5:30.
Fans can watch the match on https://www.www.charlestonbattery.com or on My TV Charleston.
