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Opposition Report: Charlotte – 5/25

By Jake Santo, 05/21/19, 9:30AM EDT

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Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (2-1-5) sets its sights this week on the Charlotte Independence (1-6-4) for a match at 7 p.m. this Saturday at Highmark Stadium. The match will be streamed lived on ESPN+.

The Season So Far

Winning has been a challenge for the Charlotte Independence through the season, collecting only one win in USL Championship action. Charlotte has stayed competitive with four draws, but currently sits in 16th place in the table.

Charlotte’s last match resulted in a 1-1 draw against Nashville SC, so the Independence will look to come into Pittsburgh hungry for three points in an attempt to revive their season.

Players to Watch

Charlotte’s Dominic Oduro has been the key offensive contributor, leading the Independence with five goals on 12 shots this season. The Hounds will also have to key on Enzo Martínez, who leads Charlotte in assists and shots.

Defensively, Pittsburgh will need to restrict the effectiveness of Andrew Gutman, who leads the team with 21 interceptions and 33 tackles.

Strength – Success Inside the Box

Goals have been a premium for the Independence this season, but when they have come it has been within close range. Of the 12 goals scored this season for Charlotte, all 12 of them have been within the 18-yard box. The Independence rely on their close-range chances to carry them through matches, but if Pittsburgh limits immediate chances it could be difficult for Charlotte forwards.

Weakness – Goals, goals and more goals

Charlotte allows the third most goals in the Eastern Conference at 1.9 goals per game. If the Riverhounds are successful in firing shots to the net, Pittsburgh could find success in the goal department and on the scoreboard.