Charleston Battery midfielder Justin Portillo earned USL Team of the Week honors for his three point performance against FC Cincinnati in his first game since being sidelined at the end of last season.
The playmaker connected with Forrest Lasso on a set piece to open the scoring in the 38th minute. Portillo served an in-swinging corner to Lasso on the back post who nodded it down for the Battery’s first goal of the season.
After Charleston surrendered the lead to the visitors, it was Portillo pulled the team back in front. The 5-foot-7 midfielder knocked in the rebound from his own penalty kick that goalkeeper Mitch Hildebrandt parried back into play in the 71st minute.
In addition to leaving his mark on the scoresheet, Portillo connected defense to attack and helped keep possession for his side throughout the game. The New Orleans native created several scoring chances, repeatedly finding outlet passes that sprung dangerous counterattacks into Cincinnati’s defensive half.
Now in his fourth year with the Club, Portillo has consistently delivered on set pieces. He scored six goals from dead ball situations last year and has continued that goal-scoring form this season.
Portillo and the Battery will head to Charlotte this weekend for the first game of the Southern Derby Cup. Kick off is scheduled for 7:00pm at Transamerica Field. The match can be watched on https://www.www.charlestonbattery.com or My TV Charleston .
