CHARLESTON, SC – The Charleston Battery hosts the Richmond Kickers Saturday, July 2nd at MUSC Health Stadium in a continuation of the oldest rivalry in American professional soccer. Saturday’s match between the two longest operating professional soccer clubs in the U.S. is the first of three this season. The match kicks off at 7:30 and will be followed by fireworks.
The Battery (8-4-3) is aiming to keep pace with the teams at the top of the table and the Kickers (5-5-5) are looking to sure-up playoff hopes. Charleston is coming off of back-to-back wins, while Richmond is seeking its first win in three weeks.
Saturday’s match is the 57th meeting between the two historic clubs. The series is always tightly contested, the overall record is dead even at 24-24-8. The rivals met four times last season, including a dramatic playoff match at MUSC Health Stadium that went to extra time. Forrest Lasso scored in the 114th minute to lift the Battery over the Kickers and advance in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
Charleston defeated Toronto FC II, 1-0, at Ontario Soccer Centre in the team’s last match on Sunday, June 26th. The Battery controlled the match from the outset, putting the Young Reds under pressure immediately. Despite having the majority of possession, Charleston didn’t break the deadlock until the 79th minute. Romario Williams buried a rebound from a Ricky Garbanzo shot to push the Battery in front. The goal was Williams’ seventh this season and first in over a month.
The Kickers drew with Bethlehem Steel FC at home in the team’s last match despite having a 14-6 shot advantage. Richmond will try to get back on track Saturday against the Battery in the first of three straight road games.
Following the match with the Kickers, the Battery will take on Rangers FC in a midweek exhibition. Tickets to the Rangers match can be purchased here! Charleston will resume league play on Saturday July 9th in a match with league-leading Louisville City FC.
Top Image: Justin Portillo dribbles up field against TFC II on May 14th.
Roxy Taylor photo
