The USL PRO Charlotte Eagles kept their 2013 unbeaten streak alive with a 3-0 victory over Sounders FC U-23s in the second round of U.S. Open Cup play.
The win sets up a “home” third round game with the Chicago Fire on May 29. That home game will be played at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC.
The Eagles overcame a sluggish first half. All three goals came in the second. The game, in front of a crowd of 420, was played at Queens Sports Complex at Queens University.
Reserve Drew Yates scored the game’s first goal in the 57th minute, and eight minutes later Jorge Herrera doubled the score with a penalty kick. Herrera also scored the third goal.
The Sounders U23 are a USL Premier Development League team that serves as the development platform for Major League Soccer’s Seattle Sounders.
A year ago, the Eagles beat FC Dallas of MLS before losing to Chivas USA in the Open Cup quarterfinals.
The Eagles currently own a 3-0-3 record after earning a 1-0 shutout over the Charleston Battery. Charlotte has played only six league games, in contrast to USL PRO leader Orlando City, which has played 10 times.
With 12 points, the Eagles are tied with VSI Tampa Bay FC for sixth place in the 13-team league.
Shaun Francis scored the game-winner off a free kick from just outside the penalty area. Goalkeeper Eric Reed recorded his fourth shutout of the season. The Eagles have allowed only one goal at home this season.
The Eagles did give up three goals in a 3-3 draw with the Richmond Kickers. They also tied Orlando City 1-1 in the third game of the season.