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The Charlotte Independence travel to the great state of New Jersey this afternoon for an Eastern Conference showdown with New York Red Bulls II. Charlotte is on a bit of a high after two good performances that have vaulted them to third in the Eastern Conference with a 3-2-0 (9 points). But what awaits them in Harrison? A second place Red Bulls II team that has yet to lose this season.
The Goal for the Independence: grab a road result.
What to Watch For
1) Road Tripping: Charlotte has only played one game on the road so far this season and it ended in a 2-1 loss to FC Cincinnati. We have documented their road struggles last season and although it is a limited sample, they have yet to grab a point. NYRBII poses a very significant challenge, but if the Independence are serious about competing for a playoff spot and more in USL, this is a game they need to get a result in.
2) Colorado Rapids Loaned Players: The Rapids sent both Dennis Castillo and Zach Pfeffer to Charlotte on loan this week and they join Emmanuel Appiah, Caleb Calvert and John Berner. Calvert is having a good season so far with 2 goals so I expect him to play. It is more interesting to see what Castillo and Pfeffer do as their loans are not season long like t he other three players.
Officiating Assignments
Referee: Dave Beckner
Assistant Referees: Justen Lopez and Kenneth Rojas
Fourth Official: Peter Mandell
How to Watch
Match Date/Time: Sunday, 1 May 2016 at 2:00 PM MDT
Venue: Red Bull Arena--Harrison, New Jersey
OnLine Viewing: