Rochester won the first match, 4-0, on April 29.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The Charlotte Independence (5-3-4) return to their new home stadium at the Sportsplex at Matthews for just the second time to face the Rochester Rhinos (5-2-5) Saturday. The kick-off is set for 7 pm, watch the match live on ROC Sports Network WBGT Channel 18 and digital 46.1.
With 20 points in the Eastern Conference standings, the Rhinos sit just one point above the eighth-place Independence. Each team has been a strong side, and have between 2 and 4 games in hand on the majority of the East.
The Rhinos are coming off of a loss to Orlando City B last Friday, which saw their 8-match unbeaten streak snapped. Charlotte has been red-hot since the Jacks lost to Rochester 4-0 on April 29, going 4-1-2 in that span.
The Rhinos have been a strong side against the Independence in the past. With an all-time record of 3-1-2 against Charlotte. In addition, Rochester knocked the Independence out of the 2016 USL Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, winning 3-1 at home.
Rochester’s offense is led by Wal Fall, who has scored three goals in 11 appearances. In goal, they are led by 2016 USL Golden Glove winner Tomas Gomez, who is tied for 2nd in the USL with 5 shutouts, and only has allowed eight goals in 11 matches.
The Independence is led by Enzo Martinez, who has been spectacular with 6 goals in just 9 matches, tied for 7th in the USL. Goalkeeper Cody Mizell has given up 15 goals over Charlotte’s 12 matches, including a pair of shutouts.