Union II fell to top-ranked Crown Legacy FC at Subaru Park on Wednesday night in the second contest of the team’s three game homestand this week.
The starting XI featured first-team experienced talent in forwards Chris Donovan and Jeremy Rafanello, defender Brandan Craig, and midfielder Quinn Sullivan, but the fortified lineup was unable to prevent Crown Legacy from claiming its ninth win of the season.
The first half finished without a score, though Union II outshot their opponent with five attempts to Crown Legacy FC’s two. The first goal of the game didn’t come until the 57th minute – that’s when Charlotte midfielder Jacob Williams crossed the ball to the center of the box toward forward Vinicius Mello, who then headed it past Union II keeper Andrew Rick.
Crown Legacy FC swiftly extended their lead to 2-0; less than 10 minutes after their first score, Charlotte forward Vinicius Mello hurt Union II with yet another header. This time, he headed the ball to forward Patrick Agyemang who muscled past defender Anton Sorenson to get in scoring position. The 2023 MLS SuperDraft 12th overall pick nailed a right-footed shot from the center of the box, hitting the bottom right corner of the net for Charlotte’s second score.
Union II made a valiant effort to minimize their deficit – in the 70th minute, Donovan, midfielder Alex Perez, and midfielder CJ Olney deployed an aggressive offensive attack with an attempt each, but found no luck against Charlotte’s unrelenting defense. The team outshot Crown Legacy 19 to seven in the second half, but despite Union II's effort, Charlotte left Chester with another victory in tow.
The team will be back at Subaru Park on Sunday, June 18 for a 6 p.m. matchup against Chicago Fire II. Tap here for tickets.
