Who: Toronto FC II (6-16-5, 23 points) vs. Charlotte Independence (12-7-6, 42 points)
When: September 4 2016, 4:00 PM EST
Where: Ontario Soccer Centre
Tickets: Here
Livestream: tfc2.ca
Toronto FC II plays host to the Charlotte Independence this Sunday September 4 at 4:00 PM.
The Young Reds will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing result last weekend. TFC II lost to bitter rivals FC Montreal 4-3 at the OSC. However, the game did see new signee Ricardo John score a brace in his Toronto FC II debut. “ I was quite impressed with his link play and his ability to bring others into the game,” said Head Coach Jason Bent.
Due to a Red Card in his last match, the Young Reds will be without defender Mitch Taintor for the match this weekend. Taintor has been an integral piece to the Toronto FC backline this season. Bubacar Jobe also received a suspension for his role in the altercation.
Sunday will also most likely see Clint Irwin make his second consecutive start for the Young Reds. The Toronto FC keeper is working his way back from a serious quad injury. “We are trying to get Clint some more minutes,” added Jason Bent
The Independence is entering a very important stretch of games. They will be looking to carry the momentum from an impressive 3-2 victory over FC Cincinnati.
This will be the second and final meeting between the two teams this season. The two teams played to a draw on June 4 in Charlotte. Shaan Hundal and Malik Johnson both scored in the first half for the Young Reds. Jorge Herrera would score two second half goals to steal the 3 points from Toronto FC II.
On Thursday, Hundal signed his first professional contract with Toronto FC II. “It is something I have been dreaming about since I was a kid,” said the Brampton native.
Players to Watch:
Jorge Herrea: The aforementioned Herrera has put tougher a nice season for the Independence. He has been primarily used as an offensive weapon off the bench. He has scored five goals this season and chipped in two assists. The veteran Columbian is in his second USL season. He also coaches high school soccer in Charlotte and has won four state championships.
Enzo Martinez: The 17th overall pick in the 2012 MLS super draft has put together an impressive season for the Independence. The Uruguayan has scored seven goals in 23 matches this season. The midfielder has scored three goals in his last six matches.
Toronto FC II take on Charlotte Independence this Sunday, September 4 at 4:00 PM ET. Follow along on Twitter @TorontoFCII using the hashtag #TORvCLT and watch the action via livestream at tfc2.ca
