The Young Reds make their return to the big stage this Wednesday as they battle the Charlotte Independence at BMO Field. Here is everything you need to know about the Independence.
2017 Season:
The Independence are enjoying a great 2017 season. They currently sit in first place in the Eastern Conference with an 11-3-6 record. Charlotte boasts a conference high +18 goal differential. The Independence have the 3rd highest scoring offense in the USL with 40 goals for and are in the bottom 10 in goals conceded. The Independence is currently riding an 11-game unbeaten streak that started in early June.
Current Form:
WWDDW
Win vs. Louisville City (3-1)
Win at Bethlehem Steel (4-0)
Draw vs. Richmond Kickers (0-0)
Draw at Harrisburg City Islanders (1-1)
Win at NYRB II (3-2)
Last time we met:
This will be the first meeting of the season between the two clubs. All time the Reds are 0-2-2 against the Independence. Last September the Independence walked away from the OSC with a 5-1 victory.
Key Player: Jorge Herrera
Jorge Herrera currently leads the Independence in both goals (12) and assists (5). The 36-year-old journeyman is in his third season with Charlotte. The native of Columbia has played for nine different teams over the course of his 16-year career. He spent most of his time playing in the top flight of Columbian football before coming state side in 2013. Herrera has logged 1209 minutes this season in 18 appearances.
Unsung Hero: Jun Marques Davidson
The former Vancouver Whitecap is having a solid season in a defensive midfield role for the Independence. The native of Tokyo, Japan is in his second season with the Independence after spending time in the J1 and J2 leagues. Davidson made 50 MLS appearances for the ‘Caps between 2012-2013. Davidson currently leads the Independence in passes completed with 1004 at a 90.3% completion rating. He has chipped in one assist.
Canadian Content:
The Independence does not currently roster any Canadians.
Projected Lineup:
The Independence have trotted out in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Davidson and Callum Ross man the d-mid spots with three midfielders ahead of them. The Independence play with a loan striker.
Tickets for Wednesday’s clash at BMO are available here. Kickoff is set for 8:00 PM following the first team’s open practice.
