Huntsville, Ala. (July 27, 2024) – In a thrilling encounter at Wicks Family Field at Joe Davis Stadium, Huntsville City FC faced a narrow 2-1 defeat against Atlanta United 2. Despite a late surge and a penalty goal by Ollie Wright in the 75th minute, the Boys in Blue couldn't overturn the deficit created by Rodrigo Neri’s two quick goals early in the second half.
The match was a testament to Huntsville’s resilience and fighting spirit. They held their own with 11 shots compared to Atlanta’s 16, and a notable six of those were blocked by a determined Atlanta defense. While the visitors dominated in passing accuracy with an impressive 89.4%, Huntsville showcased their capability with a respectable 83.3%.
See the Photo Gallery Below at the bottom of the recap:
Key Match Statistics
Shots: Huntsville 11, Atlanta 16
Shots on Goal: Huntsville 3, Atlanta 8
Blocked Shots: Huntsville 6, Atlanta 3
Total Passes: Huntsville 354, Atlanta 521
Passing Accuracy: Huntsville 83.3%, Atlanta 89.4%
Corners: Huntsville 6, Atlanta 9
Fouls: Huntsville 10, Atlanta 15
Yellow Cards: Huntsville 0, Atlanta 3
Match Highlights
First Half
The first half saw both teams battling for control, with neither side able to break the deadlock. Huntsville’s defense, led by Bryan Dowd in his home debut, stood firm against Atlanta’s persistent attacks. Dowd’s performance between the posts was commendable, making crucial saves to keep his team in the game.
Second Half
The match intensity peaked early in the second half when Atlanta’s Rodrigo Neri struck twice in quick succession. His first goal came in the 47th minute, assisted by Tyler Wolff, and he doubled the lead just three minutes later, with Matthew Edwards providing the assist. Huntsville responded with increased urgency, and their efforts paid off when Ollie Wright converted a penalty in the 75th minute, marking his second goal of the season.
Announcements
During halftime, an exciting announcement was made: Huntsville City FC will host their parent club, Nashville SC, in an open exhibition match on Wednesday, Sept. 4 at 7 p.m. CT. This event promises to be a fantastic opportunity for fans to see top-tier talent in action right here at Joe Davis Stadium.
Upcoming Matches
Huntsville City FC will return to action on Sunday, Aug. 4 at 4 p.m. CT against Crown Legacy FC at the Mecklenburg County Sportsplex at Matthews. Fans can catch the game live on MLS Season Pass on AppleTV or join the official watch party at Yellowhammer Brewing (2600 Clinton Ave W, Huntsville, AL 35805).
Team Notes
Huntsville City FC has a mixed record in July with 4 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw.
At home in July, their record stands at 1 win, 2 losses, and 1 draw.
Jony Bolaños continued his streak as team captain for the thirteenth consecutive match and has started every match this season.
Ollie Wright scored his second goal of the season and successfully converted his first penalty of the season.
Box Score
Final Score: Huntsville City FC 1 - 2 Atlanta United 2
Scoring Summary:
ATL2: Rodrigo Neri (A: Tyler Wolff) 47’
ATL2: Rodrigo Neri (A: Matthew Edwards) 50’
HCFC: Ollie Wright (pen.) 75’
Discipline:
ATL2: Tyler Wolff (caution) 16’
ATL2: Rodrigo Neri (caution) 67’
ATL2: Efrain Morales (caution) 71’
Lineups
Huntsville City FC Starters: Bryan Dowd, Joey Skinner (Tomás Ritondale 82’), Fernando Ciceron, Chris Applewhite (Joel Sangwa 68’), Will Perkins, Isaiah Jones (Tyler Pasnik 59’), Faiz Opande, Axel Picazo (Jordan Knight 46’), Ethan O’Brien, Woobens Pacius (Ollie Wright 68’), Jony Bolaños (C).
Substitutes: Simon Jillson, Scott Cheevers
Atlanta United 2 Starters: Jayden Hibbert, Dominik Chong Qui, Kaiden Moore, Efrain Morales, Matthew Edwards, Noble Okello Ayo (Karim Tmimi 76’), Nick Firmino, Javier Armas, Tyler Wolff (Cooper Sanchez 76’), Rodrigo Neri (Adyn Torres 76’), Luke Brennan (Erik Centeno 78’).
Substitutes: Jonathan Ransom, Ramzi Qawasamy, Alan Carleton, Matias Gallardo, Jacob Williams
Attendance: 4,874
Stay tuned for more exciting matches and updates from Huntsville City FC!
©NorthValleySports
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