HARTFORD, Conn. – Hartford Athletic fended off Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC by a 2-1 score in the semifinal round of the Prinx Tires United Soccer League Cup to advance to the championship contest for the second straight season.
Hartford awaits the winner of the Louisville City FC and San Antonio FC semifinal matchup.
HOW IT HAPPENED
- Hartford wasted little time breaking the scoreless tie as in the third minute, Barry Coffey tipped home a pass from within the box from Junior Moreira, giving the hosts a 1-0 edge.
- In the 37th minute, Athletic stretched their lead to 2-0 as off a corner kick by Sebastian Anderson, Arturo Diz Pe headed home the rock past Colorado Springs goalkeeper Christian Herrera.
- Hartford nearly struck in the 49th and 74th minutes, respectively, as a Michee Ngalina try was denied by an aggressive Herrera while a Coffey attempt was stopped by a defender, keeping the score at 2-nil.
- Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC cut their deficit in half as a streaking Jonas Fjeldberg sent the rock past Antony Siaha in the 82nd minute. The visitors kept the pressure on in the late going, however, Hartford held on for a 2-1 win.
- Colorado Springs owned advantages in both corner kicks and shots on target. In goal, Siaha made five saves for Hartford.
SERIES NOTES
- Tonight marked the 6th meeting all-time between the two teams.
NEXT UP
- Hartford Athletic welcomes Tampa Bay Rowdies to Trinity Health Stadium for a USL Championship contest on Saturday, September 12th, at 7:00 p.m.
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