Home

An incredible comeback attempt from Hartford Athletic came up just short in what ended up a 4-3 loss on the road to Charleston Battery on Sunday afternoon at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, SC. 

The scoring started in just the second minute of the match. Thomas Janjigian, with the ball deep in his own end, tried to play a pass back to Goalkeeper Matt Lampson. Janjigian's pass had just a bit too much pace on it and skipped past Lampson and into the goal to open the scoring for Charleston. Ten minutes later, Nicque Daley would add another after a some nice build up by the Battery.

Hartford went on a run with a number of good chances from Preston Tabort Etaka, Conor McGlynn and Justin Haak, but ultimately were unable to find the back of the net. Daley added his second goal of the match and third of the night for the Battery in the 43rd minute. Hartford found an answer though in the final moments of the half, Ash Apollon made a nice move to create some space, delivered a beautiful ball into the box that was deflected into the net by a Charleston player. Hartford went into the half trailing 3-1.

The final 45 minutes had a different tone, especially for the visitors. Hartford came out of the locker room energetic and generated a couple early chances but failed to get a goal out of them. In the 58th minute, Danny Barrera, who had already been given a Yellow Card in the first half was given his second yellow of the match. Danny was sent off the pitch and Hartford would have to play down a man. Charleston capitalized on the opportunity, scoring a goal just four minutes later to take a 4-1 lead.

But this Hartford group has nothing if not heart. In the 81st minute, Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. scored his ninth goal of the season, holding up and pulling the ball up on the left hand side of the box and firing on the ground to the far post to cut the lead in half. In the 89th minute, Obregón Jr. intercepted a pass in the attacking half, played a beautiful ball through for Derek Dodson who centered to Kenan Hot in front of net for the sitter. It's Hot's first ever goal for Hartford and it brought the score to 4-3. Hartford would do its best to generate chances in the final five minutes of stoppage time, but ultimately came up just short.

Hartford return to the pitch in just a few days, taking on Loudoun United on Wednesday night at 7 PM at Segra Field in Leesburg, VA. You can watch the match locally on WCTX MyTV9 or stream on ESPN+.

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford 11 (4) – 9 (5) Charleston

Corners: Hartford 4-4 Charleston

Fouls: Hartford 18-18 Charleston

Offsides: Hartford 7-1 Charleston

Possession: Hartford 53.6%-46.4% Charleston

Passing Accuracy: Hartford 83.7%-79.3% Charleston

Saves: Hartford 2-2 Charleston

SCORING SUMMARY:

2' – Thomas Janjigian (Own Goal) 1-0

10' – Nicque Daley (Romario Piggott) 2-0

43' – Nicque Daley (Claudio Repetto) 3-0

45+1' – Romario Piggott (Own Goal) 3-1

61' – Burke Fahling (Romario Piggott) 4-1

81' – Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. (Conor McGlynn) 4-2

88' – Kenan Hot (Derek Dodson) 4-3

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

40' – Danny Barrera (Yellow)

49' – Justin Haak (Yellow)

58' – Danny Barrera (Red) 

74' – Younes Boudadi (Yellow)

83' – Claudio Repetto (Yellow)

89' – Jarad Van Schaik (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

12 (GK) Matt Lampson; 3 (DF) Younes Boudadi, 15 (DF) Tulu, 20 (DF) Thomas Janjigian (Nico Cardona, 61'), 30 (DF) Ashkanov Apollon; 80 (MF) Justin Haak (Luka Prpa, 82'), 28 (MF) Conor McGlynn, 10 (MF) Danny Barrera; 23 (FW) Preston Tabort Etaka (Derek Dodson, 45' (Sebastian Elney, 90+3')), 29 (FW) Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. (Bradford Jamieson IV, 89'), 21 (FW) Jeciel Cedeño (Kenan Hot, 88')

CHARLESTON BATTERY STARTING LINEUP:

1 (GK) Joe Kuzminsky; 17 (DF) Logan Gdula (Patrick Hogan, 70'), 5 (DF) Leland Archer, 14 (DF) Jarad van Schaik, 20 (DF) AJ Patterson (Temi Adesodun, 85'); 10 (MF) Zeiko Lewis (Joshua Penn, 70'), 6 (MF) Robbie Crawford, 11 (MF) Nicque Daley (Dionysius Harmon, 64'), 16 (MF) Burke Fahling; 18 (FW) Claudio Repetto, 8 (MF) Romario Piggott (Stavros Zarakostas, 64')

An incredible comeback attempt from Hartford Athletic came up just short in what ended up a 4-3 loss on the road to Charleston Battery on Sunday afternoon at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, SC. 

The scoring started in just the second minute of the match. Thomas Janjigian, with the ball deep in his own end, tried to play a pass back to Goalkeeper Matt Lampson. Janjigian’s pass had just a bit too much pace on it and skipped past Lampson and into the goal to open the scoring for Charleston. Ten minutes later, Nicque Daley would add another after a some nice build up by the Battery.

Hartford went on a run with a number of good chances from Preston Tabort Etaka, Conor McGlynn and Justin Haak, but ultimately were unable to find the back of the net. Daley added his second goal of the match and third of the night for the Battery in the 43rd minute. Hartford found an answer though in the final moments of the half, Ash Apollon made a nice move to create some space, delivered a beautiful ball into the box that was deflected into the net by a Charleston player. Hartford went into the half trailing 3-1.

The final 45 minutes had a different tone, especially for the visitors. Hartford came out of the locker room energetic and generated a couple early chances but failed to get a goal out of them. In the 58th minute, Danny Barrera, who had already been given a Yellow Card in the first half was given his second yellow of the match. Danny was sent off the pitch and Hartford would have to play down a man. Charleston capitalized on the opportunity, scoring a goal just four minutes later to take a 4-1 lead.

But this Hartford group has nothing if not heart. In the 81st minute, Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. scored his ninth goal of the season, holding up and pulling the ball up on the left hand side of the box and firing on the ground to the far post to cut the lead in half. In the 89th minute, Obregón Jr. intercepted a pass in the attacking half, played a beautiful ball through for Derek Dodson who centered to Kenan Hot in front of net for the sitter. It’s Hot’s first ever goal for Hartford and it brought the score to 4-3. Hartford would do its best to generate chances in the final five minutes of stoppage time, but ultimately came up just short.

Hartford return to the pitch in just a few days, taking on Loudoun United on Wednesday night at 7 PM at Segra Field in Leesburg, VA. You can watch the match locally on WCTX MyTV9 or stream on ESPN+.

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford 11 (4) – 9 (5) Charleston

Corners: Hartford 4-4 Charleston

Fouls: Hartford 18-18 Charleston

Offsides: Hartford 7-1 Charleston

Possession: Hartford 53.6%-46.4% Charleston

Passing Accuracy: Hartford 83.7%-79.3% Charleston

Saves: Hartford 2-2 Charleston

SCORING SUMMARY:

2′ – Thomas Janjigian (Own Goal) 1-0

10′ – Nicque Daley (Romario Piggott) 2-0

43′ – Nicque Daley (Claudio Repetto) 3-0

45+1′ – Romario Piggott (Own Goal) 3-1

61′ – Burke Fahling (Romario Piggott) 4-1

81′ – Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. (Conor McGlynn) 4-2

88′ – Kenan Hot (Derek Dodson) 4-3

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

40′ – Danny Barrera (Yellow)

49′ – Justin Haak (Yellow)

58′ – Danny Barrera (Red) 

74′ – Younes Boudadi (Yellow)

83′ – Claudio Repetto (Yellow)

89′ – Jarad Van Schaik (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

12 (GK) Matt Lampson; 3 (DF) Younes Boudadi, 15 (DF) Tulu, 20 (DF) Thomas Janjigian (Nico Cardona, 61′), 30 (DF) Ashkanov Apollon; 80 (MF) Justin Haak (Luka Prpa, 82′), 28 (MF) Conor McGlynn, 10 (MF) Danny Barrera; 23 (FW) Preston Tabort Etaka (Derek Dodson, 45′ (Sebastian Elney, 90+3′)), 29 (FW) Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. (Bradford Jamieson IV, 89′), 21 (FW) Jeciel Cedeño (Kenan Hot, 88′)

CHARLESTON BATTERY STARTING LINEUP:

1 (GK) Joe Kuzminsky; 17 (DF) Logan Gdula (Patrick Hogan, 70′), 5 (DF) Leland Archer, 14 (DF) Jarad van Schaik, 20 (DF) AJ Patterson (Temi Adesodun, 85′); 10 (MF) Zeiko Lewis (Joshua Penn, 70′), 6 (MF) Robbie Crawford, 11 (MF) Nicque Daley (Dionysius Harmon, 64′), 16 (MF) Burke Fahling; 18 (FW) Claudio Repetto, 8 (MF) Romario Piggott (Stavros Zarakostas, 64′)

Presented by Connecticut Army National Guard

Learn more about how you can earn 100% free tuition by joining the Connecticut Army National Guard here.

Presented by Connecticut Army National Guard

Learn more about how you can earn 100% free tuition by joining the Connecticut Army National Guard here.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (9-13-4) at CHARLESTON BATTERY (8-11-7)

Date: Sunday, October 10th

Time: 2:00 PM ET

Location: Patriots Point Soccer Complex, Mount Pleasant, SC

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: ESPN+ or https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch

LAST TIME OUT:

Hartford Athletic and New Mexico United raced to a 2-2 draw on Wednesday night in Albuquerque. Down a goal four minutes into first half stoppage time, New Mexico was called for a handball in the box. Danny Barrera stepped up to the spot and quickly put the ball past New Mexico Goalie Alex Tambakis for the first goal of the night. In the second half, Hartford earned a free kick in the 48th minute. Barrera took the free kick from the right side and found Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. dashing to the near post, redirected Barrera’s delivery to the far post and gave Hartford a 2-1 lead. New Mexico would answer with a goal of their own in the 55th minute to tie the game.

BUCKING TRENDS:

In a 2-2 draw with New Mexico United, Hartford Athletic did a few things it hasn’t often done in 2021. Conceding first is usually indicative of a negative outcome for the Boys in Green, but on Wednesday night, Hartford earned just their third draw of the season after giving up the opening goal. It also marked only the second time this season that Hartford has taken the lead after conceding first, the other time coming on August 28th against Pittsburgh Riverhounds where, shockingly, Hartford was down a man.

DO OR DIE:

With only six matches left in the season, Hartford will likely need to win out to have any chance at the postseason. Currently Hartford sit on 31 points with 18 possible points remaining. Charlotte Independence, who currently hold the last playoff spot in the Atlantic Division, have 46 points. That number is better than 8 other teams who are projected to make the playoffs throughout the league and is at least 8 points better than any other 4th place team in the Championship.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (9-13-4) at CHARLESTON BATTERY (8-11-7)

Date: Sunday, October 10th

Time: 2:00 PM ET

Location: Patriots Point Soccer Complex, Mount Pleasant, SC

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: ESPN+ or https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch

LAST TIME OUT:

Hartford Athletic and New Mexico United raced to a 2-2 draw on Wednesday night in Albuquerque. Down a goal four minutes into first half stoppage time, New Mexico was called for a handball in the box. Danny Barrera stepped up to the spot and quickly put the ball past New Mexico Goalie Alex Tambakis for the first goal of the night. In the second half, Hartford earned a free kick in the 48th minute. Barrera took the free kick from the right side and found Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. dashing to the near post, redirected Barrera’s delivery to the far post and gave Hartford a 2-1 lead. New Mexico would answer with a goal of their own in the 55th minute to tie the game.

BUCKING TRENDS:

In a 2-2 draw with New Mexico United, Hartford Athletic did a few things it hasn’t often done in 2021. Conceding first is usually indicative of a negative outcome for the Boys in Green, but on Wednesday night, Hartford earned just their third draw of the season after giving up the opening goal. It also marked only the second time this season that Hartford has taken the lead after conceding first, the other time coming on August 28th against Pittsburgh Riverhounds where, shockingly, Hartford was down a man.

DO OR DIE:

With only six matches left in the season, Hartford will likely need to win out to have any chance at the postseason. Currently Hartford sit on 31 points with 18 possible points remaining. Charlotte Independence, who currently hold the last playoff spot in the Atlantic Division, have 46 points. That number is better than 8 other teams who are projected to make the playoffs throughout the league and is at least 8 points better than any other 4th place team in the Championship.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Ashkanov Apollon, DF, #30

Brought in on the final day before the roster freeze, Apollon has made an immediate impact as a left back in Harry Watling's system. He possess the ball well, and with a versatile background (he played as a Forward for San Diego 1904 FC), brings an attacking style to the full back position. "He's given us a little bit of steel back there, great athleticism, really good with the ball. To get into one of our teams at Hartford as a fullback you have to be able to defend and attack which he does so I'm really pleased with Ash," said Watling after Wednesday night's match.

Charleston Battery, Claudio Repetto, FW, #18

Two matchups and two goals for Repetto in games against Hartford in 2021. He comes into the match red hot, scoring three goals in his past three matches, including a brace against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC that gave Charleston the lead late in the match. Repetto has nine goals on the year, far and away the most on the team, and it will be imperative Hartford keeps a man marked on him to keep them off the scoreboard.

INJURY REPORT:

Hartford Athletic:

Out: Nii Armah Ashitey (Leg), Darwin Lom (Head), Carlos Merancio (Knee)

Questionable: Alex Lara (Quad)

Unavailable: Walmer Martinez (International Duty)

Charleston Battery:

Out: Mauro Cichero (Knee), Nico Rittmeyer (Achilles)

Questionable: Temi Adesodun (Ankle), Ben Di Rosa (Leg), Logan Gdula (Knee), Romario Piggot (Quad)

Unavailable: Angelo Kely (Yellow Card accumulation)

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Charleston Battery welcome Hartford to Patriots Point coming off a 4-2 road loss to Tampa Bay Rowdies on Thursday. Tied in the standings at 31 points a piece, Hartford and Charleston are 1-1 against each other this season with each side winning at their home venue. Charleston are in a rough strech with a record of 0-4-4 in their last eight matches including losses in three of their past four matches. Claudio Repetto is the man with Hartford’s number, scoring a goal in each match the clubs have played against each other this season.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:

Follow along on twitter @hfdathletic and #CHSvHFD

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Ashkanov Apollon, DF, #30

Brought in on the final day before the roster freeze, Apollon has made an immediate impact as a left back in Harry Watling’s system. He possess the ball well, and with a versatile background (he played as a Forward for San Diego 1904 FC), brings an attacking style to the full back position. “He’s given us a little bit of steel back there, great athleticism, really good with the ball. To get into one of our teams at Hartford as a fullback you have to be able to defend and attack which he does so I’m really pleased with Ash,” said Watling after Wednesday night’s match.

Charleston Battery, Claudio Repetto, FW, #18

Two matchups and two goals for Repetto in games against Hartford in 2021. He comes into the match red hot, scoring three goals in his past three matches, including a brace against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC that gave Charleston the lead late in the match. Repetto has nine goals on the year, far and away the most on the team, and it will be imperative Hartford keeps a man marked on him to keep them off the scoreboard.

INJURY REPORT:

Hartford Athletic:

Out: Nii Armah Ashitey (Leg), Darwin Lom (Head), Carlos Merancio (Knee)

Questionable: Alex Lara (Quad)

Unavailable: Walmer Martinez (International Duty)

Charleston Battery:

Out: Mauro Cichero (Knee), Nico Rittmeyer (Achilles)

Questionable: Temi Adesodun (Ankle), Ben Di Rosa (Leg), Logan Gdula (Knee), Romario Piggot (Quad)

Unavailable: Angelo Kely (Yellow Card accumulation)

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Charleston Battery welcome Hartford to Patriots Point coming off a 4-2 road loss to Tampa Bay Rowdies on Thursday. Tied in the standings at 31 points a piece, Hartford and Charleston are 1-1 against each other this season with each side winning at their home venue. Charleston are in a rough strech with a record of 0-4-4 in their last eight matches including losses in three of their past four matches. Claudio Repetto is the man with Hartford’s number, scoring a goal in each match the clubs have played against each other this season.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:

Follow along on twitter @hfdathletic and #CHSvHFD

The first ever matchup between Hartford Athletic and New Mexico United lived up to the hype and finished in a 2-2 draw on Wednesday night in Albuquerque. Hartford broke up a stretch of disappointing performances away from home, recording the first road point since July 13th and the first goal since August 6th. 

New Mexico opened up the scoring in the 26th minute. Off a free kick, Chris Wehan took a quick touch and bolted for the far post. After a couple of passes, the ball found its way to a completely unmarked Wehan who centered for Sergio Rivas who headed the goal towards net. Matt Lampson appeared to make a tip save, and then another save from his back, but the official ruled the ball crossed the line and New Mexico was given the lead. Hartford fell behind again, normally a recipe for failure for the visitors. 

But tonight was a different night. Roughly 4 minutes into stoppage time, New Mexico was called for a handball in the box. Danny Barrera stepped up to the spot and quickly put the ball past New Mexico Goalie Alex Tambakis for the first goal of the night. It's Barrera's 8th goal of the season which set a new record for goals in a single-season for Hartford Athletic. 

Barrera, however, would not have that record to himself for very long. Hartford came out with great energy after halftime and earned a free kick in the 48th minute. Barrera took the free kick from the right side and found Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. dashing to the near post, redirected Barrera's delivery to the far post and gave Hartford a 2-1 lead! It marks just the second time this season that Hartford have taken the lead after falling behind.  New Mexico would answer with a goal of their own in the 55th minute to tie the game. 

Back and forth the teams went in the final minutes with Hartford Forwards Derek Dodson and Darwin Lom doing well to get in the box but unable to find either teammates or the frame to take the lead. After 6 long minutes of stoppage time, the final whistle blew and Hartford had earned a well-deserved point on the road.

The road trip for Hartford continues as they head to Charleston to take on the Battery at 2 PM on Sunday, October 10th. You can watch the match on WCTX MyTV9. 

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford 13 (2) – 12 (4) New Mexico

Corners: Hartford 3-9 New Mexico

Fouls: Hartford 12-10 New Mexico

Offsides: Hartford 0-0 New Mexico

Possession: Hartford 37.4%-62.6% New Mexico

Passing Accuracy: Hartford 77.5%-86.5% New Mexico

Saves: Hartford 2-0 New Mexico

SCORING SUMMARY:

26' – Sergio Rivas (Chris Wehan) 0-1

45+5' – Danny Barrera 1-1

48' – Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. (Danny Barrera) 2-1

55' – Devin Sandoval 2-2

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

35' – Chris Wehan (Yellow)

45+2' – Devin Sandoval (Yellow)

53' – Saalih Muhammad (Yellow)

84' – Younes Boudadi (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

12 (GK) Matt Lampson; 3 (DF) Younes Boudadi, 15 (DF) Tulu, 20 (DF) Thomas Janjigian, 30 (DF) Ashkanov Apollon; 80 (MF) Justin Haak, 28 (MF) Conor McGlynn, 10 (MF) Danny Barrera; 23 (FW) Preston Tabort Etaka (Derek Dodson, 65'), 29 (FW) Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. (Nicolás Cardona, 82'), 9 (FW) Sebastian Elney (Darwin Lom, 57')

NEW MEXICO UNITED STARTING LINEUP:

1 (GK) Alex Tambakis; 17 (DF) Justin Schmidt, 22 (DF) Kalen Ryden, 3 (DF) Austin Yearwood (David Najem, 65'); 25 (MF) Daniel Bruce (Cristian Nava, 81'), 19 (MF) Saalih Muhammad, 8 (MF) Juan Guzmán (Andrew Tinari, 67'), 5 (MF) Josh Suggs; 9 (FW) Devin Sandoval, 41 (FW) Chris Wehan, 11 (FW) Sergio Rivas (Isidro Martinez, 63')

The first ever matchup between Hartford Athletic and New Mexico United lived up to the hype and finished in a 2-2 draw on Wednesday night in Albuquerque. Hartford broke up a stretch of disappointing performances away from home, recording the first road point since July 13th and the first goal since August 6th. 

New Mexico opened up the scoring in the 26th minute. Off a free kick, Chris Wehan took a quick touch and bolted for the far post. After a couple of passes, the ball found its way to a completely unmarked Wehan who centered for Sergio Rivas who headed the goal towards net. Matt Lampson appeared to make a tip save, and then another save from his back, but the official ruled the ball crossed the line and New Mexico was given the lead. Hartford fell behind again, normally a recipe for failure for the visitors. 

But tonight was a different night. Roughly 4 minutes into stoppage time, New Mexico was called for a handball in the box. Danny Barrera stepped up to the spot and quickly put the ball past New Mexico Goalie Alex Tambakis for the first goal of the night. It’s Barrera’s 8th goal of the season which set a new record for goals in a single-season for Hartford Athletic. 

Barrera, however, would not have that record to himself for very long. Hartford came out with great energy after halftime and earned a free kick in the 48th minute. Barrera took the free kick from the right side and found Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. dashing to the near post, redirected Barrera’s delivery to the far post and gave Hartford a 2-1 lead! It marks just the second time this season that Hartford have taken the lead after falling behind.  New Mexico would answer with a goal of their own in the 55th minute to tie the game. 

Back and forth the teams went in the final minutes with Hartford Forwards Derek Dodson and Darwin Lom doing well to get in the box but unable to find either teammates or the frame to take the lead. After 6 long minutes of stoppage time, the final whistle blew and Hartford had earned a well-deserved point on the road.

The road trip for Hartford continues as they head to Charleston to take on the Battery at 2 PM on Sunday, October 10th. You can watch the match on WCTX MyTV9. 

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford 13 (2) – 12 (4) New Mexico

Corners: Hartford 3-9 New Mexico

Fouls: Hartford 12-10 New Mexico

Offsides: Hartford 0-0 New Mexico

Possession: Hartford 37.4%-62.6% New Mexico

Passing Accuracy: Hartford 77.5%-86.5% New Mexico

Saves: Hartford 2-0 New Mexico

SCORING SUMMARY:

26′ – Sergio Rivas (Chris Wehan) 0-1

45+5′ – Danny Barrera 1-1

48′ – Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. (Danny Barrera) 2-1

55′ – Devin Sandoval 2-2

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

35′ – Chris Wehan (Yellow)

45+2′ – Devin Sandoval (Yellow)

53′ – Saalih Muhammad (Yellow)

84′ – Younes Boudadi (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

12 (GK) Matt Lampson; 3 (DF) Younes Boudadi, 15 (DF) Tulu, 20 (DF) Thomas Janjigian, 30 (DF) Ashkanov Apollon; 80 (MF) Justin Haak, 28 (MF) Conor McGlynn, 10 (MF) Danny Barrera; 23 (FW) Preston Tabort Etaka (Derek Dodson, 65′), 29 (FW) Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. (Nicolás Cardona, 82′), 9 (FW) Sebastian Elney (Darwin Lom, 57′)

NEW MEXICO UNITED STARTING LINEUP:

1 (GK) Alex Tambakis; 17 (DF) Justin Schmidt, 22 (DF) Kalen Ryden, 3 (DF) Austin Yearwood (David Najem, 65′); 25 (MF) Daniel Bruce (Cristian Nava, 81′), 19 (MF) Saalih Muhammad, 8 (MF) Juan Guzmán (Andrew Tinari, 67′), 5 (MF) Josh Suggs; 9 (FW) Devin Sandoval, 41 (FW) Chris Wehan, 11 (FW) Sergio Rivas (Isidro Martinez, 63′)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (9-13-3) at NEW MEXICO UNITED (10-9-7)

Date: Wednesday, October 6th

Time: 9:00 PM ET

Location: Isotopes Park, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: ESPN+ or https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch

LAST TIME OUT:

Down a goal in the 81st minute against Charlotte Independence, Danny Barrera stepped up to take a free kick for the home side, curled a ball to the near post only for it to be headed in by a Charlotte defender for an own goal. Hartford had leveled the match! But just as quickly, Charlotte turned around and answered, with Dane Kelly scoring his 96th career goal to give Charlotte a lead they would not relinquish. 

CONTRIBUTIONS IN DEFENSE:

Nico Cardona has been a new face in what has been a rather consistent back line for Hartford this season. He has made starts in three consecutive matches for Hartford, two at right back and most recently at his more natural position of center back in a 2-1 loss to Charlotte.  He’s recorded 10 clearances, and 3 blocks in that stretch – both the most on the team – as well as 5 tackles and an interception. Head Coach Harry Watling has made a point of wanting to develop talent and Nico’s progression throughout the season is showing the fruit of the labor

ON THE ROAD AGAIN:

Hartford hit the road for the first time since September 11, the longest stretch without a road trip since early July. Unfortunately, road trips have been less than kind for the Boys in Green, who haven’t won on the road since a July 13th victory over Tampa Bay Rowdies and who haven’t scored on the road since August 7th. With three consecutive road matches coming up and a giant hill to climb to make the postseason, Hartford will need to figure out the source of its away from home issues.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (9-13-3) at NEW MEXICO UNITED (10-9-7)

Date: Wednesday, October 6th

Time: 9:00 PM ET

Location: Isotopes Park, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: ESPN+ or https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch

LAST TIME OUT:

Down a goal in the 81st minute against Charlotte Independence, Danny Barrera stepped up to take a free kick for the home side, curled a ball to the near post only for it to be headed in by a Charlotte defender for an own goal. Hartford had leveled the match! But just as quickly, Charlotte turned around and answered, with Dane Kelly scoring his 96th career goal to give Charlotte a lead they would not relinquish. 

CONTRIBUTIONS IN DEFENSE:

Nico Cardona has been a new face in what has been a rather consistent back line for Hartford this season. He has made starts in three consecutive matches for Hartford, two at right back and most recently at his more natural position of center back in a 2-1 loss to Charlotte.  He’s recorded 10 clearances, and 3 blocks in that stretch – both the most on the team – as well as 5 tackles and an interception. Head Coach Harry Watling has made a point of wanting to develop talent and Nico’s progression throughout the season is showing the fruit of the labor

ON THE ROAD AGAIN:

Hartford hit the road for the first time since September 11, the longest stretch without a road trip since early July. Unfortunately, road trips have been less than kind for the Boys in Green, who haven’t won on the road since a July 13th victory over Tampa Bay Rowdies and who haven’t scored on the road since August 7th. With three consecutive road matches coming up and a giant hill to climb to make the postseason, Hartford will need to figure out the source of its away from home issues.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Conor McGlynn, MF, #28

While it's Danny Barrera who is often referred to as a magician in the midfield, it's Conor McGlynn who brings solid defensive play, quality distribution, and an absolute rocket of a leg that has created multiple highlight reel goals this season. He was brought on in the 31st minute by Head Coach Harry Watling last game and he thought that the team looked "brighter and like they had more of a handle on the game." Whether as a starter or a substitute, McGlynn makes a big impact on the pitch for Hartford and that will be incredibly important against New Mexico.

New Mexico United, Andrew Tinari, MF #20

The creative midfielder will be the player Hartford will need to keep a close eye on Wednesday night. Tinari leads New Mexico with 7 assists on the season, and shutting down the playmaker will be key to keeping New Mexico off of the scoreboard.

INJURY REPORT:

Hartford Athletic:

Out: Nii Armah Ashitey (Leg), Carlos Merancio (Knee)

Unavailable: Walmer Martinez (International Duty)

New Mexico United:

Out: Sam Hamilton (Lower Body), Harry Swartz (Lower Body)

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

New Mexico United welcome Hartford to Isotopes Park coming off a 3-1 road loss to Louisville City FC on Sunday, but rattled off 3 consecutive wins prior that have pushed them into the final playoff spot in the Mountain Division. New Mexico are hard to beat at “The Lab” boasting a 7-1-4 record in Albuquerque as opposed to just 3-8-3 away from home. Former Hartford Athletic midfielder Harry Swartz signed with New Mexico in the offseason, but will not be available for the match after having season-ending surgery earlier this year.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:

Follow along on twitter @hfdathletic and #NMvHFD

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Conor McGlynn, MF, #28

While it’s Danny Barrera who is often referred to as a magician in the midfield, it’s Conor McGlynn who brings solid defensive play, quality distribution, and an absolute rocket of a leg that has created multiple highlight reel goals this season. He was brought on in the 31st minute by Head Coach Harry Watling last game and he thought that the team looked “brighter and like they had more of a handle on the game.” Whether as a starter or a substitute, McGlynn makes a big impact on the pitch for Hartford and that will be incredibly important against New Mexico.

New Mexico United, Andrew Tinari, MF #20

The creative midfielder will be the player Hartford will need to keep a close eye on Wednesday night. Tinari leads New Mexico with 7 assists on the season, and shutting down the playmaker will be key to keeping New Mexico off of the scoreboard.

INJURY REPORT:

Hartford Athletic:

Out: Nii Armah Ashitey (Leg), Carlos Merancio (Knee)

Unavailable: Walmer Martinez (International Duty)

New Mexico United:

Out: Sam Hamilton (Lower Body), Harry Swartz (Lower Body)

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

New Mexico United welcome Hartford to Isotopes Park coming off a 3-1 road loss to Louisville City FC on Sunday, but rattled off 3 consecutive wins prior that have pushed them into the final playoff spot in the Mountain Division. New Mexico are hard to beat at “The Lab” boasting a 7-1-4 record in Albuquerque as opposed to just 3-8-3 away from home. Former Hartford Athletic midfielder Harry Swartz signed with New Mexico in the offseason, but will not be available for the match after having season-ending surgery earlier this year.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:

Follow along on twitter @hfdathletic and #NMvHFD

Hartford Athletic and the CIAC announced today that the 2021 Boys and Girls Soccer State Championships will be held at Dillon Stadium. The eight championship matches will take place the weekend of November 20th with four matches happening on each day. 

"We are happy to announce that Dillon Stadium will host all eight Boys and Girls Soccer State Championship games this year,” said Gregg Simon, CIAC Associate Executive Director. “When we used Dillon Stadium for four state championship games in 2019, there was such a tremendous vibe. The kids come out of the locker room, into the tunnel, out on to the field, there's nothing quite like playing in a professional soccer stadium.” 

“Hartford Athletic is once again excited to host the CIAC Soccer State Championships at Dillon Stadium,” said Joe Calafiore, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Strategy for Hartford Athletic. “Dillon Stadium has once again become a hub for our community and serves as the perfect jewel event venue for the State Championships. Thank you to the CIAC for their partnership, and we cannot wait to see Connecticut’s top high school soccer programs take the field at Dillon in November.” 

Please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POeT0Q8ryNE for a video announcing Dillon as the CIAC’s host site for the state championships and the #DestinationDillon campaign. More information on state championship matches will follow in the coming weeks.  

Hartford Athletic and the CIAC announced today that the 2021 Boys and Girls Soccer State Championships will be held at Dillon Stadium. The eight championship matches will take place the weekend of November 20th with four matches happening on each day. 

“We are happy to announce that Dillon Stadium will host all eight Boys and Girls Soccer State Championship games this year,” said Gregg Simon, CIAC Associate Executive Director. “When we used Dillon Stadium for four state championship games in 2019, there was such a tremendous vibe. The kids come out of the locker room, into the tunnel, out on to the field, there’s nothing quite like playing in a professional soccer stadium.” 

“Hartford Athletic is once again excited to host the CIAC Soccer State Championships at Dillon Stadium,” said Joe Calafiore, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Strategy for Hartford Athletic. “Dillon Stadium has once again become a hub for our community and serves as the perfect jewel event venue for the State Championships. Thank you to the CIAC for their partnership, and we cannot wait to see Connecticut’s top high school soccer programs take the field at Dillon in November.” 

Please visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POeT0Q8ryNE for a video announcing Dillon as the CIAC’s host site for the state championships and the #DestinationDillon campaign. More information on state championship matches will follow in the coming weeks.  

After allowing an early goal, Hartford Athletic did what they always do, climb back into the match. But on this night, as quickly as they climbed back in, they fell back out, losing to Charlotte Independence 2-1 in a crucial battle in the Atlantic Division playoff race. 

After a couple of early Hartford chances that went turned away by Charlotte goalkeeper Austin Pack, Charlotte opened the scoring. Enzo Martinez took a cross into the box, pinged a shot off of defender Nico Cardona, and volleyed the loose ball to the far post, past a diving Jeff Caldwell to take the early lead. Hartford generated a handful of chances but it took until late in the second half for the Boys in Green to break through. 

In the 81st minute, Younes Boudadi made a run up the right side with the ball. Dodging defenders, he cut in towards the box and was fouled just outside the box setting up a free kick. Who else but Danny Barrera stepped up to take it for the home side, curled a ball to the near post only for it to be headed in by a Charlotte defender for an own goal. Hartford had leveled the match! But just as quickly, Charlotte turned around and answered, with Dane Kelly scoring his 96th career goal to give Charlotte the lead.

Things got chippy in the final minutes with Charlotte defender Adam Armour assessed a Red Card. Hartford gave it everything they had over the final five minutes of stoppage time, but came up empty.

Hartford Athletic hit the road for three matches in a row. First up is a trip to Albuquerque to take on New Mexico United on Wednesday, October 6 at 9 PM. 

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford 17 (4) – 16 (4) Charlotte

Corners: Hartford 5-3 Charlotte

Fouls: Hartford 18-12 Charlotte

Offsides: Hartford 3-1 Charlotte

Possession: Hartford 44.7%-55.3% Charlotte

Passing Accuracy: Hartford 71.8%-80.8% Charlotte

Saves: Hartford 2-5 Charlotte

SCORING SUMMARY:

12' – Enzo Martinez 0-1

82' – Brandt Bronico (Own Goal) 1-1

83' – Dane Kelly (Enzo Martinez) 1-2

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

17' – Thomas Janjigian (Yellow)

44' – Justin Haak (Yellow)

48' – Dane Kelly (Yellow)

81' – Marcelo Palomino (Yellow)

86' – Younes Boudadi (Yellow)

88' – Christian Dean (Yellow)

90' – Sebastian Elney (Yellow)

90+1' – Adam Armour (Red)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

13 (GK) Jeff Caldwell; 3 (DF) Younes Boudadi, 4 (DF) Nicolás Cardona, 20 (DF) Thomas Janjigian, 30 (DF) Ashkanov Apollon; 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 80 (MF) Justin Haak (Kenan Hot, 68'), 11 (MF) Luka Prpa (Conor McGlynn, 31'); 14 (FW) Derek Dodson (Sebastian Elney, 58'), 29 (FW) Juan Carlos Obregón Jr., 23 (FW) Preston Tabort Etaka (Walmer Martinez, 68')

CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE STARTING LINEUP:

1 (GK) Austin Pack; 3 (DF) Hugh Roberts, 12 (DF) Adam Armour, 22 (DF) Christian Fuchs; 8 (MF) Marcelo Palomino, 13 (MF) Brandt Bronico, 16 (MF) Jose Bizama (Joel Johnson, 45'), 19 (MF) Enzo Martinez; 9 (FW) Irvin Parra (Dane Kelly, 37'), 32 (FW) Gabriel Obertan (Jake Areman, 76'), 56 (FW) Sylvain Marveaux (Kevin Reascos, 77')

After allowing an early goal, Hartford Athletic did what they always do, climb back into the match. But on this night, as quickly as they climbed back in, they fell back out, losing to Charlotte Independence 2-1 in a crucial battle in the Atlantic Division playoff race. 

After a couple of early Hartford chances that went turned away by Charlotte goalkeeper Austin Pack, Charlotte opened the scoring. Enzo Martinez took a cross into the box, pinged a shot off of defender Nico Cardona, and volleyed the loose ball to the far post, past a diving Jeff Caldwell to take the early lead. Hartford generated a handful of chances but it took until late in the second half for the Boys in Green to break through. 

In the 81st minute, Younes Boudadi made a run up the right side with the ball. Dodging defenders, he cut in towards the box and was fouled just outside the box setting up a free kick. Who else but Danny Barrera stepped up to take it for the home side, curled a ball to the near post only for it to be headed in by a Charlotte defender for an own goal. Hartford had leveled the match! But just as quickly, Charlotte turned around and answered, with Dane Kelly scoring his 96th career goal to give Charlotte the lead.

Things got chippy in the final minutes with Charlotte defender Adam Armour assessed a Red Card. Hartford gave it everything they had over the final five minutes of stoppage time, but came up empty.

Hartford Athletic hit the road for three matches in a row. First up is a trip to Albuquerque to take on New Mexico United on Wednesday, October 6 at 9 PM. 

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford 17 (4) – 16 (4) Charlotte

Corners: Hartford 5-3 Charlotte

Fouls: Hartford 18-12 Charlotte

Offsides: Hartford 3-1 Charlotte

Possession: Hartford 44.7%-55.3% Charlotte

Passing Accuracy: Hartford 71.8%-80.8% Charlotte

Saves: Hartford 2-5 Charlotte

SCORING SUMMARY:

12′ – Enzo Martinez 0-1

82′ – Brandt Bronico (Own Goal) 1-1

83′ – Dane Kelly (Enzo Martinez) 1-2

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

17′ – Thomas Janjigian (Yellow)

44′ – Justin Haak (Yellow)

48′ – Dane Kelly (Yellow)

81′ – Marcelo Palomino (Yellow)

86′ – Younes Boudadi (Yellow)

88′ – Christian Dean (Yellow)

90′ – Sebastian Elney (Yellow)

90+1′ – Adam Armour (Red)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

13 (GK) Jeff Caldwell; 3 (DF) Younes Boudadi, 4 (DF) Nicolás Cardona, 20 (DF) Thomas Janjigian, 30 (DF) Ashkanov Apollon; 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 80 (MF) Justin Haak (Kenan Hot, 68′), 11 (MF) Luka Prpa (Conor McGlynn, 31′); 14 (FW) Derek Dodson (Sebastian Elney, 58′), 29 (FW) Juan Carlos Obregón Jr., 23 (FW) Preston Tabort Etaka (Walmer Martinez, 68′)

CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE STARTING LINEUP:

1 (GK) Austin Pack; 3 (DF) Hugh Roberts, 12 (DF) Adam Armour, 22 (DF) Christian Fuchs; 8 (MF) Marcelo Palomino, 13 (MF) Brandt Bronico, 16 (MF) Jose Bizama (Joel Johnson, 45′), 19 (MF) Enzo Martinez; 9 (FW) Irvin Parra (Dane Kelly, 37′), 32 (FW) Gabriel Obertan (Jake Areman, 76′), 56 (FW) Sylvain Marveaux (Kevin Reascos, 77′)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (9-12-3) vs CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE (12-9-4)

Date: Thursday, September 30th

Time: 8:00 PM ET

Location: Dillon Stadium, Hartford, CT

Promotion: $2 Beer, $2 Soda, $1 Hot Dog Night

Tickets: https://bit.ly/3myOkEu

Ticket and Noche Latina Scarf Package: https://fevo.me/nochelatina2021

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: ESPN+ or https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch

LAST TIME OUT:

A late goal from Danny Barrera broke Tampa Bay’s streak of over 800 minutes without conceding, but it was not enough as Hartford fell to division leaders Tampa Bay Rowdies 2-1 in front of a fantastic home crowd at Dillon Stadium. Tampa Bay's Sebastian Guenzatti scored twice, including at the first half's final whistle to take all 3 points for the visiting side.

NOCHE LATINA:

As part of Hispanic Heritage month, Hartford is excited to host the first ever Noche Latina match on Thursday night to celebrate the vibrant hispanic culture of the city Hartford as well as its surrounding towns. To celebrate the evening, Hartford Athletic will have Latin American food trucks on hand, flags and music from Latin American countries throughout the stadium, a performance from the Mariachi Academy of New England pregame, and new merchandise including the exclusive Noche Latina scarf for the evening. And don't forget it's $2 Beer, $2 Soda, $1 Hot Dog night!

PENALTY WOES:

During the 2021 USL Championship Season, Hartford have conceded 9 penalties, most in the league. However, Hartford goalie Jeff Caldwell has been more than up to the task. The former NYCFC first round draft pick has saved 5 of the 9 penalties he has faced this season, the most in the Championship. Time and time again, Jeff makes crucial saves in the most high-pressure moments

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (9-12-3) vs CHARLOTTE INDEPENDENCE (12-9-4)

Date: Thursday, September 30th

Time: 8:00 PM ET

Location: Dillon Stadium, Hartford, CT

Promotion: $2 Beer, $2 Soda, $1 Hot Dog Night

Tickets: https://bit.ly/3myOkEu

Ticket and Noche Latina Scarf Package: https://fevo.me/nochelatina2021

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: ESPN+ or https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch

LAST TIME OUT:

A late goal from Danny Barrera broke Tampa Bay’s streak of over 800 minutes without conceding, but it was not enough as Hartford fell to division leaders Tampa Bay Rowdies 2-1 in front of a fantastic home crowd at Dillon Stadium. Tampa Bay’s Sebastian Guenzatti scored twice, including at the first half’s final whistle to take all 3 points for the visiting side.

NOCHE LATINA:

As part of Hispanic Heritage month, Hartford is excited to host the first ever Noche Latina match on Thursday night to celebrate the vibrant hispanic culture of the city Hartford as well as its surrounding towns. To celebrate the evening, Hartford Athletic will have Latin American food trucks on hand, flags and music from Latin American countries throughout the stadium, a performance from the Mariachi Academy of New England pregame, and new merchandise including the exclusive Noche Latina scarf for the evening. And don’t forget it’s $2 Beer, $2 Soda, $1 Hot Dog night!

PENALTY WOES:

During the 2021 USL Championship Season, Hartford have conceded 9 penalties, most in the league. However, Hartford goalie Jeff Caldwell has been more than up to the task. The former NYCFC first round draft pick has saved 5 of the 9 penalties he has faced this season, the most in the Championship. Time and time again, Jeff makes crucial saves in the most high-pressure moments

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Danny Barrera, MF, #10

After scoring a late winner against the Tampa Bay Rowdies, Barrera has become the club’s all-time leading scorer with 12 goals, on top of already being the club’s all-time leading assister with 20. As a Colombian-American, Barrera will revel in the chance to display his talents at home for the Athletic faithful on Noche Latina.

Charlotte Independence, Sylvain Marveaux, FW, #56

When these two sides last met, Marveaux scored both of Charlotte’s goals to sink Hartford in Charlotte. He also registered an assist against Miami for their first goal of the match, which eventually ended in a 2-0 for the Independence. Sylvain will be eager to try and replicate his last display against Hartford this time out.

INJURY REPORT:

Hartford Athletic:

Out: Nii Armah Ashitey (Leg), Carlos Merancio (Knee)

Charlotte Independence:

None

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Charlotte have been on an impressive run of form in recent weeks, winning 4 of their last 5 matches. Charlotte come to Hartford off the back of a 2-1 loss to Birmingham Legion. Charlotte’s stellar form gives them a strong hold on the 4th play-off spot, with 5th place Charleston 9 points behind with just one game in hand. 

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:

Follow along on twitter @hfdathletic and #HFDvCLT

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Danny Barrera, MF, #10

After scoring a late winner against the Tampa Bay Rowdies, Barrera has become the club’s all-time leading scorer with 12 goals, on top of already being the club’s all-time leading assister with 20. As a Colombian-American, Barrera will revel in the chance to display his talents at home for the Athletic faithful on Noche Latina.

Charlotte Independence, Sylvain Marveaux, FW, #56

When these two sides last met, Marveaux scored both of Charlotte’s goals to sink Hartford in Charlotte. He also registered an assist against Miami for their first goal of the match, which eventually ended in a 2-0 for the Independence. Sylvain will be eager to try and replicate his last display against Hartford this time out.

INJURY REPORT:

Hartford Athletic:

Out: Nii Armah Ashitey (Leg), Carlos Merancio (Knee)

Charlotte Independence:

None

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Charlotte have been on an impressive run of form in recent weeks, winning 4 of their last 5 matches. Charlotte come to Hartford off the back of a 2-1 loss to Birmingham Legion. Charlotte’s stellar form gives them a strong hold on the 4th play-off spot, with 5th place Charleston 9 points behind with just one game in hand. 

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:

Follow along on twitter @hfdathletic and #HFDvCLT

A late goal from Danny Barrera broke Tampa Bay's streak of over 800 minutes without conceding, but it was not enough as Hartford fell to division leaders Tampa Bay Rowdies 2-1 in front of a fantastic home crowd at Dillon Stadium. 

Tampa Bay opened the scoring in the 12th minute. Leo Fernandes worked his way into the box and hit a grounded cross to leading scorer Sebastian Guenzatti who tapped home a ball in front of net for the first goal of the evening. Tampa Bay would threaten to add another after Steevan Dos Santos was taken down in the box and given a penalty. But Jeff Caldwell made his fifth PK save of the season, this one with his trailing leg after Guenzatti tried to beat him to his right.

Hartford would have felt great about heading into the half only down a goal, but Guenzatti delivered for the visitors once again. In the final seconds of stoppage time, Fernandes headed a ball to Guenzatti who snuck in behind the back line and volleyed the ball over Caldwell and into the far corner of the net. The halftime whistle blew and the Rowdies took a 2-0 lead into the break. 

Hartford had chances to answer in the second half, including hitting both the crossbar and post on consecutive chances both within 60 seconds of each other, but seemingly everything was going Tampa Bay's way. Finally, in stoppage time, the Hartford attack clicked. Derek Dodson collected a loose ball in the box, fired a shot on net that was saved, got his own shot back, found Danny Barrera at the top of the 6 yard box who calmly slotted it into the upper left hand corner to cut the deficit to one. The goal was Barrera's seventh of the season, tying him for the lead on the season, and moving him past Alex Dixon for the club's all-time lead in goals scored (12). Hartford put one last push together before the final whistle was blown and Tampa Bay declared the victors.

Hartford Athletic return home on Thursday night for the club's first ever Noche Latina! Your Boys in Green will take on Charlotte Independence at 8 PM in a match with huge playoff implications. For tickets, please visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/single.

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford 12 (3) – 9 (5) Tampa Bay

Corners: Hartford 4-4 Tampa Bay

Fouls: Hartford 13-14 Tampa Bay

Offsides: Hartford 2-0 Tampa Bay

Possession: Hartford 59.2%-40.8% Tampa Bay

Passing Accuracy: Hartford 73.5%-69.1% Tampa Bay

Saves: Hartford 3-2 Tampa Bay

SCORING SUMMARY:

12' – Sebastian Guenzatti (Leo Fernandes) 0-1

45+2' – Guenzatti (Fernandes) 0-2

90+4' – Danny Barrera (Derek Dodson) 1-2

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

27' – Lewis Hilton (Yellow)

31' – Tulu (Yellow)

52' – Justin Haak (Yellow)

63' – Conor McGlynn (Yellow)

86' – Preston Tabort Etaka (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

13 (GK) Jeff Caldwell; 4 (DF) Nicolás Cardona, 15 (DF) Tulu, 20 (DF) Thomas Janjigian, 3 (DF) Younes Boudadi (Sebastian Elney, 78'); 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 80 (MF) Justin Haak, 28 (MF) Conor McGlynn (Arthur Rogers, 66'); 24 (FW) Darwin Lom (Derek Dodson, 66'), 29 (FW) Juan Carlos Obregón Jr., 23 (FW) Preston Tabort Etaka

TAMPA BAY ROWDIES STARTING LINEUP:

1 (GK) Evan Louro; 3 (DF) Forrest Lasso, 5 (DF) Jordan Scarlett, 33 (DF) Aaron Guillen; 4 (MF) Lewis Hilton, 7 (MF) Yann Ekra (Max Lachowecki, 87'), 11 (MF) Leo Fernandes, 23 (MF) Sebastian Dalgaard, 27 (MF) Laurence Syke; 10 (FW) Steevan Dos Santos (Jordan Doherty, 87'), 13 (FW) Sebastian Guenzatti (Jordan Adebayo-Smith, 90+3')

A late goal from Danny Barrera broke Tampa Bay’s streak of over 800 minutes without conceding, but it was not enough as Hartford fell to division leaders Tampa Bay Rowdies 2-1 in front of a fantastic home crowd at Dillon Stadium. 

Tampa Bay opened the scoring in the 12th minute. Leo Fernandes worked his way into the box and hit a grounded cross to leading scorer Sebastian Guenzatti who tapped home a ball in front of net for the first goal of the evening. Tampa Bay would threaten to add another after Steevan Dos Santos was taken down in the box and given a penalty. But Jeff Caldwell made his fifth PK save of the season, this one with his trailing leg after Guenzatti tried to beat him to his right.

Hartford would have felt great about heading into the half only down a goal, but Guenzatti delivered for the visitors once again. In the final seconds of stoppage time, Fernandes headed a ball to Guenzatti who snuck in behind the back line and volleyed the ball over Caldwell and into the far corner of the net. The halftime whistle blew and the Rowdies took a 2-0 lead into the break. 

Hartford had chances to answer in the second half, including hitting both the crossbar and post on consecutive chances both within 60 seconds of each other, but seemingly everything was going Tampa Bay’s way. Finally, in stoppage time, the Hartford attack clicked. Derek Dodson collected a loose ball in the box, fired a shot on net that was saved, got his own shot back, found Danny Barrera at the top of the 6 yard box who calmly slotted it into the upper left hand corner to cut the deficit to one. The goal was Barrera’s seventh of the season, tying him for the lead on the season, and moving him past Alex Dixon for the club’s all-time lead in goals scored (12). Hartford put one last push together before the final whistle was blown and Tampa Bay declared the victors.

Hartford Athletic return home on Thursday night for the club’s first ever Noche Latina! Your Boys in Green will take on Charlotte Independence at 8 PM in a match with huge playoff implications. For tickets, please visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/single.

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford 12 (3) – 9 (5) Tampa Bay

Corners: Hartford 4-4 Tampa Bay

Fouls: Hartford 13-14 Tampa Bay

Offsides: Hartford 2-0 Tampa Bay

Possession: Hartford 59.2%-40.8% Tampa Bay

Passing Accuracy: Hartford 73.5%-69.1% Tampa Bay

Saves: Hartford 3-2 Tampa Bay

SCORING SUMMARY:

12′ – Sebastian Guenzatti (Leo Fernandes) 0-1

45+2′ – Guenzatti (Fernandes) 0-2

90+4′ – Danny Barrera (Derek Dodson) 1-2

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

27′ – Lewis Hilton (Yellow)

31′ – Tulu (Yellow)

52′ – Justin Haak (Yellow)

63′ – Conor McGlynn (Yellow)

86′ – Preston Tabort Etaka (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

13 (GK) Jeff Caldwell; 4 (DF) Nicolás Cardona, 15 (DF) Tulu, 20 (DF) Thomas Janjigian, 3 (DF) Younes Boudadi (Sebastian Elney, 78′); 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 80 (MF) Justin Haak, 28 (MF) Conor McGlynn (Arthur Rogers, 66′); 24 (FW) Darwin Lom (Derek Dodson, 66′), 29 (FW) Juan Carlos Obregón Jr., 23 (FW) Preston Tabort Etaka

TAMPA BAY ROWDIES STARTING LINEUP:

1 (GK) Evan Louro; 3 (DF) Forrest Lasso, 5 (DF) Jordan Scarlett, 33 (DF) Aaron Guillen; 4 (MF) Lewis Hilton, 7 (MF) Yann Ekra (Max Lachowecki, 87′), 11 (MF) Leo Fernandes, 23 (MF) Sebastian Dalgaard, 27 (MF) Laurence Syke; 10 (FW) Steevan Dos Santos (Jordan Doherty, 87′), 13 (FW) Sebastian Guenzatti (Jordan Adebayo-Smith, 90+3′)

Hartford Athletic has acquired Forward Ashkanov Apollon for the remainder of the 2021 season pending league and federation approval.  This signing was completed prior to the USL Championship's Friday roster freeze deadline.

Apollon joins Hartford from San Diego 1904 where he scored one goal in five appearances during the NISA Fall season, playing mostly as a Forward. During the last international window, he received a call up to the Haitian National team and competed in friendlies against Bahrain and Jordan alongside Athletic Forward Sebastian Elney. During the 2020 season, Apollon competed with USL Championship club Sacramento Republic FC where he played mostly as a left back or left winger.  

"We’re very excited to bring in Ash as we make our final playoff push,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. “Ash brings a wealth of experience to the squad, both from club and international competition. He is an incredibly versatile player who can make an impact at every level of the pitch and that is what he will be asked to do over the remainder of the season.” 

Apollon will not be available for tonight’s match against Tampa Bay Rowdies. Fans interested in purchasing tickets to tonight’s match should visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/single. 

Hartford Athletic has acquired Forward Ashkanov Apollon for the remainder of the 2021 season pending league and federation approval.  This signing was completed prior to the USL Championship’s Friday roster freeze deadline.

Apollon joins Hartford from San Diego 1904 where he scored one goal in five appearances during the NISA Fall season, playing mostly as a Forward. During the last international window, he received a call up to the Haitian National team and competed in friendlies against Bahrain and Jordan alongside Athletic Forward Sebastian Elney. During the 2020 season, Apollon competed with USL Championship club Sacramento Republic FC where he played mostly as a left back or left winger.  

“We’re very excited to bring in Ash as we make our final playoff push,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. “Ash brings a wealth of experience to the squad, both from club and international competition. He is an incredibly versatile player who can make an impact at every level of the pitch and that is what he will be asked to do over the remainder of the season.” 

Apollon will not be available for tonight’s match against Tampa Bay Rowdies. Fans interested in purchasing tickets to tonight’s match should visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/single.