Markanich’s Extra-Time Winner Sends Charleston Past Charlotte in U.S. Open Cup

By: Battery Media

The Charleston Battery defeated Charlotte Independence 1-0 in the Third Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday at Patriots Point thanks to Nick Markanich’s match-winning goal in extra time. The two Carolina clubs were scoreless after 90 minutes of regulation but Markanich’s strike, assisted by Chris Allan, in the 113th minute was the difference. Charleston advance to the Open Cup Round of 32 and will find out their opponent this Thursday.

The first 45 minutes played out relatively evenly between both sides as neither Charleston or Charlotte found the night’s opening goal. Jesse Randall, in his first Battery start, made his presence felt throughout the early moments and registered the game’s first shot on target in the 10th minute.

Charlotte began pressing more as the half wore on but Charleston’s defense kept them largely at bay. Goalkeeper Daniel Kuzemka was tested twice but made a pair of strong saves in the 22nd and 44th minute to deny Charlotte.

The second half began with Charleston on the front foot, pressing early and often into the Independence’s defensive third. Augi Williams put the ball into the net in the 54th minute after redirecting Randall’s shot, but the flag was raised for offside and the goal was disallowed.

Charlotte’s best chance of the night came in the 78th minute when Luis Alverez had a clear look from inside the box, only to have his shot blocked by a sliding Deklan Wynne.

Neither side were able to find an edge in regulation, sending the match to two 15-minute periods of extra time.

After a relatively quiet first period, Charleston found the winner in the second period with Nick Markanich scoring in the 113th minute, assisted by Chris Allan. Allan initiated the play from the left side and crossed the ball into Markanich, from there Markanich needed only a moment to gather himself before slotting the winner into the net. The goal was Markanich’s fifth of 2023.

The Battery closed out the game after taking the lead and secured their spot in the Round of 32 of the U.S. Open Cup. Charleston will find out their next opponent and location in the Round of 32 Draw on Thus., April 27th.

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