MLS NEXT Pro GOTW: Matchweek 5
The first round of the Independent Derby has arrived.
The Details
Who: Carolina Core FC vs Chattanooga FC
Where: Truist Point Stadium (High Point, NC)
When: Sunday, April 13th - 3:00pm ET
How (to watch): MLS Season Pass on Apple TV
The Rundown
Affectionately known as the Independent Derby, this three game series is a matchup between the only two independent clubs in the league. Given that there are only two (for now), it is inevitable that these two will be compared and contrasted against each other in a variety of ways including standings, US Open Cup performance, and even attendance. This constant comparison inevitably raises the stakes when they finally meet on the field, which led to some riveting matches last season. Surprisingly, year 1 went to the upstart Carolina squad who walked away with two wins.
With Chattanooga’s well-known traveling support, and Carolina’s strong home attendance, this match should have plenty of excitement off the field as well. Expect both the Chattahooligans and Carolina Skulk to be loud, making for a great early season atmosphere. As other independent clubs join the league this series may lose some of its steam, but for now it is must-see TV.
The Context
Through four games so far this season, Chattanooga FC is flying high and remains unbeaten with a record of 3-0-1. That red hot start has them sitting 1st in the Eastern Conference thanks to the extra point earned through a shootout win. CFC has looked much improved under the new system implemented by head coach Chris Nugent, but with news breaking on Tuesday that their captain Alex McGrath has been lost for the season, the question becomes how long can they maintain this level of play?
Carolina Core on the other hand, has had an up and down start to the season. Through three games their record is 1-1-1, which has them in 9th place in the Eastern Conference. However, Carolina may have found their footing under new head coach Donovan Ricketts as they thoroughly dismantled NYCFC II 5-0 in their home opener last week. The shots in that game were 24-4 in favor of Carolina, which should tell you how dominant they were both offensively and defensively. That performance was enough to push them into the top-10 of the league’s Power Rankings. Playing at home in front of their fans may just tip the scales in their favor in this one.
The Prediction
Chattanooga FC is handed their first loss of the season as the absence of McGrath catches up to them and Carolina’s home field advantage gives them just enough of a boost to carry the day.
Result: Carolina Core FC wins (2-1)