MT. PLEASANT, SC (September 22, 2021) – New York Red Bulls II (5-16-4, 19 points) defeated the Charleston Battery (8-9-6, 30 points) 3-2 Wednesday night at Patriots Point.
New York struck first in the 14th minute as forward Serge Ngoma won possession just past midfield and surged ahead on the breakaway. He got past the Charleston goalkeeper and found the back of the net for his third goal of the season.
Six minutes later, the visitors doubled their advantage as midfielder Jake LaCava ripped a shot off a ball played into the box by defender Mandela Egbo. Charleston was able to get one back before the half on a header by forward Joel Bunting in the 34th minute.
New York came out of the break strong, as midfielder Jeremy Rafanello capitalized off a feed from Egbo to make the score 3-1 in the 47th minute. Charleston came within one again in the 80th minute on a header off a free kick, but New York was able to hold on for all three points.
The goal for LaCava was his sixth of the season, moving him into a tie with forward Omar Sowe for the team lead. Rafanello increased his total to five in 2021, as he has now had a hand in 11 goals this season, adding in his team-leading six assists.
New York will now travel to face Real Monarchs SLC on Sunday, September 26. Kickoff from Zions Bank Stadium is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. ET, with coverage available on ESPN+.
