Charleston Battery News Release - www.charlestonbattery.com

Friday, May 9, 2008

CHARLESTON, SC -- The Charleston Battery came from behind to defeat the Miami FC Blues by a score of 3-1 Friday night at Blackbaud Stadium in front of 4,908. Randi Patterson scored twice to lead the Battery to victory after Miami striker Alex Afonso had given his side an early lead. The win lifts Charleston (2-1-2, 8 points) into second position in the USL First Division.

Miami struck first after a clever run by midfielder Sean Cameron in the 11th minute. Cameron cut past two defenders at the edge of the box and just managed to play a square pass as he lost his footing. Afonso met the cross and hammered his shot past Battery goalkeeper Dusty Hudock.

The lead lasted just over twenty minutes as the Battery pressed for an equalizer, cheered by a large and vocal home crowd. After a spell of pressure Charleston worked the ball to forward Lester More whose shot was blocked at the far post. Patterson was first to the loose ball and lashed a shot into the roof of the goal.

Charleston took the lead just after half time with a well worked move from the left side. Mike Richardson played the final ball across the middle and midfielder Ozzie Alsonso enjoyed a little luck as his kneed attempt spiraled above the reach of Miami goalkeeper Josh Saunders and into the goal.

Substitute forward Aaron King almost scored midway through the second half but his stinging shot cannoned back off the crossbar.

Randi Patterson put the game beyond doubt in the 86th minute with a superb headed finish. It was a second assist for Mike Richardson who whipped in curling free-kick that Patterson rose to meet at the back post.

The Battery is back at Blackbaud Stadium Wednesday night for a match against the Montreal Impact; gates open at 6:30 PM, kick off is set for 7:30 PM.