Charlotte Independence took control with three goals before the hour mark, beating Richmond Kickers 3-1. The hosts struck twice in the closing minutes of the first half and added a third early in the second to put the game beyond reach.
Prince Saydee opened the scoring in the 40th minute from Jon Bakero's assist. Fabrice Gael Ngah made it 2-0 just before half-time in the 45th minute, and Souaibou Marou added a third in the 58th minute after a Javen Romero pass. Sean Vinberg pulled one back for Richmond in the 75th minute, but the visitors could not mount a comeback.
Charlotte had the better of the chances despite both sides registering 21 and 20 total shots respectively. The home side put eight shots on target to Richmond's five, and created two big chances, both scored, while the Kickers had none. The win was built on clinical finishing rather than overwhelming possession.
