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Charlotte FC tops New York City FC at home with single goal

CHARLOTTE — Charlotte FC topped New York City in Charlotte Saturday for their second match of the season.

Charlotte won the first match in August by a score of 3-1.

Heavy rain moved through the area Saturday, but that didn’t put a damper on the game, which kicked off at 1 p.m. inside of Bank of America Stadium.

Daniel Rios scored in the fifth minute and Charlotte beat New York City FC 1-0. Kristijan Kahlina delivered a one-save shutout for Charlotte (11-17-2).

Before the matchup, Charlotte FC lost three straight matches for the first time since losing its first three matches in MLS. Charlotte had also gone consecutive matches without scoring for the first time since its first two MLS games.

With just four games left in the season, Charlotte needed the big win against New York City FC, which has proved to be a powerhouse in recent years. Before Saturday, Charlotte sat 12th in the Eastern Conference standings.

Heading into Saturday’s matchup, Charlotte lost three straight home games after losing just three of its first 11 home matches in MLS. The club allowed seven goals in the three recent defeats, equaling its total from its first 11 home games.

The game aired live on TV64 and livestreamed on the WSOC Now stream.

The teams play again next Saturday, with Charlotte visiting the Chicago Fire while NYCFC (13-11-7) hosts the New York Red Bulls.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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