Chattanooga Red Wolves SC topped Orlando City B 2-1 on Saturday at David Stanton Field Saturday night.
Playing at home for the first time in a month, the Red Wolves utilized home field advantage to secure the important victory. The win moved the Red Wolves up to sole possession of fifth place in League One standings, just three points shy of the fourth-place playoff position.
Here are three takeaways from the third and final meeting between Chattanooga and Orlando:
PUSH FOR PLAYOFFS CONTINUES
The Red Wolves are elbows deep in their fight for the playoffs, and thanks to Saturday’s win, the push continues. The team’s remaining regular season schedule sees eighth-place Richmond and ninth-place Toronto visit David Stanton Field over the next two weeks. There is heavy emphasis to win out if the Red Wolves are going to put pressure on Forward Madison FC for fourth place.
TONY WALLS HEADS HOME THE GAME WINNER
Tony Walls’ second-half header goal helped his side secure the 2-1 victory over Orlando Saturday night.
After remaining level with Orlando for 20 minutes, Chattanooga regained the lead in the 54th minute after Orlando failed to fully clear Ami Pineda’s service from a free kick in the attacking third. Midfielder Josue Soto picked up the failed clearance just outside the 18-yard box and beat his defender to the endline before serving a left-footed cross towards the back post. Tony Walls, who found himself unmarked inside the 18-yard box, nodded Soto’s cross past Orlando’s Christian Herrera to give his side the lead. The goal marked Walls’ second of the season.
Both of Walls’ goals have been header goals. He notched the equalizer in the team’s competition against Lansing Ignite FC back on July 6.
MIDFIELD FORM STRONG WITH RETURN OF PINEDA
Saturday’s match saw the return of midfielder Ami Pineda, who stepped in for Steven Beattie at the attacking mid position. Before subbing off in the 78th minute, Pineda recorded an assist, two key passes and an 82.8% passing accuracy. Alongside him, midfielders Ualefi, Conor Doyle and Josue Soto had strong displays, as well.
Ualefi recorded three tackles, two clearances and a 93.5% passing accuracy, and Doyle recorded four tackles and an 86.7% passing accuracy. Soto subbed on for Doyle in the 48th minute and recorded the game-winning assist, one interception and an 84.2% passing accuracy.
UP NEXT
Chattanooga turns around to host Richmond Kickers (8-12-5) at David Stanton Field on Saturday, Sept. 28 for the final meeting between the two clubs. Gates open at 6 p.m. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. For tickets, visit chattredwolves.com/tickets.
