The second round of the Smoky Mountain Smackdown went to One Knoxville SC by a final score of 2-0, tying the series 1-1 with the final round to be played in Knoxville on Saturday, July 22nd.
After a two hour weather delay, the match got underway and One Knoxville got the scoring underway early in the 2nd minute of the match with a goal from Callum Johnson. Chattanooga had an opportunity to even the score in the 36th minute as Mayele Malango cut through the defense, but passed to an offside Varela.
A handball in the penalty box in the 40th minute brought Knoxville’s lead to two going into half-time. Chattanooga remained off the board through the first 45 minutes as the opposition kept a firm grasp over the pitch.
The second half featured more chances for the Red Wolves including a corner kick attempt from Moe Espinoza that was headed just over the crossbar by Ropapa Mensah. Ryley Kraft had a solid opportunity in extra time that was blocked by the Knoxville goalkeeper. Despite a last minute offensive push in the closing minutes, the Red Wolves were held off the board for a final score of 2-0.
The Red Wolves shift focus to their next home match on Saturday, May 20th against Union Omaha featuring a pre-match Beer Fest where fans can enjoy samples for up to 15 local, regional, and national breweries and distributors.