Charleston Battery Falls Short in Eastern Conference Final Against Rhode Island FC
CHARLESTON, S.C. (Nov. 16, 2024) – In a heart-wrenching finale to their season, the Charleston Battery succumbed to Rhode Island FC, losing 1-2 in the USL Championship Playoffs’ Eastern Conference Final on Saturday night at Patriots Point. In front of a sold-out crowd exceeding 5,000, the Battery’s dreams of advancing were thwarted despite an impressive season.
Charleston started the match with intensity, nearly scoring in the opening minutes. Chris Allan’s early assist to Jackson Conway was followed by a long-range strike from Juan David Torres that narrowly missed the top corner. The Battery dominated possession but were unable to convert opportunities into goals.
The turning point came just before halftime when Karifa Yao netted Rhode Island’s first goal in the 43rd minute, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead. Following the break, Noah Fuson extended Rhode Island’s advantage to 2-0 in the 53rd minute.
The Battery responded with a stunning free-kick goal from Torres in the 61st minute, sparking hopes of a comeback. Reinvigorated, Charleston pressed for an equalizer, with players like Nick Markanich coming close but ultimately failing to find the target. Despite a valiant effort and key saves by goalkeeper Adam Grinwis, the Battery were unable to score again, thus ending their playoff journey.
Head Coach Ben Pirmann reflected on the heartbreaking loss, praising the commitment of his team and their supporters throughout the season. "It stinks when you’re that close," he commented, acknowledging both the competition and the unwavering support from the Charleston community.
As the Battery wrap up their season as Eastern Conference Finalists, the team and its fans pledge to build on this experience for the future.
Source
Photo credit www.live5news.com
