Faris scored from the penalty spot, but Bethlehem Steel couldn’t find the second goal they were chasing as Charlotte Independence used set pieces to pry three points from the home side. Aaron Maund and Hugh Roberts scored on either side of Faris’ goal to lead the Independence to an important road win.
Philadelphia Union players Matt Freese, Olivier Mbaizo, and Michee Ngalina all earned starts for Steel, with future Union player Cole Turner — signed to a 2020 pre-contract — forming a center back pairing alongside academy standout Nathan Harriel.
Steel had a lot of technical skill on the pitch but lacked size, and the Independence took advantage with two back post goals off dead balls.