What started a few months ago with 68 teams is now down to 4 2. As we previewed here earlier this week, the NPSL Semifinals took place yesterday. After two great games, we have our NPSL finalists. One of the most important moments of last night though was when Chattanooga FC fans officially raised and donated $12,200 for victims’ families of the horrific shootings that occurred there on July 16. On to the soccer.
Chattanooga FC def. Indiana Fire, 3-0 (Ochieng 69′, 76′, Trude 90′)
A record crowd enjoys the Chattanooga FC v. Indiana Fire on August 1, 2015. Photo by George Brown.
Led by Chris Ochieng’s pair of goals, Chattanooga exploded in the 2nd half to dispose of Indiana. The first half was defensive, but not without chances for both teams. But once the home team finally broke through, there was no holding them back. Also, Chattanooga set an attendance record with a crowd of 9,236, breaking the previous record of 8,878 set in last season’s NPSL semifinals.
Chatta Chatta Nooga Nooga pic.twitter.com/80sGFg8pAo
— Chattanooga FC (@ChattanoogaFC) August 2, 2015
New York Cosmos B def. CD Aguiluchos USA, 5-2 (NY Goals: Hagop 12′, 49′, Brito 34′, Herlein 69′, 72′; Aguiluchos Goals: Martinez 50′, Collins 78′)
CD Aguiluchos USA traveling supporters. Photo by CD Aguiluchos USA.
Cosmos B came out firing on the upstart Aguiluchos club and there was little the playoff newcomers could do. It didn’t help matters that Aguiluchos played a man down after a 58th minute red card. Overall, this game turned out to be a mismatch. Aguiluchos played hard, but Cosmos talent–especially Miguel Herlein–was just too much.
But Aguiluchos should view this semifinal appearance as hugely encouraging. They are a young club with organic, grass roots support. They will do well going forward.
NPSL Finals: Chattanooga FC @ New York Cosmos B, Saturday, August 8 (Time and Venue TBA)
Cosmos B are likely the favorites here, but only by virtue of being the home squad. Both of these teams look absolutely unbeatable. Don’t be surprised to see a flurry of goals. Don’t be surprised to see a 0-0 scrum. Don’t be surprised to see this go down to penalties.
We will update this page as soon as the NPSL announces a time, venue, and possible web stream.
