CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A routine win for #1 Charleston that felt like a formality from the onset.
 
It was a night that highlighted the strength in the depth UC has, as they were able to rest 4 regular starters carrying minor injuries, and give them the night off. Renan Ramos, Andrew Harrison, Patrick Guier and goalkeeper Fabian Veit were all watching from the stands as their teammates dominated on the pitch. This meant freshman goalkeeper Kelan Green was handed his debut in goal.
 
Concord came out with an extremely defensive formation. They lined up with 5 defenders, 5 midfielders and no clear striker, seemingly playing for a draw from the onset. They looked to create a wall in front of their own goal in an attempt to deny the Golden Eagles any opportunities. However, Charleston and Felipe Rafael Antonio had other ideas.
 
Antonio stole the show with a delightful first half hat trick. His first came in the 22^nd minute when he attacked a cross from Will Roberts. Antonio powerfully headed the ball down past the Concord goalkeeper's right, who was slow to react. His second of the night came in similar fashion, when he again rose highest, this time off a Bruno Oliveira wide free kick. He left the goalkeeper no chance with this header, as it flew into the top right hand corner, meaning the goalkeeper could only watch and admire. This goal extended UC's lead to 2-0 after 32 minutes. Antonio's third of the night came on the 39 minute mark, when an exquisite through ball from Michael Barroilhet meant Antonio could use his pace to get to the ball before both Concord defenders or goalkeeper, to poke the ball home.
 
Will Roberts and Lewis Osborne did have goals disallowed, for unfortunate offside calls. UC were a class above all night and dominated the game with 80% possession, accumulating 22 shots to Concord's two. Green earned his first clean sheet in Maroon and Gold. It was also a great night for fellow debutants, Vaughn Griffith, Max Dandy, Owen O'Leary, and Tim Hayslett who were handed their first minutes by Coach Grassie. "These boys have been doing well in the development program and earned their minutes with the first team," said Coach Grassie. He added "If these boys continue to work hard and play well, they will be involved in the first team further, and can be assets to the program in years to come. They have paved the way and are an example to all of the development squad lads." It really did highlight the strength in numbers and unison of UC, where Coach Grassie can make several changes and still dominate the game.
 
Charleston is back in conference action on Sunday at Coonskin Park, 4pm kick off for another top 25 matchup as they face #21 ranked Notre Dame.
 
A moment of silence was carried out before the game, to pay respects to the mother of Concord Head Coach, Steve Barrett, who couldn't be at the game.