Will Cleary Nets First MLS Goal as Charlotte FC Defeats D.C. United 3-1

Charlotte FC defeated D.C. United 3-1 in a dominant second-half performance, with rookie Will Cleary scoring his first MLS goal Winnipeg Free Press. David Schnegg and Pep Biel each added a goal as Charlotte controlled the match, holding 61% possession despite being outshot 10-4 in a scoreless first half.
Charlotte came out firing after halftime. Louis Munteanu opened the scoring in the 55th minute, giving the home team an early advantage Yahoo Sports. Cleary then netted his first professional goal, marking a major milestone for the young striker in his rookie season.
The floodgates opened from there. Schnegg and Biel each found the back of the net to put the match out of reach Newsday. Sean Johnson made two crucial saves for Charlotte to preserve the comfortable lead down the stretch.
The loss deepens D.C. United's offensive struggles. The team has not won in four consecutive matches, dropping to a troubling position in the league standings Beaumont Enterprise. The defensive breakdown in the second half proved costly against a Charlotte side that imposed its will throughout.
D.C. United could not find the back of the net until it was too late. Playing from behind against a team with superior possession made the comeback impossible Greenwich Time. The visitors need a dramatic turnaround to snap this winless stretch.
The first 45 minutes told a different story. Charlotte dominated possession with 61% of the ball but could not break through Houston Chronicle. D.C. United held firm defensively and actually out-shot the hosts 10-4, creating a tense, scoreless halftime stalemate.
Charlotte's patience paid off after the break. The team's attacking pressure finally converted into goals once play resumed Seattle PI. Cleary and his teammates seized their opportunities in the decisive second half to secure a convincing home victory.
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