The Charlotte Independence’s back four are establishing the expected level of play.

Now 1-1 after a 2-1 victory over the Harrisburg City Islanders, the Independence have begun to find their rhythm as a team that can dictate the tempo through possession.

“The backline is a group that has expressed to me that they want to be the group that kind of sets the standard for the team,” Charlotte defender Bilal Duckett said. “Having a strong spine is always going to give us an opportunity to play the kind of football that we want to play.”

Said coach Mike Jeffries: “I felt like tonight was much better for us on the ball. We established at least a little bit of rhythm, and had many plays in which we pushed the ball and moved it pretty quickly. That was good to see.”  

Charlotte has started Duckett, Henry Kalungi, Patrick Slogic and Jack Metcalf, all of whom spent last season with the Independence. Two games in, Charlotte has scored and conceded two goals.

“By and large they held up very well,” Jeffries said. “I thought their shape stayed pretty good throughout the evening, and we managed to cut off a lot of plays.”

Said Duckett: “Going forward, it’s going to be a goal of ours to set the standard of possession as well.”  

In addition to establishing possession, Charlotte’s back four have produced in the attacking third as well, for instance, Duckett’s assist on Caleb Calvert’s goal in the 22nd minute.  David Estrada scored the game-winner in the 34th minute.

“I think this was a very important step for us tonight,” Duckett said.

“I have to give all of the credit to Bilal,” Calvert said. “That service was excellent. I happened to be in the right place at the right time. The service was everything.”

Jeffries named Duckett captain this season—a role the center back has embraced.

“He’s a very classy player. He’s somebody who has the respect of the group and is a guy that everybody in the locker room is pretty familiar with,” Jeffries said. “I just felt like this point, it’s a good step for him in terms of development, and it’s good for us in that he’s an upbeat guy who can relate to the whole group, and [he’s] a good communicator.”  

Said Calvert: “He’s very vocal. I think he’s a great leader, and I think only good things can come from it.”

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