Charlotte, NC: The Eagles capped their 2009 regular season with a 3-0 win against the Western Mass Pioneers.  Amaury Nunes’ two goals put the Eagles up 2-0 at the half.  Gustavo Bentos made it 3-0 late in the second half, adding the finishing touch to a hard fought game.

Over 1900 fans gathered to watch the Eagles last regular season game against Western Mass marking the last regular season game for both Dustin Swinehart and Ben Johnson’s illustrious careers.

The game began a bit sluggish as both teams worked to settle into a rhythm.  The Eagles’ first chance came in minute eight after Dustin Swinehart shot a rocket after receiving a deflected shot from the Pioneer’s keeper.  Jacob Coggins deflected it past the keeper only to be called off-sides.

In minute eighteen Alex Woods, after an aggressive challenge by Anthony Augustine, fell to the pitch breaking his right leg.  Augustine was promptly shown a red card and ejected from the game.

Patrick Daka took over for Alex Woods and play resumed with a set piece.  Chris Lemons sent the ball out wide to Ben Johnson who laid a perfect ball into the box to find Amaury Nunes for the first goal of the game.

The next highlight of the game would not come until extra time in the first half; the wait was well worth it.  Amaury Nunes dribbled up through the middle breaking free of two defenders to pound a shot past the keeper.

The first half ended with the Eagles up 2-0.

The second half of play was controlled mostly by the Eagles with Western Mass occasionally building up an offensive attempt. 

James Thorpe, Western Mass’ keeper had a great save in minute fifty-six against a penalty kick taken by Ben Johnson.

Gustavo Bentos sealed the deal in minute seventy-two with a beautiful header from a corner kick by Chris Klotz.

The Eagles continued to pressure until the final whistle, with a result of 3-0.

Playoffs begin this Wednesday, August 19, 2009, as the Charlotte Eagles host Real Maryland at 7 PM.