Vancouver Whitecaps FC USL PRO affiliate Charleston Battery kicked off their 2014 season on Saturday, hosting Orlando City SC at Blackbaud Stadium. The match finished in a 1-1 draw with five Whitecaps FC players making their first appearance for the club.
Mamadou Diouf, a second round MLS SuperDraft pick with Whitecaps FC this year, came on as a substitute in the 58th minute. It didn't take long for the 'Caps prospect to make his mark, unloading a shot from the top of the box in the 65th minute for his first career goal (highlights below). Diouf’s performance earned him a spot on the USL PRO Team of the Week.
The assist on the goal also came from a familiar face, as recent loanee Omar Salgado set-up the Senegalese striker for his goal after coming on as a halftime sub.
Adam Mena, Aminu Abdallah, Diouf, and Jackson Farmer all made their professional debuts. Mena earned the start in his first pro outing.
The Battery now turn their attention to this Saturday as they host 2013 USL PRO Commisioner's Cup winners, and DC United affiliate, Richmond Kickers. The Commisioner's Cup is given to the top team in the USL PRO regular season. Farmer could make his first career professional start at right back.
At training this week ‘Caps U-23 Honduran striker Marlon Ramirez, who has been nursing an ankle injury, participated in an extended controlled scrimmage. He also stayed after practice with Salgado to do extra work with assistant coach Troy Lesesne, who will be working with the 'Caps young players throughout their time in Charleston. Michael Kafari, a Whitecaps FC 2013 third round MLS SuperDraft pick, sat out practice as he continues to recover from a knee injury.
Kickoff for this weekend's match against Richmond is set for 4:30 p.m. PT on Saturday. All matches are streamed live on YouTube.
