WASHINGTON, D.C. (CAROLINA SPORTS LIVE) — Charlotte FC dropped its sixth straight match to MLS competition and ended its U.S. Open Cup run after falling to D.C. United via penalty kicks Wednesday night.
DC’s Jackson Hopkins tied the Round of 16 match at 3 in the 104th minute during extra time, then the home club quickly held a 2-0 PK advantage that it hung onto for a 2-1 conclusion. Brandt Bronico was the lone Crown player to convert one-on-one.
The Hopkins goal spoiled the first goal for Trevor Smalls as a member of FC, coming at the beginning of extra time.
The Crown also had a late lead squashed when DC’s Garrison Tubbs got one past goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina in the 86th minute.
The Crowns’ two regular-time goals came within three minutes in the second half: first by Patrick Agyemang then Bill Tuiloma.
FC defeated USL Championship club North Carolina FC in the round of 32 last week 4-1.
The Crown (6-7-1) returns to MLS play Saturday, May 24, when they host the New York Red Bulls (5-6-3).