Chattanooga Football Club made it two wins from two at the inaugural "Blastoff Battle" invitational tournament after defeating the University of Alabama-Huntsville 2-0 in the club's third match of the 2024 preseason.
An early goal scored by a trialist and a headed goal from center-back Anatolie Prepelita, both in the first half, made for a comfortable victory in the early kick-off for Head Coach and Sporting Director Rod Underwood's side.
Underwood made four changes in the starting XI from the narrow win over Tormenta FC on Friday with three trialists coming in along with left-back Joseph Perez.
CFC dominated possession and showcased several sequences of patient and positive build-up play throughout the match as Underwood's principles start to take root with the new signings.
"We did some good things with the ball," said Underwood. "That's what we really try and do; focus on the ball. We had some moments. We have a lot of guys on trial. Overall we feel good about the direction we're headed."
Chattanooga kept a clean sheet throughout the Blastoff Battle tournament, and have yet to concede a goal during preseason.
"It's critical for us [to keep a clean sheet]. As much as you can see how we want to play, not giving up goals is just as important for us. There's really no difference."
With the regular season just a month away, Underwood expressed his pleasure at the overall trajectory of his team.
"We've got a lot of work to do. But I feel that the guys are starting to get a better understanding of what we want to do."
The Boys in Blue will now look forward to hosting UPSL side Uma FC on Saturday, Feb. 24 at Finley Stadium. The match will be open exclusively to season ticket holders.
