Huntsville City FC is on a roll lately. The team's latest win, a 5-2 romp over Philadelphia Union II at Joe Davis Stadium, finally lifted Jack Collison's side above the playoff line.
Azaad Liadi emerged as HCFC's hero, with a hat trick completed by the 73rd minute. Liadi has been an integral part of HCFC's recent surge, scoring seven goals in his last eight appearances.
Liadi broke into the middle of the box in the 35th minute, staying on his feet to finish into the lower right corner. Liadi's goal equaled a Chris Olney goal in the 13th minute.
Kemy Amiche scored again for HCFC, converting a penalty kick to bring his team the lead. Union II's Nelson Pierre equalized in the 48th minute.
Liadi stepped up again, launching a shot into the top right corner.
Liadi completed the hat trick in the 73rd minute, putting the match out of reach.
The 25-year-old forward has proven himself to be a force on a squad with plenty of attacking talent. He raised his 2023 goal total to 11 goals, and has added one assist. Liadi has played 1,010 minutes in 17 appearances in his first season with HCFC.
Liadi arrived to Huntsville after a stint in DC United's organization. He made one MLS appearance for DC United in February 2022, and has previously played in the USL Championship. Liadi played college soccer at Saginaw Valley State for three years, before transferring his senior year to Georgia Southern.
