Charlotte FC v D.C. United: Smith highlights importance of home fixtures

Charlotte FC head coach Dean Smith has warned his players they must keep up their home form ahead of the Leagues Cup break.

Charlotte host D.C. United in their next match, marking their third consecutive home match after a run of five games on the road.

Smith’s side have the sixth-best home record in the Eastern Conference this season and are unbeaten in their last three at Bank of America Stadium.

Charlotte are currently ninth in the East, but they could slip out of the playoff spots if the Chicago Fire win their game in hand.

Smith emphasised the importance of their home form as they approach a break from MLS action.

“The players know how big this week is, or at least the last five games before the Leagues Cup,” said Smith.

“Four of the last five [games] were going to be at home, with the exception of Atlanta, so we knew how important this is for how we are going to finish the season.

“I know how good these players are and we all know what they can do. We needed to close the gap between us and New York City and start looking upwards.

“This stadium is going to be massive for us in the run-in. I spoke to the players about that, and the supporters make a difference. We want to make it really hard for teams to come here.”

Our heart beats