After back-to-back losses to close out its National Premier Soccer League schedule, the Chattanooga Football Club wraps up its third season with an exhibition tonight at Finley Stadium.
Chattanooga FC hosts the under-23 squad from Major League Soccer's D.C. United in a return trip from last season. CFC played United's development team at RFK Stadium, losing 3-0.
CFC general manager Sean McDaniel said he's expecting an equally formidable opponent tonight.
"I definitely think they're going to be as good or better than the team we played last year," McDaniel said.
The D.C. U-23 are coached by the all-time leading scorer in the MLS, Jaime Moreno. United's roster is comprised of collegiate players from a variety of programs, including West Virginia, Maryland, George Mason and Loyola.
Among those intently watching tonight's game will be a couple of United scouts who made the trip to get a close look at some of CFC's players.
Chattanooga FC let the NPSL Southeast Conference championship slip away in the final two weeks of the season. All CFC needed was a win in either of its final two games to capture a second straight league crown.
Between wanting to end the season on a positive note and the chance to play in front of pro scouts, CFC's players shouldn't be lacking for motivation in their finale.
"Part of the reason some of [our players] come here is we give them opportunities to be seen by MLS teams," McDaniel said. "That's a big deal to some of these young men, who really have a desire and a passion to play professionally."