Charlotte FC v Atlanta United: Smith lays down unbeaten challenge to Crown squad

Dean Smith has set his Charlotte FC players the challenge of remaining unbeaten from now until the end of the season, starting with their MLS fixture against Atlanta United.

The Crown returned to league action after their Leagues Cup exit with a 1-1 draw against the New York Red Bulls, as Karol Swiderski saw his penalty cancelled out by Elias Manoel.

Smith’s side extended their unbeaten run in the MLS to four matches, sitting sixth in the Eastern Conference standings but four points off fourth place.

And with the playoffs growing ever closer, Smith is keen to build a winning mentality among his players and is confident that his side will improve as the campaign progresses.

“I want them to be sharper,” Smith started. “They have worked really hard in the last three weeks, and they have had some rest when they have needed it. They will be good.

“I don’t worry about the players fitness wise; they are a strong group and I think as the season goes on now we will get better.

“The challenge for them now is keeping this unbeaten run going until the end of the season and I believe we can go and do that.”

Saturday. Make them