Birmingham Legion FC beat USL League One side Chattanooga Red Wolves SC 3-1 in the first-ever action to take place in newly renovated BBVA Compass Field.

Head Coach Tom Soehn sent out a first-choice line up to start the exhibition, and Chandler Hoffman opened the scoring early, smartly turning the defender and slotting home a ball played in by midfielder Daigo Kobayashi.

Legion FC held on to possession for a majority of the first half, with defenders Marcel Appiah and Kyle Fisher cutting out any Red Wolves potential attacks. Forward Prosper Kasim then sent Legion FC into the half on a high note after taking a pass from defender Eric Avila and expertly chipping the opposing keeper.

The start of the second 45’ saw full sale changes to the lineup for both teams, with a fresh 11 coming in for Legion FC. The Red Wolves scored first in the second half, tapping in a cross from close range. Following a corner kick, Michael Salazar bagged the third Legion FC goal by latching on to a ball bouncing around in the box.

Newcomer Daniel Johnson played well at the attacking midfield spot, regularly skipping past the opposition in the second half.

Legion FC now have two days of training before the next preseason match Saturday, February 16, versus fellow USL Championship team Nashville SC at 4 PM at BBVA Compass Field. The exhibition will be open to season ticket holders, serving as the first time the fans will get to see the new team and renovated stadium. The inaugural regular season kicks off March 9 at home versus Bethlehem Steel FC.