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2017 Archive

NORTH CAROLINA FC SET FOR SWANSEA CITY EXHIBITION

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS SWANSEA CITY AFC
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, JULY 22, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM AT WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
 
TV: WRAL2, WILM-TV10,
DIGITAL: WRAL.COM
RADIO: 99.9 THE FAN
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvSWA

CARY, N.C. (July 21, 2017) – North Carolina FC of the North American Soccer League (NASL) will host English Premier League (EPL) side Swansea City AFC on Saturday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. This exciting match marks just the second time that an English Premier League team has visited the Triangle area.

Swansea is pushing to become America’s team in the EPL with three visits to the U.S. in the last five years. Former U.S. Men's National Team member Landon Donovan has recently come on for Swansea as an adviser to American owners Steve Kaplan and Jason Levien.

North Carolina FC has a reputation for being upset artists in its matches against high-level opposition. The club has defeated six Major League Soccer teams in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and holds exhibition wins over Chivas USA and the New England Revolution of the MLS, Puebla FC of Liga MX and the Panama National Team. NCFC is known for playing up to the level of its competition, which will help to provide an exciting environment on the pitch.

Last Time Out:
NCFC defeated Puerto Rico FC last weekend 2-1 in a stoppage time thriller. Lance Laing opened the scoring before Puerto Rico equalized late in the match. NCFC managed to take all three points, as Matt Fondy converted a penalty kick in the closing minutes of the match.
 
Players to Watch: 
 
#47 Jose Carranza
The 18-year-old has been a spark for North Carolina FC as of late. His most notable contribution came when he provided the assist for the game-winning goal in a victory over NASL Spring Season Champions Miami FC. The U-18 USMNT player has completed 83.3 percent of his passes in his five games this year and looks to be gaining confidence going forward with five crosses and one chance created.
 
#10 Tammy Abraham
Abraham joined the Swans on a season-long loan on July 4, 2017 from current EPL champions Chelsea FC. He recently tallied 23 goals with Bristol City last season. The goal scorer hasn’t taken long to open his account with Swansea, the striker scored the game-winning goal on his debut against the Richmond Kickers. He is currently on England’s U-21 roster, and helped the national side make a run to the semifinals of the European Championship in June.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will return to league play Saturday, July 29 as it hosts Puerto Rico FC at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.458.8144.

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS SWANSEA CITY AFC
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, JULY 22, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM AT WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
 
TV: WRAL2, WILM-TV10,
DIGITAL: WRAL.COM
RADIO: 99.9 THE FAN
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvSWA

CARY, N.C. (July 21, 2017) – North Carolina FC of the North American Soccer League (NASL) will host English Premier League (EPL) side Swansea City AFC on Saturday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. This exciting match marks just the second time that an English Premier League team has visited the Triangle area.

Swansea is pushing to become America’s team in the EPL with three visits to the U.S. in the last five years. Former U.S. Men’s National Team member Landon Donovan has recently come on for Swansea as an adviser to American owners Steve Kaplan and Jason Levien.

North Carolina FC has a reputation for being upset artists in its matches against high-level opposition. The club has defeated six Major League Soccer teams in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and holds exhibition wins over Chivas USA and the New England Revolution of the MLS, Puebla FC of Liga MX and the Panama National Team. NCFC is known for playing up to the level of its competition, which will help to provide an exciting environment on the pitch.

Last Time Out:
NCFC defeated Puerto Rico FC last weekend 2-1 in a stoppage time thriller. Lance Laing opened the scoring before Puerto Rico equalized late in the match. NCFC managed to take all three points, as Matt Fondy converted a penalty kick in the closing minutes of the match.
 
Players to Watch: 
 
#47 Jose Carranza
The 18-year-old has been a spark for North Carolina FC as of late. His most notable contribution came when he provided the assist for the game-winning goal in a victory over NASL Spring Season Champions Miami FC. The U-18 USMNT player has completed 83.3 percent of his passes in his five games this year and looks to be gaining confidence going forward with five crosses and one chance created.
 
#10 Tammy Abraham
Abraham joined the Swans on a season-long loan on July 4, 2017 from current EPL champions Chelsea FC. He recently tallied 23 goals with Bristol City last season. The goal scorer hasn’t taken long to open his account with Swansea, the striker scored the game-winning goal on his debut against the Richmond Kickers. He is currently on England’s U-21 roster, and helped the national side make a run to the semifinals of the European Championship in June.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will return to league play Saturday, July 29 as it hosts Puerto Rico FC at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.458.8144.

NORTH CAROLINA FOOTBALL CLUB ANNOUNCES PREFERRED LOCATION FOR ENTERTAINMENT, SPORTS AND ATHLETIC COMPLEX IN DOWNTOWN RALEIGH; RELEASES INITIAL STADIUM RENDERINGS

CARY, N.C. (July 19, 2017) – North Carolina Football Club is asking the State of North Carolina to enter into a dialogue to facilitate a public-private partnership to build a mixed-use community featuring an entertainment, sports and athletics venue that would be home to a Major League Soccer (MLS) team. In partnership with Kane Realty, this community will include conference space; office, hospitality and retail space; housing and public parking.
 
The project’s footprint is approximately 13 acres in the area currently known as the State Government Complex, located within the boundaries of Peace St., Salisbury St., Lane St. and the CSX Rail easement.
 
“This is another important step in our pursuit of a Major League Soccer Franchise,” said North Carolina Football Club Owner, Steve Malik. “Our vision is to make this facility a crown jewel for downtown Raleigh, providing a world-class sporting and social experience for fans and the community. We are ready to engage all of the relevant constituents, including our community members, legislators, city, county and state officials, to address questions and concerns and bring this vision to life.” 

The preferred stadium location was publicly announced at a press conference in downtown Raleigh on July 19 during the visit of Major League Soccer President and Deputy Commissioner Mark Abbott.
 
Initial renderings for the proposed project were also released at the press conference. The designs were created by world-renowned firm Gensler, a global leader in areas as diverse as stadium architecture, design, planning and consulting.
 
An economic development study, conducted by Economic Leadership LLC, has shown that the combination of bringing an MLS expansion team, building a soccer-specific stadium and establishing a mixed-use development for residents to live, work and play could generate significant benefits to the local economy and the state as a whole. Over the course of the next 17 years, this public-private partnership is expected to provide a net present value of $2.8 billion to the state of North Carolina, generating $262 million annually in state economic activity and create or support almost 2,000 jobs. In addition, it could create an additional $5.6 million in state taxpayer revenue each year.
 
In January, North Carolina Football Club was one of 12 markets to submit a bid to bring an MLS franchise to the Triangle. Since that time, the club acquired the rights to the Western New York Flash of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), moving the team to the Triangle and subsequently renaming the team North Carolina Courage. The organization also entered into an historic collaboration with Capital Area Soccer League (CASL) and Triangle Futbol Club Alliance (TFCA), resulting in the largest youth-to-pro soccer club in the United States. As part of this agreement, CASL and TFCA have rebranded as North Carolina FC Youth.
 
For more information about North Carolina Football Club’s efforts to bring MLS to the Triangle, visit https://www.northcarolinafc.com/mls.
 
About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the largest youth-to-professional soccer organization in the country. The club is comprised of a women’s First Division team, North Carolina Courage (NWSL), a men’s Second Division team, North Carolina FC (NASL), as well as a Premier Development League team, North Carolina FC U23 (USLPDL). The organization is also home to both Boys and Girls U.S. Soccer Development Academies. The North Carolina Football Club is owned by local entrepreneur, Steve Malik, and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.

CARY, N.C. (July 19, 2017) – North Carolina Football Club is asking the State of North Carolina to enter into a dialogue to facilitate a public-private partnership to build a mixed-use community featuring an entertainment, sports and athletics venue that would be home to a Major League Soccer (MLS) team. In partnership with Kane Realty, this community will include conference space; office, hospitality and retail space; housing and public parking.
 
The project’s footprint is approximately 13 acres in the area currently known as the State Government Complex, located within the boundaries of Peace St., Salisbury St., Lane St. and the CSX Rail easement.
 
“This is another important step in our pursuit of a Major League Soccer Franchise,” said North Carolina Football Club Owner, Steve Malik. “Our vision is to make this facility a crown jewel for downtown Raleigh, providing a world-class sporting and social experience for fans and the community. We are ready to engage all of the relevant constituents, including our community members, legislators, city, county and state officials, to address questions and concerns and bring this vision to life.” 

The preferred stadium location was publicly announced at a press conference in downtown Raleigh on July 19 during the visit of Major League Soccer President and Deputy Commissioner Mark Abbott.
 
Initial renderings for the proposed project were also released at the press conference. The designs were created by world-renowned firm Gensler, a global leader in areas as diverse as stadium architecture, design, planning and consulting.
 
An economic development study, conducted by Economic Leadership LLC, has shown that the combination of bringing an MLS expansion team, building a soccer-specific stadium and establishing a mixed-use development for residents to live, work and play could generate significant benefits to the local economy and the state as a whole. Over the course of the next 17 years, this public-private partnership is expected to provide a net present value of $2.8 billion to the state of North Carolina, generating $262 million annually in state economic activity and create or support almost 2,000 jobs. In addition, it could create an additional $5.6 million in state taxpayer revenue each year.
 
In January, North Carolina Football Club was one of 12 markets to submit a bid to bring an MLS franchise to the Triangle. Since that time, the club acquired the rights to the Western New York Flash of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), moving the team to the Triangle and subsequently renaming the team North Carolina Courage. The organization also entered into an historic collaboration with Capital Area Soccer League (CASL) and Triangle Futbol Club Alliance (TFCA), resulting in the largest youth-to-pro soccer club in the United States. As part of this agreement, CASL and TFCA have rebranded as North Carolina FC Youth.
 
For more information about North Carolina Football Club’s efforts to bring MLS to the Triangle, visit https://www.northcarolinafc.com/mls.
 
About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the largest youth-to-professional soccer organization in the country. The club is comprised of a women’s First Division team, North Carolina Courage (NWSL), a men’s Second Division team, North Carolina FC (NASL), as well as a Premier Development League team, North Carolina FC U23 (USLPDL). The organization is also home to both Boys and Girls U.S. Soccer Development Academies. The North Carolina Football Club is owned by local entrepreneur, Steve Malik, and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.

THE SWANS HAVE ARRIVED!

Swansea City AFC landed in the Triangle on Sunday afternoon ahead of the team’s marque international exhibition on Saturday, July 22 at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7:30 p.m. Swansea will spend nearly a week in the Triangle community ahead of its preseason tour finale.

Swansea City’s preseason roster features almost the entire first team. Get to know a little more about the Swans below.

Swansea City’s U.S. Preseason Tour Squad:

GOALKEEPERS: Lukasz Fabianski, Erwin Mulder, Kristoffer Nordfeldt, Kyle Naughton

DEFENDERS: Angel Rangel, Kyle Bartley, Federico Fernandez, Alfie Mawson, Mike van der Hoorn, Stephen Kingsley, Martin Olsson

MIDFIELDERS: Leon Britton, Tom Carroll, Leroy Fer, Jay Fulton, Matt Grimes, Roque Mesa, Nathan Dyer, Jefferson Montero, Luciano Narsingh,

FORWARDS: Wayne Routledge, Jordan Ayew, Tammy Abraham, Oli McBurnie, Modou Barrow

 

  • Roque Mesa was recently signed from La Liga club Las Palmas. The Spanish midfielder ranked fourth or better in every major passing category in La Liga for the 2016-2017 season. He finished the season with a passing accuracy of 91.4% with 2,192 passes completed.
  • Tammy Abraham was recently loaned to Swansea City from Chelsea FC. The 19-year old English striker scored 26 goals in 41 appearances for Bristol City last season. Abraham is also a consistent starter on England’s U-21 national team.
  • Leroy Fer is a key piece in Swansea’s midfield. He scored six goals and added two assists for Swansea last season. He also established himself as the powerhouse of the Swansea midfield as he won 221 duels during Premier League play and exhibited his box-to-box ability all season.
  • Midfielder Nathan Dyer spent part of last season on loan at Leicester City during their improbable Premier League title-winning run. He made 12 appearances and scored a goal in his debut for Leicester City.
  • Lukasz Fabianski has been the starting goalkeeper at Swansea City since 2014, after spending seven seasons at Arsenal. Fabiański was a star at Euro 2016, as he led his Poland squad to a quarterfinals finish, which is the best finish in Polish history. He recorded a clean sheet against a powerful Germany squad but eventually lost to Euro 2016 champions Portugal in a penalty shootout.
  • Claude Makelele is an assistant coach on the Swansea City first team staff. The French midfielder had a 20-year playing career, winning 15 major trophies including the Champions League, Premier League and other domestic titles during his stints with Real Madrid, Chelsea and PSG. He was also a member of the 2006 France squad that made it to the World Cup finals.
  • Federico Fernandez started four matches for Argentina during the 2014 World Cup.
  • Jordan Ayew played in three matches for Ghana during the 2014 World Cup and has made 46 senior team caps for the Ghanaian National Team.
  • Defender Martin Olsson has 40 senior team caps with Sweden, including six at Euro 2016.

Swansea City AFC landed in the Triangle on Sunday afternoon ahead of the team’s marque international exhibition on Saturday, July 22 at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7:30 p.m. Swansea will spend nearly a week in the Triangle community ahead of its preseason tour finale.

Swansea City’s preseason roster features almost the entire first team. Get to know a little more about the Swans below.

Swansea City’s U.S. Preseason Tour Squad:

GOALKEEPERS: Lukasz Fabianski, Erwin Mulder, Kristoffer Nordfeldt, Kyle Naughton

DEFENDERS: Angel Rangel, Kyle Bartley, Federico Fernandez, Alfie Mawson, Mike van der Hoorn, Stephen Kingsley, Martin Olsson

MIDFIELDERS: Leon Britton, Tom Carroll, Leroy Fer, Jay Fulton, Matt Grimes, Roque Mesa, Nathan Dyer, Jefferson Montero, Luciano Narsingh,

FORWARDS: Wayne Routledge, Jordan Ayew, Tammy Abraham, Oli McBurnie, Modou Barrow

 

  • Roque Mesa was recently signed from La Liga club Las Palmas. The Spanish midfielder ranked fourth or better in every major passing category in La Liga for the 2016-2017 season. He finished the season with a passing accuracy of 91.4% with 2,192 passes completed.
  • Tammy Abraham was recently loaned to Swansea City from Chelsea FC. The 19-year old English striker scored 26 goals in 41 appearances for Bristol City last season. Abraham is also a consistent starter on England’s U-21 national team.
  • Leroy Fer is a key piece in Swansea’s midfield. He scored six goals and added two assists for Swansea last season. He also established himself as the powerhouse of the Swansea midfield as he won 221 duels during Premier League play and exhibited his box-to-box ability all season.
  • Midfielder Nathan Dyer spent part of last season on loan at Leicester City during their improbable Premier League title-winning run. He made 12 appearances and scored a goal in his debut for Leicester City.
  • Lukasz Fabianski has been the starting goalkeeper at Swansea City since 2014, after spending seven seasons at Arsenal. Fabiański was a star at Euro 2016, as he led his Poland squad to a quarterfinals finish, which is the best finish in Polish history. He recorded a clean sheet against a powerful Germany squad but eventually lost to Euro 2016 champions Portugal in a penalty shootout.
  • Claude Makelele is an assistant coach on the Swansea City first team staff. The French midfielder had a 20-year playing career, winning 15 major trophies including the Champions League, Premier League and other domestic titles during his stints with Real Madrid, Chelsea and PSG. He was also a member of the 2006 France squad that made it to the World Cup finals.
  • Federico Fernandez started four matches for Argentina during the 2014 World Cup.
  • Jordan Ayew played in three matches for Ghana during the 2014 World Cup and has made 46 senior team caps for the Ghanaian National Team.
  • Defender Martin Olsson has 40 senior team caps with Sweden, including six at Euro 2016.

NORTH CAROLINA FC TAKES 2-1 WIN OVER PUERTO RICO FC

CARY, N.C. (July 15, 2017) – Late-game dramatics led to a 2-1 victory for North Carolina FC over Puerto Rico FC on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
Despite NCFC holding a 1-0 lead for most of the match, Puerto Rico scored late to equalize. However, NCFC was awarded a penalty in stoppage time to retake its advantage in the final minutes and hold on for the win.
 
"I'm delighted. They put a lot of hard work into it and got the result," said head coach Colin Clarke. "I thought we deserved it overall. We were fortunate a little bit at the end, maybe it was on the line or just outside. I think we played well enough and created enough chances, particularly in the first half to be two or three up. Fair play to them, they came out the second half and stepped up their pressure a little bit. I think overall, we deserved the three points."
 
NCFC opened the match with its patented quick attack, scoring in the 15th minute. Lance Laing added his team-leading sixth NASL goal of the year off an assist from Nazmi Albadawi. After NCFC regained possession in the midfield, Albadawi fed a streaking Laing, who flew past the PRFC defense and added an easy one-on-one finish past the visiting goalkeeper.
 
The hosts continued their dominance in the attacking half all night. NCFC outshot PRFC 11-4 and ended with a 62.9-37.1 percent advantage in possession. NCFC narrowly missed more chances to score, as a Christian Ibeagha header hit the post in the first half and Albadawi had a shot cleared off the line by Cristiano Dias in the second half.
 
Despite NCFC’s dominance on the attacking end, PRFC struck next, netting a goal in the 83rd minute. Kyle Culbertson crossed the ball from the left to Phanuel Kavita for the goal.
 
After conceding, NCFC pressed forward for the game winner. PRFC handled the pressure until stoppage time when Albadawi was pulled down in the box by Culbertson. Matt Fondy stepped up to the spot and buried the penalty kick for the game-winning goal and his fourth NASL tally of the year.
 
Coming Up Next: 
North Carolina FC will host a marque international exhibition against English Premier League side Swansea City AFC on Saturday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. A variety of ticket packages are available for the match at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling 919.459.8144.
 
Notes:
– NCFC returned to its original backline of Steven Miller, Christian Ibeagha, Connor Tobin and Paul Black for the first time since May 13th
– Lance Laing notched his sixth NASL goal and seventh goal across all competitions off an assist from Nazmi Albadawi in the 16th minute.
– Matt Fondy returned to form and scored with a penalty kick in stoppage time for his fourth goal of the year.
 
Box Score 
 
Lineups
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Paul Black, Connor Tobin, Christian Ibeagha, Steven Miller; Lance Laing (Bolu Akinyode, 83’), Austin Da Luz (Kareem Moses, 90’+), James Marcelin, Nazmi Albadawi ©, Jose Carranza (Dre Fortune, 83’); Matt Fondy
 
Subs not used: Macklin Robinson, Saeed Robinson, Tiyi Shipalane, Brian Shriver
 
PRFC: Trevor Spangenberg; Seth Moses (Walter Ramirez, 82’), Cristiano Dias ©, Ramon Soria, Phanuel Kavita; Jordi Quintilla, Jairo Puerto (Kyle Culbertson, 57’), Conor Doyle; Giuseppe Gentile, Emery Welshman, Sidney Rivera (Michael Kafari, 46’)
 
Subs not used: Austin Pack, Rudy Dawson, Michael Ramos, Jorge Rivera
 
Score:
NCFC: 2
PRFC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Lance Laing (17’, Nazmi Albadawi), Matt Fondy (90’+, PK)
PRFC: Phanuel Kavita (83’, Kyle Culbertson)
 
Cautions: 
NCFC: Steven Miller 71’, Jose Carranza 83’
PRFC: Emery Welshman 31’, Cristiano Dias 66’, Trevor Spangenberg 90’+
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
PRFC: —
 
Attendance: 4,227

CARY, N.C. (July 15, 2017) – Late-game dramatics led to a 2-1 victory for North Carolina FC over Puerto Rico FC on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
Despite NCFC holding a 1-0 lead for most of the match, Puerto Rico scored late to equalize. However, NCFC was awarded a penalty in stoppage time to retake its advantage in the final minutes and hold on for the win.
 
“I’m delighted. They put a lot of hard work into it and got the result,” said head coach Colin Clarke. “I thought we deserved it overall. We were fortunate a little bit at the end, maybe it was on the line or just outside. I think we played well enough and created enough chances, particularly in the first half to be two or three up. Fair play to them, they came out the second half and stepped up their pressure a little bit. I think overall, we deserved the three points.”
 
NCFC opened the match with its patented quick attack, scoring in the 15th minute. Lance Laing added his team-leading sixth NASL goal of the year off an assist from Nazmi Albadawi. After NCFC regained possession in the midfield, Albadawi fed a streaking Laing, who flew past the PRFC defense and added an easy one-on-one finish past the visiting goalkeeper.
 
The hosts continued their dominance in the attacking half all night. NCFC outshot PRFC 11-4 and ended with a 62.9-37.1 percent advantage in possession. NCFC narrowly missed more chances to score, as a Christian Ibeagha header hit the post in the first half and Albadawi had a shot cleared off the line by Cristiano Dias in the second half.
 
Despite NCFC’s dominance on the attacking end, PRFC struck next, netting a goal in the 83rd minute. Kyle Culbertson crossed the ball from the left to Phanuel Kavita for the goal.
 
After conceding, NCFC pressed forward for the game winner. PRFC handled the pressure until stoppage time when Albadawi was pulled down in the box by Culbertson. Matt Fondy stepped up to the spot and buried the penalty kick for the game-winning goal and his fourth NASL tally of the year.
 
Coming Up Next: 
North Carolina FC will host a marque international exhibition against English Premier League side Swansea City AFC on Saturday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. A variety of ticket packages are available for the match at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling 919.459.8144.
 
Notes:
– NCFC returned to its original backline of Steven Miller, Christian Ibeagha, Connor Tobin and Paul Black for the first time since May 13th
– Lance Laing notched his sixth NASL goal and seventh goal across all competitions off an assist from Nazmi Albadawi in the 16th minute.
– Matt Fondy returned to form and scored with a penalty kick in stoppage time for his fourth goal of the year.
 
Box Score 
 
Lineups
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Paul Black, Connor Tobin, Christian Ibeagha, Steven Miller; Lance Laing (Bolu Akinyode, 83’), Austin Da Luz (Kareem Moses, 90’+), James Marcelin, Nazmi Albadawi ©, Jose Carranza (Dre Fortune, 83’); Matt Fondy
 
Subs not used: Macklin Robinson, Saeed Robinson, Tiyi Shipalane, Brian Shriver
 
PRFC: Trevor Spangenberg; Seth Moses (Walter Ramirez, 82’), Cristiano Dias ©, Ramon Soria, Phanuel Kavita; Jordi Quintilla, Jairo Puerto (Kyle Culbertson, 57’), Conor Doyle; Giuseppe Gentile, Emery Welshman, Sidney Rivera (Michael Kafari, 46’)
 
Subs not used: Austin Pack, Rudy Dawson, Michael Ramos, Jorge Rivera
 
Score:
NCFC: 2
PRFC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Lance Laing (17’, Nazmi Albadawi), Matt Fondy (90’+, PK)
PRFC: Phanuel Kavita (83’, Kyle Culbertson)
 
Cautions: 
NCFC: Steven Miller 71’, Jose Carranza 83’
PRFC: Emery Welshman 31’, Cristiano Dias 66’, Trevor Spangenberg 90’+
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
PRFC: —
 
Attendance: 4,227

NORTH CAROLINA FC U23 CONCLUDES PDL SEASON

CARY, N.C. (July 14, 2017) – North Carolina FC U23 concluded its inaugural Premiere Development League (PDL) season on Friday night with a 4-1 loss to the Charlotte Eagles at WakeMed Soccer Park. The team finished the 2017 season in seventh place in the PDL South Atlantic Standings with a record of 6W-6L-3D.

Charlotte jumped out to an early lead in the match, as the visitors scored twice in the opening 16 minutes. Kelvin Omondi was the spark for the Charlotte attack and scored the opener in the eighth minute off an assist from Joao Costa. Omondi then assisted Ashley Sibisi on second goal in the 15th minute.

After a change of shape and two new faces on the backline, NCFCU23 settled back into the match. The home team pulled one back in the 26th minute to come within a goal. Jamil Gracia cut down the right flank and found an open Damien Thomas in the box who finished the cross for his third goal of the season.

With NCFCU23 pushed up and pressing for an equalizer, Charlotte’s Costa broke through the defensive line on a counter attack and provided the Eagles’ third goal of the night in the 62nd minute. Charlotte then added another goal in the 82nd minute with a strike from Mutaya Mwape to bring the match to its final score of 4-1.

Notes:

NCFCU23’s roster featured six former Capital Area RailHawks members in Cody Brinkman, Vinne Durrand, Jamil Gracia, Nick Retzlaff, Alex Rose, Ryan Spaulding
Shariff Secca made his home debut, coming on as a substitute in the 74th minute
Box Score:

NCFCU23: Vinnie Durand (Bardia Asefnia 46’), Christop Schuneuwly, Matt Arnone (Jamil Gracia 22’), Cooper Duplantis (Baboucar Njie 22’), Chase Rhode; Cody Brinkman ©, Nick Retzlaff (Fernando Castellanos 74’), Cameron Steele (Ian Bennett 52’), Ryan Spaulding (Shariff Secca 74’), Alex Rose; Damien Thomas

Subs not used: Steeve Pouna

CLT: James Pyle; Douglas Oliveira, Gio Benjarano, Hazeley Pyle, Foster Appiah; Jovan Petrovic (Lorren Page 74’), Ryan Williams ©, David Koloko; Kelvin Omondi (Mutaya Mwape 27’), Ashley Sibisi (Shavon John-Brown 78’), Joao Costa (Langdon Roscoe 88’)

Subs not used: Andrew Pannenberg, Derick Gonzalez, Kosi Nwarfornso,

Score:

NCFCU23: 1

CLT: 4

Goals:

NCFCU23: Thomas (Gracia, 26’)

CLT: Omandi (Costa, 8’) Sibisi (Omandi 15’) Costa (unassisted 62’) Mwape (unassisted 82’)

Cautions:

NCFC: Rhode 78’

CLT: Foster 61’

Ejections:

NCFCU23: —

CLT: —

CARY, N.C. (July 14, 2017) – North Carolina FC U23 concluded its inaugural Premiere Development League (PDL) season on Friday night with a 4-1 loss to the Charlotte Eagles at WakeMed Soccer Park. The team finished the 2017 season in seventh place in the PDL South Atlantic Standings with a record of 6W-6L-3D.

Charlotte jumped out to an early lead in the match, as the visitors scored twice in the opening 16 minutes. Kelvin Omondi was the spark for the Charlotte attack and scored the opener in the eighth minute off an assist from Joao Costa. Omondi then assisted Ashley Sibisi on second goal in the 15th minute.

After a change of shape and two new faces on the backline, NCFCU23 settled back into the match. The home team pulled one back in the 26th minute to come within a goal. Jamil Gracia cut down the right flank and found an open Damien Thomas in the box who finished the cross for his third goal of the season.

With NCFCU23 pushed up and pressing for an equalizer, Charlotte’s Costa broke through the defensive line on a counter attack and provided the Eagles’ third goal of the night in the 62nd minute. Charlotte then added another goal in the 82nd minute with a strike from Mutaya Mwape to bring the match to its final score of 4-1.

Notes:

NCFCU23’s roster featured six former Capital Area RailHawks members in Cody Brinkman, Vinne Durrand, Jamil Gracia, Nick Retzlaff, Alex Rose, Ryan Spaulding
Shariff Secca made his home debut, coming on as a substitute in the 74th minute
Box Score:

NCFCU23: Vinnie Durand (Bardia Asefnia 46’), Christop Schuneuwly, Matt Arnone (Jamil Gracia 22’), Cooper Duplantis (Baboucar Njie 22’), Chase Rhode; Cody Brinkman ©, Nick Retzlaff (Fernando Castellanos 74’), Cameron Steele (Ian Bennett 52’), Ryan Spaulding (Shariff Secca 74’), Alex Rose; Damien Thomas

Subs not used: Steeve Pouna

CLT: James Pyle; Douglas Oliveira, Gio Benjarano, Hazeley Pyle, Foster Appiah; Jovan Petrovic (Lorren Page 74’), Ryan Williams ©, David Koloko; Kelvin Omondi (Mutaya Mwape 27’), Ashley Sibisi (Shavon John-Brown 78’), Joao Costa (Langdon Roscoe 88’)

Subs not used: Andrew Pannenberg, Derick Gonzalez, Kosi Nwarfornso,

Score:

NCFCU23: 1

CLT: 4

Goals:

NCFCU23: Thomas (Gracia, 26’)

CLT: Omandi (Costa, 8’) Sibisi (Omandi 15’) Costa (unassisted 62’) Mwape (unassisted 82’)

Cautions:

NCFC: Rhode 78’

CLT: Foster 61’

Ejections:

NCFCU23: —

CLT: —

NORTH CAROLINA FC HOSTS PUERTO RICO FC THIS SATURDAY

MATCHDAY INFO:

NORTH CAROLINA FC VS PUERTO RICO FC

KICKOFF: SATURDAY, JULY 15, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM AT WAKEMED SOCCER PARK

TV: WRAL2, WILM-TV10, BEIN SPORTS
DIGITAL: BEIN SPORTS CONNECT, WRAL.COM
RADIO: 95.7 THE TICKET (95.7 FM 1330 AM)
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvPRFC

CARY, N.C. (July 14, 2017) – North Carolina FC (5W-3D-7L, 18 pts, 5th place) returns to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to face Puerto Rico FC (1W-5D-8L, 8 pts, 8th place) on Saturday, July 15 at 7:30 p.m.

NCFC can continue its fine home form this Saturday. The team defeated NASL Spring Season Champions Miami FC 1-0 in an Independence Day classic thanks to a goal from Billy Schuler.

North Carolina has turned to its young talent as of late, getting contributions from two of the youngest members on the squad. Jose Carranza provided an assist on the game-winning goal two weeks ago against Miami, while Dre Fortune scored his first NASL goal last weekend at Edmonton.

North Carolina FC has a winning record of 2W-1D-1L all time against Puerto Rico FC since PRFC’s inaugural season in 2016. The two teams battled to a 2-2 draw the last time they met in Cary on August 13, 2016. However, NCFC has dominated the matchup this season, winning both matches against PRFC.

Puerto Rico has struggled this season, only earning one win in 15 matches; however, it remains an attacking threat. PRFC has scored 17 goals this season, good for the fifth most in the league. The team has five players that have scored at least two goals, while Hector Ramos and Jairo Puerto lead the attack with three goals each.

Last Time Out:
NCFC fell 2-1 at Edmonton last weekend, as the club’s early lead wasn’t enough to hold off an attack-minded home side. Fortune opened the scoring with the first NASL goal of his professional career in the 24th minute, but Edmonton responded late in the 77th and 80th minutes to secure the win.
 
Players to Watch:

#7 Lance Laing
Laing has been a vital component of the NCFC offense, as he leads the club in goals and assists. The midfielder has scored five goals in NASL play and one in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. He has also recorded three assists on the season. Look for Laing to add to his season totals as a threat from anywhere on the field.

#9 Hector ‘Pito’ Ramos
Ramos is a versatile forward that has been a key for the Puerto Rico offense this season. The 27-year-old has scored three goals while adding one assist across 12 appearances. Look for the Puerto Rico native to utilize his ability to score with either foot as he leads the dangerous PRFC offense.
 
Coming Up Next: 
North Carolina FC will host a marque international exhibition against English Premier League side Swansea City AFC on Saturday, July 22 at 7:30 pm at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. A variety of ticket packages are available for the match at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling 919.459.8144.

MATCHDAY INFO:

NORTH CAROLINA FC VS PUERTO RICO FC

KICKOFF: SATURDAY, JULY 15, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM AT WAKEMED SOCCER PARK

TV: WRAL2, WILM-TV10, BEIN SPORTS
DIGITAL: BEIN SPORTS CONNECT, WRAL.COM
RADIO: 95.7 THE TICKET (95.7 FM 1330 AM)
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvPRFC

CARY, N.C. (July 14, 2017) – North Carolina FC (5W-3D-7L, 18 pts, 5th place) returns to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to face Puerto Rico FC (1W-5D-8L, 8 pts, 8th place) on Saturday, July 15 at 7:30 p.m.

NCFC can continue its fine home form this Saturday. The team defeated NASL Spring Season Champions Miami FC 1-0 in an Independence Day classic thanks to a goal from Billy Schuler.

North Carolina has turned to its young talent as of late, getting contributions from two of the youngest members on the squad. Jose Carranza provided an assist on the game-winning goal two weeks ago against Miami, while Dre Fortune scored his first NASL goal last weekend at Edmonton.

North Carolina FC has a winning record of 2W-1D-1L all time against Puerto Rico FC since PRFC’s inaugural season in 2016. The two teams battled to a 2-2 draw the last time they met in Cary on August 13, 2016. However, NCFC has dominated the matchup this season, winning both matches against PRFC.

Puerto Rico has struggled this season, only earning one win in 15 matches; however, it remains an attacking threat. PRFC has scored 17 goals this season, good for the fifth most in the league. The team has five players that have scored at least two goals, while Hector Ramos and Jairo Puerto lead the attack with three goals each.

Last Time Out:
NCFC fell 2-1 at Edmonton last weekend, as the club’s early lead wasn’t enough to hold off an attack-minded home side. Fortune opened the scoring with the first NASL goal of his professional career in the 24th minute, but Edmonton responded late in the 77th and 80th minutes to secure the win.
 
Players to Watch:

#7 Lance Laing
Laing has been a vital component of the NCFC offense, as he leads the club in goals and assists. The midfielder has scored five goals in NASL play and one in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. He has also recorded three assists on the season. Look for Laing to add to his season totals as a threat from anywhere on the field.

#9 Hector ‘Pito’ Ramos
Ramos is a versatile forward that has been a key for the Puerto Rico offense this season. The 27-year-old has scored three goals while adding one assist across 12 appearances. Look for the Puerto Rico native to utilize his ability to score with either foot as he leads the dangerous PRFC offense.
 
Coming Up Next: 
North Carolina FC will host a marque international exhibition against English Premier League side Swansea City AFC on Saturday, July 22 at 7:30 pm at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. A variety of ticket packages are available for the match at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling 919.459.8144.

MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER EXECUTIVES TO VISIT TRIANGLE AREA ON WEDNESDAY, JULY 19

CARY, N.C. (July 11, 2017) – Major League Soccer President and Deputy Commissioner Mark Abbott will be visiting the Triangle on Wednesday, July 19, as part of the league’s tour of the 12 markets vying for MLS Expansion, the North Carolina Football Club announced today. MLS executives will meet with business leaders, government officials and participate in several events organized by the club to showcase the market as it pursues an MLS franchise.
 
“We are excited to host Major League Soccer next week,” said North Carolina Football Club owner Steve Malik. “We have a full slate of events planned for them and hope they will see the Triangle’s passion for soccer and desire to bring an MLS team to the area.”
 
Last December, North Carolina Football Club announced its intention to pursue an MLS franchise as part of its “New State of Soccer” brand repositioning. Following the club’s event, MLS announced their criteria for the next round of expansion, and North Carolina FC is one of 12 clubs who submitted a bid on January 31, 2017. MLS has been visiting each market in order to experience first-hand the commitment of the community and meet key leaders and fans.
 
The group will meet with business and civic leaders in the morning before attending a press conference where the club will give important updates on its purpose-built stadium plans.
 
Following the press conference, MLS executives will meet with government officials and tour the Triangle area with the club’s MLS committee leaders and North Carolina Football Club leadership, as well as meeting with North Carolina FC Youth executives.
 
The day will be capped with a public rally at 214 Martin Street, at City Market in downtown Raleigh, where visiting executives will be able to experience first-hand the passion and commitment of the Triangle fans for soccer and their desire to have an MLS club in their backyard.
 
The afternoon event is open to the public and starts at 5 p.m. Fans who desire to attend the rally and show their support for the North Carolina Football Club’s MLS bid should follow the club’s social media channels and website as more details are announced.
 
About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the largest youth-to-professional soccer organization in the country. The club is comprised of a women’s First Division team, North Carolina Courage (NWSL), a men’s Second Division team, North Carolina FC (NASL), as well as a Premier Development League team, North Carolina FC U23 (USLPDL). The organization is also home to both Boys and Girls U.S. Soccer Development Academies. The North Carolina Football Club is owned by local entrepreneur, Steve Malik, and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.

CARY, N.C. (July 11, 2017) – Major League Soccer President and Deputy Commissioner Mark Abbott will be visiting the Triangle on Wednesday, July 19, as part of the league’s tour of the 12 markets vying for MLS Expansion, the North Carolina Football Club announced today. MLS executives will meet with business leaders, government officials and participate in several events organized by the club to showcase the market as it pursues an MLS franchise.
 
“We are excited to host Major League Soccer next week,” said North Carolina Football Club owner Steve Malik. “We have a full slate of events planned for them and hope they will see the Triangle’s passion for soccer and desire to bring an MLS team to the area.”
 
Last December, North Carolina Football Club announced its intention to pursue an MLS franchise as part of its “New State of Soccer” brand repositioning. Following the club’s event, MLS announced their criteria for the next round of expansion, and North Carolina FC is one of 12 clubs who submitted a bid on January 31, 2017. MLS has been visiting each market in order to experience first-hand the commitment of the community and meet key leaders and fans.
 
The group will meet with business and civic leaders in the morning before attending a press conference where the club will give important updates on its purpose-built stadium plans.
 
Following the press conference, MLS executives will meet with government officials and tour the Triangle area with the club’s MLS committee leaders and North Carolina Football Club leadership, as well as meeting with North Carolina FC Youth executives.
 
The day will be capped with a public rally at 214 Martin Street, at City Market in downtown Raleigh, where visiting executives will be able to experience first-hand the passion and commitment of the Triangle fans for soccer and their desire to have an MLS club in their backyard.
 
The afternoon event is open to the public and starts at 5 p.m. Fans who desire to attend the rally and show their support for the North Carolina Football Club’s MLS bid should follow the club’s social media channels and website as more details are announced.
 
About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the largest youth-to-professional soccer organization in the country. The club is comprised of a women’s First Division team, North Carolina Courage (NWSL), a men’s Second Division team, North Carolina FC (NASL), as well as a Premier Development League team, North Carolina FC U23 (USLPDL). The organization is also home to both Boys and Girls U.S. Soccer Development Academies. The North Carolina Football Club is owned by local entrepreneur, Steve Malik, and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.

NORTH CAROLINA FC U23 FALLS 3-0 TO MYRTLE BEACH

CARY, N.C. (July 11, 2017) – North Carolina FC U23 dropped a 3-0 decision to the Myrtle Beach Munity on Tuesday night at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
After a quick start to the match with chances from both sides, Myrtle Beach scored two quick goals to take a 2-0 lead by the 23rd minute. Michael Lightbourne tallied the first goal in the 20th minute after getting past the NCFCU23 defense on the right flank. Lightbourne then provided the assist on the second goal. After the Munity won a free kick on the edge of the box, Lightbourne tapped the ball to Michael Peprah, who’s shot found the back of the net after traveling through a crowded penalty area.
 
NCFCU23 broke down the Munity defense throughout the match, but excellent goalkeeping from Erich Marscheider denied the hosts on its scoring chances. Marscheider produced several point-black saves in the second half, while Ryan Spaulding also had a shot bounce off the post.
 
Myrtle Beach extended its lead in the 79th minute when Tobenna Uzo muscled his way past the NCFC defensive line. The forward finished a pass from Nicolas Kalakoutis from close range for the goal. The visitors finished off the final 11 minutes of the match to clinch the shutout.
 
Notes:
Alex Rose, who wrapped up his career with the Capital Area RailHawks Academy in June, made his home debut, coming on as a sub in the 38th minute.
Will Pulisic, who is set to join Duke University in the fall, also made his home debut for NCFCU23, playing the full 90 minutes in goal.
NCFCU23’s game-day roster featured six former Capital Area RailHawks in Cody Brinkman, Vinnie Durand, Jamil Gracia, Nick Retzlaff, Rose and Ryan Spaulding.
NCFCU23 will conclude its season Friday, July 14 at 7 p.m. against the Charlotte Eagles at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
Box Score:
 
NCFCU23: Will Pulisic, Christop Schuneuwly, Jamil Garcia, Matt Arnone (Cooper Duplantis 46’), Chase Rhode; Cody Brinkman ©, Nick Retzlaff (Ian Bennett 75’) Cameron Steele (Fernando Castellanos 60’), Ryan Spaulding (Steve Pouna 83’), Baboucar Njie (Alex Rose 38); Damien Thomas (Arty Kouzine 83’)
 
Subs not used: Vinnie Durand
 
MBM: Erich Marscheider; Alex Nelson ©, Ridge Robinson, Michael Peprah, Nicolas Marcano (Jon Ander Ibarrondo 70’); Joao Delgato, Michael Lightbourne, Yuta Yamamoto (Ricardo Gomez 46’) Benjamin Strong, (Nicolas Kalakoutis 62’); Luke Williams (Brahan Gamarra 46’), Tobenna Uzo (Cylus Sandoval 79’)
 
Subs not used: Kenneth Perkinson
 
Score:
NCFCU23: 0
MBM: 3
 
Goals:
NCFCU23: —
MBM: Michael Lightbourne (Joao Delgato, 20’), Michael Peprah (Michael Lightbourne 23’) Tobenna Uzo, (Nicolas Kalakoutis 79’)
 
Cautions:
NCFC: —
MBM: Nicolas Marcano 45’ Michael Peprah 90’
 
Ejections:
NCFCU23: —
MBM: —

CARY, N.C. (July 11, 2017) – North Carolina FC U23 dropped a 3-0 decision to the Myrtle Beach Munity on Tuesday night at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
After a quick start to the match with chances from both sides, Myrtle Beach scored two quick goals to take a 2-0 lead by the 23rd minute. Michael Lightbourne tallied the first goal in the 20th minute after getting past the NCFCU23 defense on the right flank. Lightbourne then provided the assist on the second goal. After the Munity won a free kick on the edge of the box, Lightbourne tapped the ball to Michael Peprah, who’s shot found the back of the net after traveling through a crowded penalty area.
 
NCFCU23 broke down the Munity defense throughout the match, but excellent goalkeeping from Erich Marscheider denied the hosts on its scoring chances. Marscheider produced several point-black saves in the second half, while Ryan Spaulding also had a shot bounce off the post.
 
Myrtle Beach extended its lead in the 79th minute when Tobenna Uzo muscled his way past the NCFC defensive line. The forward finished a pass from Nicolas Kalakoutis from close range for the goal. The visitors finished off the final 11 minutes of the match to clinch the shutout.
 
Notes:
Alex Rose, who wrapped up his career with the Capital Area RailHawks Academy in June, made his home debut, coming on as a sub in the 38th minute.
Will Pulisic, who is set to join Duke University in the fall, also made his home debut for NCFCU23, playing the full 90 minutes in goal.
NCFCU23’s game-day roster featured six former Capital Area RailHawks in Cody Brinkman, Vinnie Durand, Jamil Gracia, Nick Retzlaff, Rose and Ryan Spaulding.
NCFCU23 will conclude its season Friday, July 14 at 7 p.m. against the Charlotte Eagles at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
Box Score:
 
NCFCU23: Will Pulisic, Christop Schuneuwly, Jamil Garcia, Matt Arnone (Cooper Duplantis 46’), Chase Rhode; Cody Brinkman ©, Nick Retzlaff (Ian Bennett 75’) Cameron Steele (Fernando Castellanos 60’), Ryan Spaulding (Steve Pouna 83’), Baboucar Njie (Alex Rose 38); Damien Thomas (Arty Kouzine 83’)
 
Subs not used: Vinnie Durand
 
MBM: Erich Marscheider; Alex Nelson ©, Ridge Robinson, Michael Peprah, Nicolas Marcano (Jon Ander Ibarrondo 70’); Joao Delgato, Michael Lightbourne, Yuta Yamamoto (Ricardo Gomez 46’) Benjamin Strong, (Nicolas Kalakoutis 62’); Luke Williams (Brahan Gamarra 46’), Tobenna Uzo (Cylus Sandoval 79’)
 
Subs not used: Kenneth Perkinson
 
Score:
NCFCU23: 0
MBM: 3
 
Goals:
NCFCU23: —
MBM: Michael Lightbourne (Joao Delgato, 20’), Michael Peprah (Michael Lightbourne 23’) Tobenna Uzo, (Nicolas Kalakoutis 79’)
 
Cautions:
NCFC: —
MBM: Nicolas Marcano 45’ Michael Peprah 90’
 
Ejections:
NCFCU23: —
MBM: —

NORTH CAROLINA FC FALLS 2-1 AT EDMONTON

CARY, N.C. (July 7, 2017) – North Carolina FC dropped a tough result on the road at FC Edmonton on Friday night, falling 2-1 at Clarke Stadium. NCFC scored the opener in the 24th minute with a goal from Dre Fortune, but Edmonton answered with two late goals in the 77th and 80th minutes to win the match.
 
With the result, NCFC and Edmonton have split its last two meetings this season. NCFC won the first match 3-1 at home on April 15.
 
After a fierce start to the match from an attacking-minded Edmonton side, NCFC survived the early push and scored the first goal in the 24th minute. Fortune, who was making his first NASL start, tallied his first professional goal after cleaning up a loose ball in the box and placing his shot into the corner of the net.
 
With the goal, Fortune became the first former Capital Area RailHawks Academy member to score a competitive goal for the first team.
 
NCFC continued to pressure Edmonton and nearly doubled its lead near the end of the half when Tiyi Shipalane’s free kick hit the top of the crossbar. However, the shot bounced out of play and NCFC entered halftime with a 1-0 lead.
 
Following the break, NCFC and Edmonton continued their end-to-end play, as both teams had chances to score. Lance Laing produced a scoring opportunity when he sprinted in behind the Edmonton defense, but his shot from close range was too high and clipped the crossbar on the way over the goal in the 61st minute.
 
Edmonton responded with a chance in the 70th minute, but excellent defensive play from NCFC kept the ball out of the back of the net. Edmonton’s Tomi Ameobi ripped a low shot towards the goal, but Paul Black was on the line to block the shot. The rebound fell to Ben Fisk, but Christian Ibeagha stepped up to clear his shot off the line.
 
Despite NCFC’s solid defensive efforts, the team couldn’t preserve the shutout, as FC Edmonton scored twice in a three-minute period to take the lead.
 
Ameobi headed in a cross from Fisk in the 77th minute to level the match. Just three minutes later, Edmonton grabbed a second goal, as Mauro Eustaquio finished Sainey Nyassi’s cross from close range to take the lead.
 
NCFC had its chance to level the match in extra time, but Matt Fondy was unable to hit the target in a crowded penalty area, as Edmonton held on to take all three points.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC returns home on Saturday, July 15 at 7:30 p.m. to take on Puerto Rico FC at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling 919.459.8144.
 
Notes:
NCFC was without head coach Colin Clarke who was in Nashville, Tenn., to continue a USSF PRO coaching course.
Assistant coach Dewan Bader coached the team in Clarke's absence. 
Dre Fortune earned his first NASL start and scored his first professional goal with a tally in the 24th minute.
Fortune became the first former Capital Area RailHawks Academy member to score a professional goal for the first team.
Connor Tobin made his 100th competitive appearance for the club in a 90-minute effort.
 
Box Score 
 
Lineups
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Paul Black, Connor Tobin, Christian Ibeagha, Brad Ruhaak; Lance Laing (Saeed Robinson, 85’), Dre Fortune (Brian Shriver, 75’), Nazmi Albadawi (C), Austin da Luz, Tiyi Shipalane (Jose Carranza, 63’); Matt Fondy
 
Subs not used: Matias Reynares, Kareem Moses, Jonathon Orlando, Steven Miller
 
FCE: Nathan Ingham (Tyson Farago, 45+’); Sainey Nyassi, Albert Watson, Abdoulaye Diakite (Karsten Smith, 42’), Pedro Galvao; Sabri Khattab (Jake Keegan, 72’), Shawn Nicklaw, Ben Fisk, Mauro Eustaquio; Tomi Amoebi ©, Allan Zebie
 
Subs not used: Dean Shiels
 
Score:
FCE: 2
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
FCE: Tomi Ameobi (Beni Fisk, 77’), Mauro Eustaquio (Sainey Nyassi, 80’)
NCFC: Dre Fortune (Unassisted, 24’)
 
Cautions: 
FCE: Abdoulaye Diakite 30’, Albert Watson 32’
NCFC: Jose Carranza 86’
 
Ejections:
FCE:
NCFC:
 
Attendance: 3,438

CARY, N.C. (July 7, 2017) – North Carolina FC dropped a tough result on the road at FC Edmonton on Friday night, falling 2-1 at Clarke Stadium. NCFC scored the opener in the 24th minute with a goal from Dre Fortune, but Edmonton answered with two late goals in the 77th and 80th minutes to win the match.
 
With the result, NCFC and Edmonton have split its last two meetings this season. NCFC won the first match 3-1 at home on April 15.
 
After a fierce start to the match from an attacking-minded Edmonton side, NCFC survived the early push and scored the first goal in the 24th minute. Fortune, who was making his first NASL start, tallied his first professional goal after cleaning up a loose ball in the box and placing his shot into the corner of the net.
 
With the goal, Fortune became the first former Capital Area RailHawks Academy member to score a competitive goal for the first team.
 
NCFC continued to pressure Edmonton and nearly doubled its lead near the end of the half when Tiyi Shipalane’s free kick hit the top of the crossbar. However, the shot bounced out of play and NCFC entered halftime with a 1-0 lead.
 
Following the break, NCFC and Edmonton continued their end-to-end play, as both teams had chances to score. Lance Laing produced a scoring opportunity when he sprinted in behind the Edmonton defense, but his shot from close range was too high and clipped the crossbar on the way over the goal in the 61st minute.
 
Edmonton responded with a chance in the 70th minute, but excellent defensive play from NCFC kept the ball out of the back of the net. Edmonton’s Tomi Ameobi ripped a low shot towards the goal, but Paul Black was on the line to block the shot. The rebound fell to Ben Fisk, but Christian Ibeagha stepped up to clear his shot off the line.
 
Despite NCFC’s solid defensive efforts, the team couldn’t preserve the shutout, as FC Edmonton scored twice in a three-minute period to take the lead.
 
Ameobi headed in a cross from Fisk in the 77th minute to level the match. Just three minutes later, Edmonton grabbed a second goal, as Mauro Eustaquio finished Sainey Nyassi’s cross from close range to take the lead.
 
NCFC had its chance to level the match in extra time, but Matt Fondy was unable to hit the target in a crowded penalty area, as Edmonton held on to take all three points.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC returns home on Saturday, July 15 at 7:30 p.m. to take on Puerto Rico FC at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling 919.459.8144.
 
Notes:
NCFC was without head coach Colin Clarke who was in Nashville, Tenn., to continue a USSF PRO coaching course.
Assistant coach Dewan Bader coached the team in Clarke’s absence. 
Dre Fortune earned his first NASL start and scored his first professional goal with a tally in the 24th minute.
Fortune became the first former Capital Area RailHawks Academy member to score a professional goal for the first team.
Connor Tobin made his 100th competitive appearance for the club in a 90-minute effort.
 
Box Score 
 
Lineups
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Paul Black, Connor Tobin, Christian Ibeagha, Brad Ruhaak; Lance Laing (Saeed Robinson, 85’), Dre Fortune (Brian Shriver, 75’), Nazmi Albadawi (C), Austin da Luz, Tiyi Shipalane (Jose Carranza, 63’); Matt Fondy
 
Subs not used: Matias Reynares, Kareem Moses, Jonathon Orlando, Steven Miller
 
FCE: Nathan Ingham (Tyson Farago, 45+’); Sainey Nyassi, Albert Watson, Abdoulaye Diakite (Karsten Smith, 42’), Pedro Galvao; Sabri Khattab (Jake Keegan, 72’), Shawn Nicklaw, Ben Fisk, Mauro Eustaquio; Tomi Amoebi ©, Allan Zebie
 
Subs not used: Dean Shiels
 
Score:
FCE: 2
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
FCE: Tomi Ameobi (Beni Fisk, 77’), Mauro Eustaquio (Sainey Nyassi, 80’)
NCFC: Dre Fortune (Unassisted, 24’)
 
Cautions: 
FCE: Abdoulaye Diakite 30’, Albert Watson 32’
NCFC: Jose Carranza 86’
 
Ejections:
FCE:
NCFC:
 
Attendance: 3,438