2017 Archive

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS. SAN FRANCISCO DELTAS
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM AT WAKEMED SOCCER PARK

TV: WRAL2, WILM-TV10, BEIN SPORTS EN ES 
RADIO: 95.7 The Ticket (95.7 FM & 1330 AM)
DIGITAL: BEIN SPORTS CONNECT, WRAL.COM
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvSFD
 
CARY, N.C. (Oct. 20, 2017) – North Carolina FC (11W-10D-9L, 43 points, third place) will play its final regular-season home match on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen's Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park against the San Francisco Deltas (14W-11D-5L, 53 points, second place). The match is presented by the U.S. Coast Guard. A win will clinch NCFC’s spot in the 2017 NASL playoffs.
 
With its postseason destiny in its control, NCFC will take on one of the toughest opponents it has faced all season. San Francisco is 2W-1D-0L in the overall series against NCFC and is undefeated in its last nine matches. The Deltas are led by a sturdy defense that has only allowed 32 goals all season.
 
NCFC heads into the match playing its best soccer of the season at the right time. The club has only lost once in its last 10 matches, while outscoring opponents 16-6 during the run of form. NCFC’s vibrant offense will look to get past the Deltas’ defense through several reliable options. Renan Gorne has the hot hand as of late, scoring four goals in the last four matches. Nazmi Albadawi, Steven Miller and Dre Fortune have also scored recently, while Lance Laing remains a threat anytime a ball touches his feet in the attacking half.
 
While a win guarantees a playoff spot, results from around the league could also clinch NCFC’s spot in the postseason. The New York Cosmos and Jacksonville Armada FC will face off in a key battle for their own playoff hopes. If New York wins NCFC will make the playoffs or if NCFC ties San Francisco and New York ties Jacksonville, NCFC will still make the playoffs.

Click here for a full look at NCFC's Playoff Picture.
  
Last Time Out: 
NCFC faced a quality side in Jacksonville Armada FC in a battle for a playoff spot that ended in a 1-1 draw. Jacksonville opened the scoring through Zach Steinberger’s goal in the 21st minute of play. NCFC brought the game level with a strike from Renan Gorne in the 36th minute, with the assist coming from Nazmi Albadawi. The sides closed out the match unable to find a go-ahead goal.
 
Players to Watch:
No. 10 Nazmi Albadawi
Albadawi is consistently making an impact for NCFC as the matches get more important. The Raleigh native is pushing his team towards the playoffs and most recently recorded an assist in NCFC’s 1-1 draw with Jacksonville on Oct. 13, gaining another important point in the playoff race. Look for the captain to continue to make big plays for the club in its playoff push.
 
No. 9 Tommy Heinemann
Heinemann, the physical striker for the Deltas and a former NCFC player, is sure to cause problems for NCFC. In the Deltas’ last match against Miami FC, Heinemann scored the first goal in a 2-2 draw between the sides. For the 2017 season, he’s scored eight goals and registered one assist in 24 appearances for the club. Look for Heinemann to be the target man for the Deltas’ attack and his aerial presence to play a key role in the match.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will conclude its regular season on the road against the Indy Eleven on Sunday, Oct. 29 at 5 p.m. at Michael A. Carroll Stadium. The game could have important implications on playoff seeding and qualification for club. 

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS. SAN FRANCISCO DELTAS
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM AT WAKEMED SOCCER PARK

TV: WRAL2, WILM-TV10, BEIN SPORTS EN ES 
RADIO: 95.7 The Ticket (95.7 FM & 1330 AM)
DIGITAL: BEIN SPORTS CONNECT, WRAL.COM
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvSFD
 
CARY, N.C. (Oct. 20, 2017) – North Carolina FC (11W-10D-9L, 43 points, third place) will play its final regular-season home match on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park against the San Francisco Deltas (14W-11D-5L, 53 points, second place). The match is presented by the U.S. Coast Guard. A win will clinch NCFC’s spot in the 2017 NASL playoffs.
 
With its postseason destiny in its control, NCFC will take on one of the toughest opponents it has faced all season. San Francisco is 2W-1D-0L in the overall series against NCFC and is undefeated in its last nine matches. The Deltas are led by a sturdy defense that has only allowed 32 goals all season.
 
NCFC heads into the match playing its best soccer of the season at the right time. The club has only lost once in its last 10 matches, while outscoring opponents 16-6 during the run of form. NCFC’s vibrant offense will look to get past the Deltas’ defense through several reliable options. Renan Gorne has the hot hand as of late, scoring four goals in the last four matches. Nazmi Albadawi, Steven Miller and Dre Fortune have also scored recently, while Lance Laing remains a threat anytime a ball touches his feet in the attacking half.
 
While a win guarantees a playoff spot, results from around the league could also clinch NCFC’s spot in the postseason. The New York Cosmos and Jacksonville Armada FC will face off in a key battle for their own playoff hopes. If New York wins NCFC will make the playoffs or if NCFC ties San Francisco and New York ties Jacksonville, NCFC will still make the playoffs.

Click here for a full look at NCFC’s Playoff Picture.
  
Last Time Out: 
NCFC faced a quality side in Jacksonville Armada FC in a battle for a playoff spot that ended in a 1-1 draw. Jacksonville opened the scoring through Zach Steinberger’s goal in the 21st minute of play. NCFC brought the game level with a strike from Renan Gorne in the 36th minute, with the assist coming from Nazmi Albadawi. The sides closed out the match unable to find a go-ahead goal.
 
Players to Watch:
No. 10 Nazmi Albadawi
Albadawi is consistently making an impact for NCFC as the matches get more important. The Raleigh native is pushing his team towards the playoffs and most recently recorded an assist in NCFC’s 1-1 draw with Jacksonville on Oct. 13, gaining another important point in the playoff race. Look for the captain to continue to make big plays for the club in its playoff push.
 
No. 9 Tommy Heinemann
Heinemann, the physical striker for the Deltas and a former NCFC player, is sure to cause problems for NCFC. In the Deltas’ last match against Miami FC, Heinemann scored the first goal in a 2-2 draw between the sides. For the 2017 season, he’s scored eight goals and registered one assist in 24 appearances for the club. Look for Heinemann to be the target man for the Deltas’ attack and his aerial presence to play a key role in the match.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will conclude its regular season on the road against the Indy Eleven on Sunday, Oct. 29 at 5 p.m. at Michael A. Carroll Stadium. The game could have important implications on playoff seeding and qualification for club. 

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. This week, several Academy and U23 members lit up the scoreboard for their local teams, combining for nine goals and 11 assists.

Hank Gauger Tallies for No. 2 Wake Forest

Academy graduate Hank Gauger scored his first of the season in Wake Forest’s 2-0 victory over Elon. Gauger iced the match for Wake with a strike in the closing stages of the match to give the Demon Deacons its 11th-straight win.

Lucas del Rosario’s Brace Sees No. 4 UNC Past Old Dominion

Lucas del Rosario (NCFC Youth Academy) scored two goals for UNC, including an overtime game winner to give the Tar Heels a 2-1 win over Old Dominion. Del Rosario’s game winner was assisted by fellow Academy graduate Jeremy Kelly.

Brian White Strikes Again for No. 15 Duke

Brian White, a former NCFC U23 player, continues to score for Duke. He netted the Blue Devils’ lone goal against Clemson for his ninth tally of the year. He’s now tied for 17th in the NCAA D-I scoring lists.

Perez, Taiwo, Sparks Guide NC State Past UNCW

In a matchup with 18 former Academy players on the rosters, NC State edged UNC Wilmington 2-1 in an exciting contest in Raleigh. Recent Academy graduate Manny Perez provided assists on both Wolfpack goals – scored by former NCFC U23 players Clayton Sparks and Ade Taiwo. Kalvin Kromer (NCFC Youth Academy) led the Seahawks' offense and scored from 25 yards out to tie the match. However, Taiwo recorded the game-winning goal in the closing stages of the match to win it for NC State.

Walden, Agu Pace Elon to 4-0 Victory over Northeastern

A pair of former Academy members led Elon to a resounding 4-0 victory over Northeastern. John Walden notched a goal and two assists while Elijah Agu added two assists in the victory.

Additional Notes:

• Bardia Asefnia (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) added another shutout in goal in UMass’ 2-0 win over La Salle. He’s up to five shutouts this season.
• Phillip Goodrum (NCFC Youth Academy) tallied an assist in UNC Wilmington’s 2-1 loss against the College of Charleston.
• Matt Zinner (NCFC Youth Academy) recorded an assist in Tufts University’s 3-0 win over Keene State. Additionally, Zinner helps run a backline that hasn’t allowed a goal in 478 minutes. Tufts is currently ranked fourth in NCAA D-III and is unbeaten in five matches.
• Josh Coan (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) and Pittsburgh have turned the corner and are surging into the final weeks of the regular season. Pitt earned a 3-2 win over Penn State and followed it up with a 1-0 victory to upset No. 7 Notre Dame on the road. The Panthers have won five of its last six matches.
• NCFC U23 teammates Baboucarr Njie and Sheriff Secka continue to enjoy a great run of form with NC Wesleyan (NCAA D-III). Nije added an assist in his team’s 3-0 win over William Peace. The Fighting Bishops are on a nine-match winning streak.
• Steeve Pouna (NCFC U23) and No. 6 Baker University (NAIA) defeated Evangel 5-1. Pouna had an assist in the victory.
• Chase Roade (NCFC U23) scored his first goal of the season in UC Davis’ 2-1 win over Cal State Fullerton.
• Brandon Creed (NCFC U23) added a goal in Temple’s 3-1 win over New Jersey Institute of Technology.

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. This week, several Academy and U23 members lit up the scoreboard for their local teams, combining for nine goals and 11 assists.

Hank Gauger Tallies for No. 2 Wake Forest

Academy graduate Hank Gauger scored his first of the season in Wake Forest’s 2-0 victory over Elon. Gauger iced the match for Wake with a strike in the closing stages of the match to give the Demon Deacons its 11th-straight win.

Lucas del Rosario’s Brace Sees No. 4 UNC Past Old Dominion

Lucas del Rosario (NCFC Youth Academy) scored two goals for UNC, including an overtime game winner to give the Tar Heels a 2-1 win over Old Dominion. Del Rosario’s game winner was assisted by fellow Academy graduate Jeremy Kelly.

Brian White Strikes Again for No. 15 Duke

Brian White, a former NCFC U23 player, continues to score for Duke. He netted the Blue Devils’ lone goal against Clemson for his ninth tally of the year. He’s now tied for 17th in the NCAA D-I scoring lists.

Perez, Taiwo, Sparks Guide NC State Past UNCW

In a matchup with 18 former Academy players on the rosters, NC State edged UNC Wilmington 2-1 in an exciting contest in Raleigh. Recent Academy graduate Manny Perez provided assists on both Wolfpack goals – scored by former NCFC U23 players Clayton Sparks and Ade Taiwo. Kalvin Kromer (NCFC Youth Academy) led the Seahawks’ offense and scored from 25 yards out to tie the match. However, Taiwo recorded the game-winning goal in the closing stages of the match to win it for NC State.

Walden, Agu Pace Elon to 4-0 Victory over Northeastern

A pair of former Academy members led Elon to a resounding 4-0 victory over Northeastern. John Walden notched a goal and two assists while Elijah Agu added two assists in the victory.

Additional Notes:

• Bardia Asefnia (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) added another shutout in goal in UMass’ 2-0 win over La Salle. He’s up to five shutouts this season.
• Phillip Goodrum (NCFC Youth Academy) tallied an assist in UNC Wilmington’s 2-1 loss against the College of Charleston.
• Matt Zinner (NCFC Youth Academy) recorded an assist in Tufts University’s 3-0 win over Keene State. Additionally, Zinner helps run a backline that hasn’t allowed a goal in 478 minutes. Tufts is currently ranked fourth in NCAA D-III and is unbeaten in five matches.
• Josh Coan (NCFC Youth Academy and NCFC U23) and Pittsburgh have turned the corner and are surging into the final weeks of the regular season. Pitt earned a 3-2 win over Penn State and followed it up with a 1-0 victory to upset No. 7 Notre Dame on the road. The Panthers have won five of its last six matches.
• NCFC U23 teammates Baboucarr Njie and Sheriff Secka continue to enjoy a great run of form with NC Wesleyan (NCAA D-III). Nije added an assist in his team’s 3-0 win over William Peace. The Fighting Bishops are on a nine-match winning streak.
• Steeve Pouna (NCFC U23) and No. 6 Baker University (NAIA) defeated Evangel 5-1. Pouna had an assist in the victory.
• Chase Roade (NCFC U23) scored his first goal of the season in UC Davis’ 2-1 win over Cal State Fullerton.
• Brandon Creed (NCFC U23) added a goal in Temple’s 3-1 win over New Jersey Institute of Technology.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Oct. 13, 2017) – North Carolina FC earned a valuable point on the road Friday night at Hodges Stadium with a 1-1 draw against Jacksonville Armada FC. The point moves NCFC closer towards a spot in the 2017 NASL Playoffs and keeps NCFC five points ahead of Jacksonville.
 
The team extended its run of form, and has gone undefeated in nine of its last 10 matches. The team has also taken 11 points from its last five matches.
 
The match featured chances for both sides throughout, but failure to finish in the final third as well as strong play from both defenses kept the match knotted at 1-1.
 
In the 21st minute, Jacksonville broke open the game with a goal from Zach Steinberger. The Jacksonville midfielder found an opening in the NCFC defense and converted a chance that ended a 380-minute shutout streak for NCFC.
 
NCFC responded just before the halftime whistle in the 36th minute, as Renan Gorne slotted home his sixth goal of the year. Combination play from Nazmi Albadawi and Steven Miller freed up Albadawi behind the Armada defense. The Raleigh native fed Gorne who converted the chance at the back post.
 
Following the break, the sides played an end-to-end game, but neither could find the back of the net in the second half and the game ended in a stalemate.
 
Coming Up Next:  
NCFC heads back to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park for its regular-season home finale against the San Francisco Deltas on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.458.8144.
 
Additionally, the NC Courage, North Carolina Football Club’s NWSL team, will be in action in Orlando, Fla., on Saturday, Oct. 14, competing for an NWSL Championships against the Portland Thorns at Orlando City Stadium at 4:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast nationally on Lifetime.
 
Notes:
North Carolina FC improved its away record to 5W-7D-4L on the NASL season.
Renan Gorne scored his sixth goal of the year off an assist from Nazmi Albadawi in the 36th minute.
Jacksonville’s goal in the 21st minute ended a 380-minute shutout streak for NCFC.
The club is undefeated in its last five and has only lost once in its last 10 matches.
 
Box Score:
 
Lineups
JAX: Caleb Patterson-Sewell; Kalen Ryden, Mechack Jerome, Drew Beckie, Bryan Rebellon; Zach Steinberger (Derek Gebhard 80'), Aaron Pitchkolan©, Kevan George, J.C. Banks (Charles Eloundou 89’); Tony Taylor, Ciaran Kilduff
 
Subs not used: Kyle Nasta, Peabo Doue, Nicklas Maripuu, Michael O’Sullivan, Brian Shriver
 
NCFC: Macklin Robinson; Paul Black, Connor Tobin, Christian Ibeagha, Kareem Moses; Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune (Bolu Akinyode 90+), Marcel Kandziora, Nazmi Albadawi ©, Steven Miller; Renan Gorne (Billy Schuler 63’)
 
Subs not used: George Marks, Tiyi Shipalane, Jonathan Glenn, James Marcelin, Danny Barrow
 
Score:
JAX: 1
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
JAX: Steinberger (Taylor, 21’)
NCFC: Gorne (Albadawi 36’)
 
Cautions:
JAX: Ryden 75’
NCFC: Black 23’
 
Ejections:
JAX:
NCFC:

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Oct. 13, 2017) – North Carolina FC earned a valuable point on the road Friday night at Hodges Stadium with a 1-1 draw against Jacksonville Armada FC. The point moves NCFC closer towards a spot in the 2017 NASL Playoffs and keeps NCFC five points ahead of Jacksonville.
 
The team extended its run of form, and has gone undefeated in nine of its last 10 matches. The team has also taken 11 points from its last five matches.
 
The match featured chances for both sides throughout, but failure to finish in the final third as well as strong play from both defenses kept the match knotted at 1-1.
 
In the 21st minute, Jacksonville broke open the game with a goal from Zach Steinberger. The Jacksonville midfielder found an opening in the NCFC defense and converted a chance that ended a 380-minute shutout streak for NCFC.
 
NCFC responded just before the halftime whistle in the 36th minute, as Renan Gorne slotted home his sixth goal of the year. Combination play from Nazmi Albadawi and Steven Miller freed up Albadawi behind the Armada defense. The Raleigh native fed Gorne who converted the chance at the back post.
 
Following the break, the sides played an end-to-end game, but neither could find the back of the net in the second half and the game ended in a stalemate.
 
Coming Up Next:  
NCFC heads back to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park for its regular-season home finale against the San Francisco Deltas on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.458.8144.
 
Additionally, the NC Courage, North Carolina Football Club’s NWSL team, will be in action in Orlando, Fla., on Saturday, Oct. 14, competing for an NWSL Championships against the Portland Thorns at Orlando City Stadium at 4:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast nationally on Lifetime.
 
Notes:
North Carolina FC improved its away record to 5W-7D-4L on the NASL season.
Renan Gorne scored his sixth goal of the year off an assist from Nazmi Albadawi in the 36th minute.
Jacksonville’s goal in the 21st minute ended a 380-minute shutout streak for NCFC.
The club is undefeated in its last five and has only lost once in its last 10 matches.
 
Box Score:
 
Lineups
JAX: Caleb Patterson-Sewell; Kalen Ryden, Mechack Jerome, Drew Beckie, Bryan Rebellon; Zach Steinberger (Derek Gebhard 80′), Aaron Pitchkolan©, Kevan George, J.C. Banks (Charles Eloundou 89’); Tony Taylor, Ciaran Kilduff
 
Subs not used: Kyle Nasta, Peabo Doue, Nicklas Maripuu, Michael O’Sullivan, Brian Shriver
 
NCFC: Macklin Robinson; Paul Black, Connor Tobin, Christian Ibeagha, Kareem Moses; Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune (Bolu Akinyode 90+), Marcel Kandziora, Nazmi Albadawi ©, Steven Miller; Renan Gorne (Billy Schuler 63’)
 
Subs not used: George Marks, Tiyi Shipalane, Jonathan Glenn, James Marcelin, Danny Barrow
 
Score:
JAX: 1
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
JAX: Steinberger (Taylor, 21’)
NCFC: Gorne (Albadawi 36’)
 
Cautions:
JAX: Ryden 75’
NCFC: Black 23’
 
Ejections:
JAX:
NCFC:

MATCHDAY INFO:
JACKSONVILLE ARMADA FC VS. NORTH CAROLINA FC
KICKOFF: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
HODGES STADIUM
 
DIGITAL: ESPN3
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #JAXvNCFC
 
CARY, N.C. (Oct. 12, 2017) – North Carolina FC (11W-9D-9L, 42 points, third place) will face off against Jacksonville Armada FC (9W-10D-9L, 37 points, fifth place) in another critically important late-season match on Friday, Oct. 13 at Hodges Stadium at 7:30 p.m.

A win over the weekend will bring NCFC very close to qualifying for the 2017 NASL playoffs. Although Jacksonville has one game in hand, a win will push NCFC eight points clear and just two points away from clinching a spot in the playoffs.
 
The club will enter the match on its best form all season, winners of three consecutive matches. NCFC will aim to keep up the momentum and can specifically look towards its lockdown defensive play that has allowed no goals in the last 360 minutes. The defense also has only allowed one goal in the last 560 minutes of play, a streak that stretches seven matches.
 
The team will need to keep up its form to win in a location where the club has struggled to take home all three points. Jacksonville holds a 2W-1D-1L record against NCFC at home. The only loss for the Armada came from the first match of the series where NCFC won 4-0 on May 30, 2015.
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC downed PRFC 1-0 on Oct. 7 with a goal from Steven Miller to move much closer to qualifying for the NASL playoffs. The win was the team’s third shutout victory in a row.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 10 Nazmi Albadawi
Albadawi has made plays for NCFC all season through his midfield prowess. The Raleigh native has scored four times and added three assists. He’s also created 51 chances for NCFC – a number that ranks second in the league. Look for Albadawi to get into space and run the midfield for NCFC.
 
No. 8 Jack Blake
Midfielder Jack Blake is a primary provider of the offense for the Armada. Blake leads the team with eight goals and has two assists. The playmaker from Nottingham, England scored in the last meeting between the clubs that ended in a 2-2 draw. Look for Blake to get the ball on his right foot, which has accounted for all eight of his goals in 2017.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC heads back to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park for its regular-season home finale against the San Francisco Deltas on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.458.8144.

MATCHDAY INFO:
JACKSONVILLE ARMADA FC VS. NORTH CAROLINA FC
KICKOFF: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
HODGES STADIUM
 
DIGITAL: ESPN3
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #JAXvNCFC
 
CARY, N.C. (Oct. 12, 2017) – North Carolina FC (11W-9D-9L, 42 points, third place) will face off against Jacksonville Armada FC (9W-10D-9L, 37 points, fifth place) in another critically important late-season match on Friday, Oct. 13 at Hodges Stadium at 7:30 p.m.

A win over the weekend will bring NCFC very close to qualifying for the 2017 NASL playoffs. Although Jacksonville has one game in hand, a win will push NCFC eight points clear and just two points away from clinching a spot in the playoffs.
 
The club will enter the match on its best form all season, winners of three consecutive matches. NCFC will aim to keep up the momentum and can specifically look towards its lockdown defensive play that has allowed no goals in the last 360 minutes. The defense also has only allowed one goal in the last 560 minutes of play, a streak that stretches seven matches.
 
The team will need to keep up its form to win in a location where the club has struggled to take home all three points. Jacksonville holds a 2W-1D-1L record against NCFC at home. The only loss for the Armada came from the first match of the series where NCFC won 4-0 on May 30, 2015.
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC downed PRFC 1-0 on Oct. 7 with a goal from Steven Miller to move much closer to qualifying for the NASL playoffs. The win was the team’s third shutout victory in a row.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 10 Nazmi Albadawi
Albadawi has made plays for NCFC all season through his midfield prowess. The Raleigh native has scored four times and added three assists. He’s also created 51 chances for NCFC – a number that ranks second in the league. Look for Albadawi to get into space and run the midfield for NCFC.
 
No. 8 Jack Blake
Midfielder Jack Blake is a primary provider of the offense for the Armada. Blake leads the team with eight goals and has two assists. The playmaker from Nottingham, England scored in the last meeting between the clubs that ended in a 2-2 draw. Look for Blake to get the ball on his right foot, which has accounted for all eight of his goals in 2017.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC heads back to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park for its regular-season home finale against the San Francisco Deltas on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.458.8144.

CARY, N.C. (Oct. 11, 2017) – North Carolina FC has added another young talent to its roster with the addition of Nelson Blanco. Blanco joins NCFC on his first professional contract after spending the last three seasons with the D.C. United Academy. Blanco signed with NCFC ahead of the deadline on Oct. 6, per club policy, further details on the deal were not disclosed. 
 
“Nelson has been in training with us before, previous to this stint of training. I liked him and invited him back, and he wanted to come back,” said NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke. “When the time came, we were in a position to offer him an opportunity to turn pro here and we’re delighted that he said yes. He’s a great kid and good player. He’s very good technically and we’re looking forward to helping him and watching his development over the next couple of years.”
 
In total, Blanco made 52 appearances and scored 21 goals from 2015-2017 between seasons with D.C. Academy’s U16 and U18 squads. In his last season with D.C. United’s U18 team, he scored 10 goals in 23 appearances.
 
The native of El Salvador midfielder can play on the wings or in the middle as a No. 10. Blanco is the second D.C. United Academy prospect to sign a contract with the first team this season, joining U.S. U18 Men’s National Team standout Jose Carranza.
 
“I’m very happy and blessed to sign my first professional contract," said Blanco. "I’d like to thank God, my family and the coaches that I’ve worked with. I couldn’t have done it without them. I’d also like to thank Colin [Clarke] and Dewan [Bader] for the opportunity. I’ve been working hard since I was a kid for this moment. It’s a dream come true.”
 
“I want to help the club win as many matches as possible during the push to qualify for the playoffs,” added Blanco. “I’d like to get on the scoresheet as much as possible and bring the excitement of my game to the club.”
 
Blanco and North Carolina FC will continue the playoff push as they travel to face Jacksonville Armada FC for a match on Friday, Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at Hodges Stadium. NCFC will return home on Saturday, Oct. 21 to host the San Francisco Deltas 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.
 
No. 99
Nelson Blanco
Position: Midfielder
Birthday: 8/17/1999
Age: 18
Weight: 150
Height:  5’6”
Hometown: Alexandria, Va.
National Ties: El Salvador

CARY, N.C. (Oct. 11, 2017) – North Carolina FC has added another young talent to its roster with the addition of Nelson Blanco. Blanco joins NCFC on his first professional contract after spending the last three seasons with the D.C. United Academy. Blanco signed with NCFC ahead of the deadline on Oct. 6, per club policy, further details on the deal were not disclosed. 
 
“Nelson has been in training with us before, previous to this stint of training. I liked him and invited him back, and he wanted to come back,” said NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke. “When the time came, we were in a position to offer him an opportunity to turn pro here and we’re delighted that he said yes. He’s a great kid and good player. He’s very good technically and we’re looking forward to helping him and watching his development over the next couple of years.”
 
In total, Blanco made 52 appearances and scored 21 goals from 2015-2017 between seasons with D.C. Academy’s U16 and U18 squads. In his last season with D.C. United’s U18 team, he scored 10 goals in 23 appearances.
 
The native of El Salvador midfielder can play on the wings or in the middle as a No. 10. Blanco is the second D.C. United Academy prospect to sign a contract with the first team this season, joining U.S. U18 Men’s National Team standout Jose Carranza.
 
“I’m very happy and blessed to sign my first professional contract,” said Blanco. “I’d like to thank God, my family and the coaches that I’ve worked with. I couldn’t have done it without them. I’d also like to thank Colin [Clarke] and Dewan [Bader] for the opportunity. I’ve been working hard since I was a kid for this moment. It’s a dream come true.”
 
“I want to help the club win as many matches as possible during the push to qualify for the playoffs,” added Blanco. “I’d like to get on the scoresheet as much as possible and bring the excitement of my game to the club.”
 
Blanco and North Carolina FC will continue the playoff push as they travel to face Jacksonville Armada FC for a match on Friday, Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at Hodges Stadium. NCFC will return home on Saturday, Oct. 21 to host the San Francisco Deltas 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.
 
No. 99
Nelson Blanco
Position: Midfielder
Birthday: 8/17/1999
Age: 18
Weight: 150
Height:  5’6”
Hometown: Alexandria, Va.
National Ties: El Salvador

CARY, N.C. (Oct. 7, 2017) – North Carolina FC continued to solidify its postseason fate, clinching a 1-0 victory over Puerto Rico FC on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 
 
The win moves NCFC to 42 points on the season, which is now five points ahead of New York and Jacksonville who both have 37 points in the combined standings. The home side is enjoying its best form of the season and has won three-straight matches in three-straight shutouts. Additionally, the side has only allowed one goal in its last 540 minutes of play.

CARY, N.C. (Oct. 7, 2017) – North Carolina FC continued to solidify its postseason fate, clinching a 1-0 victory over Puerto Rico FC on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 
 
The win moves NCFC to 42 points on the season, which is now five points ahead of New York and Jacksonville who both have 37 points in the combined standings. The home side is enjoying its best form of the season and has won three-straight matches in three-straight shutouts. Additionally, the side has only allowed one goal in its last 540 minutes of play.

The hosts jumped out to a lead in the 23rd minute, as Steven Miller scored his fourth league goal of the year and second in as many matches. Austin da Luz had a cross deflected to the top of the box where a waiting Miller clinically finished his shot for the goal.
 
NCFC’s 1-0 lead held throughout the game. Puerto Rico found the back of the net in the dying moments of the first half, but an offside call pulled back the goal to keep the visitors at bay.
 
In the second half, the squads played in sloppy conditions, due to intermittent rain, and struggled to convert their chances. Lance Laing had a one-on-one chance in the 86th minute, but sent his shot high. Renan Gorne and James Marcelin also had good looks at goal, but couldn’t convert.
 
On the other side, PRFC had several chances, but couldn’t find the target, as Macklin Robinson earned his first complete shutout in his first NASL start. The goalkeeper wasn’t forced to make a save in the contest.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will head south for a pivotal match in the playoff race against Jacksonville Armada FC. The two clubs are separated by just five points although Jacksonville has a game in hand. The teams will meet Friday, Oct. 13 at Hodges Stadium at 7:30 p.m. The club will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park for its regular season finale on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. to face the San Francisco Deltas. Fans can purchase tickets by visiting NCFCTix.com or by calling the North Carolina Football Club box office at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:

• Macklin Robinson made his first NASL start for the club, the goalkeeper extended NCFC’s shutout streak to three matches and 270 minutes while making zero saves.
• D.J. Taylor filled in for Kareem Moses at right back who was on international duty with Trinidad and Tobago and played 68 minutes.
• Steven Miller scored his fourth goal of the NASL season with a goal in the 23rd minute.
• The game was originally scheduled to be played in Puerto Rico, but moved to Cary, N.C., after destruction caused by Hurricane Maria.
• NCFC devolved half of the gate to the Carmelo Anthony Hurricane Relief Fund

Lineups
PRFC: Austin Pack; Kyle Culbertson, Ramon Soria ©, Seth Moses, Phanuel Kavita; Michael Ramos (Giuseppe Gentile, 67’), Jordi Quintilla, Walter Ramirez, Conor Doyle, Michael Kafari (Jorge Rivera, 82’), Sidney Rivera (Mario Martinez Rubio, 72’)
 
Subs not used: Trevor Spangenberg, Brian Bement, Rudy Dawson
 
NCFC: Macklin Robinson; Paul Black, Connor Tobin, Christian Ibeagha, DJ Taylor (Lance Laing, 68’); Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune (Bolu Akinyode, 71’), Marcel Kandziora (James Marcelin, 84’), Nazmi Albadawi ©, Steven Miller; Renan Gorne
 
Subs not used: George Marks, Tiyi Shipalane, Billy Schuler, Jonathan Glenn,
 
Score:
PRFC: 0
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
PRFC:
NCFC: Steven Miller (Unassisted, 31’)
 
Cautions:
PRFC: Jordi Quintilla, 53’, Phanuel Kavita, 73’
NCFC: Marcel Kandziora, 84’
 
Ejections:
PRFC:
NCFC:

The hosts jumped out to a lead in the 23rd minute, as Steven Miller scored his fourth league goal of the year and second in as many matches. Austin da Luz had a cross deflected to the top of the box where a waiting Miller clinically finished his shot for the goal.
 
NCFC’s 1-0 lead held throughout the game. Puerto Rico found the back of the net in the dying moments of the first half, but an offside call pulled back the goal to keep the visitors at bay.
 
In the second half, the squads played in sloppy conditions, due to intermittent rain, and struggled to convert their chances. Lance Laing had a one-on-one chance in the 86th minute, but sent his shot high. Renan Gorne and James Marcelin also had good looks at goal, but couldn’t convert.
 
On the other side, PRFC had several chances, but couldn’t find the target, as Macklin Robinson earned his first complete shutout in his first NASL start. The goalkeeper wasn’t forced to make a save in the contest.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will head south for a pivotal match in the playoff race against Jacksonville Armada FC. The two clubs are separated by just five points although Jacksonville has a game in hand. The teams will meet Friday, Oct. 13 at Hodges Stadium at 7:30 p.m. The club will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park for its regular season finale on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. to face the San Francisco Deltas. Fans can purchase tickets by visiting NCFCTix.com or by calling the North Carolina Football Club box office at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:

• Macklin Robinson made his first NASL start for the club, the goalkeeper extended NCFC’s shutout streak to three matches and 270 minutes while making zero saves.
• D.J. Taylor filled in for Kareem Moses at right back who was on international duty with Trinidad and Tobago and played 68 minutes.
• Steven Miller scored his fourth goal of the NASL season with a goal in the 23rd minute.
• The game was originally scheduled to be played in Puerto Rico, but moved to Cary, N.C., after destruction caused by Hurricane Maria.
• NCFC devolved half of the gate to the Carmelo Anthony Hurricane Relief Fund

Lineups
PRFC: Austin Pack; Kyle Culbertson, Ramon Soria ©, Seth Moses, Phanuel Kavita; Michael Ramos (Giuseppe Gentile, 67’), Jordi Quintilla, Walter Ramirez, Conor Doyle, Michael Kafari (Jorge Rivera, 82’), Sidney Rivera (Mario Martinez Rubio, 72’)
 
Subs not used: Trevor Spangenberg, Brian Bement, Rudy Dawson
 
NCFC: Macklin Robinson; Paul Black, Connor Tobin, Christian Ibeagha, DJ Taylor (Lance Laing, 68’); Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune (Bolu Akinyode, 71’), Marcel Kandziora (James Marcelin, 84’), Nazmi Albadawi ©, Steven Miller; Renan Gorne
 
Subs not used: George Marks, Tiyi Shipalane, Billy Schuler, Jonathan Glenn,
 
Score:
PRFC: 0
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
PRFC:
NCFC: Steven Miller (Unassisted, 31’)
 
Cautions:
PRFC: Jordi Quintilla, 53’, Phanuel Kavita, 73’
NCFC: Marcel Kandziora, 84’
 
Ejections:
PRFC:
NCFC:

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS PUERTO RICO FC
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
 
DIGITAL: ESPN3
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvPRFC
 
CARY, N.C. (Oct. 6, 2017) – North Carolina FC (10W-9D-9L, 39 points, 3rd place) will aim to keep momentum going as it’s set for a showdown with Puerto Rico FC (3W-10D-13L, 19 points, 8th place) at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Oct. 7 at 7:30 p.m.
 
Destruction caused by Hurricane Maria forced the league to relocate the match between the two teams from Puerto Rico to Cary. Since the matchup was slated to be a home game for Puerto Rico, all tickets will be only $10 and 50% of all ticket sales will go to the Carmelo Anthony Puerto Rico Relief Fund. Fans can donate to the cause here.
 
NCFC will enter a critical stretch of the season with just four games left in the regular season. The club is strongly positioned to qualify for the NASL Playoffs, but must continue to earn points to keep up its pace ahead of its league rivals.
 
NCFC will carry strong form into the match, taking 10 points from its last five matches. The club is seeing well-rounded play from its entire team during the run of form. It’s scoring two goals per match and has only allowed one goal in its last 450 minutes of play.
 
Last Time Out:
The team earned its largest margin of victory in a NASL match ever with a 5-0 trouncing of the Indy Eleven on Oct. 1. Renan Gorne, Nazmi Albadawi, Steven Miller and Dre Fortune all scored in the route. The club also swept the league’s weekly awards, winning the Player of the Week (Gorne) and Play of the Week (Albadawi), while placing a league-high four players on the Team of the Week.
 
Players to Watch:
No. 31 Steven Miller
With Kareem Moses representing Trinidad and Tobago on international duty in World Cup Qualifiers, Steven Miller could move back to right back or work with a new teammate along the right flank. With a plethora of options available, Miller’s versatility will be needed. He has shown all season his ability to sit back and defend or combine with NCFC’s attack and score goals.
 
No. 8 Connor Doyle
With two goals in his last four matches, Doyle has jumped to the top of PRFC’s scoring lists with five goals this season. The tall forward is a threat in the air and with the ball at his feet. Look for Doyle to get in the box and try to end NCFC’s shutout streak that’s approaching 200 minutes.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will head south for a pivotal match in the playoff race against Jacksonville Armada FC. The two clubs are separated by just five points although Jacksonville has a game in hand. The teams will meet Friday, Oct. 13 at Hodges Stadium at 7:30 p.m. The club will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park for its regular season finale on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. to face the San Francisco Deltas. Fans can purchase tickets by visiting NCFCTix.com or by calling the North Carolina Football Club box office at 919-459-8144.

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS PUERTO RICO FC
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
 
DIGITAL: ESPN3
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvPRFC
 
CARY, N.C. (Oct. 6, 2017) – North Carolina FC (10W-9D-9L, 39 points, 3rd place) will aim to keep momentum going as it’s set for a showdown with Puerto Rico FC (3W-10D-13L, 19 points, 8th place) at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Oct. 7 at 7:30 p.m.
 
Destruction caused by Hurricane Maria forced the league to relocate the match between the two teams from Puerto Rico to Cary. Since the matchup was slated to be a home game for Puerto Rico, all tickets will be only $10 and 50% of all ticket sales will go to the Carmelo Anthony Puerto Rico Relief Fund. Fans can donate to the cause here.
 
NCFC will enter a critical stretch of the season with just four games left in the regular season. The club is strongly positioned to qualify for the NASL Playoffs, but must continue to earn points to keep up its pace ahead of its league rivals.
 
NCFC will carry strong form into the match, taking 10 points from its last five matches. The club is seeing well-rounded play from its entire team during the run of form. It’s scoring two goals per match and has only allowed one goal in its last 450 minutes of play.
 
Last Time Out:
The team earned its largest margin of victory in a NASL match ever with a 5-0 trouncing of the Indy Eleven on Oct. 1. Renan Gorne, Nazmi Albadawi, Steven Miller and Dre Fortune all scored in the route. The club also swept the league’s weekly awards, winning the Player of the Week (Gorne) and Play of the Week (Albadawi), while placing a league-high four players on the Team of the Week.
 
Players to Watch:
No. 31 Steven Miller
With Kareem Moses representing Trinidad and Tobago on international duty in World Cup Qualifiers, Steven Miller could move back to right back or work with a new teammate along the right flank. With a plethora of options available, Miller’s versatility will be needed. He has shown all season his ability to sit back and defend or combine with NCFC’s attack and score goals.
 
No. 8 Connor Doyle
With two goals in his last four matches, Doyle has jumped to the top of PRFC’s scoring lists with five goals this season. The tall forward is a threat in the air and with the ball at his feet. Look for Doyle to get in the box and try to end NCFC’s shutout streak that’s approaching 200 minutes.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will head south for a pivotal match in the playoff race against Jacksonville Armada FC. The two clubs are separated by just five points although Jacksonville has a game in hand. The teams will meet Friday, Oct. 13 at Hodges Stadium at 7:30 p.m. The club will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park for its regular season finale on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. to face the San Francisco Deltas. Fans can purchase tickets by visiting NCFCTix.com or by calling the North Carolina Football Club box office at 919-459-8144.