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Match Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Richmond Kickers
Wednesday, May 15 – 7 p.m.
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+ (https://es.pn/2LJoyi1)
 
 
CARY, N.C. (May 14, 2019) –North Carolina FC has enjoyed a long history of success in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and is looking forward to the possibility of making another tournament run. On Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m., NCFC will host longtime rival Richmond Kickers at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park in the second round of this year’s competition.
 
The match is NCFC’s first Open Cup action of the year, while Richmond defeated Virginia United in the first round to advance to this game. The club takes the competition seriously and its results prove that. NCFC owns an overall record of 21W-11L in the Open Cup. The club’s lengthy history in the competition is highlighted by a semifinal appearance in 2007, three consecutive wins over the LA Galaxy from 2012-2014 and advancing to at least the fourth round of the tournament six times in the last seven seasons. In total, NCFC has gone on to face MLS clubs on 14 different occasions. This matchup will be the first against a team in the newly-formed USL League One.
 
NCFC players Marios Lomis and Austin da Luz have both scored multiple goals in the Open Cup, with Lomis totaling three tallies in last season’s campaign that ended in the fourth round. Advancing past the first game has been a specialty for NCFC in the Open Cup. The club has only lost its first game in the tournament on one occasion.
 
The matchup with Richmond comes with additional exciting connections that only add fuel to the rivalry. NCFC has enjoyed the better of the series results against Richmond. In official competitions, NCFC is 4W-1L-0D against its neighbors. NCFC defeated Richmond in Open Cup contests in 2007 and 2009 and won two of three regular-season games in 2018. Richmond’s roster features plenty of ties to the club with club icon, Akira Fitzgerald minding the net for the Kickers. Former RailHawk Daniel Jackson (2014-15) and NCFC Youth Academy product Nick Retzlaff also feature for the visitors. Current North Carolina Football Club President and General Manager, Curt Johnson, worked with Richmond early in his career, and the areas have enjoyed a soccer rivalry dating back to the early 90's to add another layer to the matchup
 
Richmond enters the game undefeated in its last five matches. The Kickers took down Virginia United 6-2 a week ago in the Open Cup First Round before beating FC Tucson 2-0 in USL League One action over the weekend.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 9 Marios Lomis 
NCFC’s leading scorer has a knack for finding the back of the net in the Open Cup. While still early in his career, he’s scored in every Open Cup game he’s ever played in, including an equalizing strike against DC United last season. 
 
Richmond Kickers – No. 1 Akira Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald totaled nearly 90 appearances for the Carolina RailHawks from 2011-16. Now later in his career, he’s still a recognizable face and one of the most-capped players in club history. After two seasons in Tampa, Fitzgerald joined Richmond ahead of this season and has played every minute of every game so far.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 

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Match Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Richmond Kickers
Wednesday, May 15 – 7 p.m.
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+ (https://es.pn/2LJoyi1)
 
 
CARY, N.C. (May 14, 2019) –North Carolina FC has enjoyed a long history of success in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and is looking forward to the possibility of making another tournament run. On Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m., NCFC will host longtime rival Richmond Kickers at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park in the second round of this year’s competition.
 
The match is NCFC’s first Open Cup action of the year, while Richmond defeated Virginia United in the first round to advance to this game. The club takes the competition seriously and its results prove that. NCFC owns an overall record of 21W-11L in the Open Cup. The club’s lengthy history in the competition is highlighted by a semifinal appearance in 2007, three consecutive wins over the LA Galaxy from 2012-2014 and advancing to at least the fourth round of the tournament six times in the last seven seasons. In total, NCFC has gone on to face MLS clubs on 14 different occasions. This matchup will be the first against a team in the newly-formed USL League One.
 
NCFC players Marios Lomis and Austin da Luz have both scored multiple goals in the Open Cup, with Lomis totaling three tallies in last season’s campaign that ended in the fourth round. Advancing past the first game has been a specialty for NCFC in the Open Cup. The club has only lost its first game in the tournament on one occasion.
 
The matchup with Richmond comes with additional exciting connections that only add fuel to the rivalry. NCFC has enjoyed the better of the series results against Richmond. In official competitions, NCFC is 4W-1L-0D against its neighbors. NCFC defeated Richmond in Open Cup contests in 2007 and 2009 and won two of three regular-season games in 2018. Richmond’s roster features plenty of ties to the club with club icon, Akira Fitzgerald minding the net for the Kickers. Former RailHawk Daniel Jackson (2014-15) and NCFC Youth Academy product Nick Retzlaff also feature for the visitors. Current North Carolina Football Club President and General Manager, Curt Johnson, worked with Richmond early in his career, and the areas have enjoyed a soccer rivalry dating back to the early 90’s to add another layer to the matchup
 
Richmond enters the game undefeated in its last five matches. The Kickers took down Virginia United 6-2 a week ago in the Open Cup First Round before beating FC Tucson 2-0 in USL League One action over the weekend.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 9 Marios Lomis 
NCFC’s leading scorer has a knack for finding the back of the net in the Open Cup. While still early in his career, he’s scored in every Open Cup game he’s ever played in, including an equalizing strike against DC United last season. 
 
Richmond Kickers – No. 1 Akira Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald totaled nearly 90 appearances for the Carolina RailHawks from 2011-16. Now later in his career, he’s still a recognizable face and one of the most-capped players in club history. After two seasons in Tampa, Fitzgerald joined Richmond ahead of this season and has played every minute of every game so far.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 

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OTTAWA (May 12, 2019) – North Carolina FC was dealt a 2-1 loss to Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday afternoon at TD Place Stadium. NCFC’s overall record is 4W-2L-3D and the team moves to seventh place in the Eastern Conference standings.
 
Ottawa has historically been a difficult place for NCFC to gain positive results and today was no different, as NCFC was forced to deal with a persistent Ottawa side. 
 
The home team continually attacked throughout the first half before scoring in the 41st minute. A through ball found its way over the defense and to the feet of the speedy Mour Samb. The attacker finished the one-on-one chance to take the lead into halftime.
 
In the second half, Ottawa tried to extend its grip on the contest, but a goal from NCFC in the 66th minute tied the match. Caleb Duvernay dribbled into Ottawa’s half before finding an open Marios Lomis in the box. Lomis tapped the ball into the path of Steven Miller, who rocketed his shot into the back of the net. The goal was his second of the season.
 
The score wouldn’t hold long as Ottawa responded with a goal in the 70th minute. Kévin Oliveira converted a chance inside the box to give Ottawa a 2-1 lead.
 
Despite bringing on attacking options Yamikani Chester and Donovan Ewolo, NCFC struggled to crack a tough Ottawa team. 
 
The remaining minutes would play out without another goal. The result is NCFC’s second loss of the season.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will be at home for two matches this week. NCFC will enter the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. to face regional rival Richmond Kickers (tickets). The team will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 
 
Notes:
The club’s youth-to-professional pipeline was well represented with NCFC Academy products DJ Taylor, Manny Perez and Caleb Duvernay starting alongside NCFC U-23 product Alex Comsia. Fellow Academy product Dre Fortune appeared on the bench, but did not enter the match.
 
Duvernay made his official professional debut, and played 90 minutes.
 
Darrin MacLeod earned the first official start of his NCFC career and Victor Igbekoyi earned his first start of the season.
 
Steven Miller scored his second goal of the season off an assist from Marios Lomis 
 
Box Score:
Lineups:
OTT: Callum Irving; Jérémy Gagnon-Laparé, Thomas Meilleur-Giguère, Dakota Barnathan (Nana Attakora, 80’), Carl Haworth ©; Chris Mannella (Onua Obasi, 72’), Charlie Ward, Wal Fall; Kévin Oliveira (Aidan Daniels, 90+), Christiano François, Mour Samb
 
Subs not used: Robert Boskovic, David Monsalve, Jamar Dixon, Protais Mutambala
 
NCFC: Darrin MacLeod; Caleb Duvernay, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Steven Miller ©, Victor Igbekoyi (Tommy McCabe, 66’), Graham Smith, Ben Speas (Yamikani Chester, 77’), Manny Perez (Donovan Ewolo, 84’); Marios Lomis
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Dre Fortune, Austin Panchot, Aaron Guillen
 
Score:
OTT: 2
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
OTT: Mour Samb (Dakota Barnathan, 41’) Kévin Oliveira (Wal Fall, 70’)
NCFC: Steven Miller (Marios Lomis, 66’)
 
Cautions:
OTT: Mour Samb 42’
NCFC: Graham Smith 13’, Sam Brotherton 74’
 
Ejections:
OTT: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance: 3,551

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OTTAWA (May 12, 2019) – North Carolina FC was dealt a 2-1 loss to Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday afternoon at TD Place Stadium. NCFC’s overall record is 4W-2L-3D and the team moves to seventh place in the Eastern Conference standings.
 
Ottawa has historically been a difficult place for NCFC to gain positive results and today was no different, as NCFC was forced to deal with a persistent Ottawa side. 
 
The home team continually attacked throughout the first half before scoring in the 41st minute. A through ball found its way over the defense and to the feet of the speedy Mour Samb. The attacker finished the one-on-one chance to take the lead into halftime.
 
In the second half, Ottawa tried to extend its grip on the contest, but a goal from NCFC in the 66th minute tied the match. Caleb Duvernay dribbled into Ottawa’s half before finding an open Marios Lomis in the box. Lomis tapped the ball into the path of Steven Miller, who rocketed his shot into the back of the net. The goal was his second of the season.
 
The score wouldn’t hold long as Ottawa responded with a goal in the 70th minute. Kévin Oliveira converted a chance inside the box to give Ottawa a 2-1 lead.
 
Despite bringing on attacking options Yamikani Chester and Donovan Ewolo, NCFC struggled to crack a tough Ottawa team. 
 
The remaining minutes would play out without another goal. The result is NCFC’s second loss of the season.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will be at home for two matches this week. NCFC will enter the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. to face regional rival Richmond Kickers (tickets). The team will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 
 
Notes:
The club’s youth-to-professional pipeline was well represented with NCFC Academy products DJ Taylor, Manny Perez and Caleb Duvernay starting alongside NCFC U-23 product Alex Comsia. Fellow Academy product Dre Fortune appeared on the bench, but did not enter the match.
 
Duvernay made his official professional debut, and played 90 minutes.
 
Darrin MacLeod earned the first official start of his NCFC career and Victor Igbekoyi earned his first start of the season.
 
Steven Miller scored his second goal of the season off an assist from Marios Lomis 
 
Box Score:
Lineups:
OTT: Callum Irving; Jérémy Gagnon-Laparé, Thomas Meilleur-Giguère, Dakota Barnathan (Nana Attakora, 80’), Carl Haworth ©; Chris Mannella (Onua Obasi, 72’), Charlie Ward, Wal Fall; Kévin Oliveira (Aidan Daniels, 90+), Christiano François, Mour Samb
 
Subs not used: Robert Boskovic, David Monsalve, Jamar Dixon, Protais Mutambala
 
NCFC: Darrin MacLeod; Caleb Duvernay, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Steven Miller ©, Victor Igbekoyi (Tommy McCabe, 66’), Graham Smith, Ben Speas (Yamikani Chester, 77’), Manny Perez (Donovan Ewolo, 84’); Marios Lomis
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Dre Fortune, Austin Panchot, Aaron Guillen
 
Score:
OTT: 2
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
OTT: Mour Samb (Dakota Barnathan, 41’) Kévin Oliveira (Wal Fall, 70’)
NCFC: Steven Miller (Marios Lomis, 66’)
 
Cautions:
OTT: Mour Samb 42’
NCFC: Graham Smith 13’, Sam Brotherton 74’
 
Ejections:
OTT: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance: 3,551

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Game Information:
North Carolina FC at Ottawa Fury FC
Sunday, May 12 – 2 p.m.
TD Place Stadium
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+ | https://es.pn/2YlCmRk
 
CARY, N.C. (May 10, 2019) – North Carolina FC will face Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday, May 12 at 2 p.m. as the team continues its USL Championship season. After a great start to the season, North Carolina FC is firmly in contention for the top spot in the Eastern Conference.
 
The team has earned a record of 4W-1L-3D good for 15 points and fourth place in the standings. In the last time out, NCFC battled Indy to a scoreless draw, while Alex Tambakis made five saves to preserve his third clean sheet of the season. NCFC’s road form has been good since the season started, compiling a 2W-1L-1D record away from home, including wins over Bethlehem Steel FC and Charlotte Independence.
 
Ottawa will certainly test NCFC’s away form as a side that has been historically tough to get a result against. Going back to the start of the series history in 2014, NCFC has never won a league game in Ottawa. Last year the squad battled to a 1-1 draw, but overall, NCFC has logged a 0W-3L-2D record when playing Ottawa on the road.
 
Sunday's matchup will have big implications for both teams in the Eastern Conference standings. A win could push NCFC as high as third place, while an Ottawa win could move the home side from ninth to sixth in the table. Ottawa has seen mixed results to start the season. The team has defeated three teams outside of the current playoff picture, but has lost to mid-table sides Louisville City FC and Nashville SC and drawn with frontrunners New York Red Bulls II and Charleston Battery.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 9 Carl Haworth
Haworth has been a feature in the Ottawa side since the team started in 2014. Overall, the 29-year-old has totaled more than 10,000 minutes with the franchise, while playing in a variety of positions. Haworth will be a dangerous player to watch for as NCFC looks to find a way to win in Ottawa. 
 
No. 9 Marios Lomis
Lomis didn’t score in the last match, but he tallied a goal in four-straight matches before that. Through eight games, the forward has six goals, which is a much higher rate than his five goals in 23 appearances in 2018. Look for Lomis to head up NCFC’s attack.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will be at home for two matches this upcoming week. NCFC will enter the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. to face regional rival Richmond Kickers (tickets). The team will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 

###

Game Information:
North Carolina FC at Ottawa Fury FC
Sunday, May 12 – 2 p.m.
TD Place Stadium
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+ | https://es.pn/2YlCmRk
 
CARY, N.C. (May 10, 2019) – North Carolina FC will face Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday, May 12 at 2 p.m. as the team continues its USL Championship season. After a great start to the season, North Carolina FC is firmly in contention for the top spot in the Eastern Conference.
 
The team has earned a record of 4W-1L-3D good for 15 points and fourth place in the standings. In the last time out, NCFC battled Indy to a scoreless draw, while Alex Tambakis made five saves to preserve his third clean sheet of the season. NCFC’s road form has been good since the season started, compiling a 2W-1L-1D record away from home, including wins over Bethlehem Steel FC and Charlotte Independence.
 
Ottawa will certainly test NCFC’s away form as a side that has been historically tough to get a result against. Going back to the start of the series history in 2014, NCFC has never won a league game in Ottawa. Last year the squad battled to a 1-1 draw, but overall, NCFC has logged a 0W-3L-2D record when playing Ottawa on the road.
 
Sunday’s matchup will have big implications for both teams in the Eastern Conference standings. A win could push NCFC as high as third place, while an Ottawa win could move the home side from ninth to sixth in the table. Ottawa has seen mixed results to start the season. The team has defeated three teams outside of the current playoff picture, but has lost to mid-table sides Louisville City FC and Nashville SC and drawn with frontrunners New York Red Bulls II and Charleston Battery.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 9 Carl Haworth
Haworth has been a feature in the Ottawa side since the team started in 2014. Overall, the 29-year-old has totaled more than 10,000 minutes with the franchise, while playing in a variety of positions. Haworth will be a dangerous player to watch for as NCFC looks to find a way to win in Ottawa. 
 
No. 9 Marios Lomis
Lomis didn’t score in the last match, but he tallied a goal in four-straight matches before that. Through eight games, the forward has six goals, which is a much higher rate than his five goals in 23 appearances in 2018. Look for Lomis to head up NCFC’s attack.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will be at home for two matches this upcoming week. NCFC will enter the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. to face regional rival Richmond Kickers (tickets). The team will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 

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INDIANAPOLIS (May 4, 2019) – North Carolina FC played to a scoreless draw against Indy Eleven on Saturday night at Lucas Oil Stadium. Both sides picked their moments to go forward carefully, but superb showings from the goalkeepers kept the game scoreless.
 
With the result, North Carolina FC moves to 4W-1L-3D on the season, good for 15 points and fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings.
 
After North Carolina FC started the game with an attacking surge, Indy Eleven largely took over possession and pace of play in the first half. The home side seemed content to sit back with the ball and the half played out with very few concrete chances.
 
Indy totaled three shots on target in the first half, but Alex Tambakis was able to easily protect the net.
 
The game opened up to start the second half. Dre Fortune created North Carolina FC’s best chance of the game by firing a low, driven ball accurately toward the corner of the goal. However, Evan Newton made a terrific diving save to push the ball off the post. On the follow up attempt, Steven Miller had a go at goal, but Newton stood tall to deflect the chance away from danger.
 
In the 67th minute, NCFC had another good look at goal, but Newton was there to save Ben Speas’ shot from the top of the 18-yard box.
 
As the game wore on, Tambakis came up big when called on, which included keeping the dangerous attacking duo of Dane Kelly and Thomas Enevoldsen from scoring. In total, Tambakis tallied five saves and the young NCFC defense held its composure to earn the team’s third shutout of the season.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC faces an away match at Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday, May 12, before returning home on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. NCFC will face the winner between Richmond Kickers and Virginia United. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:
NCFC goalkeeper Alex Tambakis earned his third clean sheet of the season behind a five-save performance.
 
North Carolina Football Club’s youth-to-pro pipeline was vibrantly displayed. NCFC Youth Academy products Manny Perez, DJ Taylor and Dre Fortune started the match alongside NCFC U-23 product Alex Comsia. Caleb Duvernay, a former Academy and NCFC U-23 player made the bench, but was not subbed in.           
 
Former Carolina RailHawks, Matt Watson (2008-2011, 2016) and Kenny Walker (2013) both made the bench for the Indy Eleven, while Martin Rennie, who coached the RailHawks from 2009-2011, is Indy’s head coach.
 
Box Score:
IND (3-4-3): Evan Newton, Neveal Hackshaw ©, Karl Ouimette, Alex Crognale; Ayoze, Nico Matern, Tyler Gibson, Macauley King (Matthew Watson, 72’); Dane Kelly (Alioune Diakhate, 86’), Thomas Enevoldsen, Tyler Pasher (Joshua Penn, 74’)
 
Subs not used: Lucas Farias, Ilija Ilic, Kenney Walker, Jordan Farr, 
 
NCFC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Steven Miller © (Donovan Ewolo 81’), Tommy McCabe, Dre Fortune (Graham Smith, 68’), Ben Speas, Manny Perez; Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 86’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Caleb Duvernay, Yamikani Chester, Victor Igbekoyi, 
 
Score:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Goals:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Cautions:
IND: Alioune Diakhate 90’
NCFC: —
 
Ejections:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance:9,017

 
###

INDIANAPOLIS (May 4, 2019) – North Carolina FC played to a scoreless draw against Indy Eleven on Saturday night at Lucas Oil Stadium. Both sides picked their moments to go forward carefully, but superb showings from the goalkeepers kept the game scoreless.
 
With the result, North Carolina FC moves to 4W-1L-3D on the season, good for 15 points and fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings.
 
After North Carolina FC started the game with an attacking surge, Indy Eleven largely took over possession and pace of play in the first half. The home side seemed content to sit back with the ball and the half played out with very few concrete chances.
 
Indy totaled three shots on target in the first half, but Alex Tambakis was able to easily protect the net.
 
The game opened up to start the second half. Dre Fortune created North Carolina FC’s best chance of the game by firing a low, driven ball accurately toward the corner of the goal. However, Evan Newton made a terrific diving save to push the ball off the post. On the follow up attempt, Steven Miller had a go at goal, but Newton stood tall to deflect the chance away from danger.
 
In the 67th minute, NCFC had another good look at goal, but Newton was there to save Ben Speas’ shot from the top of the 18-yard box.
 
As the game wore on, Tambakis came up big when called on, which included keeping the dangerous attacking duo of Dane Kelly and Thomas Enevoldsen from scoring. In total, Tambakis tallied five saves and the young NCFC defense held its composure to earn the team’s third shutout of the season.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC faces an away match at Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday, May 12, before returning home on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. NCFC will face the winner between Richmond Kickers and Virginia United. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:
NCFC goalkeeper Alex Tambakis earned his third clean sheet of the season behind a five-save performance.
 
North Carolina Football Club’s youth-to-pro pipeline was vibrantly displayed. NCFC Youth Academy products Manny Perez, DJ Taylor and Dre Fortune started the match alongside NCFC U-23 product Alex Comsia. Caleb Duvernay, a former Academy and NCFC U-23 player made the bench, but was not subbed in.           
 
Former Carolina RailHawks, Matt Watson (2008-2011, 2016) and Kenny Walker (2013) both made the bench for the Indy Eleven, while Martin Rennie, who coached the RailHawks from 2009-2011, is Indy’s head coach.
 
Box Score:
IND (3-4-3): Evan Newton, Neveal Hackshaw ©, Karl Ouimette, Alex Crognale; Ayoze, Nico Matern, Tyler Gibson, Macauley King (Matthew Watson, 72’); Dane Kelly (Alioune Diakhate, 86’), Thomas Enevoldsen, Tyler Pasher (Joshua Penn, 74’)
 
Subs not used: Lucas Farias, Ilija Ilic, Kenney Walker, Jordan Farr, 
 
NCFC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Steven Miller © (Donovan Ewolo 81’), Tommy McCabe, Dre Fortune (Graham Smith, 68’), Ben Speas, Manny Perez; Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 86’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Caleb Duvernay, Yamikani Chester, Victor Igbekoyi, 
 
Score:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Goals:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Cautions:
IND: Alioune Diakhate 90’
NCFC: —
 
Ejections:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance:9,017

 
###

Match Day Info:
North Carolina FC at Indy Eleven
Saturday, May 4 – 7:00 p.m.
Lucas Oil Stadium
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+: Watch Here
 
CARY, N.C. (May 3, 2019) – North Carolina FC will continue its USL Championship campaign Saturday, May 4 at 7 p.m. at Lucas Oil Stadium against Indy Eleven. Winners of two straight, NCFC will look to keep momentum high against a strong home side.
 
Indy Eleven holds the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference with a record of 4W-2L-1D. The side’s four wins have all come against teams currently sitting at 10th or lower in the Eastern Conference, while the two losses are from frontrunners New York Red Bulls II and Saint Louis FC.  
 
Offseason acquisitions of forwards Dane Kelly and Thomas Enevoldsen have already paid off for the Eleven. The duo has combined for six goals, while new midfielder and former Carolina RailHawk Kenney Walker has added three assists. Speaking of former connections, Matt Watson is still logging important minutes for the Eleven, while Martin Rennie, who coached the RailHawks from 2009-2011, now leads the Indy side.
 
NCFC must continue its form that has shaped a successful run so far. Striker Marios Lomis has scored in the last four games, a streak that is tied for the second-longest in franchise history. Additionally, the team can look to a large pool of players to provide an offensive presence for NCFC. Eight different players have scored this season already, and five players have recorded an assist. 
 
A third-consecutive victory can push North Carolina FC as high as second place with a game in hand over many of its closest competitors. The season is quickly becoming one of the best starts in club history. Since beginning play in 2007, only the 2011 team has earned more points in its first seven games than this 2019 squad.
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC rattled Hartford Athletic in a 4-1 victory last weekend. Marios Lomis, Sam Brotherton, Steven Miller and Robert Kristo all scored, while the NCFC defense once again stood tall to keep Hartford away throughout much of the match.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 10 Ben Speas
Ben Speas will face off against the team that has loaned him out for the season. The forward scored just two matches ago against Charlotte and will certainly look to get on the scoresheet again. The last time NCFC visited Indy, Speas suited up for Indy and scored a stunning long-distance goal in a 3-2 victory for Indy.
 
No. 17 Dane Kelly
The all-time leading scorer in USL Championship history is back in form and scoring in bunches for Indy Eleven this season. Kelly has four goals already and is showing no signs of slowing down. If NCFC wants a positive result, it will have to outmatch Kelly’s scoring prowess.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC faces an away match at Ottawa Fury FC next weekend, before returning home on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. NCFC will face the winner between Richmond Kickers and Virginia United. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.

 
 
###

Match Day Info:
North Carolina FC at Indy Eleven
Saturday, May 4 – 7:00 p.m.
Lucas Oil Stadium
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+: Watch Here
 
CARY, N.C. (May 3, 2019) – North Carolina FC will continue its USL Championship campaign Saturday, May 4 at 7 p.m. at Lucas Oil Stadium against Indy Eleven. Winners of two straight, NCFC will look to keep momentum high against a strong home side.
 
Indy Eleven holds the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference with a record of 4W-2L-1D. The side’s four wins have all come against teams currently sitting at 10th or lower in the Eastern Conference, while the two losses are from frontrunners New York Red Bulls II and Saint Louis FC.  
 
Offseason acquisitions of forwards Dane Kelly and Thomas Enevoldsen have already paid off for the Eleven. The duo has combined for six goals, while new midfielder and former Carolina RailHawk Kenney Walker has added three assists. Speaking of former connections, Matt Watson is still logging important minutes for the Eleven, while Martin Rennie, who coached the RailHawks from 2009-2011, now leads the Indy side.
 
NCFC must continue its form that has shaped a successful run so far. Striker Marios Lomis has scored in the last four games, a streak that is tied for the second-longest in franchise history. Additionally, the team can look to a large pool of players to provide an offensive presence for NCFC. Eight different players have scored this season already, and five players have recorded an assist. 
 
A third-consecutive victory can push North Carolina FC as high as second place with a game in hand over many of its closest competitors. The season is quickly becoming one of the best starts in club history. Since beginning play in 2007, only the 2011 team has earned more points in its first seven games than this 2019 squad.
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC rattled Hartford Athletic in a 4-1 victory last weekend. Marios Lomis, Sam Brotherton, Steven Miller and Robert Kristo all scored, while the NCFC defense once again stood tall to keep Hartford away throughout much of the match.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 10 Ben Speas
Ben Speas will face off against the team that has loaned him out for the season. The forward scored just two matches ago against Charlotte and will certainly look to get on the scoresheet again. The last time NCFC visited Indy, Speas suited up for Indy and scored a stunning long-distance goal in a 3-2 victory for Indy.
 
No. 17 Dane Kelly
The all-time leading scorer in USL Championship history is back in form and scoring in bunches for Indy Eleven this season. Kelly has four goals already and is showing no signs of slowing down. If NCFC wants a positive result, it will have to outmatch Kelly’s scoring prowess.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC faces an away match at Ottawa Fury FC next weekend, before returning home on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. NCFC will face the winner between Richmond Kickers and Virginia United. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.

 
 
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TAMPA (May 2, 2019) – The United Soccer League is proud to announce the 33 USL clubs that will compete in the USL Academy Cup, a new event beginning this year featuring the country’s elite youth players from the U-13 and U-17 age groups. This announcement comes off the back of the unveiling of the league’s vision for an Academy system and begins with the Academy Cup serving as a forerunner to the first-ever USL Academy League, built to provide a clear youth-to-pro path in each USL community. 

This year’s cup competition is the first big step toward building a league model for all of our academies,” said USL CEO Alec Papadakis. “You can see from both the number and quality of teams participating that there’s a tremendous amount of enthusiasm for what we’re looking to accomplish. We see this as an integral part of our organization, and the foundation of this league for years to come.

The cup competition will see academy teams from all three levels of the USL represented, with clubs from the Championship, League One, and League Two all competing against one another. These events will be designed to better identify and accelerate the development of elite youth players with the potential to reach the professional ranks.

“These challenging competitions will provide valuable developmental opportunities for our youth players and we’re thrilled to help grow this initiative with other strong USL Academies,” said John Bradford, Boys Development Academy Director and Assistant Coach with North Carolina FC. “As a league, the USL continues to push player development and now has a full pathway for players from the youth to professional environments with the USL Academy Cup, League Two, League One, and the Championship.”

The makeup of the competition will include 22 teams representing the USL Championship, with three League One clubs and eight League Two clubs rounding out a growing footprint that already reaches 21 states across the country.

“The USL Academy Cup is a testament to the great work being done by leaders in youth development across the country and shows a strong belief in supporting environments that will push our top youth players to grow and evolve,” said Liam O’Connell, USL Sr. Director of Youth Development. “We are incredibly proud to launch this competition this year and to see our clubs continue to take on an even bigger role in driving the growth of our game for many years to come.”

As a part of USL’s growth, the Academy Cup will lead into the Academy League, a player-focused, club-driven league designed to serve as the gold standard of youth development. Aligning with the USL’s vision, clubs will participate at the highest level of competition in their respective age ranges with a goal to improve club and coaching development as well as provide the optimal environment for player growth. 

For information on conference alignment, competition structure, and the latest on the USL Academy initiatives, visit USL-Academy.com.

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TAMPA (May 2, 2019) – The United Soccer League is proud to announce the 33 USL clubs that will compete in the USL Academy Cup, a new event beginning this year featuring the country’s elite youth players from the U-13 and U-17 age groups. This announcement comes off the back of the unveiling of the league’s vision for an Academy system and begins with the Academy Cup serving as a forerunner to the first-ever USL Academy League, built to provide a clear youth-to-pro path in each USL community. 

This year’s cup competition is the first big step toward building a league model for all of our academies,” said USL CEO Alec Papadakis. “You can see from both the number and quality of teams participating that there’s a tremendous amount of enthusiasm for what we’re looking to accomplish. We see this as an integral part of our organization, and the foundation of this league for years to come.

The cup competition will see academy teams from all three levels of the USL represented, with clubs from the Championship, League One, and League Two all competing against one another. These events will be designed to better identify and accelerate the development of elite youth players with the potential to reach the professional ranks.

“These challenging competitions will provide valuable developmental opportunities for our youth players and we’re thrilled to help grow this initiative with other strong USL Academies,” said John Bradford, Boys Development Academy Director and Assistant Coach with North Carolina FC. “As a league, the USL continues to push player development and now has a full pathway for players from the youth to professional environments with the USL Academy Cup, League Two, League One, and the Championship.”

The makeup of the competition will include 22 teams representing the USL Championship, with three League One clubs and eight League Two clubs rounding out a growing footprint that already reaches 21 states across the country.

“The USL Academy Cup is a testament to the great work being done by leaders in youth development across the country and shows a strong belief in supporting environments that will push our top youth players to grow and evolve,” said Liam O’Connell, USL Sr. Director of Youth Development. “We are incredibly proud to launch this competition this year and to see our clubs continue to take on an even bigger role in driving the growth of our game for many years to come.”

As a part of USL’s growth, the Academy Cup will lead into the Academy League, a player-focused, club-driven league designed to serve as the gold standard of youth development. Aligning with the USL’s vision, clubs will participate at the highest level of competition in their respective age ranges with a goal to improve club and coaching development as well as provide the optimal environment for player growth. 

For information on conference alignment, competition structure, and the latest on the USL Academy initiatives, visit USL-Academy.com.

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TAMPA, Fla. (April 30, 2019) – North Carolina FC defender Aaron Guillen was selected to the USL Championship Team of the Week for Week 8 of the 2019 season. Guillen had a complete game where he helped the backline shut down the Hartford attack and recorded two key passes in a 4-1 victory. Steven Miller’s one-goal, one-assist performance earned him a spot on the bench for the Team of the Week.
 
Guillen is the fourth NCFC player to earn the honor this season. He joins Ben Speas (Week 7), Alex Tambakis (Week 5) and Tommy McCabe (Week 1) as Team of the Week honorees from earlier this season.
 
North Carolina FC is hitting the road for its next two league games. NCFC will return home for a second-round Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game the third week of May. Details on an exact opponent and date are still being determined. NCFC’s next USL Championship home match comes against the Birmingham Legion on Saturday, May 18 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
USL Championship Team of the Week
GK – Curtis Anderson, Charlotte Independence: Anderson recorded eight saves to help the Independence earn a 1-1 draw on the road against the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

D – Ryan James, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: James recorded eight interceptions, made 10 recoveries and played a key role in the Hounds’ late equalizer against Nashville SC. 

D – Aaron Guillen, North Carolina FC: Guillen put in a stellar performance down the left side, recording two key passes and completing 50 of 59 passes overall while winning 7 of 8 duels against Hartford.

D – Mechack Jerome, El Paso Locomotive FC: Jerome completed 66 of 71 passes, made eight recoveries and won all three of his duels as Locomotive FC earned a 1-0 victory against Reno 1868 FC.

M – Russell Cicerone, Saint Louis FC: Cicerone had one goal and one assist and recorded five shots overall to help power STLFC back to the top of the Eastern Conference with victory against Swope Park.

M – Leo Fernandes, Tampa Bay Rowdies: Fernandes had a goal and two assists, recorded six key passes and won 20 of 29 duels across two outings as the Rowdies maintained their undefeated start.

M – Eryk Williamson, Portland Timbers 2: Williamson led T2’s comeback against New Mexico with two goals and six shots overall as he proved a consistent threat in the attacking third for the visitors.

M – Rodrigo da Costa, Tulsa Roughnecks FC: Da Costa had two goals and one assist as the Roughnecks took four points from two games to move into second place in the Western Conference.

M – Jack Barmby, San Antonio FC: Barmby scored a pair of outstanding goals, recorded three key passes and completed 63 of 70 passes overall in SAFC’s 3-0 win against Tacoma Defiance.

F – Kevaughn Frater, New Mexico United: Frater scored a hat trick, including a stoppage-time equalizer, as New Mexico played to a 3-3 draw with Western Conference-leader the Portland Timbers 2.

F – Michael Salazar, Rio Grande Valley FC: Salazar notched a hat trick for the Toros in 14 minutes after coming on as a second-half substitute in his side’s 4-4 draw with the LA Galaxy II.

Bench: Joe Kuzminsky (CHS), Carl Haworth (OTT), Ken Tribbett (NSH), Steven Miller (NC), Andrew Tinari (TBR), Vincent Bezecourt (NY), Andre Lima (AUS)

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TAMPA, Fla. (April 30, 2019) – North Carolina FC defender Aaron Guillen was selected to the USL Championship Team of the Week for Week 8 of the 2019 season. Guillen had a complete game where he helped the backline shut down the Hartford attack and recorded two key passes in a 4-1 victory. Steven Miller’s one-goal, one-assist performance earned him a spot on the bench for the Team of the Week.
 
Guillen is the fourth NCFC player to earn the honor this season. He joins Ben Speas (Week 7), Alex Tambakis (Week 5) and Tommy McCabe (Week 1) as Team of the Week honorees from earlier this season.
 
North Carolina FC is hitting the road for its next two league games. NCFC will return home for a second-round Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game the third week of May. Details on an exact opponent and date are still being determined. NCFC’s next USL Championship home match comes against the Birmingham Legion on Saturday, May 18 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
USL Championship Team of the Week
GK – Curtis Anderson, Charlotte Independence: Anderson recorded eight saves to help the Independence earn a 1-1 draw on the road against the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

D – Ryan James, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: James recorded eight interceptions, made 10 recoveries and played a key role in the Hounds’ late equalizer against Nashville SC. 

D – Aaron Guillen, North Carolina FC: Guillen put in a stellar performance down the left side, recording two key passes and completing 50 of 59 passes overall while winning 7 of 8 duels against Hartford.

D – Mechack Jerome, El Paso Locomotive FC: Jerome completed 66 of 71 passes, made eight recoveries and won all three of his duels as Locomotive FC earned a 1-0 victory against Reno 1868 FC.

M – Russell Cicerone, Saint Louis FC: Cicerone had one goal and one assist and recorded five shots overall to help power STLFC back to the top of the Eastern Conference with victory against Swope Park.

M – Leo Fernandes, Tampa Bay Rowdies: Fernandes had a goal and two assists, recorded six key passes and won 20 of 29 duels across two outings as the Rowdies maintained their undefeated start.

M – Eryk Williamson, Portland Timbers 2: Williamson led T2’s comeback against New Mexico with two goals and six shots overall as he proved a consistent threat in the attacking third for the visitors.

M – Rodrigo da Costa, Tulsa Roughnecks FC: Da Costa had two goals and one assist as the Roughnecks took four points from two games to move into second place in the Western Conference.

M – Jack Barmby, San Antonio FC: Barmby scored a pair of outstanding goals, recorded three key passes and completed 63 of 70 passes overall in SAFC’s 3-0 win against Tacoma Defiance.

F – Kevaughn Frater, New Mexico United: Frater scored a hat trick, including a stoppage-time equalizer, as New Mexico played to a 3-3 draw with Western Conference-leader the Portland Timbers 2.

F – Michael Salazar, Rio Grande Valley FC: Salazar notched a hat trick for the Toros in 14 minutes after coming on as a second-half substitute in his side’s 4-4 draw with the LA Galaxy II.

Bench: Joe Kuzminsky (CHS), Carl Haworth (OTT), Ken Tribbett (NSH), Steven Miller (NC), Andrew Tinari (TBR), Vincent Bezecourt (NY), Andre Lima (AUS)

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