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CARY, N.C. (April 6, 2019) – North Carolina FC went down to 10 men and fell behind 1-0, but a resilient performance and an equalizer from Marios Lomis sealed a 1-1 draw against Memphis 901 FC on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. North Carolina FC is still undefeated with a record of 2W-0L-2D.
 
“Tonight, we got a good taste of what this group is about in terms of competing,” said North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “Marios [Lomis] hit a great free kick. Alex Tambakis played terrific tonight and saved us big time. On both ends of the field you need somebody that can save balls and guys that can create something. At the end of the day, we take the point.”
 
A physical and defensive-minded Memphis side opted to let North Carolina FC control the match in the first half. However, neither team found many opportunities in the opening 45 minutes. Memphis had the best chance near the end of the half, but Morgan Hackworth’s shot bounced off the crossbar and away from danger.
 
The second half saw a more balanced approach from Memphis, who increased their offensive production in the final third. An NCFC foul ruled to be inside the 18-yard box led to the game’s first goal. Austin da Luz was shown a red card for denying a goal-scoring opportunity, while Memphis was given a penalty. 
 
Memphis captain Marc Burch stepped up and buried the penalty to give the visitors a 1-0 lead from the spot.
 
Despite going down a man, North Carolina FC fought hard to get back in the game. A Memphis handball on the edge of the box in the 78th minute presented NCFC with the perfect opportunity to pull level. 
 
After being subbed on minutes earlier, Lomis converted the free kick with a beautiful, bending shot to trick the Memphis keeper and find the back of the net. The strike was his team-leading third of the season.
 
With just minutes left in the contest, Memphis pressed hard against the short-sided NCFC, but sound defense and a late save from Tambakis secured a point for North Carolina FC.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC hits the road for two away games before returning home on Saturday, April 27 to face Hartford Athletic at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online now, or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:
Marios Lomis scored his team-leading third goal of the season with a free kick in the 78th minute.
 
North Carolina FC has rallied to equalize after conceding in two straight matches.
 
North Carolina Football Club’s youth-to-pro pipeline was vibrantly displayed. NCFC Youth Academy products Manny Perez and DJ Taylor 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. Academy product Dre Fortune is also a part of the squad, but did not feature in the game-day 18.
 
Yamikani Chester and Perez earned their first starts for North Carolina FC.
 
NCFC is still undefeated in the 2019 USL Championship season with a record of 2W-0L-2D.
 
Box Score:
NCFC (4-3-2-1): Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Yamikani Chester (Steven Miller, 65’), Tommy McCabe, Manny Perez; Austin da Luz ©, Ben Speas (Graham Smith, 81’), Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 72’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Timmy Mehl, Robert Kristo, Caleb Duvernay
 
MEM (4-4-2): Jeff Caldwell; Triston Hodge, Mark Burch ©, Jacob Hauser-Ramsey, Wes Charpie; Duane Muckette (Oliver White, 66’), Ewan Grandison, Adam Najem, Tristan Hackworth; Rashawn Dally, Elliott Collier (Abdi Mohamed, 86’)
 
Subs not used: Junior Sandoval, Todd Pratzner, Scott Levene, Josh Morton, Leston Paul 
 
Score:
NCFC: 1
MEM: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Marios Lomis (unassisted, 78’)
MEM: Mark Burch (PK, 64’)
                                                                                                                                                                         
Cautions:
NCFC: DJ Taylor, 85’
MEM: Oliver White 66’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: Austin da Luz 62’
MEM: —
 
Attendance: 3,629

 

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CARY, N.C. (April 6, 2019) – North Carolina FC went down to 10 men and fell behind 1-0, but a resilient performance and an equalizer from Marios Lomis sealed a 1-1 draw against Memphis 901 FC on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. North Carolina FC is still undefeated with a record of 2W-0L-2D.
 
“Tonight, we got a good taste of what this group is about in terms of competing,” said North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “Marios [Lomis] hit a great free kick. Alex Tambakis played terrific tonight and saved us big time. On both ends of the field you need somebody that can save balls and guys that can create something. At the end of the day, we take the point.”
 
A physical and defensive-minded Memphis side opted to let North Carolina FC control the match in the first half. However, neither team found many opportunities in the opening 45 minutes. Memphis had the best chance near the end of the half, but Morgan Hackworth’s shot bounced off the crossbar and away from danger.
 
The second half saw a more balanced approach from Memphis, who increased their offensive production in the final third. An NCFC foul ruled to be inside the 18-yard box led to the game’s first goal. Austin da Luz was shown a red card for denying a goal-scoring opportunity, while Memphis was given a penalty. 
 
Memphis captain Marc Burch stepped up and buried the penalty to give the visitors a 1-0 lead from the spot.
 
Despite going down a man, North Carolina FC fought hard to get back in the game. A Memphis handball on the edge of the box in the 78th minute presented NCFC with the perfect opportunity to pull level. 
 
After being subbed on minutes earlier, Lomis converted the free kick with a beautiful, bending shot to trick the Memphis keeper and find the back of the net. The strike was his team-leading third of the season.
 
With just minutes left in the contest, Memphis pressed hard against the short-sided NCFC, but sound defense and a late save from Tambakis secured a point for North Carolina FC.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC hits the road for two away games before returning home on Saturday, April 27 to face Hartford Athletic at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online now, or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:
Marios Lomis scored his team-leading third goal of the season with a free kick in the 78th minute.
 
North Carolina FC has rallied to equalize after conceding in two straight matches.
 
North Carolina Football Club’s youth-to-pro pipeline was vibrantly displayed. NCFC Youth Academy products Manny Perez and DJ Taylor 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. Academy product Dre Fortune is also a part of the squad, but did not feature in the game-day 18.
 
Yamikani Chester and Perez earned their first starts for North Carolina FC.
 
NCFC is still undefeated in the 2019 USL Championship season with a record of 2W-0L-2D.
 
Box Score:
NCFC (4-3-2-1): Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Yamikani Chester (Steven Miller, 65’), Tommy McCabe, Manny Perez; Austin da Luz ©, Ben Speas (Graham Smith, 81’), Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 72’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Timmy Mehl, Robert Kristo, Caleb Duvernay
 
MEM (4-4-2): Jeff Caldwell; Triston Hodge, Mark Burch ©, Jacob Hauser-Ramsey, Wes Charpie; Duane Muckette (Oliver White, 66’), Ewan Grandison, Adam Najem, Tristan Hackworth; Rashawn Dally, Elliott Collier (Abdi Mohamed, 86’)
 
Subs not used: Junior Sandoval, Todd Pratzner, Scott Levene, Josh Morton, Leston Paul 
 
Score:
NCFC: 1
MEM: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Marios Lomis (unassisted, 78’)
MEM: Mark Burch (PK, 64’)
                                                                                                                                                                         
Cautions:
NCFC: DJ Taylor, 85’
MEM: Oliver White 66’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: Austin da Luz 62’
MEM: —
 
Attendance: 3,629

 

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As a thank you to all of our guests that attended the recent Club Necaxa FC vs. North Carolina FC match on March 23rd at Sahlen's Stadium at Wake Med Soccer Park, we want to give you the chance to win an Authentic Club Necaxa FC jersey autographed by the team that played on that day!
 
All you have to do is purchase at least 2 tickets for ANY North Carolina FC match by clicking here and using the Promo Code: NECAXA to be eligible to win!
 
Winners will be selected prior to the April 27th match of North Carolina FC vs. Hartford Athletic FC.
_
 
Como agradecimiento a todos los aficionados que asistieron al partido del North Carolina FC y el Club Necaxa el 23 de marzo en WakeMed Soccer Park, queremos darte la oportunidad de ganar una camiseta oficial del club Necaxa autografiada por los jugadores que jugaron ese día!
 
Si quieres ganarte esta camiseta, lo único que tienes que hacer es comprar al menos 2 entradas para cualquier partido de North Carolina FC  en el mes de abril. Para comprar tus entradas visita  https://oss.ticketmaster.com/aps/ncfootballclub/EN/link/promotion/home/059e860e3ce1c32f0b7c08be7adb98008a00ef72 y usa el código promocional: NECAXA. 
 
Los ganadores serán seleccionados antes del partido del North Carolina FC en contra de Hartford Athletic FC del 27 de abril. Los esperamos!

As a thank you to all of our guests that attended the recent Club Necaxa FC vs. North Carolina FC match on March 23rd at Sahlen’s Stadium at Wake Med Soccer Park, we want to give you the chance to win an Authentic Club Necaxa FC jersey autographed by the team that played on that day!
 
All you have to do is purchase at least 2 tickets for ANY North Carolina FC match by clicking here and using the Promo Code: NECAXA to be eligible to win!
 
Winners will be selected prior to the April 27th match of North Carolina FC vs. Hartford Athletic FC.
_
 
Como agradecimiento a todos los aficionados que asistieron al partido del North Carolina FC y el Club Necaxa el 23 de marzo en WakeMed Soccer Park, queremos darte la oportunidad de ganar una camiseta oficial del club Necaxa autografiada por los jugadores que jugaron ese día!
 
Si quieres ganarte esta camiseta, lo único que tienes que hacer es comprar al menos 2 entradas para cualquier partido de North Carolina FC  en el mes de abril. Para comprar tus entradas visita  https://oss.ticketmaster.com/aps/ncfootballclub/EN/link/promotion/home/059e860e3ce1c32f0b7c08be7adb98008a00ef72 y usa el código promocional: NECAXA. 
 
Los ganadores serán seleccionados antes del partido del North Carolina FC en contra de Hartford Athletic FC del 27 de abril. Los esperamos!

CHICAGO (April 5, 2019) – U.S. Soccer and ESPN+ have reached an exclusive, multi-year media rights agreement for the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, U.S. Soccer’s national championship for clubs and the longest-running domestic cup competition in the United States. All U.S. Open Cup matches from the First Round through the Final will air exclusively on ESPN+, the direct-to-consumer sports streaming service, beginning this year and running through the 109th edition of the tournament in 2022. The deal, negotiated by SUM on behalf of U.S. Soccer, includes rights in all languages.

The 2019 U.S. Open Cup on ESPN+ kicks off May 7-8 with the First Round, featuring 38 amateur and Division III professional teams from across the United States. Twenty-five Division II professional teams enter in the Second Round on May 14-15, while the Third Round, scheduled for May 29, provides a final hurdle before lower division sides get their shot to square off against the 21 U.S.-based Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs on a national stage. Those Division I MLS teams join the competition in the Fourth Round on June 12. 

“The U.S. Open Cup is America’s version of what is truly unique about soccer around the world — knockout format club tournaments that invite the ‘Davids’ and the ‘Goliaths’ from all levels of the sport to compete against one another to determine the nation’s top team,” said Burke Magnus, Executive Vice President, Programming and Scheduling, ESPN. “This exciting property joins a robust collection of soccer’s best domestic cup competitions on ESPN+.” 

“We are extremely pleased by the commitment from ESPN+ to broadcast every game of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup for the next several years,” said U.S. Soccer CEO Dan Flynn. “This landmark agreement demonstrates U.S. Soccer’s commitment to making soccer the preeminent sport in the United States and is the result of growing audience demand for soccer in the U.S. It will provide a national platform for more fans to follow the game in their communities throughout the country.”

“For over 100 years, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup has been the one tournament that engages the entire American soccer community,” said Gary Stevenson, Deputy Commissioner and President of MLS Business Ventures.  “We are confident that this partnership between U.S. Soccer and ESPN will drive the tournament to new levels and create more opportunities for fans to engage with this compelling content.” 

This year’s competition will be the 106th edition of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, the world’s third-longest-running open soccer tournament. First played in the 1913-1914 season, the competition is open to professional and amateur teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer. The winning team qualifies for the Concacaf Champions League and wins $300,000 in prize money. The team that advances furthest in the tournament from each lower division is also awarded prize money. The Houston Dynamo are the defending champions, continuing a streak of dominance by MLS teams in the competition. While recent years have seen lower division sides come close to a winning run, the last non-MLS team to win the U.S. Open Cup since the league began in 1996 was the Rochester Rhinos in 1999.

 

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CHICAGO (April 5, 2019) – U.S. Soccer and ESPN+ have reached an exclusive, multi-year media rights agreement for the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, U.S. Soccer’s national championship for clubs and the longest-running domestic cup competition in the United States. All U.S. Open Cup matches from the First Round through the Final will air exclusively on ESPN+, the direct-to-consumer sports streaming service, beginning this year and running through the 109th edition of the tournament in 2022. The deal, negotiated by SUM on behalf of U.S. Soccer, includes rights in all languages.

The 2019 U.S. Open Cup on ESPN+ kicks off May 7-8 with the First Round, featuring 38 amateur and Division III professional teams from across the United States. Twenty-five Division II professional teams enter in the Second Round on May 14-15, while the Third Round, scheduled for May 29, provides a final hurdle before lower division sides get their shot to square off against the 21 U.S.-based Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs on a national stage. Those Division I MLS teams join the competition in the Fourth Round on June 12. 

“The U.S. Open Cup is America’s version of what is truly unique about soccer around the world — knockout format club tournaments that invite the ‘Davids’ and the ‘Goliaths’ from all levels of the sport to compete against one another to determine the nation’s top team,” said Burke Magnus, Executive Vice President, Programming and Scheduling, ESPN. “This exciting property joins a robust collection of soccer’s best domestic cup competitions on ESPN+.” 

“We are extremely pleased by the commitment from ESPN+ to broadcast every game of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup for the next several years,” said U.S. Soccer CEO Dan Flynn. “This landmark agreement demonstrates U.S. Soccer’s commitment to making soccer the preeminent sport in the United States and is the result of growing audience demand for soccer in the U.S. It will provide a national platform for more fans to follow the game in their communities throughout the country.”

“For over 100 years, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup has been the one tournament that engages the entire American soccer community,” said Gary Stevenson, Deputy Commissioner and President of MLS Business Ventures.  “We are confident that this partnership between U.S. Soccer and ESPN will drive the tournament to new levels and create more opportunities for fans to engage with this compelling content.” 

This year’s competition will be the 106th edition of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, the world’s third-longest-running open soccer tournament. First played in the 1913-1914 season, the competition is open to professional and amateur teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer. The winning team qualifies for the Concacaf Champions League and wins $300,000 in prize money. The team that advances furthest in the tournament from each lower division is also awarded prize money. The Houston Dynamo are the defending champions, continuing a streak of dominance by MLS teams in the competition. While recent years have seen lower division sides come close to a winning run, the last non-MLS team to win the U.S. Open Cup since the league began in 1996 was the Rochester Rhinos in 1999.

 

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Match Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Memphis 901 FC
Saturday, April 6 – 7 p.m.
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+ (https://es.pn/2FRYZ8g)
 
North Carolina FC continues its USL Championship season with a matchup against expansion side Memphis 901 FC on Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. With a record of 2W-0L-1D (7 points) and a game in hand, North Carolina FC will look to remain undefeated this season with its first-ever match against Memphis.
 
Last weekend, North Carolina FC scored a last-second equalizer to level the game against the Charleston Battery. After conceding in the 70th minute, NCFC pushed hard for an equalizer. In the dying moments of the game, Tommy McCabe’s remarkable strike from outside the box found its way in the back of the net. The strike was also named the USL Championship’s Goal of the Week.
 
That result, paired with victories over Louisville City FC and Bethlehem Steel FC has secured North Carolina FC’s great start to the season. The team will look to keep confidence and momentum high against Memphis, who has seen mixed results to start the season.
 
The expansion team lost 1-0 on opening day to the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Results steadily improved over the next two weeks with a 1-1 draw against Loudoun United FC and a victory over Bethlehem Steel FC. However, Memphis lost a 3-2 thriller against New York Red Bulls II in its last match.
 
The visitor’s roster features a healthy mix of veterans and youth. Fans may recognize longtime MLS player Marc Burch or former Richmond Kickers’ players Raul Gonzalez and Heviel Cordoves. Additionally, up and coming talents, Adam Najem and Luca Uccello played for different teams last season, and are now looking to improve their production with Memphis.
 
Whoever lines up for Memphis this weekend, look for NCFC to control the tempo on its home field. A win will keep NCFC firmly in contention at the top of the USL Championship Eastern Conference.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 10 Ben Speas
Although he just arrived this season, Speas has already made himself at home in North Carolina FC’s midfield. He’s played in every league game to date and also chipped in an assist in the victory against Louisville City FC. Look for the experienced midfielder to continue facilitating NCFC’s attack.
 
Memphis 901 FC – No. 1 Jeff Caldwell 
Starting Memphis goalkeeper Jeff Caldwell has deep ties to North Carolina. He grew up in Todd, N.C., located in the western part of the state, and played club soccer for NC Fusion. He also boasts a ton of U.S. Soccer Youth National Team experience and played college soccer with University of Virginia. He’s the man between the posts NCFC must beat if it wants to find the back of the net.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC hits the road for two away games before returning home on Saturday, April 27 to face Hartford Athletic at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online now, or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.

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Match Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Memphis 901 FC
Saturday, April 6 – 7 p.m.
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+ (https://es.pn/2FRYZ8g)
 
North Carolina FC continues its USL Championship season with a matchup against expansion side Memphis 901 FC on Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. With a record of 2W-0L-1D (7 points) and a game in hand, North Carolina FC will look to remain undefeated this season with its first-ever match against Memphis.
 
Last weekend, North Carolina FC scored a last-second equalizer to level the game against the Charleston Battery. After conceding in the 70th minute, NCFC pushed hard for an equalizer. In the dying moments of the game, Tommy McCabe’s remarkable strike from outside the box found its way in the back of the net. The strike was also named the USL Championship’s Goal of the Week.
 
That result, paired with victories over Louisville City FC and Bethlehem Steel FC has secured North Carolina FC’s great start to the season. The team will look to keep confidence and momentum high against Memphis, who has seen mixed results to start the season.
 
The expansion team lost 1-0 on opening day to the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Results steadily improved over the next two weeks with a 1-1 draw against Loudoun United FC and a victory over Bethlehem Steel FC. However, Memphis lost a 3-2 thriller against New York Red Bulls II in its last match.
 
The visitor’s roster features a healthy mix of veterans and youth. Fans may recognize longtime MLS player Marc Burch or former Richmond Kickers’ players Raul Gonzalez and Heviel Cordoves. Additionally, up and coming talents, Adam Najem and Luca Uccello played for different teams last season, and are now looking to improve their production with Memphis.
 
Whoever lines up for Memphis this weekend, look for NCFC to control the tempo on its home field. A win will keep NCFC firmly in contention at the top of the USL Championship Eastern Conference.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 10 Ben Speas
Although he just arrived this season, Speas has already made himself at home in North Carolina FC’s midfield. He’s played in every league game to date and also chipped in an assist in the victory against Louisville City FC. Look for the experienced midfielder to continue facilitating NCFC’s attack.
 
Memphis 901 FC – No. 1 Jeff Caldwell 
Starting Memphis goalkeeper Jeff Caldwell has deep ties to North Carolina. He grew up in Todd, N.C., located in the western part of the state, and played club soccer for NC Fusion. He also boasts a ton of U.S. Soccer Youth National Team experience and played college soccer with University of Virginia. He’s the man between the posts NCFC must beat if it wants to find the back of the net.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC hits the road for two away games before returning home on Saturday, April 27 to face Hartford Athletic at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online now, or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.

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CARY, N.C. (April 4, 2019) – North Carolina FC has signed three NCFC Youth Academy players to academy contracts, pending league and federation approval. Goalkeeper Trace Alphin, defender Adam Armour and midfielder Colton Pleasants will now be available for NCFC first-team matches while maintaining their college eligibility. The group will also train with the first team, earning valuable experience, while continuing their youth careers.
 
“With the proper environment, which we feel that we provide, and when you have the work ethic, desire and passion, the [youth-to-pro] pathway becomes clearer,” said North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “This is a perfect example that shows when all those boxes are checked, you are going to be given the opportunity to advance to the next level.”
 
The young talents represent the next group of Academy players to make their way to the NCFC first-team via academy contracts. They join a growing list that also includes George Marks, Jeremy Kelly, Conor Donovan, DJ Taylor and many others who have earned this opportunity.

CARY, N.C. (April 4, 2019) – North Carolina FC has signed three NCFC Youth Academy players to academy contracts, pending league and federation approval. Goalkeeper Trace Alphin, defender Adam Armour and midfielder Colton Pleasants will now be available for NCFC first-team matches while maintaining their college eligibility. The group will also train with the first team, earning valuable experience, while continuing their youth careers.
 
“With the proper environment, which we feel that we provide, and when you have the work ethic, desire and passion, the [youth-to-pro] pathway becomes clearer,” said North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “This is a perfect example that shows when all those boxes are checked, you are going to be given the opportunity to advance to the next level.”
 
The young talents represent the next group of Academy players to make their way to the NCFC first-team via academy contracts. They join a growing list that also includes George Marks, Jeremy Kelly, Conor Donovan, DJ Taylor and many others who have earned this opportunity.

Alphin, a 16-year old Raleigh native, is the latest Academy goalkeeper to join the first team. Alphin has been a part of NCFC Youth throughout his career and has come through the NCFC Youth Academy ranks. He currently plays for the U-16/17 Academy team, but has also been called up to the U-18/19 team this year.
 
“Just like the other Academy players, this is the next progression in his development,” said NCFC Assistant General Manager and Goalkeeper Coach Nic Platter. He’s proven himself, come in at a young age and done well. He keeps the standard high. He’s going to continue to improve and he has the qualities we look for in a goalkeeper.”

Alphin, a 16-year old Raleigh native, is the latest Academy goalkeeper to join the first team. Alphin has been a part of NCFC Youth throughout his career and has come through the NCFC Youth Academy ranks. He currently plays for the U-16/17 Academy team, but has also been called up to the U-18/19 team this year.
 
“Just like the other Academy players, this is the next progression in his development,” said NCFC Assistant General Manager and Goalkeeper Coach Nic Platter. He’s proven himself, come in at a young age and done well. He keeps the standard high. He’s going to continue to improve and he has the qualities we look for in a goalkeeper.”

Armour will add to the squad’s defensive depth. The 16-year-old left back from Cary has trained with the first team throughout the preseason and is also a current member of the U.S. U-17 Youth National Team. Armour currently plays for the Academy’s U-18/19 squad and is committed to Duke University with an expected gradation date of 2020.
 
“For a young player, Adam has great physical tools,” said Sarachan. “He can play a couple different positions, and we think his future is at left back. He’s technically and physically set up to succeed with our first team despite his age. We feel he’s put himself in position to be a young player that can develop and perform at this level.”

Armour will add to the squad’s defensive depth. The 16-year-old left back from Cary has trained with the first team throughout the preseason and is also a current member of the U.S. U-17 Youth National Team. Armour currently plays for the Academy’s U-18/19 squad and is committed to Duke University with an expected gradation date of 2020.
 
“For a young player, Adam has great physical tools,” said Sarachan. “He can play a couple different positions, and we think his future is at left back. He’s technically and physically set up to succeed with our first team despite his age. We feel he’s put himself in position to be a young player that can develop and perform at this level.”

Pleasants is a standout versatile midfielder for NCFC Youth Academy and grew up in the NCFC Youth system. The 18-year-old Raleigh native has racked up nearly 100 appearances and scored 31 goals with the Academy since 2015. He’s committed to play college soccer at UNC Wilmington and is set to graduate in spring of 2019.
 
“I think Colton is a great example of what this is about,” added Sarachan. “He’s been an Academy player that has grown within the system at NCFC Youth and the Academy to the point that he’s come into our first team and made a good impression. He’s on the pathway to becoming a good young pro.”
 
In addition to the current Academy players finding opportunities with North Carolina FC, the team has been a pathway for Academy graduates who are ready to go pro. The current North Carolina FC roster features four former NCFC Youth Academy players that have earned professional contracts: Dre Fortune, DJ Taylor, Manny Perez and Caleb Duvernay. 
 
North Carolina FC will continue its USL Championship season on Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. with a home match against expansion side Memphis 901 FC. Tickets are available online now, or can be purchased by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
Player Profiles:
Name: Trace Alphin
Position: Goalkeeper
Birthdate: 10/04/2002(Age: 16)
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
Height: 6’2
Weight: 160 lbs
Citizenship: United States
 
Name: Adam Armour
Position: Defender
Birthdate: 09/27/2002 (Age: 16)
Hometown: Cary, N.C.
Height: 5’10
Weight: 150 lbs
Citizenship: United States
 
Name: Colton Pleasants
Position: Midfielder
Birthdate: 09/01/2000 (Age: 18)
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
Height: 5’10
Weight: 155 lbs
Citizenship: United States

 

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Pleasants is a standout versatile midfielder for NCFC Youth Academy and grew up in the NCFC Youth system. The 18-year-old Raleigh native has racked up nearly 100 appearances and scored 31 goals with the Academy since 2015. He’s committed to play college soccer at UNC Wilmington and is set to graduate in spring of 2019.
 
“I think Colton is a great example of what this is about,” added Sarachan. “He’s been an Academy player that has grown within the system at NCFC Youth and the Academy to the point that he’s come into our first team and made a good impression. He’s on the pathway to becoming a good young pro.”
 
In addition to the current Academy players finding opportunities with North Carolina FC, the team has been a pathway for Academy graduates who are ready to go pro. The current North Carolina FC roster features four former NCFC Youth Academy players that have earned professional contracts: Dre Fortune, DJ Taylor, Manny Perez and Caleb Duvernay. 
 
North Carolina FC will continue its USL Championship season on Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. with a home match against expansion side Memphis 901 FC. Tickets are available online now, or can be purchased by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
Player Profiles:
Name: Trace Alphin
Position: Goalkeeper
Birthdate: 10/04/2002(Age: 16)
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
Height: 6’2
Weight: 160 lbs
Citizenship: United States
 
Name: Adam Armour
Position: Defender
Birthdate: 09/27/2002 (Age: 16)
Hometown: Cary, N.C.
Height: 5’10
Weight: 150 lbs
Citizenship: United States
 
Name: Colton Pleasants
Position: Midfielder
Birthdate: 09/01/2000 (Age: 18)
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
Height: 5’10
Weight: 155 lbs
Citizenship: United States

 

###

CARY, N.C. (March 30, 2019) –North Carolina FC remained undefeated with a 1-1 draw against Southern Derby rival Charleston Battery on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tommy McCabe provided the heroics for NCFC with a clinical left-footed volley from outside the box for the late equalizer. 
 
The result moves North Carolina FC to 2W-0L-1D (7 points) on the season, good for third place in the USL Eastern Conference standings and a point in the 2019 Southern Derby Cup standings.
 

“We will take the point on a night were I don’t think it was our best soccer," said North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. "I think it's important that we got something out of this game, because down the road those points will matter.”
 
Both teams were deadlocked after the opening 45 minutes. NCFC had chances in front of goal. Early in the game, Steven Miller’s shot from a tight angle skimmed over the bar and late in the half, Marios Lomis and Donovan Ewolo both had chances, but their attempts were just off target.
 
In the second half, both teams had opportunities to score, but the Battery struck first. Ian Svantesson scored in the 70th minute after a quick break caught the NCFC defense out of position. Zieko Lewis earned the assist as he provided the through ball to a dashing Svantesson, who scored with a low, powerful shot past Tambakis.
 
NCFC injected its lineup with more attacking flair with the addition of Manny Perez in the 67th minute and Robert Kristo and Yamikani Chester in the 79th minute. The new-look attack caused plenty of problems for Charleston on the wings and Kristo nearly headed in an equalizer late in the match.
 
In the closing seconds, Charleston gave up a free kick on the edge of the box. The incoming attempt was cleared to the waiting foot of McCabe who smashed home a first-time volley. The rookie’s shot flew through the crowded box and landed in the back corner of the net. The goal marked McCabe’s second of the season.
 
Just seconds after the teams lined up for the restart, the referee blew the final whistle, sealing a point for NCFC.
 
Up Next:
The season continues with another home match. North Carolina FC will face expansion side Memphis 901 FC on Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online now or over the phone by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
 
Notes:
Tommy McCabe scored his second goal of the season with an equalizer in stoppage time.

North Carolina FC and Charleston split the points in the first Southern Derby Cup match of 2019. NCFC still has an away match at Charleston and home and away fixtures against Charlotte left to earn points for the Southern Derby.
 
Dave Sarachan opted for the same starting XI from the previous two USL matches. Manny Perez, Robert Kristo and Yamikani Chester all appeared as substitutes. 
 
NCFC Academy and NCFC U-23 product Caleb Duvernay made the bench for his first official match. Duvernay made an appearance and scored a goal in an international exhibition against Necaxa last weekend.
 
Box Score:
 
NCFC (4-3-2-1):Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Donovan Ewolo (Manny Perez, 67’), Tommy McCabe, Steven Miller (Yamikani Chester, 79’); Austin da Luz ©, Ben Speas; Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 79’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Victor Igbekoyi, Graham Smith, Caleb Duvernay
 
CHS (4-4-2):Joe Kuzminsky; Jay Bolt, Leland Archer, O’Brian Woodbine, Taylor Mueller ©; Nico Rittmeyer, Jarad Van Schaik, Vincenzo Candela, Romario Piggott; Zeiko Lewis (Angelo Kelly, 84’), Ian Svantesson
 
Subs not used: Robert Beebe, AJ Paterson, Dante Marini, Arthur Bosua, Higashi Kotaro
 
Score:
NCFC: 1
CHS: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Tommy McCabe (Unassisted, 90+3’)
CHS: Ian Svantesson (Zeiko Lewis, 70’)
                                                                                                                                                                        
Cautions:
NCFC: Austin da Luz 45+1’, Sam Brotherton 78’
CHS: Vincenzo Candela 81’, Jay Bolt 90’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
CHS: —
 
Attendance: 3,584

###

CARY, N.C. (March 30, 2019) –North Carolina FC remained undefeated with a 1-1 draw against Southern Derby rival Charleston Battery on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tommy McCabe provided the heroics for NCFC with a clinical left-footed volley from outside the box for the late equalizer. 
 
The result moves North Carolina FC to 2W-0L-1D (7 points) on the season, good for third place in the USL Eastern Conference standings and a point in the 2019 Southern Derby Cup standings.
 

“We will take the point on a night were I don’t think it was our best soccer,” said North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “I think it’s important that we got something out of this game, because down the road those points will matter.”
 
Both teams were deadlocked after the opening 45 minutes. NCFC had chances in front of goal. Early in the game, Steven Miller’s shot from a tight angle skimmed over the bar and late in the half, Marios Lomis and Donovan Ewolo both had chances, but their attempts were just off target.
 
In the second half, both teams had opportunities to score, but the Battery struck first. Ian Svantesson scored in the 70th minute after a quick break caught the NCFC defense out of position. Zieko Lewis earned the assist as he provided the through ball to a dashing Svantesson, who scored with a low, powerful shot past Tambakis.
 
NCFC injected its lineup with more attacking flair with the addition of Manny Perez in the 67th minute and Robert Kristo and Yamikani Chester in the 79th minute. The new-look attack caused plenty of problems for Charleston on the wings and Kristo nearly headed in an equalizer late in the match.
 
In the closing seconds, Charleston gave up a free kick on the edge of the box. The incoming attempt was cleared to the waiting foot of McCabe who smashed home a first-time volley. The rookie’s shot flew through the crowded box and landed in the back corner of the net. The goal marked McCabe’s second of the season.
 
Just seconds after the teams lined up for the restart, the referee blew the final whistle, sealing a point for NCFC.
 
Up Next:
The season continues with another home match. North Carolina FC will face expansion side Memphis 901 FC on Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online now or over the phone by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
 
Notes:
Tommy McCabe scored his second goal of the season with an equalizer in stoppage time.

North Carolina FC and Charleston split the points in the first Southern Derby Cup match of 2019. NCFC still has an away match at Charleston and home and away fixtures against Charlotte left to earn points for the Southern Derby.
 
Dave Sarachan opted for the same starting XI from the previous two USL matches. Manny Perez, Robert Kristo and Yamikani Chester all appeared as substitutes. 
 
NCFC Academy and NCFC U-23 product Caleb Duvernay made the bench for his first official match. Duvernay made an appearance and scored a goal in an international exhibition against Necaxa last weekend.
 
Box Score:
 
NCFC (4-3-2-1):Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Donovan Ewolo (Manny Perez, 67’), Tommy McCabe, Steven Miller (Yamikani Chester, 79’); Austin da Luz ©, Ben Speas; Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 79’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Victor Igbekoyi, Graham Smith, Caleb Duvernay
 
CHS (4-4-2):Joe Kuzminsky; Jay Bolt, Leland Archer, O’Brian Woodbine, Taylor Mueller ©; Nico Rittmeyer, Jarad Van Schaik, Vincenzo Candela, Romario Piggott; Zeiko Lewis (Angelo Kelly, 84’), Ian Svantesson
 
Subs not used: Robert Beebe, AJ Paterson, Dante Marini, Arthur Bosua, Higashi Kotaro
 
Score:
NCFC: 1
CHS: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Tommy McCabe (Unassisted, 90+3’)
CHS: Ian Svantesson (Zeiko Lewis, 70’)
                                                                                                                                                                        
Cautions:
NCFC: Austin da Luz 45+1’, Sam Brotherton 78’
CHS: Vincenzo Candela 81’, Jay Bolt 90’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
CHS: —
 
Attendance: 3,584

###

Matchday Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Charleston Battery
Saturday, March 30 – 7 p.m.
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
 
Braodcast:
ESPN+: es.pn/2U2KWGL
 
CARY, N.C. (March 28, 2019) – Another exciting chapter in Raleigh’s soccer history will be written on Saturday, March 23 when Charleston Battery faces North Carolina FC at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7 p.m. Professional soccer teams from the Triangle area have faced off against Charleston since the early 1990s. In the upcoming match, the two undefeated teams will meet for a Southern Derby Cup contest.
 
The Southern Derby Cup is a supporter-led competition between North Carolina FC, Charleston Battery and Charlotte Independence. Regular-season results between the three teams determine the annual winner of the Cup. This season’s balanced USL Championship schedule allows every game between the regional rivals to count as a Southern Derby Cup match. North Carolina FC is the defending champion of the competition and has won every year it’s been involved.
 
North Carolina FC is riding a wave a confidence, coming off three-straight wins, including a 2-1 international exhibition victory over Liga MX side Club Necaxa last weekend. The home side is third in the USL Championship Eastern Conference standings with six points from two games, taking down Louisville City FC 4-1 and Bethlehem Steel FC 1-0. The only teams in front of NCFC have seven points from three games. Charleston Battery sits just under North Carolina FC with four points from two games.
 
Despite positioning in the table and current form, Charleston always presents a difficult test. NCFC has picked up preseason wins over the Battery in recent history, but the team has struggled in regular seasons matches against the regional rival. North Carolina FC’s last regular-season win over Charleston dates to 2009. Last year, the teams meet three times, but Charleston earned a victory and two draws from the contests.
 
While still early in the season, North Carolina FC is already flipping the script. Three weeks since the season opener, NCFC has first-ever wins against Louisville City FC and Bethlehem Steel FC and has defeated a professional team from Mexico for the first time since 2014.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 9 Marios Lomis
As team records continue to be broken, look for starting striker Marios Lomis to continue scoring goals. Lomis leads the team with two goals in two games and his physical play has helped control opposing defenses. 
 
Charleston Battery – No. 10 Ataulla Guerra
Last year, Guerra accounted for 15 goals, more than double of the team’s second-leading goal scorer. He hasn’t played yet in 2019, but if the forward finds his way on the field, NCFC will need to focus on the elite goal scorer. 
 
Up Next:
The season continues with another home match. North Carolina FC will face expansion side Memphis 901 FC on Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online now or over the phone by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.

###

Matchday Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Charleston Battery
Saturday, March 30 – 7 p.m.
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
 
Braodcast:
ESPN+: es.pn/2U2KWGL
 
CARY, N.C. (March 28, 2019) – Another exciting chapter in Raleigh’s soccer history will be written on Saturday, March 23 when Charleston Battery faces North Carolina FC at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7 p.m. Professional soccer teams from the Triangle area have faced off against Charleston since the early 1990s. In the upcoming match, the two undefeated teams will meet for a Southern Derby Cup contest.
 
The Southern Derby Cup is a supporter-led competition between North Carolina FC, Charleston Battery and Charlotte Independence. Regular-season results between the three teams determine the annual winner of the Cup. This season’s balanced USL Championship schedule allows every game between the regional rivals to count as a Southern Derby Cup match. North Carolina FC is the defending champion of the competition and has won every year it’s been involved.
 
North Carolina FC is riding a wave a confidence, coming off three-straight wins, including a 2-1 international exhibition victory over Liga MX side Club Necaxa last weekend. The home side is third in the USL Championship Eastern Conference standings with six points from two games, taking down Louisville City FC 4-1 and Bethlehem Steel FC 1-0. The only teams in front of NCFC have seven points from three games. Charleston Battery sits just under North Carolina FC with four points from two games.
 
Despite positioning in the table and current form, Charleston always presents a difficult test. NCFC has picked up preseason wins over the Battery in recent history, but the team has struggled in regular seasons matches against the regional rival. North Carolina FC’s last regular-season win over Charleston dates to 2009. Last year, the teams meet three times, but Charleston earned a victory and two draws from the contests.
 
While still early in the season, North Carolina FC is already flipping the script. Three weeks since the season opener, NCFC has first-ever wins against Louisville City FC and Bethlehem Steel FC and has defeated a professional team from Mexico for the first time since 2014.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 9 Marios Lomis
As team records continue to be broken, look for starting striker Marios Lomis to continue scoring goals. Lomis leads the team with two goals in two games and his physical play has helped control opposing defenses. 
 
Charleston Battery – No. 10 Ataulla Guerra
Last year, Guerra accounted for 15 goals, more than double of the team’s second-leading goal scorer. He hasn’t played yet in 2019, but if the forward finds his way on the field, NCFC will need to focus on the elite goal scorer. 
 
Up Next:
The season continues with another home match. North Carolina FC will face expansion side Memphis 901 FC on Saturday, April 6 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online now or over the phone by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.

###

CARY, N.C. (March 23, 2019) – North Carolina FC capped off the historic Friendship Cup doubleheader with an electric match against Club Necaxa, winning 2-1 on Saturday afternoon at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The victory was the second of the day for the club, as the NC Courage rolled to a 4-0 preseason win over Orlando Pride earlier in the afternoon.
 
From the opening whistle, NCFC hit the gates running. In the second minute a Manny Perez shot flashed by the post. Just two minutes later, Austin Panchot had a great opportunity saved. These chances would be just the beginning for North Carolina FC, who went up 2-0 by the 25th minute.
 
First in the 20th minute, Panchot opened the scoring, cleaning up a deflected ball in the box. The Saint Louis native ripped his shot off the crossbar and into the net. Perez started the play with a cross into the box and Dre Fortune’s opening attempt was deflected to the waiting Panchot.
 
Just five minutes later, NCFC would strike again on a clinical counter attack. The play once again started with Perez finding space on the right wing. His well-placed cross was met by a running Duvernay who chipped his shot over the Necaxa goalkeeper. The duo previously played together at NC State and both products came through NCFC Youth Academy.
 
While the exciting play continued throughout the second half, the teams would wait until the 67th minute to find the game’s next goal. Following a mass substitution from the NCFC side, Necaxa pounced on an opportunity for their first and only goal. 
 
Pedro Campos found a gap in the NCFC defense and scored on a shot from close range, while Ricardo Marín provided the assist.
 
Following the goal, NCFC bolstered its backline by subbing in Aaron Guillen and Alex Comsia. The duo helped see out the rest of the game with some help from goalkeeper Darrin Macleod, who came up with several big saves in the game’s final minutes.
 
North Carolina FC saw out the result over the final few minutes to earn the team’s fourth win ever against a Mexican professional team.
 
Coming Up Next:
A Southern Derby Cup fixture at home awaits North Carolina FC next weekend as Charleston Battery visits NCFC on Saturday, March 30 at 7 p.m. This will be the first Southern Derby match of the season for NCFC, as the side looks to defend its 2018 crown. Tickets are on sale online by clicking here, or available over the phone by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:
The NC Courage played in the first game of the day and rolled to a 4-0 preseason win over the Orlando Pride.
 
North Carolina FC adds Necaxa to the list of Mexican professional teams it has beaten, joining Tecos FC, Pumas Morelos and Puebla FC.
 
Austin Panchot and Caleb Duvernay both scored their first goals for NCFC, while Manny Perez added his first assist for NCFC.
 
North Carolina FC’s game day roster featured NCFC Youth Academy products Caleb Duvernay, Dre Fortune, Manny Perez and DJ Taylor, and three current Academy players (Adam Armour, Trace Alphin, Colton Pleasants).
 
NCFC U-23 player Alex Comsia started on the bench for North Carolina FC and made an appearance in the 73rd minute.
 
NCFC Youth Academy players Pleasants and Armour earned their first appearances for North Carolina FC.
 
Box Score:
NCFC: Darrin Macleod; DJ Taylor, Tim Mehl  (Alex Comsia, 73’), Sam Brotherton (Aaron Guillen, 74’),  Caleb Duvernay; Victor Igbekoyi (Duval Wapiwo, 46’), Graham Smith (Tommy McCabe, 61’), Manny Perez (Marios Lomis, 79’) , Austin Panchot (Adam Armour,, 84’); Dre Fortune (Colton Pleasants, 61’), Robert Kristo (Donovan Ewolo, 61’)
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Austin da Luz, Ben Speas, Steven Miller, Trace Alphin
 
NEC: Yosgart Gutierrez; Alex Francisco Peña (Jose Fernando Plascencia, 46’), Osmar Mares (Jonathan Navarro, 68’), Ventura Alvarado (Luis Donaldo Hernandez, 46’), Emmanuel Alvarado; Hibert Ruiz, Felipe Gallegos (Ruben Gonzalez, 46’), Daniel Alvarez (José Manuel Perez, 61’); Martin Barragan (Ricardo Marin, 61’), Eduardo Herrera (Marcelo Allende, 46’), Angel Sepulveda (Pedro Pablo Campos, 46’)
 
Subs not used: Ruben Castellanos, Diego Garcia, Francisco Quiñones
 
Score:
NCFC: 2
NEC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Austin Panchot (Unassisted, 20’), Caleb Duvernay (Manny Perez, 25’)
NEC: Pedro Pablo Campos (Ricardo Marin, 67’) 
 
Cautions: 
NCFC: Victor Igbekoyi 45+’
NEC: —
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
NEC: —
 
Shots:
NCFC: 5
NEC: 5
 
Shots On Goal:
NCFC: 4
NEC: 5
 
Saves:
NCFC: 4
NEC: 1
 
Corners:
NCFC: 2
NEC: 4
 
Attendance: 4,220

 

 ###

CARY, N.C. (March 23, 2019) – North Carolina FC capped off the historic Friendship Cup doubleheader with an electric match against Club Necaxa, winning 2-1 on Saturday afternoon at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The victory was the second of the day for the club, as the NC Courage rolled to a 4-0 preseason win over Orlando Pride earlier in the afternoon.
 
From the opening whistle, NCFC hit the gates running. In the second minute a Manny Perez shot flashed by the post. Just two minutes later, Austin Panchot had a great opportunity saved. These chances would be just the beginning for North Carolina FC, who went up 2-0 by the 25th minute.
 
First in the 20th minute, Panchot opened the scoring, cleaning up a deflected ball in the box. The Saint Louis native ripped his shot off the crossbar and into the net. Perez started the play with a cross into the box and Dre Fortune’s opening attempt was deflected to the waiting Panchot.
 
Just five minutes later, NCFC would strike again on a clinical counter attack. The play once again started with Perez finding space on the right wing. His well-placed cross was met by a running Duvernay who chipped his shot over the Necaxa goalkeeper. The duo previously played together at NC State and both products came through NCFC Youth Academy.
 
While the exciting play continued throughout the second half, the teams would wait until the 67th minute to find the game’s next goal. Following a mass substitution from the NCFC side, Necaxa pounced on an opportunity for their first and only goal. 
 
Pedro Campos found a gap in the NCFC defense and scored on a shot from close range, while Ricardo Marín provided the assist.
 
Following the goal, NCFC bolstered its backline by subbing in Aaron Guillen and Alex Comsia. The duo helped see out the rest of the game with some help from goalkeeper Darrin Macleod, who came up with several big saves in the game’s final minutes.
 
North Carolina FC saw out the result over the final few minutes to earn the team’s fourth win ever against a Mexican professional team.
 
Coming Up Next:
A Southern Derby Cup fixture at home awaits North Carolina FC next weekend as Charleston Battery visits NCFC on Saturday, March 30 at 7 p.m. This will be the first Southern Derby match of the season for NCFC, as the side looks to defend its 2018 crown. Tickets are on sale online by clicking here, or available over the phone by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:
The NC Courage played in the first game of the day and rolled to a 4-0 preseason win over the Orlando Pride.
 
North Carolina FC adds Necaxa to the list of Mexican professional teams it has beaten, joining Tecos FC, Pumas Morelos and Puebla FC.
 
Austin Panchot and Caleb Duvernay both scored their first goals for NCFC, while Manny Perez added his first assist for NCFC.
 
North Carolina FC’s game day roster featured NCFC Youth Academy products Caleb Duvernay, Dre Fortune, Manny Perez and DJ Taylor, and three current Academy players (Adam Armour, Trace Alphin, Colton Pleasants).
 
NCFC U-23 player Alex Comsia started on the bench for North Carolina FC and made an appearance in the 73rd minute.
 
NCFC Youth Academy players Pleasants and Armour earned their first appearances for North Carolina FC.
 
Box Score:
NCFC: Darrin Macleod; DJ Taylor, Tim Mehl  (Alex Comsia, 73’), Sam Brotherton (Aaron Guillen, 74’),  Caleb Duvernay; Victor Igbekoyi (Duval Wapiwo, 46’), Graham Smith (Tommy McCabe, 61’), Manny Perez (Marios Lomis, 79’) , Austin Panchot (Adam Armour,, 84’); Dre Fortune (Colton Pleasants, 61’), Robert Kristo (Donovan Ewolo, 61’)
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Austin da Luz, Ben Speas, Steven Miller, Trace Alphin
 
NEC: Yosgart Gutierrez; Alex Francisco Peña (Jose Fernando Plascencia, 46’), Osmar Mares (Jonathan Navarro, 68’), Ventura Alvarado (Luis Donaldo Hernandez, 46’), Emmanuel Alvarado; Hibert Ruiz, Felipe Gallegos (Ruben Gonzalez, 46’), Daniel Alvarez (José Manuel Perez, 61’); Martin Barragan (Ricardo Marin, 61’), Eduardo Herrera (Marcelo Allende, 46’), Angel Sepulveda (Pedro Pablo Campos, 46’)
 
Subs not used: Ruben Castellanos, Diego Garcia, Francisco Quiñones
 
Score:
NCFC: 2
NEC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Austin Panchot (Unassisted, 20’), Caleb Duvernay (Manny Perez, 25’)
NEC: Pedro Pablo Campos (Ricardo Marin, 67’) 
 
Cautions: 
NCFC: Victor Igbekoyi 45+’
NEC: —
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
NEC: —
 
Shots:
NCFC: 5
NEC: 5
 
Shots On Goal:
NCFC: 4
NEC: 5
 
Saves:
NCFC: 4
NEC: 1
 
Corners:
NCFC: 2
NEC: 4
 
Attendance: 4,220

 

 ###

On Saturday, March 23, North Carolina Football Club will host a Friendship Cup doubleheader. The NC Courage hosts Orlando Pride in a preseason match at 1 p.m. before NCFC faces Club Necaxa of Liga MX in an international exhibition at 3:30 p.m.

Games: North Carolina Courage vs. Orlando Pride & North Carolina FC vs. Club Necaxa

Presented By: Hilton Garden Inn Durham Southpoint and Summit Hospitality

Date: Saturday, March 23

Box Office Opens: 9 a.m. ET

Parking Lot Opens: 10 a.m. ET

Parking: $15 general admission (cash only)/$20 VIP (click here to purchase VIP parking)

Stadium Gates Open: 12 p.m. ET

Tickets: Click here to purchase individual tickets to Saturday’s doubleheader. A ticket grants admission to both the NC Courage-Orlando Pride and NCFC-Necaxa games. Re-entry into Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park between matches is not allowed.

Kickoff Times: 1 p.m. ET (NC Courage vs. Orlando Pride); 3:30 p.m. ET (NCFC vs. Necaxa)

Location: Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park

Halftime Activities: Summit Hospitality scarf presentation during halftime of the NCFC-Necaxa game.

Merchandise Specials: Red and Black Necaxa-themed t-shirts and a special dual-branded Necaxa/North Carolina FC scarf will be on sale. The items are available in merchandise stands around the stadium and will be sold online following the weekend's events.

On Saturday, March 23, North Carolina Football Club will host a Friendship Cup doubleheader. The NC Courage hosts Orlando Pride in a preseason match at 1 p.m. before NCFC faces Club Necaxa of Liga MX in an international exhibition at 3:30 p.m.

Games: North Carolina Courage vs. Orlando Pride & North Carolina FC vs. Club Necaxa

Presented By: Hilton Garden Inn Durham Southpoint and Summit Hospitality

Date: Saturday, March 23

Box Office Opens: 9 a.m. ET

Parking Lot Opens: 10 a.m. ET

Parking: $15 general admission (cash only)/$20 VIP (click here to purchase VIP parking)

Stadium Gates Open: 12 p.m. ET

Tickets: Click here to purchase individual tickets to Saturday’s doubleheader. A ticket grants admission to both the NC Courage-Orlando Pride and NCFC-Necaxa games. Re-entry into Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park between matches is not allowed.

Kickoff Times: 1 p.m. ET (NC Courage vs. Orlando Pride); 3:30 p.m. ET (NCFC vs. Necaxa)

Location: Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park

Halftime Activities: Summit Hospitality scarf presentation during halftime of the NCFC-Necaxa game.

Merchandise Specials: Red and Black Necaxa-themed t-shirts and a special dual-branded Necaxa/North Carolina FC scarf will be on sale. The items are available in merchandise stands around the stadium and will be sold online following the weekend’s events.

Broadcast: There will be no broadcast on Saturday.

Backyard Bistro Concession Special: Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with fries and a fountain drink $10 

Red & Blue Express: The Red and Blue Express will not run on Saturday.

Broadcast: There will be no broadcast on Saturday.

Backyard Bistro Concession Special: Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with fries and a fountain drink $10 

Red & Blue Express: The Red and Blue Express will not run on Saturday.

CARY, N.C. (March 21, 2019) – North Carolina FC will take on Liga MX side Club Necaxa in an international exhibition on Saturday, March 23 at 3:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The game is part of a larger North Carolina Football Club Friendship Cup Doubleheader that includes the NC Courage facing Orlando Pride in a preseason match at 1 p.m. The event is presented by Hilton Garden Inn Durham Southpoint and Summit Hospitality. 
 
North Carolina FC enters the break from USL Championship action on top of the league table and in excellent form. The side is off to a roaring start in league play with a perfect 2W-0L-0D record. North Carolina FC dispatched two-time defending USL Cup Champions Louisville City FC, 4-1 in the season opener before taking down a tough Bethlehem Steel FC side away from home 1-0 last weekend.
 
The team will look to translate that success in an important measuring-stick game against Liga MX side Necaxa. The visitors hail from Aguascalientes, Mexico and were founded in 1923. Necaxa also comes into the match in form, sitting in sixth place in the Liga MX – Clausura season. 
 
Necaxa is managed by Guillermo Vázquez, a former player who enjoyed a 15-year playing career in Mexico’s professional soccer scene. He started his managerial career in 2006 as an assistant with Pumas UNAM. Over his 13-year coaching career, he’s managed Pumas UNAM, Cruz Azul and Veracruz in addition to Necaxa.
 
On the field, Ventura Alvarado captains the side. Alvarado earned 13 caps with USMNT since 2015 and has been with Necaxa since 2018. Fans might also recognize Martín Barragán, who is making his second trip to Cary in the last three seasons. Barragán previously played for Atlas and scored against NCFC in the 2017 meeting.
 
North Carolina Football Club has enjoyed a long history of hosting exciting exhibitions against teams from around the world. Necaxa will be the ninth Mexican professional team to face the club since 2007. Overall, NCFC has posted a 3W-5L-0D record against Mexican opposition.
 
These exhibitions also lead to opportunity for the club to showcase its youth-to-professional pipeline. On Saturday, NCFC’s roster will feature five players who suited up for NCFC U-23 or NCFC Youth Academy in the past and two current NCFC Youth Academy players. Historically, NCFC has used the game to give minutes to developing players. Youth products such as DJ Taylor, Jeremy Kelly, Conor Donovan, Manny Perez and others have featured in these games as youth players. Academy stars Colton Pleasants and Adam Armour will be the next young players set to feature for the first team as they have been included in the roster for the upcoming match.

Prior to the match, Club Necaxa will hold an exclusive practice and autograph session for ticket holders on Friday, March 22 at 12 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park. You must show your ticket to Saturday’s doubleheader to attend the practice and autograph session.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 2 Manny Perez
Perez is no stranger to anyone with a pulse on North Carolina’s soccer scene. The young defender recently completed a high-profile move to Scottish giant Celtic F.C. before returning on loan to NCFC. With opportunity up for grabs, look for the talented Perez to see extended minutes on the field.
 
Necaxa – No. 7 Daniel Álvarez
Necaxa is full of young and talented professionals from across Latin America, but Álvarez could be one to watch. Although just 24 years old, the speedy winger has 91 Liga MX appearances since he made his professional debut in 2015. Álvarez has been a starter in Necaxa’s recent games and could challenge NCFC defenders throughout the match.
 
Coming Up Next:
A Southern Derby Cup fixture at home awaits North Carolina FC next weekend as Charleston Battery visits NCFC on Saturday, March 30 at 7 p.m. This will be the first Southern Derby match of the season for NCFC, as the side looks to defend its 2018 crown. Tickets are on sale online by clicking here, or available over the phone by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.

 

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CARY, N.C. (March 21, 2019) – North Carolina FC will take on Liga MX side Club Necaxa in an international exhibition on Saturday, March 23 at 3:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The game is part of a larger North Carolina Football Club Friendship Cup Doubleheader that includes the NC Courage facing Orlando Pride in a preseason match at 1 p.m. The event is presented by Hilton Garden Inn Durham Southpoint and Summit Hospitality. 
 
North Carolina FC enters the break from USL Championship action on top of the league table and in excellent form. The side is off to a roaring start in league play with a perfect 2W-0L-0D record. North Carolina FC dispatched two-time defending USL Cup Champions Louisville City FC, 4-1 in the season opener before taking down a tough Bethlehem Steel FC side away from home 1-0 last weekend.
 
The team will look to translate that success in an important measuring-stick game against Liga MX side Necaxa. The visitors hail from Aguascalientes, Mexico and were founded in 1923. Necaxa also comes into the match in form, sitting in sixth place in the Liga MX – Clausura season. 
 
Necaxa is managed by Guillermo Vázquez, a former player who enjoyed a 15-year playing career in Mexico’s professional soccer scene. He started his managerial career in 2006 as an assistant with Pumas UNAM. Over his 13-year coaching career, he’s managed Pumas UNAM, Cruz Azul and Veracruz in addition to Necaxa.
 
On the field, Ventura Alvarado captains the side. Alvarado earned 13 caps with USMNT since 2015 and has been with Necaxa since 2018. Fans might also recognize Martín Barragán, who is making his second trip to Cary in the last three seasons. Barragán previously played for Atlas and scored against NCFC in the 2017 meeting.
 
North Carolina Football Club has enjoyed a long history of hosting exciting exhibitions against teams from around the world. Necaxa will be the ninth Mexican professional team to face the club since 2007. Overall, NCFC has posted a 3W-5L-0D record against Mexican opposition.
 
These exhibitions also lead to opportunity for the club to showcase its youth-to-professional pipeline. On Saturday, NCFC’s roster will feature five players who suited up for NCFC U-23 or NCFC Youth Academy in the past and two current NCFC Youth Academy players. Historically, NCFC has used the game to give minutes to developing players. Youth products such as DJ Taylor, Jeremy Kelly, Conor Donovan, Manny Perez and others have featured in these games as youth players. Academy stars Colton Pleasants and Adam Armour will be the next young players set to feature for the first team as they have been included in the roster for the upcoming match.

Prior to the match, Club Necaxa will hold an exclusive practice and autograph session for ticket holders on Friday, March 22 at 12 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park. You must show your ticket to Saturday’s doubleheader to attend the practice and autograph session.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 2 Manny Perez
Perez is no stranger to anyone with a pulse on North Carolina’s soccer scene. The young defender recently completed a high-profile move to Scottish giant Celtic F.C. before returning on loan to NCFC. With opportunity up for grabs, look for the talented Perez to see extended minutes on the field.
 
Necaxa – No. 7 Daniel Álvarez
Necaxa is full of young and talented professionals from across Latin America, but Álvarez could be one to watch. Although just 24 years old, the speedy winger has 91 Liga MX appearances since he made his professional debut in 2015. Álvarez has been a starter in Necaxa’s recent games and could challenge NCFC defenders throughout the match.
 
Coming Up Next:
A Southern Derby Cup fixture at home awaits North Carolina FC next weekend as Charleston Battery visits NCFC on Saturday, March 30 at 7 p.m. This will be the first Southern Derby match of the season for NCFC, as the side looks to defend its 2018 crown. Tickets are on sale online by clicking here, or available over the phone by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.

 

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