News Collector

Cary, NC (August 24, 2020)- NCFC will travel to play the Charlotte Independence this Wednesday, August 26 in a match between rival North Carolina USL teams. The match will be played at 7 p.m. at the Matthews Sportsplex and will air on ESPN+. With a win, North Carolina FC would move into second place in Group G of the USL. The top two teams in each group advance to the playoffs.

Dave Sarachan’s team will look to bounce back after two home losses. Most recently, NCFC fell to the Charleston Battery 3-0. The team last earned three points on August 8 against Memphis 901 FC.

“The level of concentration in both possession and when you don’t have the ball is extremely important when it could be a one-play game against a tough team in Charlotte,” said Sarachan as the team prepares for Wednesday’s match.

North Carolina FC and the Charlotte Independence have not met yet this season, as the game originally scheduled for July 29 was postponed to this new date. Both teams are in Group G, with Charlotte currently in second place with nine points. NCFC is just behind in third place with seven points. The two teams will face off a total of four times in 2020.

The Independence last played on Sunday against Miami FC. The team fell 2-1 after Miami scored a goal in the 86th minute. Charlotte’s overall record for 2020 is 2W-2L-3D.

NCFC starts a stretch of four games in 10 days with their match on Wednesday against the Charlotte Independence. The team will quickly turnaround for a match on Saturday, August 29 against Memphis 901 FC at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7 p.m.

 

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna

North Carolina FC- #20 Conor Donovan

Donovan has made three straight starts at center back for NCFC. With 15 clearances, eight blocks, and nine interceptions, the NCFC Youth Academy product makes it hard for teams to get shots back to goalkeeper Alex Tambakis.  

Charlotte Independence- #9 Dane Kelly

Kelly leads the Charlotte Independence in shots, shots on goal, and goals scored so far in 2020. The Jamaican striker knows how to get in front of the net and is not afraid to fire one from long range. As the all-time leading scorer in the USL Championship, Kelly is going to be someone that Donovan and the NCFC defense keep an eye on.

Cary, NC (August 24, 2020)- NCFC will travel to play the Charlotte Independence this Wednesday, August 26 in a match between rival North Carolina USL teams. The match will be played at 7 p.m. at the Matthews Sportsplex and will air on ESPN+. With a win, North Carolina FC would move into second place in Group G of the USL. The top two teams in each group advance to the playoffs.

Dave Sarachan’s team will look to bounce back after two home losses. Most recently, NCFC fell to the Charleston Battery 3-0. The team last earned three points on August 8 against Memphis 901 FC.

“The level of concentration in both possession and when you don’t have the ball is extremely important when it could be a one-play game against a tough team in Charlotte,” said Sarachan as the team prepares for Wednesday’s match.

North Carolina FC and the Charlotte Independence have not met yet this season, as the game originally scheduled for July 29 was postponed to this new date. Both teams are in Group G, with Charlotte currently in second place with nine points. NCFC is just behind in third place with seven points. The two teams will face off a total of four times in 2020.

The Independence last played on Sunday against Miami FC. The team fell 2-1 after Miami scored a goal in the 86th minute. Charlotte’s overall record for 2020 is 2W-2L-3D.

NCFC starts a stretch of four games in 10 days with their match on Wednesday against the Charlotte Independence. The team will quickly turnaround for a match on Saturday, August 29 against Memphis 901 FC at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7 p.m.

 

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna

North Carolina FC- #20 Conor Donovan

Donovan has made three straight starts at center back for NCFC. With 15 clearances, eight blocks, and nine interceptions, the NCFC Youth Academy product makes it hard for teams to get shots back to goalkeeper Alex Tambakis.  

Charlotte Independence- #9 Dane Kelly

Kelly leads the Charlotte Independence in shots, shots on goal, and goals scored so far in 2020. The Jamaican striker knows how to get in front of the net and is not afraid to fire one from long range. As the all-time leading scorer in the USL Championship, Kelly is going to be someone that Donovan and the NCFC defense keep an eye on.

Cary, NC (August 24, 2020)- North Carolina FC and Caleb Duvernay have mutually parted ways, the club announced today. Duvernay signed a contract with NCFC in 2019 and played in two matches in 2020.  

North Carolina FC returns to action on Wednesday, August 26 against the Charlotte Independence at Matthews Sportsplex at 7 p.m. ET. Dave Sarachan’s team will look for a win against their North Carolina USL rival in the first match between the two teams in 2020.

Cary, NC (August 24, 2020)- North Carolina FC and Caleb Duvernay have mutually parted ways, the club announced today. Duvernay signed a contract with NCFC in 2019 and played in two matches in 2020.  

North Carolina FC returns to action on Wednesday, August 26 against the Charlotte Independence at Matthews Sportsplex at 7 p.m. ET. Dave Sarachan’s team will look for a win against their North Carolina USL rival in the first match between the two teams in 2020.

It was another tough night at the office for North Carolina FC as they fell to the Charleston Battery 3-0. Despite the loss, one player that stood out was central defender was Conor Donovan.

In the first half, Donovan did well keeping the forwards from Charleston in check, not allowing them to get on the ball in and around the final third. When they were able to get on the ball, Donovan was able to close down the space face, coming up with a big block in the penalty area and preventing Charleston from taking a first-half lead.

Despite the goals that were given up in the second half, Donovan was, by and large, solid, especially in his own penalty area. He was not afraid to put his body in front of the ball, preventing shots and crosses from getting close to goalkeeper Alex Tambakis. 

Donovan gained possession for NCFC eight times, which was tied for the team lead. He had 74 touches on the ball and completed 96.7% of his passes, which was the highest percentage among North Carolina FC starters. The 24-year-old North Carolina native made his third straight start for Dave Sarachan and is proving to be a defensive leader for North Carolina FC.  Donovan grew up playing with the North Carolina FC Youth Academy and shines as one of the top players to come out of the program. NCFC will look to bounce back on August 26 against the Charlotte Independence.

It was another tough night at the office for North Carolina FC as they fell to the Charleston Battery 3-0. Despite the loss, one player that stood out was central defender was Conor Donovan.

In the first half, Donovan did well keeping the forwards from Charleston in check, not allowing them to get on the ball in and around the final third. When they were able to get on the ball, Donovan was able to close down the space face, coming up with a big block in the penalty area and preventing Charleston from taking a first-half lead.

Despite the goals that were given up in the second half, Donovan was, by and large, solid, especially in his own penalty area. He was not afraid to put his body in front of the ball, preventing shots and crosses from getting close to goalkeeper Alex Tambakis. 

Donovan gained possession for NCFC eight times, which was tied for the team lead. He had 74 touches on the ball and completed 96.7% of his passes, which was the highest percentage among North Carolina FC starters. The 24-year-old North Carolina native made his third straight start for Dave Sarachan and is proving to be a defensive leader for North Carolina FC.  Donovan grew up playing with the North Carolina FC Youth Academy and shines as one of the top players to come out of the program. NCFC will look to bounce back on August 26 against the Charlotte Independence.

Match Info:

North Carolina FC vs. Charleston Battery

Wednesday, August 19 – 7:00 p.m. ET

Watch: ESPN+, WRAL-2

 

Cary, NC (August 17, 2020) – In a quick turnaround since Saturday’s match, North Carolina FC will remain at home to face the Charleston Battery this Wednesday, August 19 at 7 p.m. ET at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina. The match will determine the 2020 Southern Derby winner, as the unique year means the winner of the historic cup will be crowned after just one game. 

The Southern Derby originated in 2000 when supporters of the A-League created the Cup for teams of the South-Atlantic Region. In 2007, the Carolina RailHawks joined in the competition for the Cup and were victorious in 2007, 2008, and shared a victory with the Charleston Battery in 2009. North Carolina FC joined the race once more in 2018, earning the trophy for the first time under Steve Malik’s ownership. 

“The Southern Derby is quite a big deal to our fans,” said NCFC captain Nazmi Albadawi. “We want to show that we are the best team in the Carolinas and what better way to do it than beating Charleston who we are competing against this year for the Cup.”

Most recently, North Carolina FC fell to Birmingham Legion FC 2-0 for the team’s first loss since the season restart on July 17. Despite four key saves made by Alex Tambakis and strong showings from second-half substitutes Marios Lomis and Daniele Proch, NCFC could not find a goal. Sarachan’s team will look to return to their winning ways with a win over Charleston on Wednesday.

The Charleston Battery defeated Atlanta United on Saturday night, coming from behind to win the match 3-2. Forward Mauro Cichero recorded a goal for the Battery and Zeiko Lewis registered the brace. The Battery sit in second place in Group H of the USL Championship league with a 3-2-2 record.

With a win on Wednesday night, NCFC has an opportunity to move back into second place in Group G of the USL Championship league. The top two teams in each group clinch a spot in the USL Championship playoffs. 

 

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna:

North Carolina FC – #7 Pecka

Known for his defensive skill and ability to break up an opponent’s plays, Pecka will look to rise to the occasion against a strong Charleston offense and maintain a strong presence defensively for NCFC. 

Charleston Battery – #10 Zeiko Lewis

With two goals in Charleston’s last match, forward Zeiko Lewis will look to create scoring chances and provide a significant challenge for NCFC’s defense on Wednesday. Last year, in his first season with the Battery, Lewis led the team in goals scored.

Match Info:

North Carolina FC vs. Charleston Battery

Wednesday, August 19 – 7:00 p.m. ET

Watch: ESPN+, WRAL-2

 

Cary, NC (August 17, 2020) – In a quick turnaround since Saturday’s match, North Carolina FC will remain at home to face the Charleston Battery this Wednesday, August 19 at 7 p.m. ET at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina. The match will determine the 2020 Southern Derby winner, as the unique year means the winner of the historic cup will be crowned after just one game. 

The Southern Derby originated in 2000 when supporters of the A-League created the Cup for teams of the South-Atlantic Region. In 2007, the Carolina RailHawks joined in the competition for the Cup and were victorious in 2007, 2008, and shared a victory with the Charleston Battery in 2009. North Carolina FC joined the race once more in 2018, earning the trophy for the first time under Steve Malik’s ownership. 

“The Southern Derby is quite a big deal to our fans,” said NCFC captain Nazmi Albadawi. “We want to show that we are the best team in the Carolinas and what better way to do it than beating Charleston who we are competing against this year for the Cup.”

Most recently, North Carolina FC fell to Birmingham Legion FC 2-0 for the team’s first loss since the season restart on July 17. Despite four key saves made by Alex Tambakis and strong showings from second-half substitutes Marios Lomis and Daniele Proch, NCFC could not find a goal. Sarachan’s team will look to return to their winning ways with a win over Charleston on Wednesday.

The Charleston Battery defeated Atlanta United on Saturday night, coming from behind to win the match 3-2. Forward Mauro Cichero recorded a goal for the Battery and Zeiko Lewis registered the brace. The Battery sit in second place in Group H of the USL Championship league with a 3-2-2 record.

With a win on Wednesday night, NCFC has an opportunity to move back into second place in Group G of the USL Championship league. The top two teams in each group clinch a spot in the USL Championship playoffs. 

 

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna:

North Carolina FC – #7 Pecka

Known for his defensive skill and ability to break up an opponent’s plays, Pecka will look to rise to the occasion against a strong Charleston offense and maintain a strong presence defensively for NCFC. 

Charleston Battery – #10 Zeiko Lewis

With two goals in Charleston’s last match, forward Zeiko Lewis will look to create scoring chances and provide a significant challenge for NCFC’s defense on Wednesday. Last year, in his first season with the Battery, Lewis led the team in goals scored.

It was a tough night for North Carolina FC against Birmingham Legion, as they lost 2-0 on a deflected shot and a penalty kick. Despite the loss, there were some positives for NCFC as one player who really shone through was Brazilian midfielder, Pecka. Pecka’s energy and work rate in midfield kept NCFC in the game, as he made several key tackles in the defensive third of the pitch to break up Birmingham’s momentum going forward. It seemed that every time Birmingham would build an attack, he was pressuring the player with possession and trying to win the ball back for North Carolina FC .

On offense, Pecka led the team with three shots throughout the night. He also put up an impressive 94.2% passing accuracy number and had 65 touches on the ball. The energy, work rate, and intensity in keeping Birmingham at bay was a contributing factor in him receiving the Coastal Credit Union Man of the Match award. The Brazilian has played 319 minutes since joining NCFC at the beginning of 2020 and has had no problem fitting into Dave Sarachan’s midfield.

It was a tough night for North Carolina FC against Birmingham Legion, as they lost 2-0 on a deflected shot and a penalty kick. Despite the loss, there were some positives for NCFC as one player who really shone through was Brazilian midfielder, Pecka. Pecka’s energy and work rate in midfield kept NCFC in the game, as he made several key tackles in the defensive third of the pitch to break up Birmingham’s momentum going forward. It seemed that every time Birmingham would build an attack, he was pressuring the player with possession and trying to win the ball back for North Carolina FC .

On offense, Pecka led the team with three shots throughout the night. He also put up an impressive 94.2% passing accuracy number and had 65 touches on the ball. The energy, work rate, and intensity in keeping Birmingham at bay was a contributing factor in him receiving the Coastal Credit Union Man of the Match award. The Brazilian has played 319 minutes since joining NCFC at the beginning of 2020 and has had no problem fitting into Dave Sarachan’s midfield.

Cary, NC (August 15, 2020) – Despite many attempts to even the score and four key saves made by Alex Tambakis, North Carolina FC fell to Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday night by a score of 2-0. The team’s loss was the first since the season restart on July 17. 

“We’ll learn from this game,” NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan said of the match. “We’ll take some of the positives, and then focus for a quick turnaround. We just have to take some of the good and bad and move on.” 

Birmingham began their attack early into the first half when midfielder Jalen Servania fired a shot off and a deflection from an NCFC defender resulted in the ball finding the back of the net. Birmingham took an early 1-0 advantage over the home team. 

Just three minutes later, a handball was called on Sam Brotherton in the NCFC box, resulting in a penalty kick for Birmingham. Neco Brett took the kick, notching Birmingham’s second goal of the night and extending their lead to 2-0. 

Eager to cut into Birmingham’s lead, NCFC worked to create scoring opportunities in the second half. In the 49th minute, Dre Fortune took a corner kick, lofting a ball that met the head of Conor Donovan. Donovan’s header sailed just wide of the goalpost, narrowly missing the net. 

As the second half wore on, NCFC continued to press Birmingham’s defense. In the 59th minute, a cross was played in from the right wing by Manny Perez to the feet of Robert Kristo who attempted to volley the cross into the net, only to witness his shot fall just wide and out of bounds. 

“When we play at a high tempo, and we really push ourselves and impose ourselves against another team, we’re almost impossible to play against,” said Nazmi Albadawi in a postgame interview. “At the end of the day, we just have to come out with more energy and be better with the ball and I think we can beat anyone in the league.”

As the final minutes of the match ticked away, NCFC was unable to find a goal despite strong showings from second-half substitutes Marios Lomis and Daniele Proch. Birmingham saw out the 2-0 win to remain in first place in Group G.

Notes: 

• Between both teams, there were five yellow cards administered during the match.

• Former NCFC Youth Academy players DJ Taylor, Dre Fortune, Conor Donovan, and Manny Perez were all starters in tonight’s match. 

• NCFC took 11 corner kicks compared to Birmingham’s four. 

• Pecka was named the Coastal Credit Union Man of the Match.

Looking Ahead: North Carolina FC will face the Charleston Battery on Wednesday, August 19 at 7 p.m. ET at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary. 

Box Score:

NC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Alex Comsia (Graham Smith, 84’), Sam Brotherton, Conor Donovan, D.J. Taylor; Manny Perez, Pecka (Nazmi Albadawi, 74’), Dre Fortune, Steven Miller © (Daniele Proch, 45’); Hadji Barry (Ben Speas, 69’), Robert Kristo (Marios Lomis, 75’)

Subs Not Used: Malik Mbaye, Paolo Pita

BHM (5-3-2): Matt VanOekel ©; Bolu Akinyode, Mikey Lopez, Jake Rufe, Alex Crognale, Jonathan Dean; Bruno Lapa (Brian Wright, 65’), Prosper Kasim, Eli Crognale; Neco Brett (Braxton Najib, 90’), Jaden Servania (Marcos Ugarte, 64’)

Subs Not Used: Ford Parker, Rudolf Mensah, Daigo Kobayashi

Score:

NC: 0

BHM: 2

Goals:

NC: —

BHM: Jaden Servania (Unassisted, 18’), Neco Brett (Unassisted, 21’)

Cautions:

NC: Conor Donovan (48’)

BHM: Alex Crognale (43’), Bolu Akinyode (46’), Matt Van Oekel (59’), Mikey Lopez (61’)

Ejections:

NC: —

BHM: —

Cary, NC (August 15, 2020) – Despite many attempts to even the score and four key saves made by Alex Tambakis, North Carolina FC fell to Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday night by a score of 2-0. The team’s loss was the first since the season restart on July 17. 

“We’ll learn from this game,” NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan said of the match. “We’ll take some of the positives, and then focus for a quick turnaround. We just have to take some of the good and bad and move on.” 

Birmingham began their attack early into the first half when midfielder Jalen Servania fired a shot off and a deflection from an NCFC defender resulted in the ball finding the back of the net. Birmingham took an early 1-0 advantage over the home team. 

Just three minutes later, a handball was called on Sam Brotherton in the NCFC box, resulting in a penalty kick for Birmingham. Neco Brett took the kick, notching Birmingham’s second goal of the night and extending their lead to 2-0. 

Eager to cut into Birmingham’s lead, NCFC worked to create scoring opportunities in the second half. In the 49th minute, Dre Fortune took a corner kick, lofting a ball that met the head of Conor Donovan. Donovan’s header sailed just wide of the goalpost, narrowly missing the net. 

As the second half wore on, NCFC continued to press Birmingham’s defense. In the 59th minute, a cross was played in from the right wing by Manny Perez to the feet of Robert Kristo who attempted to volley the cross into the net, only to witness his shot fall just wide and out of bounds. 

“When we play at a high tempo, and we really push ourselves and impose ourselves against another team, we’re almost impossible to play against,” said Nazmi Albadawi in a postgame interview. “At the end of the day, we just have to come out with more energy and be better with the ball and I think we can beat anyone in the league.”

As the final minutes of the match ticked away, NCFC was unable to find a goal despite strong showings from second-half substitutes Marios Lomis and Daniele Proch. Birmingham saw out the 2-0 win to remain in first place in Group G.

Notes: 

• Between both teams, there were five yellow cards administered during the match.

• Former NCFC Youth Academy players DJ Taylor, Dre Fortune, Conor Donovan, and Manny Perez were all starters in tonight’s match. 

• NCFC took 11 corner kicks compared to Birmingham’s four. 

• Pecka was named the Coastal Credit Union Man of the Match.

Looking Ahead: North Carolina FC will face the Charleston Battery on Wednesday, August 19 at 7 p.m. ET at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary. 

Box Score:

NC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Alex Comsia (Graham Smith, 84’), Sam Brotherton, Conor Donovan, D.J. Taylor; Manny Perez, Pecka (Nazmi Albadawi, 74’), Dre Fortune, Steven Miller © (Daniele Proch, 45’); Hadji Barry (Ben Speas, 69’), Robert Kristo (Marios Lomis, 75’)

Subs Not Used: Malik Mbaye, Paolo Pita

BHM (5-3-2): Matt VanOekel ©; Bolu Akinyode, Mikey Lopez, Jake Rufe, Alex Crognale, Jonathan Dean; Bruno Lapa (Brian Wright, 65’), Prosper Kasim, Eli Crognale; Neco Brett (Braxton Najib, 90’), Jaden Servania (Marcos Ugarte, 64’)

Subs Not Used: Ford Parker, Rudolf Mensah, Daigo Kobayashi

Score:

NC: 0

BHM: 2

Goals:

NC: —

BHM: Jaden Servania (Unassisted, 18’), Neco Brett (Unassisted, 21’)

Cautions:

NC: Conor Donovan (48’)

BHM: Alex Crognale (43’), Bolu Akinyode (46’), Matt Van Oekel (59’), Mikey Lopez (61’)

Ejections:

NC: —

BHM: —

Cary, NC (August 13, 2020)- North Carolina FC sits in second place in Group G going into Saturday’s match against Birmingham Legion FC at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7:00 p.m. NCFC looks to keep their two-game win streak alive as they continue in their 16-game season. The top two teams in each group of the USL will make it to the USL playoffs.

Most recently, North Carolina FC defeated Memphis 901 FC in the team’s first road win of the season. Akeem Ward scored the only goal in the 1-0 win. The goal was Ward’s first of his professional career and earned him a spot on the USL Team of the Week. Alex Tambakis secured his second clean sheet of the season and recorded five saves. The goalkeeper was named to the USL Team of the Week bench.

Dave Sarachan’s team is undefeated since they restarted the season on July 17. The last time around against Birmingham Legion FC, Dre Fortune scored to secure the NCFC win. An early red card given to Legion FC player Boluwatife Akinyode played a big difference in the match as Birmingham played a man down for just under 60 minutes.

“Birmingham certainly has a good sense of what we are about, and we have a good sense about what they are about,” said Sarachan. “We are playing against a good team that will be prepared to play and we have to be on our best to get the points we feel we can get at home.”

Birmingham Legion FC has played three matches since facing NCFC on August 1, earning seven points in the process. Legion FC has played three more games than NCFC since the restart. Most recently the team pulled off a comeback draw when Mikey Lopez scored an equalizer goal in the third minute of stoppage time against the Charlotte Independence on Wednesday.

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna

North Carolina FC- #1 Alex Tambakis

Tambakis doubled his season save count last match against Memphis 901 FC. The goalkeeper has two clean sheets, including one against Birmingham Legion FC. He will look for his third-consecutive clean sheet this match.

Birmingham Legion FC- #8 Bruno Lapa

Lapa is familiar with the area having played collegiately at Wake Forest from 2016-2019. The Brazilian has taken more shots than any of his teammates, scoring four goals so far in 2020. He also has two assists, proving to be a dangerous attacking playmaker.

Cary, NC (August 13, 2020)- North Carolina FC sits in second place in Group G going into Saturday’s match against Birmingham Legion FC at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7:00 p.m. NCFC looks to keep their two-game win streak alive as they continue in their 16-game season. The top two teams in each group of the USL will make it to the USL playoffs.

Most recently, North Carolina FC defeated Memphis 901 FC in the team’s first road win of the season. Akeem Ward scored the only goal in the 1-0 win. The goal was Ward’s first of his professional career and earned him a spot on the USL Team of the Week. Alex Tambakis secured his second clean sheet of the season and recorded five saves. The goalkeeper was named to the USL Team of the Week bench.

Dave Sarachan’s team is undefeated since they restarted the season on July 17. The last time around against Birmingham Legion FC, Dre Fortune scored to secure the NCFC win. An early red card given to Legion FC player Boluwatife Akinyode played a big difference in the match as Birmingham played a man down for just under 60 minutes.

“Birmingham certainly has a good sense of what we are about, and we have a good sense about what they are about,” said Sarachan. “We are playing against a good team that will be prepared to play and we have to be on our best to get the points we feel we can get at home.”

Birmingham Legion FC has played three matches since facing NCFC on August 1, earning seven points in the process. Legion FC has played three more games than NCFC since the restart. Most recently the team pulled off a comeback draw when Mikey Lopez scored an equalizer goal in the third minute of stoppage time against the Charlotte Independence on Wednesday.

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna

North Carolina FC- #1 Alex Tambakis

Tambakis doubled his season save count last match against Memphis 901 FC. The goalkeeper has two clean sheets, including one against Birmingham Legion FC. He will look for his third-consecutive clean sheet this match.

Birmingham Legion FC- #8 Bruno Lapa

Lapa is familiar with the area having played collegiately at Wake Forest from 2016-2019. The Brazilian has taken more shots than any of his teammates, scoring four goals so far in 2020. He also has two assists, proving to be a dangerous attacking playmaker.

Tampa, FL (August 11, 2020)- North Carolina FC defender Akeem Ward makes his first-ever USL Team of the Week appearance after scoring his first professional goal against Memphis 901 FC. The defender’s goal was the only of the match and helped NCFC secure a second-consecutive victory.

Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis was named to the Team of the Week Bench after five saves against Memphis and a second-consecutive shutout. NCFC defender DJ Taylor was named to the USL Team of the Week in Week 6.

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 7

GK – Eric De La Cerda, Reno 1868 FC: The 19-year-old recorded seven saves, including six on shots inside the penalty area and a crucial second-half penalty kick denial, to help Reno earn a 2-1 victory against Tacoma Defiance. 

D – Ish Jome, Austin Bold FC: Jome recorded two goals and one assist, completed 52 of 65 passes and made six recoveries to lead Austin to its first victory since the season resumption with a 4-1 win against Rio Grande Valley FC.

D – Akeem Ward, North Carolina FC: Ward scored the only goal of the game, made four interceptions and nine recoveries and completed 19 of 28 passes in NCFC’s 1-0 road victory against Memphis 901 FC.

D – Jonathan Dean, Birmingham Legion FC: Dean recorded a goal and assist, had three chances created and completed 51 of 56 passes overall while also winning 5 of 7 duels in Birmingham’s 4-1 victory against the Charlotte Independence.

M – Robbie Mertz, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: Mertz had two goals, recorded two chances created among 31 of 39 passes completed overall and won 8 of 12 duels in the Hounds’ 4-1 victory against the New York Red Bulls II.

M – Cristian Parano, San Antonio FC: Parano had one goal and one assist, recorded two chances created and six shots, and completed 12 of 12 passes overall in San Antonio’s 3-0 road victory against OKC Energy FC.

M – Jack McGlynn, Philadelphia Union II: McGlynn led the Union II to their first win of the season, recording one goal and one assist, four chances created, four interceptions and six recoveries while winning 4 of 4 duels.

M – Chapa Herrera, El Paso Locomotive FC: The local standout scored a pair of second-half goals and completed 35 of 37 passes as Locomotive FC got back on track with a 4-2 victory against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.

F – Junior Flemmings, Phoenix Rising FC: Flemmings recorded his first hat trick in the Championship in Phoenix’s 5-2 victory against New Mexico United, while also completing 12 of 15 passes overall.

F – Neco Brett, Birmingham Legion FC: Brett scored his first two goals for Legion FC, recorded four chances created and completed 29 of 39 passes overall as Legion FC swept to a 4-1 victory against the Charlotte Independence.

F – Alec Diaz, Tacoma Defiance: Diaz recorded two goals and one assist, had four shots on goal, complete 2 of 2 dribbles and had three chances created overall in Tacoma’s 4-0 victory against the Portland Timbers 2.

Bench: Alex Tambakis (NC), AJ Cochran (PHX), Hayden Sargis (SAC), Lewis Hilton (TBR) Uvaldo Luna (COS), Solomon Asante (PHX), Ropapa Mensah (PIT)

Tampa, FL (August 11, 2020)- North Carolina FC defender Akeem Ward makes his first-ever USL Team of the Week appearance after scoring his first professional goal against Memphis 901 FC. The defender’s goal was the only of the match and helped NCFC secure a second-consecutive victory.

Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis was named to the Team of the Week Bench after five saves against Memphis and a second-consecutive shutout. NCFC defender DJ Taylor was named to the USL Team of the Week in Week 6.

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 7

GK – Eric De La Cerda, Reno 1868 FC: The 19-year-old recorded seven saves, including six on shots inside the penalty area and a crucial second-half penalty kick denial, to help Reno earn a 2-1 victory against Tacoma Defiance. 

D – Ish Jome, Austin Bold FC: Jome recorded two goals and one assist, completed 52 of 65 passes and made six recoveries to lead Austin to its first victory since the season resumption with a 4-1 win against Rio Grande Valley FC.

D – Akeem Ward, North Carolina FC: Ward scored the only goal of the game, made four interceptions and nine recoveries and completed 19 of 28 passes in NCFC’s 1-0 road victory against Memphis 901 FC.

D – Jonathan Dean, Birmingham Legion FC: Dean recorded a goal and assist, had three chances created and completed 51 of 56 passes overall while also winning 5 of 7 duels in Birmingham’s 4-1 victory against the Charlotte Independence.

M – Robbie Mertz, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: Mertz had two goals, recorded two chances created among 31 of 39 passes completed overall and won 8 of 12 duels in the Hounds’ 4-1 victory against the New York Red Bulls II.

M – Cristian Parano, San Antonio FC: Parano had one goal and one assist, recorded two chances created and six shots, and completed 12 of 12 passes overall in San Antonio’s 3-0 road victory against OKC Energy FC.

M – Jack McGlynn, Philadelphia Union II: McGlynn led the Union II to their first win of the season, recording one goal and one assist, four chances created, four interceptions and six recoveries while winning 4 of 4 duels.

M – Chapa Herrera, El Paso Locomotive FC: The local standout scored a pair of second-half goals and completed 35 of 37 passes as Locomotive FC got back on track with a 4-2 victory against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.

F – Junior Flemmings, Phoenix Rising FC: Flemmings recorded his first hat trick in the Championship in Phoenix’s 5-2 victory against New Mexico United, while also completing 12 of 15 passes overall.

F – Neco Brett, Birmingham Legion FC: Brett scored his first two goals for Legion FC, recorded four chances created and completed 29 of 39 passes overall as Legion FC swept to a 4-1 victory against the Charlotte Independence.

F – Alec Diaz, Tacoma Defiance: Diaz recorded two goals and one assist, had four shots on goal, complete 2 of 2 dribbles and had three chances created overall in Tacoma’s 4-0 victory against the Portland Timbers 2.

Bench: Alex Tambakis (NC), AJ Cochran (PHX), Hayden Sargis (SAC), Lewis Hilton (TBR) Uvaldo Luna (COS), Solomon Asante (PHX), Ropapa Mensah (PIT)

Memphis, TN (August 8, 2020) – North Carolina FC defeated Memphis 901 FC by a score of 1-0 on Saturday night at Autozone Park in Memphis, earning their second win of the season. NCFC relied on a goal by Akeem Ward and a stellar performance from goalkeeper Alex Tambakis to secure the win, improving their record to 2-1-1. Ward’s goal was the first of his professional career. 

Ward scored the lone goal of the match for NCFC in the 38th minute, receiving a sliding pass from Pecka just outside the eighteen. Redirecting his touch towards the net, Ward curved a shot past Memphis goalkeeper Jimmy Hague and into the upper ninety to notch the first goal of his professional career, putting NCFC up 1-0 late into the first half. Several passes were linked together leading up to the goal, making it a true team effort with an excellent finish. Ward’s performance in tonight’s game earned him the honor of Coastal Credit Union’s Man of the Match. 

NCFC entered the second half hungry to create scoring opportunities. In the 53rd minute, DJ Taylor threaded a pass into the box and to the feet of Robert Kristo. Kristo attempted to redirect the ball into the left corner of the net, only for the redirection to fall just wide of the goal and out of bounds. 

Tambakis kept NCFC in the match, recording the clean sheet with a total of five saves. The clean sheet was Tambakis’ second consecutive, as he also kept Birmingham Legion FC scoreless on August 1. The goalkeeper has only allowed three goals on the season. 

Tonight’s win over Memphis 901 FC moves North Carolina FC into second place in Group G of the USL Championship League with 7 points. NCFC remains unbeaten since returning to play on July 17. 

Looking Ahead: North Carolina FC will return to WakeMed Soccer Park to face Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday, August 15 at 7:00 p.m. ET. 

Notes:

• Akeem Ward scored his first professional goal in the match. 

• Ward’s goal in the 38th minute marks the first time NCFC has scored in the first half this season. 

• Former NCFC Youth Academy players DJ Taylor, Dre Fortune, Conor Donovan, and Manny Perez were all starters in tonight’s match. 

• Marios Lomis made his season debut with NCFC after transferring from El Paso. 

Box Score:

MEM (4-3-3): Jimmy Hague; Rece Buckmaster, Mark Segbers, Tristan Hodge (Liam Doyle, 62’), Zach Carroll; Jean-Christophe Koffi (Michael Reed, 59’), Leston Paul ©, Duane Muckette (Cal Jennings, 79’); Keanu Marsh-Brown (Marc Burch, 80’), Brandon Allen, Rafael Mantzingen (Matthew Hundley, 45’)

Subs Not Used: Dan Metzger, Tim Howard

NC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Akeem Ward, Conor Donovan, Sam Brotherton, D.J. Taylor; Pecka (Ben Speas, 88’), Steven Miller © (Alex Comsia, 90+4), Dre Fortune (Graham Smith, 45’), Hadji Barry, Manny Perez (Daniele Proch, 45’); Robert Kristo (Marios Lomis, 84’)

Subs Not Used: Malick Mbaye, Paolo Pita

Score:

MEM: 0

NC: 1

Goals:

MEM: —

NC: Akeem Ward (Pecka, 38’)

Cautions:

MEM: Leston Paul (65’)

NC: Akeem Ward (15’), Dre Fortune (21’)

Ejections:

MEM: —

NC: —

Memphis, TN (August 8, 2020) – North Carolina FC defeated Memphis 901 FC by a score of 1-0 on Saturday night at Autozone Park in Memphis, earning their second win of the season. NCFC relied on a goal by Akeem Ward and a stellar performance from goalkeeper Alex Tambakis to secure the win, improving their record to 2-1-1. Ward’s goal was the first of his professional career. 

Ward scored the lone goal of the match for NCFC in the 38th minute, receiving a sliding pass from Pecka just outside the eighteen. Redirecting his touch towards the net, Ward curved a shot past Memphis goalkeeper Jimmy Hague and into the upper ninety to notch the first goal of his professional career, putting NCFC up 1-0 late into the first half. Several passes were linked together leading up to the goal, making it a true team effort with an excellent finish. Ward’s performance in tonight’s game earned him the honor of Coastal Credit Union’s Man of the Match. 

NCFC entered the second half hungry to create scoring opportunities. In the 53rd minute, DJ Taylor threaded a pass into the box and to the feet of Robert Kristo. Kristo attempted to redirect the ball into the left corner of the net, only for the redirection to fall just wide of the goal and out of bounds. 

Tambakis kept NCFC in the match, recording the clean sheet with a total of five saves. The clean sheet was Tambakis’ second consecutive, as he also kept Birmingham Legion FC scoreless on August 1. The goalkeeper has only allowed three goals on the season. 

Tonight’s win over Memphis 901 FC moves North Carolina FC into second place in Group G of the USL Championship League with 7 points. NCFC remains unbeaten since returning to play on July 17. 

Looking Ahead: North Carolina FC will return to WakeMed Soccer Park to face Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday, August 15 at 7:00 p.m. ET. 

Notes:

• Akeem Ward scored his first professional goal in the match. 

• Ward’s goal in the 38th minute marks the first time NCFC has scored in the first half this season. 

• Former NCFC Youth Academy players DJ Taylor, Dre Fortune, Conor Donovan, and Manny Perez were all starters in tonight’s match. 

• Marios Lomis made his season debut with NCFC after transferring from El Paso. 

Box Score:

MEM (4-3-3): Jimmy Hague; Rece Buckmaster, Mark Segbers, Tristan Hodge (Liam Doyle, 62’), Zach Carroll; Jean-Christophe Koffi (Michael Reed, 59’), Leston Paul ©, Duane Muckette (Cal Jennings, 79’); Keanu Marsh-Brown (Marc Burch, 80’), Brandon Allen, Rafael Mantzingen (Matthew Hundley, 45’)

Subs Not Used: Dan Metzger, Tim Howard

NC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Akeem Ward, Conor Donovan, Sam Brotherton, D.J. Taylor; Pecka (Ben Speas, 88’), Steven Miller © (Alex Comsia, 90+4), Dre Fortune (Graham Smith, 45’), Hadji Barry, Manny Perez (Daniele Proch, 45’); Robert Kristo (Marios Lomis, 84’)

Subs Not Used: Malick Mbaye, Paolo Pita

Score:

MEM: 0

NC: 1

Goals:

MEM: —

NC: Akeem Ward (Pecka, 38’)

Cautions:

MEM: Leston Paul (65’)

NC: Akeem Ward (15’), Dre Fortune (21’)

Ejections:

MEM: —

NC: —