News Collector

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.

 

###

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.

 

###

CARY, N.C. (March 18, 2019) – North Carolina FC forward Yamikani Chester has been called up to the Malawi National Team for an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Morocco on Friday, March 22 at 9 a.m. ET.
 
Chester departed for Malawi following NCFC's 1-0 victory over Bethlehem Steel FC and will return to the club following the international match. 
 
The teams will meet in Malawi at Kamuzu Stadium in the final group stage match of the competition. Malawi currently sits in fourth place with four points, while Morocco leads the group with 10 points. 
 
Chester is quickly developing into a standout forward for the Malawi National Team, and has started the last three matches of the AFCON qualifiers.
 
North Carolina FC will return home to host a Friendship Cup doubleheader on Saturday. The NC Courage will host 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. Tickets can be purchased here.

###

CARY, N.C. (March 18, 2019) – North Carolina FC forward Yamikani Chester has been called up to the Malawi National Team for an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Morocco on Friday, March 22 at 9 a.m. ET.
 
Chester departed for Malawi following NCFC’s 1-0 victory over Bethlehem Steel FC and will return to the club following the international match. 
 
The teams will meet in Malawi at Kamuzu Stadium in the final group stage match of the competition. Malawi currently sits in fourth place with four points, while Morocco leads the group with 10 points. 
 
Chester is quickly developing into a standout forward for the Malawi National Team, and has started the last three matches of the AFCON qualifiers.
 
North Carolina FC will return home to host a Friendship Cup doubleheader on Saturday. The NC Courage will host 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. Tickets can be purchased here.

###

CHESTER, Penn. (March 16, 2019) – North Carolina FC rolled to a 1-0 shutout victory at Talen Energy Stadium over Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday night. The victory keeps NCFC perfect on the season with a 2-0-0 record and at the top of the USL Championship Eastern Conference standings. 
 
The shutout was the first for the team since a 1-0 victory over Penn FC on Sept. 16, 2018. Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis made two saves to earn the shutout, while NCFC’s backline repelled Bethlehem all night long. 
 
The teams played out a scoreless first half. Marios Lomis nearly broke the deadlock when he earned a penalty in stoppage time. However, his shot was saved, as was his follow up attempt with tremendous effort from Bethlehem goalkeeper Carlos Coronel.
 
It didn’t take long from the restart for Lomis to make up for his first-half miss. In the 51st minute, Steven Miller flicked a ball over the Bethlehem backline to the waiting Lomis. The forward hit a beautiful half volley into the back of the net for his second goal in as many games. Miller recorded his first assist of the season.
 
NCFC had its share of chances throughout the rest of the match, but excellent goalkeeping from Coronel kept NCFC from doubling the lead, including a point blank save on a shot from Ben Speas in the 71st minute.
 
Bethlehem Steel had its best opportunities of the night late in the contest. The home side pressed NCFC hard for an equalizer in the closing minutes, but a few half chances in the box and a missed opportunity from a cross were as close as the side would come to scoring.
 
NCFC closed out the final minutes of play with clinical results, keeping the ball near the corner flag until the final whistle.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will return home to feature in a Friendship Cup doubleheader on Saturday, March 23. The NC Courage will host 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. Tickets can be purchased here. 
 
Notes:
NCFC Head Coach Dave Sarachan made no changes to his opening day starting XI, while Graham Smith and Darrin MacLeod appeared on the bench for the first time this season. Smith made his season debut, subbing on in the 90th minute.
 
Marios Lomis scored the opening goal for his second tally in as many games, while Steven Miller recorded an assist on the goal, his first of the season.
 
Alex Tambakis secured a shutout in net, making two saves on the night.
 
The result is NCFC’s first away shutout win since a 1-0 victory at Penn FC on Sept. 16, 2018.
 
Box Score:
Lineups:
BST (4-4-2): Carlos Coronel; Matt Real, Topey Jamoi, Benjamin Ofeimu, Nathan Harriel; Zachary Zandi, James Chambers ©, Willis Chavany, Turner Cole (Steve Kingue, 76’); Jack De Vries (Anges Bohui, 62’), Issa Rayyan
 
Subs not used: Saed Diaz, Walter Cortes, Tomas Romero, Faris Pemi Moumbagna
 
NCFC (4-3-2-1): Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Donovan Ewolo, Tommy McCabe, Steven Miller (Yamikami Chester, 77’); Austin da Luz © (Graham Smith, 90’), Ben Speas; Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 68’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Manny Perez, Victor Igbekoyi, Dre Fortune
 
Score:
BST: 0
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
BST: —
NCFC: Marios Lomis (Steven Miller, 51’)
                                                                                                                                                                       
Cautions:
BST: —
NCFC: Aaron Guillen 63’
 
Ejections:
BST: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance: 737

 

 ###

CHESTER, Penn. (March 16, 2019) – North Carolina FC rolled to a 1-0 shutout victory at Talen Energy Stadium over Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday night. The victory keeps NCFC perfect on the season with a 2-0-0 record and at the top of the USL Championship Eastern Conference standings. 
 
The shutout was the first for the team since a 1-0 victory over Penn FC on Sept. 16, 2018. Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis made two saves to earn the shutout, while NCFC’s backline repelled Bethlehem all night long. 
 
The teams played out a scoreless first half. Marios Lomis nearly broke the deadlock when he earned a penalty in stoppage time. However, his shot was saved, as was his follow up attempt with tremendous effort from Bethlehem goalkeeper Carlos Coronel.
 
It didn’t take long from the restart for Lomis to make up for his first-half miss. In the 51st minute, Steven Miller flicked a ball over the Bethlehem backline to the waiting Lomis. The forward hit a beautiful half volley into the back of the net for his second goal in as many games. Miller recorded his first assist of the season.
 
NCFC had its share of chances throughout the rest of the match, but excellent goalkeeping from Coronel kept NCFC from doubling the lead, including a point blank save on a shot from Ben Speas in the 71st minute.
 
Bethlehem Steel had its best opportunities of the night late in the contest. The home side pressed NCFC hard for an equalizer in the closing minutes, but a few half chances in the box and a missed opportunity from a cross were as close as the side would come to scoring.
 
NCFC closed out the final minutes of play with clinical results, keeping the ball near the corner flag until the final whistle.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will return home to feature in a Friendship Cup doubleheader on Saturday, March 23. The NC Courage will host 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. Tickets can be purchased here. 
 
Notes:
NCFC Head Coach Dave Sarachan made no changes to his opening day starting XI, while Graham Smith and Darrin MacLeod appeared on the bench for the first time this season. Smith made his season debut, subbing on in the 90th minute.
 
Marios Lomis scored the opening goal for his second tally in as many games, while Steven Miller recorded an assist on the goal, his first of the season.
 
Alex Tambakis secured a shutout in net, making two saves on the night.
 
The result is NCFC’s first away shutout win since a 1-0 victory at Penn FC on Sept. 16, 2018.
 
Box Score:
Lineups:
BST (4-4-2): Carlos Coronel; Matt Real, Topey Jamoi, Benjamin Ofeimu, Nathan Harriel; Zachary Zandi, James Chambers ©, Willis Chavany, Turner Cole (Steve Kingue, 76’); Jack De Vries (Anges Bohui, 62’), Issa Rayyan
 
Subs not used: Saed Diaz, Walter Cortes, Tomas Romero, Faris Pemi Moumbagna
 
NCFC (4-3-2-1): Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Donovan Ewolo, Tommy McCabe, Steven Miller (Yamikami Chester, 77’); Austin da Luz © (Graham Smith, 90’), Ben Speas; Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 68’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Manny Perez, Victor Igbekoyi, Dre Fortune
 
Score:
BST: 0
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
BST: —
NCFC: Marios Lomis (Steven Miller, 51’)
                                                                                                                                                                       
Cautions:
BST: —
NCFC: Aaron Guillen 63’
 
Ejections:
BST: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance: 737

 

 ###

Matchday Info:
North Carolina FC at Bethlehem Steel FC
Saturday, March 23 – 7:30 p.m.
Talen Energy Stadium
 
Broadcast:
Digital: ESPN+ (Link: https://es.pn/2W1SbLG)
Live Updates: @NorthCarolinaFC #BSTvNC
 
CARY, N.C. (March 15, 2019) –North Carolina FC is set to face Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Talen Energy Stadium in Chester, Penn. NCFC enters the match full of confidence following a season-opening 4-1 victory over Louisville City FC. 
 
NCFC will look to its attackers for scoring. Marios Lomis, Donovan Ewolo and Robbie Kristo all netted goals in the season opener. Although the season is young, NCFC enters the match on top of the table (on goal difference) and with three in-form strikers.
 
Around the rest of the squad, NCFC debuted a young, but impressive backline last weekend. The average age of the four defenders was just 22.5 years old, but the group stood resolute to deny Louisville until the end of the match. Newcomers Ben Speas (one assist) and Tommy McCabe (one goal) had noteworthy impacts, while the veteran leadership of Austin da Luz and Steven Miller was also on display.
 
The first away test comes against a tough opponent. Bethlehem Steel FC is connected to MLS side Philadelphia Union and regularly uses MLS reserves and Academy players to fill out its roster, providing an unpredictable group to prepare against. The Steel started the season on a strong note, downing expansion side Birmingham Legion 2-0 on the road. 
 
Last season, Bethlehem got the best of North Carolina FC, picking up a 2-1 win in Cary and a 1-1 draw in Bethlehem. In the final meeting of the regular season, Graham Smith threw himself in front of a goal-bound shot from Bethlehem’s James Chambers on the final play to save a point for NCFC. 
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC rolled to a 4-1 victory over Louisville in the season opener, toppling the two-time defending USL Cup Champions. The win marked Dave Sarachan’s debut, while the opening day roster had an average age of just 24 years old.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 31 Steven Miller
The midfielder will likely check off a bucket list item when he plays a professional match at Talen Energy Stadium. The Elkins Park, Penn., native grew up nearby and even interned with the Philadelphia Union in 2010. On Saturday, a large contingent of Steven Miller supporters, including friends and family will be in the stands to cheer him on.
 
Bethlehem Steel FC – No. 45 James Chambers
Chambers is a regular for Bethlehem and impacts much of what the club does in the midfield and going forward. The 32-year-old native of Ireland has been with Bethlehem since 2016 and scored 12 goals and recorded two assists. He didn’t score in his side’s 2019 opener over Birmingham, but he’s always a threat to impact the game.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will return home to feature in a Friendship Cup doubleheader on Saturday, March 23. The NC Courage will host 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. Tickets can be purchased here. 

 ###

Matchday Info:
North Carolina FC at Bethlehem Steel FC
Saturday, March 23 – 7:30 p.m.
Talen Energy Stadium
 
Broadcast:
Digital: ESPN+ (Link: https://es.pn/2W1SbLG)
Live Updates: @NorthCarolinaFC #BSTvNC
 
CARY, N.C. (March 15, 2019) –North Carolina FC is set to face Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Talen Energy Stadium in Chester, Penn. NCFC enters the match full of confidence following a season-opening 4-1 victory over Louisville City FC. 
 
NCFC will look to its attackers for scoring. Marios Lomis, Donovan Ewolo and Robbie Kristo all netted goals in the season opener. Although the season is young, NCFC enters the match on top of the table (on goal difference) and with three in-form strikers.
 
Around the rest of the squad, NCFC debuted a young, but impressive backline last weekend. The average age of the four defenders was just 22.5 years old, but the group stood resolute to deny Louisville until the end of the match. Newcomers Ben Speas (one assist) and Tommy McCabe (one goal) had noteworthy impacts, while the veteran leadership of Austin da Luz and Steven Miller was also on display.
 
The first away test comes against a tough opponent. Bethlehem Steel FC is connected to MLS side Philadelphia Union and regularly uses MLS reserves and Academy players to fill out its roster, providing an unpredictable group to prepare against. The Steel started the season on a strong note, downing expansion side Birmingham Legion 2-0 on the road. 
 
Last season, Bethlehem got the best of North Carolina FC, picking up a 2-1 win in Cary and a 1-1 draw in Bethlehem. In the final meeting of the regular season, Graham Smith threw himself in front of a goal-bound shot from Bethlehem’s James Chambers on the final play to save a point for NCFC. 
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC rolled to a 4-1 victory over Louisville in the season opener, toppling the two-time defending USL Cup Champions. The win marked Dave Sarachan’s debut, while the opening day roster had an average age of just 24 years old.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 31 Steven Miller
The midfielder will likely check off a bucket list item when he plays a professional match at Talen Energy Stadium. The Elkins Park, Penn., native grew up nearby and even interned with the Philadelphia Union in 2010. On Saturday, a large contingent of Steven Miller supporters, including friends and family will be in the stands to cheer him on.
 
Bethlehem Steel FC – No. 45 James Chambers
Chambers is a regular for Bethlehem and impacts much of what the club does in the midfield and going forward. The 32-year-old native of Ireland has been with Bethlehem since 2016 and scored 12 goals and recorded two assists. He didn’t score in his side’s 2019 opener over Birmingham, but he’s always a threat to impact the game.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will return home to feature in a Friendship Cup doubleheader on Saturday, March 23. The NC Courage will host 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. Tickets can be purchased here. 

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CARY, N.C. (March 15, 2019) – Caleb Duvernay has signed a professional contract with North Carolina FC, pending league and federation approval. Duvernay had a successful preseason trial with the club prior to signing a contract.
 
The Cary, N.C., native is a homegrown player in the truest sense. Duvernay is the first player in club history to play for NCFC Youth Academy, play for NCFC U-23 and sign a professional contract with the first team.
 
"We're pleased to add Caleb to our roster as he represents another local athlete to join our club,” said North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “Having him in with us during pre-season, Caleb has earned his way onto our roster through his hard work and quality. With the addition of Caleb to our roster, he offers us depth and balance to our backline."
 
Duvernay has been a part of NCFC Youth since he started playing soccer as a child. His prowess led him to NCFC Youth Academy and he enjoyed a successful youth career. Duvernay earned 2013 Development Academy 15/16 Starting XI honors and participated with the U-15 and U-17 U.S. Youth National Team Residency Program. 
 
Following his youth career, Duvernay joined NC State where he made 67 appearances, played 3,123 minutes, scored two goals and recorded seven assists as a four-year starter. During the summers, Duvernay was a standout performer with NCFC U-23 for four-straight seasons from 2015-2018.
 
At the end of his collegiate career, the defender was drafted by the Portland Timbers with the 61st pick in the 2018 MLS Superdraft. Duvernay trained in Portland during the MLS preseason before he rejoined NCFC U-23.
 
To see the full list of NCFC’s 2019 roster, click here.
 
North Carolina FC will face Bethlehem Steel FC at Talen Energy Stadium in Chester, Penn., on Saturday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. The team will return home to feature in a Friendship Cup doubleheader the following Saturday. The NC Courage will host 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. Tickets can be purchased here. 
 
Player Profile:
Name: Caleb Duvernay
Position: Defender
Birthdate: 07/24/1996 (Age: 22)
Hometown: Cary, N.C. 
College: NC State
Height: 5’7
Weight: 165 lbs

 
 ###

CARY, N.C. (March 15, 2019) – Caleb Duvernay has signed a professional contract with North Carolina FC, pending league and federation approval. Duvernay had a successful preseason trial with the club prior to signing a contract.
 
The Cary, N.C., native is a homegrown player in the truest sense. Duvernay is the first player in club history to play for NCFC Youth Academy, play for NCFC U-23 and sign a professional contract with the first team.
 
“We’re pleased to add Caleb to our roster as he represents another local athlete to join our club,” said North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “Having him in with us during pre-season, Caleb has earned his way onto our roster through his hard work and quality. With the addition of Caleb to our roster, he offers us depth and balance to our backline.”
 
Duvernay has been a part of NCFC Youth since he started playing soccer as a child. His prowess led him to NCFC Youth Academy and he enjoyed a successful youth career. Duvernay earned 2013 Development Academy 15/16 Starting XI honors and participated with the U-15 and U-17 U.S. Youth National Team Residency Program. 
 
Following his youth career, Duvernay joined NC State where he made 67 appearances, played 3,123 minutes, scored two goals and recorded seven assists as a four-year starter. During the summers, Duvernay was a standout performer with NCFC U-23 for four-straight seasons from 2015-2018.
 
At the end of his collegiate career, the defender was drafted by the Portland Timbers with the 61st pick in the 2018 MLS Superdraft. Duvernay trained in Portland during the MLS preseason before he rejoined NCFC U-23.
 
To see the full list of NCFC’s 2019 roster, click here.
 
North Carolina FC will face Bethlehem Steel FC at Talen Energy Stadium in Chester, Penn., on Saturday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. The team will return home to feature in a Friendship Cup doubleheader the following Saturday. The NC Courage will host 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. Tickets can be purchased here. 
 
Player Profile:
Name: Caleb Duvernay
Position: Defender
Birthdate: 07/24/1996 (Age: 22)
Hometown: Cary, N.C. 
College: NC State
Height: 5’7
Weight: 165 lbs

 
 ###

TAMPA, Fla. (March 12, 2019)– North Carolina FC midfielder Tommy McCabe was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week for Week 1 of the 2019 season. McCabe made his professional debut and scored the game-winning goal in North Carolina FC’s 4-1 victory over Louisville City FC. Additionally, Marios Lomis, who recorded one goal and one assist, was named to the bench for the Team of the Week.
 
North Carolina FC will face Bethlehem Steel FC at Talen Energy Stadium in Chester, Penn., on Saturday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. The team will return home to feature in a Friendship Cup doubleheader the following Saturday. The NC Courage will host 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. Tickets can be purchased here. 
 
USL Championship Team of the Week
GK – Brendan Moore, ATL UTD 2:Moore recorded a six-save shutout as Atlanta opened its season with a 2-0 victory against Hartford Athletic.
 
D – Phanuel Kavita, Saint Louis FC:Kavita scored the game-tying goal and recorded six clearances as STLFC rallied for victory against Indy Eleven.
 
D – PapéDiakité, Tampa Bay Rowdies: The center back recorded 13 clearances, won 11 of 12 duels and 8 of 9 aerial duels as the Rowdies earned a road shutout in Memphis.
 
D – Alex Cooper, Fresno FC: Cooper recorded the assist on the Foxes’ goal, finished with three key passes overall and won 3 of 4 duels in Fresno’s 1-1 draw with New Mexico.
 
M – Zach Zandi, Bethlehem Steel FC: Zandi scored the second goal in Steel FC’s victory against Birmingham while also completing 37 of 42 passes in his professional debut.
 
M – Tommy McCabe, North Carolina FC: McCabe notched what proved to be the winner on his professional debut in NCFC’s 4-1 win against Louisville and completed 30 of 34 passes overall.
 
M – Shane Malcolm, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC:Malcolm recorded the first hat trick of the 2019 season as the Switchbacks swept to a 4-1 win against the LA Galaxy II
 
M – Billy Forbes, San Antonio FC: Forbes scored a fine goal, recorded two key passes and completed 12 of 14 passes overall in SAFC’s 3-3 draw with Phoenix Rising FC.
 
F – Tom Barlow, New York Red Bulls II:Barlow struck twice as the Red Bulls II opened the season with a 3-1 win against the Swope Park Rangers
 
F – Deshorn Brown, OKC Energy FC:Brown scored the second-fastest goal in Championship history after just 12 seconds, then added a second in a 3-1 win against El Paso Locomotive FC.
 
F – Devon Sandoval, New Mexico United:Albuquerque native Sandoval scored the first goal in New Mexico’s history as the expansion side earned a 1-1 draw with Fresno FC.
 
Bench: David Ochoa (SLC), Jordan Burt (COS), Matt LaGrassa (NSH), Marcus Epps (NY), Shandon Hopeau (TAC), Marios Lomis (NC), Junior Flemmings (PHX)

###

TAMPA, Fla. (March 12, 2019)– North Carolina FC midfielder Tommy McCabe was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week for Week 1 of the 2019 season. McCabe made his professional debut and scored the game-winning goal in North Carolina FC’s 4-1 victory over Louisville City FC. Additionally, Marios Lomis, who recorded one goal and one assist, was named to the bench for the Team of the Week.
 
North Carolina FC will face Bethlehem Steel FC at Talen Energy Stadium in Chester, Penn., on Saturday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. The team will return home to feature in a Friendship Cup doubleheader the following Saturday. The NC Courage will host 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. Tickets can be purchased here. 
 
USL Championship Team of the Week
GK – Brendan Moore, ATL UTD 2:Moore recorded a six-save shutout as Atlanta opened its season with a 2-0 victory against Hartford Athletic.
 
D – Phanuel Kavita, Saint Louis FC:Kavita scored the game-tying goal and recorded six clearances as STLFC rallied for victory against Indy Eleven.
 
D – PapéDiakité, Tampa Bay Rowdies: The center back recorded 13 clearances, won 11 of 12 duels and 8 of 9 aerial duels as the Rowdies earned a road shutout in Memphis.
 
D – Alex Cooper, Fresno FC: Cooper recorded the assist on the Foxes’ goal, finished with three key passes overall and won 3 of 4 duels in Fresno’s 1-1 draw with New Mexico.
 
M – Zach Zandi, Bethlehem Steel FC: Zandi scored the second goal in Steel FC’s victory against Birmingham while also completing 37 of 42 passes in his professional debut.
 
M – Tommy McCabe, North Carolina FC: McCabe notched what proved to be the winner on his professional debut in NCFC’s 4-1 win against Louisville and completed 30 of 34 passes overall.
 
M – Shane Malcolm, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC:Malcolm recorded the first hat trick of the 2019 season as the Switchbacks swept to a 4-1 win against the LA Galaxy II
 
M – Billy Forbes, San Antonio FC: Forbes scored a fine goal, recorded two key passes and completed 12 of 14 passes overall in SAFC’s 3-3 draw with Phoenix Rising FC.
 
F – Tom Barlow, New York Red Bulls II:Barlow struck twice as the Red Bulls II opened the season with a 3-1 win against the Swope Park Rangers
 
F – Deshorn Brown, OKC Energy FC:Brown scored the second-fastest goal in Championship history after just 12 seconds, then added a second in a 3-1 win against El Paso Locomotive FC.
 
F – Devon Sandoval, New Mexico United:Albuquerque native Sandoval scored the first goal in New Mexico’s history as the expansion side earned a 1-1 draw with Fresno FC.
 
Bench: David Ochoa (SLC), Jordan Burt (COS), Matt LaGrassa (NSH), Marcus Epps (NY), Shandon Hopeau (TAC), Marios Lomis (NC), Junior Flemmings (PHX)

###