News

North Carolina FC U-23 Retains PDL South Atlantic Lead Despite Loss to SC United Bantams

CARY, N.C. (June 12, 2018) –North Carolina FC U-23 ended up on the wrong side of a 3-2 result on Tuesday night at WakeMed Soccer Park, falling to SC United Bantams in a non-conference matchup. Despite the loss, NCFC U-23 remains at the top of the PDL’s South Atlantic standings.

NCFC U-23 dominated the possession and chances early on, going up 2-0 after 15 minutes of play. To open the scoring, David Cuperman slipped past the Bantams’ defense and slotted a ball in the corner to give NCFC the lead in the seventh minute.

It didn’t take long for NCFC U-23 to double its lead as Tressor Mbuyu scored in the 15th minute. Mbuyu collected a pass from Ian Bennett and quickly fired a shot that caught the SC United Bantams' goalkeeper off guard.

Down two goals early, South Carolina's leading goal scorer Marek Weber took it upon himself to bring his team back level. Weber tapped in a cross at the near post in the 23rd minute for his team's first goal. He added the equalizing tally off a penalty kick in the 45th minute.

With the score tied at 2-2, both teams came out of the half looking to find a game winner. NCFC U-23’s closest attempt came from a header in the box that grazed the outside of the post in the 60th minute.

The match looked set to end in a draw, but it would be South Carolina who walked away with the victory. In the 88th minute, Mitchell Myers’ left-footed blast ripped through a crowded NCFC U-23 box and found the back corner of the net to shock the home side and clinch the victory for SC United Bantams.

Up Next:
NCFC U-23 returns to action at Pomoco Stadium in Newport News, Va., to take on Lionsbridge FC on Saturday, June 16, at 7 p.m. ET.

Notes:
NCFC U-23’s Caleb Duvernay, Nick Retzlaff, and George Marks all came up through the NCFC Youth Academy. Additionally, Ian Bennet, Casey Brady, Dean Rutherford and Chase Rhode played in the youth ranks with either Triangle Futbol Club Alliance or Capital Area Soccer League, predecessors to NCFC Youth.

NCFC U-23 came in to today’s match having won three of the last four and riding a five-game unbeaten streak, dating back to early May.

Box Score:

Lineups:
NCFC U-23: George Marks; Caleb Duvernay, Chase Rhode ©, Walid Yacudou, Ryeong Choi, Ian Bennet, Nick Retzlaff, David Cuperman (David Mejia, 80’), Alex Moztazadeh (Sheriff Secka, 68’), Tresor Mbuyu, Jelani Pieters (Dean Rutherford, 46’)

Subs not used: Colton Dutches, Casey Brady, Nacho Lerech, Miles Stray

SC: Ian McGrane; Swann Vincent, Mitchell Myers, Daniel Bent ©, Jack Shiels, Harrison Roberts, JB Meyniel (Salar Fayar, 70’), Cooper Nugent, Grayson Barber (Keegan Burton), Marek Weber (Ben Gilligan, 80’), Edmundo Robinson

Subs not used: Kyle Ferguson, Liam Ireland, Justin Sukow, Davis Bryan

Score:
SC: 3
NCFC U-23: 2

Goals:
SC: Marek Weber (unassisted, 23’), (PK, 45’), Mitchell Myers (unassisted, 88’)
NCFC U-23: David Cuperman (unassisted, 7’), Tressor Mbuyu (Ian Bennett, 15’)

Cautions:
SC: —
NCFC U-23: David Cuperman 77’

Ejections:
SC: —
NCFC U-23: —

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CARY, N.C. (June 12, 2018) –North Carolina FC U-23 ended up on the wrong side of a 3-2 result on Tuesday night at WakeMed Soccer Park, falling to SC United Bantams in a non-conference matchup. Despite the loss, NCFC U-23 remains at the top of the PDL’s South Atlantic standings.

NCFC U-23 dominated the possession and chances early on, going up 2-0 after 15 minutes of play. To open the scoring, David Cuperman slipped past the Bantams’ defense and slotted a ball in the corner to give NCFC the lead in the seventh minute.

It didn’t take long for NCFC U-23 to double its lead as Tressor Mbuyu scored in the 15th minute. Mbuyu collected a pass from Ian Bennett and quickly fired a shot that caught the SC United Bantams’ goalkeeper off guard.

Down two goals early, South Carolina’s leading goal scorer Marek Weber took it upon himself to bring his team back level. Weber tapped in a cross at the near post in the 23rd minute for his team’s first goal. He added the equalizing tally off a penalty kick in the 45th minute.

With the score tied at 2-2, both teams came out of the half looking to find a game winner. NCFC U-23’s closest attempt came from a header in the box that grazed the outside of the post in the 60th minute.

The match looked set to end in a draw, but it would be South Carolina who walked away with the victory. In the 88th minute, Mitchell Myers’ left-footed blast ripped through a crowded NCFC U-23 box and found the back corner of the net to shock the home side and clinch the victory for SC United Bantams.

Up Next:
NCFC U-23 returns to action at Pomoco Stadium in Newport News, Va., to take on Lionsbridge FC on Saturday, June 16, at 7 p.m. ET.

Notes:
NCFC U-23’s Caleb Duvernay, Nick Retzlaff, and George Marks all came up through the NCFC Youth Academy. Additionally, Ian Bennet, Casey Brady, Dean Rutherford and Chase Rhode played in the youth ranks with either Triangle Futbol Club Alliance or Capital Area Soccer League, predecessors to NCFC Youth.

NCFC U-23 came in to today’s match having won three of the last four and riding a five-game unbeaten streak, dating back to early May.

Box Score:

Lineups:
NCFC U-23: George Marks; Caleb Duvernay, Chase Rhode ©, Walid Yacudou, Ryeong Choi, Ian Bennet, Nick Retzlaff, David Cuperman (David Mejia, 80’), Alex Moztazadeh (Sheriff Secka, 68’), Tresor Mbuyu, Jelani Pieters (Dean Rutherford, 46’)

Subs not used: Colton Dutches, Casey Brady, Nacho Lerech, Miles Stray

SC: Ian McGrane; Swann Vincent, Mitchell Myers, Daniel Bent ©, Jack Shiels, Harrison Roberts, JB Meyniel (Salar Fayar, 70’), Cooper Nugent, Grayson Barber (Keegan Burton), Marek Weber (Ben Gilligan, 80’), Edmundo Robinson

Subs not used: Kyle Ferguson, Liam Ireland, Justin Sukow, Davis Bryan

Score:
SC: 3
NCFC U-23: 2

Goals:
SC: Marek Weber (unassisted, 23’), (PK, 45’), Mitchell Myers (unassisted, 88’)
NCFC U-23: David Cuperman (unassisted, 7’), Tressor Mbuyu (Ian Bennett, 15’)

Cautions:
SC: —
NCFC U-23: David Cuperman 77’

Ejections:
SC: —
NCFC U-23: —

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North Carolina FC Readies for Home Test Against Ottawa Fury FC

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS. OTTAWA FURY FC
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13 – 7 PM ET

DIGITAL: ESPN+
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, #NCvOTT

CARY, N.C. (June 12, 2018) –North Carolina FC is set for another important match with a midweek test against Ottawa Fury FC on Wednesday, June 13 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, providing the team the opportunity to gain ground in the playoff race in front of its home fans.

NCFC battled Ottawa Fury FC to a 1-1 draw away from home in the first meeting of the season between the two teams. Daniel Rios scored in the first half, but Ottawa found the net near the end of the match to take a point from the contest.

Ottawa has been in strong form, only dropping one result in its last seven matches. The visitors went undefeated in the month of May and have picked up key victories over Penn FC, Atlanta United 2, Bethlehem Steel FC and Toronto FC II in its recent run of form. During its hot streak, Ottawa’s defense has been a catalyst and only allowed one goal.

NCFC will look to test the stout Ottawa defense with a team that is playing well, but still searching for results. Despite strong play against Bethlehem Steel FC and FC Cincinnati, the club has found itself on the wrong side of the last two results and will aim to bounce back with a victory tonight.

Last Time Out:
NCFC fell to a tough FC Cincinnati squad by a 2-0 score last Saturday night. A back-and-forth first half saw FC Cincinnati take a 1-0 lead into the break. NCFC pushed for an equalizer throughout the second half before Cincinnati eventually secured the win in the 87th minute with a second goal.

Players to Watch:
#8 Steevan Dos Santos
Dos Santos, the club’s leading scorer last season, is off to a productive start in 2018. The forward once again leads Ottawa Fury in goals, having scored three goals in 10 appearances this season. Dos Santos has been a consistent threat in front of goal for Ottawa since joining the team for its first season in the USL in 2017 when he broke the club’s single season goal-scoring record with 10 goals.

#16 Graham Smith
The rookie midfielder has started in all 11 USL matches for NCFC in 2018. Smith’s 984 minutes played rank him near the top of the squad. Smith has been calm on the ball with an 87.3-percent passing accuracy, while also leading the team with 30 tackles. His steadiness in front of the NCFC back line has been a welcomed addition to the midfield in his first season with the club.

Coming Up Next:
NCFC will hit the road to face Nashville SC on Saturday, June 16 at 8:30 p.m. The team will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park for Pride Night when Louisville City FC comes to town on Saturday, June 23 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

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North Carolina FC Edged by FC Cincinnati 2-0

CARY, N.C. (June 9, 2018) – North Carolina FC held its own against the league leaders, but ultimately fell 2-0 to FC Cincinnati Saturday night at Sahlen's Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.

“We played some good stuff – passed it, moved it against a good team – and opened them up, created chances,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “In front of goal, we weren’t good enough tonight. In front of our goal, we weren’t good enough in big moments, and that’s the difference in the game right there.”

NCFC dominated the early proceedings in terms of possession and chances created. In the opening 15 minutes, NCFC recorded five shots, with the best opportunities coming on a Marcel Kandziora effort in the fourth minute from the top of the 18-yard box, and a strike from Donovan Ewolo in the 15th minute.

Despite an excellent save by goalkeeper Alex Tambakis on a shot by Russell Cicerone, the visitors opened the scoring in the 37th minute, as Danni Konig tracked down the rebound and headed it in.

Right before the conclusion of the first half, NCFC nearly equalized through an on-target header by Daniel Rios that came thanks to a curling cross from Steven Miller, but the Mexican forward saw his effort turned away at the last second by Cincinnati goalkeeper Evan Newton.

Out of the halftime break, NCFC was on the front foot and got into a rhythm offensively, often getting creative in the final third and putting Cincinnati’s defense under pressure.

Off of a partially cleared corner kick in the 63rd minute, Graham Smith played in a precise cross that fell to Ewolo, whose one-timer rolled just wide of the left post.

It was that type of night for NCFC, which consistently threatened but never could find the back of the net despite putting itself in positions to do so. In the 83rd minute, it was Rios who once again knocked on the door, this time with a pace-filled effort that was turned away by Newton.

Cincinnati added one final goal in the 87th minute from Jimmy McLaughlin as the second-half sub collected a rebound and tapped in the goal from a few yards out to bring the game to its final score.

Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home as it welcomes Ottawa Fury FC to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Wednesday, June 13 at 7 p.m. The night will bring an early start to Father’s Day, with a ticket special that includes a dad hat available for purchase. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

Game Changer:
Rios’ last great chance, the 83rd-minute sizzler, nearly brought NCFC even against the Eastern Conference’s top team. However, Newton managed to get in front of it, as NCFC once again almost found a way past the Cincinnati goalkeeper.

Key Stat:
NCFC outshot Cincinnati 20-12.

Notes:
– The team Cincinnati fielded was full of connections to Raleigh and NCFC. The most obvious one, former NCFC standout Nazmi Albadawi started for the visitors in his first trip back to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, his home park for the first four seasons of his professional career. Raleigh native and Needham Broughton High School alum, Forrest Lasso, also earned a start at center back for Cincinnati, and former NCFC U-23 standout and Wake Forest star Corben Bone came on as a second-half substitute.

– Midfielder Kyle Bekker and forward Marios Lomis each entered the game as substitutes in the 63rd minute. Midfielder Tiyi Shipalane came on as NCFC’s final sub in the 79th minute.

– Forward Daniel Rios led NCFC with three shots on target.

Box Score:

Lineups:

NCFC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Connor Tobin, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz © (Tiyi Shipalane, 79’), Marcel Kandziora (Kyle Bekker,65’), Graham Smith, Steven Miller; Daniel Rios, Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 65’)

Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Dre Fortune, Aaron Guillen, Wuilito Fernandes

CIN (4-4-2): Evan Newton; Justin Hoyte, Paddy Barrett, Forrest Lasso, Blake Smith; Richie Ryan ©, Mike Lahoud (Corben Bone, 61’), Russell Cicerone (Jimmy McLaughlin, 74’), Nazmi Albadawi; Emmanuel Ledesma, Danni Konig (Emery Welshman, 82’)

Subs not used: Mark Village, Matt Bahner, Sam De Wit, Will Saymore

Score:
NCFC: 0
CIN: 2

Goals:
NCFC:
CIN: Danni Konig (Unassisted, 36’), Jimmy McLaughlin (Unassisted, 87’)

Cautions:
NCFC: —
CIN: Emmanuel Ledesma 26’, Danni Konig 53’, Justin Hoyte 72’

Ejections:
NCFC: —
CIN:–

Attendance: 4,039

###

CARY, N.C. (June 9, 2018) – North Carolina FC held its own against the league leaders, but ultimately fell 2-0 to FC Cincinnati Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.

“We played some good stuff – passed it, moved it against a good team – and opened them up, created chances,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “In front of goal, we weren’t good enough tonight. In front of our goal, we weren’t good enough in big moments, and that’s the difference in the game right there.”

NCFC dominated the early proceedings in terms of possession and chances created. In the opening 15 minutes, NCFC recorded five shots, with the best opportunities coming on a Marcel Kandziora effort in the fourth minute from the top of the 18-yard box, and a strike from Donovan Ewolo in the 15th minute.

Despite an excellent save by goalkeeper Alex Tambakis on a shot by Russell Cicerone, the visitors opened the scoring in the 37th minute, as Danni Konig tracked down the rebound and headed it in.

Right before the conclusion of the first half, NCFC nearly equalized through an on-target header by Daniel Rios that came thanks to a curling cross from Steven Miller, but the Mexican forward saw his effort turned away at the last second by Cincinnati goalkeeper Evan Newton.

Out of the halftime break, NCFC was on the front foot and got into a rhythm offensively, often getting creative in the final third and putting Cincinnati’s defense under pressure.

Off of a partially cleared corner kick in the 63rd minute, Graham Smith played in a precise cross that fell to Ewolo, whose one-timer rolled just wide of the left post.

It was that type of night for NCFC, which consistently threatened but never could find the back of the net despite putting itself in positions to do so. In the 83rd minute, it was Rios who once again knocked on the door, this time with a pace-filled effort that was turned away by Newton.

Cincinnati added one final goal in the 87th minute from Jimmy McLaughlin as the second-half sub collected a rebound and tapped in the goal from a few yards out to bring the game to its final score.

Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home as it welcomes Ottawa Fury FC to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Wednesday, June 13 at 7 p.m. The night will bring an early start to Father’s Day, with a ticket special that includes a dad hat available for purchase. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

Game Changer:
Rios’ last great chance, the 83rd-minute sizzler, nearly brought NCFC even against the Eastern Conference’s top team. However, Newton managed to get in front of it, as NCFC once again almost found a way past the Cincinnati goalkeeper.

Key Stat:
NCFC outshot Cincinnati 20-12.

Notes:
– The team Cincinnati fielded was full of connections to Raleigh and NCFC. The most obvious one, former NCFC standout Nazmi Albadawi started for the visitors in his first trip back to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, his home park for the first four seasons of his professional career. Raleigh native and Needham Broughton High School alum, Forrest Lasso, also earned a start at center back for Cincinnati, and former NCFC U-23 standout and Wake Forest star Corben Bone came on as a second-half substitute.

– Midfielder Kyle Bekker and forward Marios Lomis each entered the game as substitutes in the 63rd minute. Midfielder Tiyi Shipalane came on as NCFC’s final sub in the 79th minute.

– Forward Daniel Rios led NCFC with three shots on target.

Box Score:

Lineups:

NCFC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Connor Tobin, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz © (Tiyi Shipalane, 79’), Marcel Kandziora (Kyle Bekker,65’), Graham Smith, Steven Miller; Daniel Rios, Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 65’)

Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Dre Fortune, Aaron Guillen, Wuilito Fernandes

CIN (4-4-2): Evan Newton; Justin Hoyte, Paddy Barrett, Forrest Lasso, Blake Smith; Richie Ryan ©, Mike Lahoud (Corben Bone, 61’), Russell Cicerone (Jimmy McLaughlin, 74’), Nazmi Albadawi; Emmanuel Ledesma, Danni Konig (Emery Welshman, 82’)

Subs not used: Mark Village, Matt Bahner, Sam De Wit, Will Saymore

Score:
NCFC: 0
CIN: 2

Goals:
NCFC:
CIN: Danni Konig (Unassisted, 36’), Jimmy McLaughlin (Unassisted, 87’)

Cautions:
NCFC: —
CIN: Emmanuel Ledesma 26’, Danni Konig 53’, Justin Hoyte 72’

Ejections:
NCFC: —
CIN:–

Attendance: 4,039

###

North Carolina FC Gears Up for Home Showdown Against FC Cincinnati

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS. FC CINCINNATI
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
SATURDAY, JUNE 9 – 7 PM ET

TV: WRAL2
RADIO: 1550 AM, 99.9 HD3
DIGITAL: ESPN+
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, #NCvCIN

CARY, N.C. (June 8, 2018) – North Carolina FC’s 2018 USL schedule continues with Our State Our Club Night against FC Cincinnati on Saturday, June 9 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Our State Our Club Night will celebrate the great state of North Carolina and offer plenty of exciting promotions surrounding the game.

“The club has made a real effort to unite the soccer community in this area,” said NCFC co-captain Austin da Luz. “To have a night to celebrate that is going to be a lot of fun. I think that’s what makes the club so special, that we are such a big family. To get the crowd in here and celebrate that family as we play one of the top teams in the league is going to be awesome.”

North Carolina FC and FC Cincinnati both enter the match after difficult exits from the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Despite brave efforts from both USL sides, MLS opposition prevailed in penalties to end Open Cup runs for both teams. NCFC fell to D.C. United 1-1 (4-3 PKs), while FC Cincinnati was topped 0-0 (3-1 PKs) by Minnesota United.

Heading back to USL play, North Carolina FC will look to return to its fine home form that it has relied on this season. The club has won four of its last five at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, outscoring opposition 15-3 during the run.

NCFC will rely on the friendly confines of its stadium against the USL’s Eastern Conference leader in Cincinnati. The visitors come to Cary for the first time ever with an away record of 5W-1T-1L.

Cincinnati will also bring a roster loaded with North Carolina ties, including former NCFC players, Nazmi Albadawi and Lance Laing, as well as former NCFC U-23 player Corben Bone and Raleigh native Forrest Lasso. Raleigh natives Albadawi and Lasso grew up playing local soccer in the area and both played for organizations that are now a part of NCFC’s youth-to-pro ladder.

Last Time Out:
NCFC saw its 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run come to an end in a hard-fought loss against D.C. United in the fourth round of the tournament. Forward Marios Lomis continued his strong goal-scoring form as he found the back of the net in the 83rd minute to bring NCFC even in the match. After neither side could find a winner in extra time, the match ended in heartbreaking fashion for NCFC, falling 4-3 on penalties.

Players to Watch:
#5 Nazmi Albadawi
The Raleigh native joined FC Cincinnati for the 2018 season after spending the first four seasons of his professional career with NCFC. Albadawi ranks amongst the best in club history for NCFC, as he sits fifth in matches played with 121, sixth in minutes with 10,139, fifth in goals with 21, and second in assists with 18. The FC Cincinnati midfielder has continued that production in his first season with the club, scoring three goals in six appearances thus far, including two against NCFC in the first meeting of the series.

#13 Connor Tobin
Tobin has once again emerged as an important piece of the NCFC backline following his return from injury on May 16. The defender, who ranks among the club’s all-time leaders in minutes played and overall appearances, brings a tremendous amount of experience and stability to a defense that will look to slow down a dangerous attacking unit in FC Cincinnati.

Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home as it welcomes Ottawa Fury FC to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Wednesday, June 13 at 7 p.m. The night will bring an early start to Father’s Day, with a ticket special that includes a dad hat available for purchase. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

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North Carolina FC Fallsto D.C. United in Open CupPenaltiesHeartbreaker

BOYDS, Md. (June 5, 2018) – North Carolina FC took MLS side D.C. United to five rounds of penalty kicks, after 120 minutes left the teams locked at 1-1 in the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. However, it would be D.C. United who advanced to the Round of 16 with a 1-1 (4-3 PKs) result on Tuesday night at the Maryland SoccerPlex.

Despite a valiant effort that pushed D.C. United to the brink, NCFC’s Open Cup run ended against an MLS side for the third straight year.

A slow first half played out with United capitalizing on its best opportunity of the half. Ian Harkes, a Wake Forest University standout, scored the opening goal in the 25th minute after pouncing on a loose ball in the box.

D.C. maintained its advantage until NCFC’s attack came alive in the second half. The visitors had a flurry of chances go just wide before the Open Cup magic returned to the side.

In the 83rd minute, Marios Lomis produced the clinical shot NCFC was looking for and equalized with a side volley from 18 yards out. The Dutchman capitalized on a poor clearance from D.C. and controlled the ball before sending a strong shot through a crowded box and into the back of the net. The goal marked his third Open Cup goal of the season and sixth across all competitions in 2018.

The teams traded blows during two 15-minute extra time periods, but neither could find the winner, which sent the match to penalties.

D.C. United took an advantage into the third round of penalties after Kyle Bekker’s shot was saved. United held that advantage throughout the shootout and extended its control after Peabo Doue’s shot hit the crossbar.

A missed shot from Harkes and a well-placed attempt from NCFC’s Connor Tobin kept NCFC alive for the final kick of the match. However, D.C.’s Bruno Miranda stepped up and converted the final penalty to send his side to the next round.

Up Next:
NCFC will return home and resume league action on Saturday, June 9, when it hosts FC Cincinnati at 7 p.m. ET at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

Notes:
The matchup was the first ever meeting between the two sides.

NCFC advanced to play an MLS team for the third year in a row and the 14th time in club history in the competition.

NCFC went to penalties in the Open Cup against an MLS side for just the second time. The team advanced past Chivas USA 1-1 (3-2 PKs) in the fourth round of the competition in 2014.

Marios Lomis scored his third U.S. Open Cup goal and sixth goal of the season with an equalizer in the 83rd minute.

Box Score:
NCFC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Aaron Guillen, Connor Tobin ©, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz (Wuilito Fernandes, 108’), Graham Smith, Dre Fortune (Marcel Kandziora, 60’), Kyle Bekker, Tiyi Shipalane (Daniel Rios, 77’); Marios Lomis

Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Michael Harrington, Cameron Steele

DC (4-1-4-1): David Ousted; Joseph Mora, Steven Birnbaum ©, Jalen Robinson, Oniel Fisher; Chris Durkin (Luciano Acosta, 72’); Yamil Asad, Ian Harkes, Paul Arriola (Junior Moreno, 61’), Bruno Miranda; Dane Kelly (Darren Mattocks, 85’)

Subs not used: Travis Worra, Frederic Brillant, Patrick Mullins, Jared Jeffrey

Score:
NCFC: 1
DC: 1 (4-3 on PKs)

Goals:
NCFC: Marios Lomis (Unassisted, 83’)
DC: Ian Harkes (Unassisted, 25’)

Penalties:
NCFC: D.C. United:
Daniel Rios: Made Yamil Asad: Made
Kyle Bekker: Missed Darren Mattocks: Made
Marios Lomis: Made Luciano Acosta: Made
Peabo Doue: Missed Ian Harkes: Missed
Connor Tobin: Made Bruno Miranda: Made

Cautions:
NCFC: Marcel Kandziora 109’, Graham Smith 120’
DC: Ian Harkes 80’

Ejections:
NCFC: —
DC: —

Attendance: 3,118

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North Carolina FC Fallsto D.C. United in Open CupPenaltiesHeartbreaker

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NCFCs Open Cup Journey Continues Against D.C. United

MATCHDAY INFO:
D.C. UNITED VS. NORTH CAROLINA FC
MARYLAND SOCCERPLEX, BOYDS, MD.
TUESDAY, JUNE 5 – 7 PM ET

WATCH: USSOCCER.COM
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, #DCvNC

CARY, N.C. (June 4, 2018) – North Carolina FC will resume 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup action on Tuesday when it travels to face Major League Soccer’s D.C. United in the fourth round of the competition at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md. at 7 p.m.

Since first participating in the Open Cup in 2007, NCFC has earned six victories against MLS opponents, but has yet to face D.C. United.

NCFC earned the chance to play D.C. United by picking up a pair of home victories in the second and third rounds. On May 16, NCFC earned a 3-0 win against Lansdowne Bhoys FC, one of the nation’s top amateur teams, thanks to goals from defender Connor Tobin, forward Marios Lomis and midfielder Bernhard Luxbacher.

In the third round, NCFC scored a season-best four goals in a 4-1 win against the Ocean City Nor’easters, a PDL side which defeated the Charlotte Independence in second-round action. Lomis, midfielder Austin da Luz, midfielder Dre Fortune and forward Donovan Ewolo each netted in the win, NCFC’s 21st all-time victory in the Open Cup.

Tuesday’s match will be D.C. United’s first in this year’s Open Cup, as all MLS sides enter in the fourth round. In 2017, D.C. United defeated Christos FC 4-1 in the fourth round before exiting in the Round of 16 with a 2-1 loss against the New England Revolution. Since 1996, D.C. United has won three Open Cup titles, most recently in 2013 against Real Salt Lake.

Ten matches into its league slate, D.C. United occupies 11th place in the MLS’ Eastern Conference and has a record of 2W-5L-3D.

Last Time Out:
NCFC saw a four-match home winning streak come to a close with a 2-1 loss against Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Left back Peabo Doue scored a first-half goal in the match.

Players to Watch:

NCFC – #9 Marios Lomis
The 23-year-old striker has enjoyed a good run of form recently, scoring four goals in his last five matches. Against Lansdowne Bhoys, Lomis found the back of the net right before the halftime break to put NCFC up by two goals, and he followed that effort up with a one-goal, one-assist performance against Ocean City in the third round. Against D.C. United, the 6’2” Dutchman could use his height and physicality to make an impact up front for NCFC.

D.C. United – #11 Darren Mattocks
On a personal level, Mattocks’ time with D.C. United has gotten off to a dream start. After playing for, but not consistently starting with, the Portland Timbers in the 2016-17 seasons, Mattocks has made the most of consistent playing time in D.C. Through nine matches, Mattocks leads his team with five goals, which matches his scoring output in 43 matches with Portland. In order to have a successful outing on Tuesday, NCFC will undoubtedly have to contain the 27-year-old Jamaican international.

Coming Up Next:
NCFC will return home and resume league action on Saturday, June 9, when it hosts FC Cincinnati at 7 p.m. ET at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

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NCFCs Open Cup Campaign Hits the Road for D.C. United

In the past, North Carolina FC’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup triumphs against MLS clubs have all come at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Now NCFC has the opportunity to show its worth against MLS competition on the road. Head Coach Colin Clarke’s team travels up the East Coast to take on D.C. United in the fourth round of the Open Cup on Tuesday and is ready to fight for the club’s first ever victory against an MLS side away from home.

Since first playing in the competition in 2007, NCFC is 21-10 all time in the Open Cup, with six of those wins coming against MLS clubs in Cary. The upcoming match will be NCFC’s first away from home against MLS competition since it faced Real Salt Lake in the 2012 quarterfinals.

“Open Cup’s always been a fun competition for us,” Clarke said. “Now, it’s one of the first times we’ve gone on the road against an MLS team since Real Salt Lake. It’s going to be tough.”

However, the upcoming journey to Boyds, Md., comes at a good time for NCFC, which has won four of its last six games, a run that includes second and third-round Open Cup wins against Lansdowne Bhoys (3-0) and the Ocean City Nor’easters (4-1).

Following NCFC’s victory against the Nor’easters in May, co-captain Austin da Luz said he was looking forward to the possibility of hosting an MLS side in the competition. While the fourth-round draw resulted in a road match for NCFC, da Luz is still excited about what’s at stake.

“It’ll be great,” he said. “Anytime you get to play against a team from MLS it’s a treat, and we’re just looking to prove that we can play at that level.”

On a personal level, one of da Luz’s teammates is eager to show that he, too, can shine against a high level of competition.

In his first year with NCFC, Dutch striker Marios Lomis has been on a tear recently, scoring four goals in his last five games. Between USL and Open Cup competition, Lomis is averaging a goal every 66.4 minutes of action in his first season with the club.

“That’s obviously a good feeling for a striker,” he said. “So, I’m finding my rhythm, getting more minutes – obviously that’s what I want – and we’re getting into a good rhythm with the team, so that’s good.”

The NCFC target man is now hoping to make a similar impact against D.C. United.

“Personally for me, first year as a professional in the States, I’m very curious about how our level is against an MLS team,” Lomis said. “I hope they bring their good players. I’m really excited for it.”

The matchup also gives da Luz the opportunity to face one of his former clubs. In 2011, da Luz made 14 appearances and five starts for D.C. United.

“For me personally, it will be cool to play against them having spent a little bit of time there,” da Luz said. “So, it’ll be fun. We’re all looking forward to it.”

In the past, North Carolina FC’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup triumphs against MLS clubs have all come at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.

The matchup also gives da Luz the opportunity to face one of his former clubs. In 2011, da Luz made 14 appearances and five starts for D.C. United.

“For me personally, it will be cool to play against them having spent a little bit of time there,” da Luz said. “So, it’ll be fun. We’re all looking forward to it.”

NCFC U-23 Earns Rivalry Win Over Tobacco Road FC

CARY, N.C. (June 2, 2018) – North Carolina FC U-23 won its second game in a row with a 2-1 rivalry victory over Tobacco Road FC in PDL action on Saturday night. Jelani Pieters added late-game heroics, scoring the game winner in the 89th minute.

The victory was the second straight win for the team and moves NCFC U-23 to eight points and second place in the South Atlantic Standings. The match also featured a plethora of North Carolina talent on the field. In total, 10 NCFC Youth Academy products featured in the lineups for the Triangle rivals.

The match had two different weather delays spanning nearly two hours. Once the teams were underway following the delays, the action started quickly with Tobacco Road FC’s Delasi Batse scoring in the 15th minute. NCFC U-23 responded just 11 minutes later as Shariff Secka scored for the second match in a row to equalize off an assist from Dean Rutherford.

The teams played out an intense match, while trading chances on both sides. With time winding down, Jelani Pieters – making his season debut – scored the deciding goal in the 89th minute. Pieters finished off a header from Alex Moztarzadeh's cross for the win.

Notes:
North Carolina Football Club’s deeply rooted youth-to-pro pipeline was once again showcased in the club’s latest match as four NCFC Youth Academy products (Caleb Duvernay, Jamil Gracia, George Marks, Nick Retzlaff) and three TFCA/CASL (now NCFC Youth) products (Chase Rhode, Dean Rutherford and Clayton Sparks) all featured in the lineup.

TRFC also featured a roster loaded with former NCFC ties. Brad Ruhaak – a member of NCFC in 2017, started for Tobacco Road. Former NCFC U-23 players Fernando Castellanos and Alex Comsia also played. Additionally, NCFC Youth Academy products, Ryan Cretens, Dylan Chain, Kellen Foster, Delasi Batse, Ben Fisher and Huntley Munn were all in the lineup for TRFC.

Shariff Secka scored his second goal of the year off an assist from Dean Rutherford.

Jelani Pieters made his season debut and scored the game winner with a strike in the 89th minute off an assist from Alex Moztarzadeh.

Box Score:

Lineups:
NCFC U-23: George Marks; Caleb Duvernay, Walid Yacoubou, Chase Rhode ©, Ryeong Choi; David Cuperman (Alex Moztarzadeh, 46’), Nick Retzlaff, Keegan Kelly (Jamil Gracia, 90’+2), Shariff Secka (David Mejia, 61’); Clayton Sparks, Dean Rutherford (Jelani Pieters, 76’)

Subs not used: Colton Dutches, Miles Stray, Nacho Lerech

TRFC: Ryan Cretens; Dylan Chain, Brad Ruhaak, Kellen Foster, Delasi Batse (Vincente Gallardo, 72’); Mauricio Pineda (Tommaso D’agostino, 83’), Fernando Castellanos; Javier Alcarria, Ben Fisher, Oscar Moreno (Alex Comsia, 46’); Taff Wadda

Subs not used: Zac Scott, Joaquin Del Rosario, Huntley Munn, Marshall Hodge

Score:
NCFC U-23: 2
TRFC: 1

Goals:
NCFC U-23: Shariff Secka (Dean Rutherford, 26’), Jelani Pieters (Alex Moztarzadeh, 89’)
TRFC: Delasi Batse (Unassisted, 15’)

Cautions:
NCFC U-23: Walid Yacoubou 74’
TRFC: —

Ejections:
NCFC U-23: —
TRFC: —

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CARY, N.C. (June 2, 2018) – North Carolina FC U-23 won its second game in a row with a 2-1 rivalry victory over Tobacco Road FC in PDL action on Saturday night. Jelani Pieters added late-game heroics, scoring the game winner in the 89th minute.

The victory was the second straight win for the team and moves NCFC U-23 to eight points and second place in the South Atlantic Standings. The match also featured a plethora of North Carolina talent on the field. In total, 10 NCFC Youth Academy products featured in the lineups for the Triangle rivals.

The match had two different weather delays spanning nearly two hours. Once the teams were underway following the delays, the action started quickly with Tobacco Road FC’s Delasi Batse scoring in the 15th minute. NCFC U-23 responded just 11 minutes later as Shariff Secka scored for the second match in a row to equalize off an assist from Dean Rutherford.

The teams played out an intense match, while trading chances on both sides. With time winding down, Jelani Pieters – making his season debut – scored the deciding goal in the 89th minute. Pieters finished off a header from Alex Moztarzadeh’s cross for the win.

Notes:
North Carolina Football Club’s deeply rooted youth-to-pro pipeline was once again showcased in the club’s latest match as four NCFC Youth Academy products (Caleb Duvernay, Jamil Gracia, George Marks, Nick Retzlaff) and three TFCA/CASL (now NCFC Youth) products (Chase Rhode, Dean Rutherford and Clayton Sparks) all featured in the lineup.

TRFC also featured a roster loaded with former NCFC ties. Brad Ruhaak – a member of NCFC in 2017, started for Tobacco Road. Former NCFC U-23 players Fernando Castellanos and Alex Comsia also played. Additionally, NCFC Youth Academy products, Ryan Cretens, Dylan Chain, Kellen Foster, Delasi Batse, Ben Fisher and Huntley Munn were all in the lineup for TRFC.

Shariff Secka scored his second goal of the year off an assist from Dean Rutherford.

Jelani Pieters made his season debut and scored the game winner with a strike in the 89th minute off an assist from Alex Moztarzadeh.

Box Score:

Lineups:
NCFC U-23: George Marks; Caleb Duvernay, Walid Yacoubou, Chase Rhode ©, Ryeong Choi; David Cuperman (Alex Moztarzadeh, 46’), Nick Retzlaff, Keegan Kelly (Jamil Gracia, 90’+2), Shariff Secka (David Mejia, 61’); Clayton Sparks, Dean Rutherford (Jelani Pieters, 76’)

Subs not used: Colton Dutches, Miles Stray, Nacho Lerech

TRFC: Ryan Cretens; Dylan Chain, Brad Ruhaak, Kellen Foster, Delasi Batse (Vincente Gallardo, 72’); Mauricio Pineda (Tommaso D’agostino, 83’), Fernando Castellanos; Javier Alcarria, Ben Fisher, Oscar Moreno (Alex Comsia, 46’); Taff Wadda

Subs not used: Zac Scott, Joaquin Del Rosario, Huntley Munn, Marshall Hodge

Score:
NCFC U-23: 2
TRFC: 1

Goals:
NCFC U-23: Shariff Secka (Dean Rutherford, 26’), Jelani Pieters (Alex Moztarzadeh, 89’)
TRFC: Delasi Batse (Unassisted, 15’)

Cautions:
NCFC U-23: Walid Yacoubou 74’
TRFC: —

Ejections:
NCFC U-23: —
TRFC: —

###

North Carolina FC Falls Late to Bethlehem Steel FC 2-1

CARY, N.C. (June 2, 2018) – North Carolina FC saw its four-match home winning streak come to a close Saturday evening as it ended up on the wrong side of a 2-1 result against Bethlehem Steel FC at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park despite controlling much of the action.

“Bitterly disappointed,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “We’ve done a lot of very, very good things. Particularly in the first half, I thought we moved [the ball] when we passed it – some of our passing was very, very good. In a one-nil there’s always that opportunity [to give up a goal]. We didn’t do a good enough job of getting ourselves organized for the last 15 minutes of the game.”

The night started off well for NCFC, as Clarke’s team continued its trend of scoring early. NCFC opened up the scoring in the 16th minute, thanks to left back Peabo Doue’s first goal for the club. Positioned near the back post as midfielder Kyle Bekker sent in a corner kick, Doue saw the ball roll past a bevy of bodies before finishing from just a few yards out.

Bekker’s assist was his sixth of the season, a team-high.

Right out of the halftime break, Alex Tambakis, who had a relatively quiet night up to that point thanks to his defense, came up with an important save in the 48th minute. As Bethlehem’s Chris Nanco broke through for a one-on-one scoring opportunity, Tambakis alertly came flying off of his line and deflected the shot away.

After NCFC closely missed out on multiple opportunities to go ahead by two goals, Bethlehem Steel FC equalized in the 83rd minute on a goal from defender Ben Ofeimu. Two minutes later, the visitors added a second goal as midfielder Michee Ngalina scored from close range.

Up Next:
NCFC will attempt to prolong its Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run when it travels to face D.C. United at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md., in the fourth round of the competition Tuesday night at 7 p.m. NCFC will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to host FC Cincinnati on Saturday, June 9 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

Game Changer:
Ahead 1-0 and in control of the match, NCFC nearly doubled its advantage in the 55th minute thanks to Bekker, who stepped into a strong shot from the top of the 18-yard box. His effort had a considerable amount of power behind it, but went straight into the arms of Bethlehem goalkeeper Jake McGuire, as NCFC nearly picked up a crucial second goal.

Key Stat:
In a game that NCFC controlled for the first 80-plus minutes, NCFC outshout Bethlehem 18-8.

Notes:
– For the third consecutive game, NCFC scored within the opening 20 minutes.
– Center back Connor Tobin made his first USL start of the season.
– Midfielder Kyle Bekker has now recorded at least one assist in five of his last six games.
– The match was the first ever between the two teams.
– Forward Marios Lomis, midfielder Dre Fortune and midfielder Tiyi Shipalane each appeared as substitutes for NCFC.

Box Score:

NCFC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Connor Tobin, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz ©, Marcel Kandziora (Tiyi Shipalane, 87’), Graham Smith, Kyle Bekker; Daniel Rios (Dre Fortune, 80'), Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 68’)

Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Aaron Guillen, Wuilito Fernandes, Cameron Steele

BST (4-2-3-1): Jake McGuire; Matt Real, Brandon Aubrey, Ben Ofeimu, Matt Mahoney; James Chambers ©, Adam Najem, Santi Moar, Fabian Herbers (Drew Skundrich, 61’), Michee Ngalina (Mike Catalano, 90+’); Aidan Apodaca (Chris Nanco, 45+’)

Subs not used: Prosper Chiluya, AJ Paterson,

Score:
NCFC: 1
BST: 2

Goals:
NCFC: Peabo Doue (Kyle Bekker, 16’)
BST: Ben Ofeimu (Santi Moar, 83’), Michee Ngalina (Santi Moar, 85’)

Cautions:
NCFC: Connor Tobin 57’, Michael Harrington 67’, Austin da Luz 89’
BST: Adam Najem 25’,

Ejections:
NCFC: —
BST: —

Attendance: 3,526

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CARY, N.C. (June 2, 2018) – North Carolina FC saw its four-match home winning streak come to a close Saturday evening as it ended up on the wrong side of a 2-1 result against Bethlehem Steel FC at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park despite controlling much of the action.

“Bitterly disappointed,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “We’ve done a lot of very, very good things. Particularly in the first half, I thought we moved [the ball] when we passed it – some of our passing was very, very good. In a one-nil there’s always that opportunity [to give up a goal]. We didn’t do a good enough job of getting ourselves organized for the last 15 minutes of the game.”

The night started off well for NCFC, as Clarke’s team continued its trend of scoring early. NCFC opened up the scoring in the 16th minute, thanks to left back Peabo Doue’s first goal for the club. Positioned near the back post as midfielder Kyle Bekker sent in a corner kick, Doue saw the ball roll past a bevy of bodies before finishing from just a few yards out.

Bekker’s assist was his sixth of the season, a team-high.

Right out of the halftime break, Alex Tambakis, who had a relatively quiet night up to that point thanks to his defense, came up with an important save in the 48th minute. As Bethlehem’s Chris Nanco broke through for a one-on-one scoring opportunity, Tambakis alertly came flying off of his line and deflected the shot away.

After NCFC closely missed out on multiple opportunities to go ahead by two goals, Bethlehem Steel FC equalized in the 83rd minute on a goal from defender Ben Ofeimu. Two minutes later, the visitors added a second goal as midfielder Michee Ngalina scored from close range.

Up Next:
NCFC will attempt to prolong its Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run when it travels to face D.C. United at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md., in the fourth round of the competition Tuesday night at 7 p.m. NCFC will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to host FC Cincinnati on Saturday, June 9 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

Game Changer:
Ahead 1-0 and in control of the match, NCFC nearly doubled its advantage in the 55th minute thanks to Bekker, who stepped into a strong shot from the top of the 18-yard box. His effort had a considerable amount of power behind it, but went straight into the arms of Bethlehem goalkeeper Jake McGuire, as NCFC nearly picked up a crucial second goal.

Key Stat:
In a game that NCFC controlled for the first 80-plus minutes, NCFC outshout Bethlehem 18-8.

Notes:
– For the third consecutive game, NCFC scored within the opening 20 minutes.
– Center back Connor Tobin made his first USL start of the season.
– Midfielder Kyle Bekker has now recorded at least one assist in five of his last six games.
– The match was the first ever between the two teams.
– Forward Marios Lomis, midfielder Dre Fortune and midfielder Tiyi Shipalane each appeared as substitutes for NCFC.

Box Score:

NCFC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Connor Tobin, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz ©, Marcel Kandziora (Tiyi Shipalane, 87’), Graham Smith, Kyle Bekker; Daniel Rios (Dre Fortune, 80′), Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 68’)

Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Aaron Guillen, Wuilito Fernandes, Cameron Steele

BST (4-2-3-1): Jake McGuire; Matt Real, Brandon Aubrey, Ben Ofeimu, Matt Mahoney; James Chambers ©, Adam Najem, Santi Moar, Fabian Herbers (Drew Skundrich, 61’), Michee Ngalina (Mike Catalano, 90+’); Aidan Apodaca (Chris Nanco, 45+’)

Subs not used: Prosper Chiluya, AJ Paterson,

Score:
NCFC: 1
BST: 2

Goals:
NCFC: Peabo Doue (Kyle Bekker, 16’)
BST: Ben Ofeimu (Santi Moar, 83’), Michee Ngalina (Santi Moar, 85’)

Cautions:
NCFC: Connor Tobin 57’, Michael Harrington 67’, Austin da Luz 89’
BST: Adam Najem 25’,

Ejections:
NCFC: —
BST: —

Attendance: 3,526

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