News

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS. BETHLEHEM STEEL FC
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
SATURDAY, JUNE 2 – 7 PM ET
 
TV: WRAL2
RADIO: 1550 AM, 99.9 HD3
DIGITAL: ESPN+
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, #NCvBST
 
CARY, N.C. (June 1, 2018) –  North Carolina FC enters the weekend on form with four consecutive home victories, while outscoring opponents 14-1 during the stretch. That form will be tested against Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match is presented by Aetna.
 
With goals of moving up the table, NCFC has another golden opportunity to gain points in the playoff race in front of its home fans. A victory could push the team up to eighth place in the USL’s Eastern Conference Standings.
 
NCFC will look for the victory behind an offense that has been on fire in recent weeks, netting at least three goals in each of its last four home matches. The goals have come from eight different goal scorers. That attack has given the club six points from its last three USL games and helped NCFC advance to the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup – where the team will travel to face D.C. United on Tuesday, June 5 at 7 p.m.
 
The offense will be put to the test against a Bethlehem side that has struggled away from home. Bethlehem Steel FC has secured just three points from five away matches this season. The visitors also enter the match coming off a 1-0 loss to Ottawa Fury FC in their last USL match. NCFC will look to take advantage of Bethlehem’s struggles away from home and keep climbing up the USL table. The game will be the first ever official meeting between the two clubs.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC maintained its great form with a 4-0 victory over Atlanta United 2. Donovan Ewolo, Daniel Rios, and Marios Lomis all found the back of the net in addition to an Atlanta own goal. The victory was the club’s fourth consecutive win at home. 
 
Players to Watch: 
#14 Daniel Rios
Rios has enjoyed a stellar start to the season scoring five goals and adding two assists in eight appearances thus far. He is coming off his best performance of the season as he scored a goal and dished out two assists in the match against Atlanta United 2 last weekend. Rios will look to continue his productive start in Saturday’s match against Bethlehem. 
 
#48 Matthew Mahoney
Mahoney has started in 11 matches for Bethlehem Steel FC, the most by any player in the squad. The central defender has emerged as a constant in the club’s lineup and will likely play a big part in trying to slow down NCFC, who has scored 14 goals in its four-match winning streak at home. 
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will continue its homestand when it faces FC Cincinnati on Saturday, June 9, at 7 p.m. for Our State, Our Club Night 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.

###

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS. BETHLEHEM STEEL FC
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
SATURDAY, JUNE 2 – 7 PM ET
 
TV: WRAL2
RADIO: 1550 AM, 99.9 HD3
DIGITAL: ESPN+
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, #NCvBST
 
CARY, N.C. (June 1, 2018) –  North Carolina FC enters the weekend on form with four consecutive home victories, while outscoring opponents 14-1 during the stretch. That form will be tested against Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match is presented by Aetna.
 
With goals of moving up the table, NCFC has another golden opportunity to gain points in the playoff race in front of its home fans. A victory could push the team up to eighth place in the USL’s Eastern Conference Standings.
 
NCFC will look for the victory behind an offense that has been on fire in recent weeks, netting at least three goals in each of its last four home matches. The goals have come from eight different goal scorers. That attack has given the club six points from its last three USL games and helped NCFC advance to the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup – where the team will travel to face D.C. United on Tuesday, June 5 at 7 p.m.
 
The offense will be put to the test against a Bethlehem side that has struggled away from home. Bethlehem Steel FC has secured just three points from five away matches this season. The visitors also enter the match coming off a 1-0 loss to Ottawa Fury FC in their last USL match. NCFC will look to take advantage of Bethlehem’s struggles away from home and keep climbing up the USL table. The game will be the first ever official meeting between the two clubs.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC maintained its great form with a 4-0 victory over Atlanta United 2. Donovan Ewolo, Daniel Rios, and Marios Lomis all found the back of the net in addition to an Atlanta own goal. The victory was the club’s fourth consecutive win at home. 
 
Players to Watch: 
#14 Daniel Rios
Rios has enjoyed a stellar start to the season scoring five goals and adding two assists in eight appearances thus far. He is coming off his best performance of the season as he scored a goal and dished out two assists in the match against Atlanta United 2 last weekend. Rios will look to continue his productive start in Saturday’s match against Bethlehem. 
 
#48 Matthew Mahoney
Mahoney has started in 11 matches for Bethlehem Steel FC, the most by any player in the squad. The central defender has emerged as a constant in the club’s lineup and will likely play a big part in trying to slow down NCFC, who has scored 14 goals in its four-match winning streak at home. 
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will continue its homestand when it faces FC Cincinnati on Saturday, June 9, at 7 p.m. for Our State, Our Club Night 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.

###

CARY, N.C. (June 1, 2018) – North Carolina Football Club on Friday announced the departure of center back Futty Danso, who has left the team to continue his professional career in the Malaysia Super League. 
 
A Rocky Mount, N.C., resident, Danso signed a short-term contract with NCFC prior to the start of the 2018 season and appeared in each of the club’s 11 matches between USL and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play, making 10 starts. 
 
Before signing with NCFC in March, Danso spent the 2017 season in Malaysia with Kelantan FA, where he appeared in 22 matches and played 1,980 minutes. 
 
North Carolina FC originally signed Danso to a short-term deal in hopes of extending his stay in North Carolina. The club wishes Futty nothing but the best in his new chapter.

###

CARY, N.C. (June 1, 2018) – North Carolina Football Club on Friday announced the departure of center back Futty Danso, who has left the team to continue his professional career in the Malaysia Super League. 
 
A Rocky Mount, N.C., resident, Danso signed a short-term contract with NCFC prior to the start of the 2018 season and appeared in each of the club’s 11 matches between USL and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play, making 10 starts. 
 
Before signing with NCFC in March, Danso spent the 2017 season in Malaysia with Kelantan FA, where he appeared in 22 matches and played 1,980 minutes. 
 
North Carolina FC originally signed Danso to a short-term deal in hopes of extending his stay in North Carolina. The club wishes Futty nothing but the best in his new chapter.

###

There was considerable hype surrounding the off-season signing of new North Carolina FC midfielder Kyle Bekker. After the first leg of the season, it’s clear that the Canadian international has certainly delivered on the excitement.

The veteran has been a tremendous addition to an experienced midfield alongside NCFC stalwarts Austin da Luz, Steven Miller, rookie Graham Smith and NCFC regulars Marcel Kandziora and Dre Fortune.

Bekker brings an attacking element to an already productive midfield that has transformed the group into one of the more dynamic units in the USL.

Starting in each of North Carolina FC’s first 11 matches of the season, Bekker has scored one goal and recorded a team-high five assists. His attacking prowess has improved the NCFC attack as he has provided quality services on set pieces and become a go-to option when the team is on the counter.

Bekker found the scoresheet for the first time with NCFC against Penn FC on April 28. His goal and two assists earned him USL Player of the Week honors for Week 7, while NCFC rolled to a 3-0 victory. He assisted Austin da Luz on the first goal, scored the second goal and then added an assist to Daniel Rios to cap off his breakthrough performance. From there, the midfielder has continued to find ways to help NCFC to victory.

Bekker has made an immediate impact in the beginning of NCFC’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run, as the team opened with a second-round victory against Lansdowne Bhoys FC. His two assists were key moments in the match. He helped NCFC open the scoring just two minutes in with a curling ball from a corner that found Connor Tobin near the six-yard box for the header. His second assist came as NCFC looked to put an end to the match when he found a streaking Bernhard Luxbacher, who rounded the keeper and finished the team’s third goal of the game.

Most recently, Bekker picked up an assist against FC Cincinnati on May 19. The contribution marked his third game in a row with an assist after providing the service for Marios Lomis’ goal.

Experience gained from four years in the MLS, as well as his 18 appearances with the Canadian National Team has aided Bekker in becoming an instant leader in the NCFC midfield. Those leadership qualities and proven success throughout his career will continue to help NCFC build a winning culture in the locker room and find success on the pitch. 

NCFC enters the weekend with a four-match home winning streak. The side will look to keep that momentum going on Saturday night (June 2) against Bethlehem Steel FC at 7 p.m. 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.

There was considerable hype surrounding the off-season signing of new North Carolina FC midfielder Kyle Bekker. After the first leg of the season, it’s clear that the Canadian international has certainly delivered on the excitement.

The veteran has been a tremendous addition to an experienced midfield alongside NCFC stalwarts Austin da Luz, Steven Miller, rookie Graham Smith and NCFC regulars Marcel Kandziora and Dre Fortune.

Bekker brings an attacking element to an already productive midfield that has transformed the group into one of the more dynamic units in the USL.

Starting in each of North Carolina FC’s first 11 matches of the season, Bekker has scored one goal and recorded a team-high five assists. His attacking prowess has improved the NCFC attack as he has provided quality services on set pieces and become a go-to option when the team is on the counter.

Bekker found the scoresheet for the first time with NCFC against Penn FC on April 28. His goal and two assists earned him USL Player of the Week honors for Week 7, while NCFC rolled to a 3-0 victory. He assisted Austin da Luz on the first goal, scored the second goal and then added an assist to Daniel Rios to cap off his breakthrough performance. From there, the midfielder has continued to find ways to help NCFC to victory.

Bekker has made an immediate impact in the beginning of NCFC’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run, as the team opened with a second-round victory against Lansdowne Bhoys FC. His two assists were key moments in the match. He helped NCFC open the scoring just two minutes in with a curling ball from a corner that found Connor Tobin near the six-yard box for the header. His second assist came as NCFC looked to put an end to the match when he found a streaking Bernhard Luxbacher, who rounded the keeper and finished the team’s third goal of the game.

Most recently, Bekker picked up an assist against FC Cincinnati on May 19. The contribution marked his third game in a row with an assist after providing the service for Marios Lomis’ goal.

Experience gained from four years in the MLS, as well as his 18 appearances with the Canadian National Team has aided Bekker in becoming an instant leader in the NCFC midfield. Those leadership qualities and proven success throughout his career will continue to help NCFC build a winning culture in the locker room and find success on the pitch. 

NCFC enters the weekend with a four-match home winning streak. The side will look to keep that momentum going on Saturday night (June 2) against Bethlehem Steel FC at 7 p.m. 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.

“The North Carolina Football Club would like to congratulate FC Cincinnati and the entire City of Cincinnati for being awarded a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise. Today’s announcement by Major League Soccer does not impact North Carolina Football Club’s effort to bring an MLS franchise to the Triangle. While the club was not among the initial two markets to be awarded, MLS has indicated that North Carolina Football Club continues to be in consideration for one of the two remaining expansion spots which will be announced at a later date.

North Carolina FC remains committed to pursuing an MLS franchise and is continuing to work diligently to secure a stadium in downtown Raleigh. Momentum for the project continues to build and we look forward to continued dialogue with the community and with MLS as we demonstrate why the Triangle should be home to a franchise.”

 

#919toMLS

“The North Carolina Football Club would like to congratulate FC Cincinnati and the entire City of Cincinnati for being awarded a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise. Today’s announcement by Major League Soccer does not impact North Carolina Football Club’s effort to bring an MLS franchise to the Triangle. While the club was not among the initial two markets to be awarded, MLS has indicated that North Carolina Football Club continues to be in consideration for one of the two remaining expansion spots which will be announced at a later date.

North Carolina FC remains committed to pursuing an MLS franchise and is continuing to work diligently to secure a stadium in downtown Raleigh. Momentum for the project continues to build and we look forward to continued dialogue with the community and with MLS as we demonstrate why the Triangle should be home to a franchise.”

 

#919toMLS

CARY, N.C. (May 29, 2018) – North Carolina FC will resume Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play against D.C. United on Tuesday, June 5 at 7 p.m. at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md., in the fourth round of the tournament. Tickets are $20 for general admission seating and are now available for purchase.

NCFC began its 2018 Open Cup run with a pair of dominant victories. The club opened the tournament with a 3-0 victory over amateur club Lansdowne Bhoys FC in the second round. NCFC then reached the fourth round of the Open Cup with a resounding 4-1 victory over the Ocean City Nor’easters of the PDL in the third round. This is the seventh occasion in which NCFC has advanced this far in the tournament. The fourth-round draw saw Major League Soccer enter the fray as NCFC was chosen for a road test against D.C. United.

NCFC has never faced D.C. United, although the team does have plenty of experience playing MLS competition in the Open Cup. NCFC has defeated MLS clubs on six occasions, including three consecutive Open Cup victories over the LA Galaxy from 2012-2014. Two players from the team's most recent victory in 2014 are still on the roster today as Tiyi Shipalane and Connor Tobin each played a part in the match. That experience could be key as NCFC looks to continue its march through the Open Cup.

CARY, N.C. (May 29, 2018) – North Carolina FC will resume Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play against D.C. United on Tuesday, June 5 at 7 p.m. at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md., in the fourth round of the tournament. Tickets are $20 for general admission seating and are now available for purchase.

NCFC began its 2018 Open Cup run with a pair of dominant victories. The club opened the tournament with a 3-0 victory over amateur club Lansdowne Bhoys FC in the second round. NCFC then reached the fourth round of the Open Cup with a resounding 4-1 victory over the Ocean City Nor’easters of the PDL in the third round. This is the seventh occasion in which NCFC has advanced this far in the tournament. The fourth-round draw saw Major League Soccer enter the fray as NCFC was chosen for a road test against D.C. United.

NCFC has never faced D.C. United, although the team does have plenty of experience playing MLS competition in the Open Cup. NCFC has defeated MLS clubs on six occasions, including three consecutive Open Cup victories over the LA Galaxy from 2012-2014. Two players from the team’s most recent victory in 2014 are still on the roster today as Tiyi Shipalane and Connor Tobin each played a part in the match. That experience could be key as NCFC looks to continue its march through the Open Cup.

CARY, N.C. (May 25, 2018) – North Carolina FC continued its stellar home form and picked up a second victory within a week’s time with Friday’s 4-0 win over Atlanta United 2 at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 
 
With the result, NCFC has now won four consecutive matches in Cary between USL and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup competition, outscoring opponents 14-1 during the stretch. 
 
NCFC’s dominant offensive showing was highlighted by goals from all three of its strikers, as Donovan Ewolo, Daniel Rios and Marios Lomis all found the back of the net.  

“Obviously delighted,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “Great result, great performance: four goals, a clean sheet. Great response to Cincinnati. It’s been a tough, long, hard seven days – three games, travel. I thought they were outstanding tonight.”

Having earned a start up top after scoring his first goal for the club midweek against Ocean City in the Open Cup, Ewolo gave North Carolina FC an early lead in the seventh minute. 

The scoring opportunity came about when Ewolo outleapt Atlanta United center back Andrew Kendall-Moullin and played in Rios with a headed pass. After rounding Atlanta United goalkeeper Alec Kann, Rios sent it back to Ewolo, who maneuvered past a defender before firing his shot in between the legs of both a defender and Kann and into the net. 

NCFC’s offensive aggressiveness continued as Atlanta struggled to play out of the back, and Steven Miller made the visitors pay in the 21st minute. Approaching the end line on the right side of the 18-yard box, Miller sent in a threatening cross that resulted in an own goal scored by Atlanta's Will Crain. 

Clarke’s team took a 2-0 lead into halftime and didn’t rest on its laurels out of the break. Already with an assist to his name, Rios extended NCFC’s lead to three goals with a precise strike from a tight angle in the 52nd minute. Able to track down the rebound of midfielder Kyle Bekker’s effort, which unluckily hit the crossbar, Rios shielded a defender and fired a left-footed shot past Kann. 

From that point on, NCFC remained in full control and cruised to its third league win of 2018. In the 90th minute, Lomis, who came on in the 75th minute, added a fourth goal from just a few yards out after an on-target cross from Rios. 

Up Next: 
NCFC will play the second game of a four-match USL homestand on Saturday, June 2, at 7 p.m. ET against Bethlehem Steel. The match will be the first ever between the two teams. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

Game Changer: 
Ahead 2-0 as halftime neared, NCFC was in full control of the game. However, Atlanta United nearly nicked a goal one minute into first-half stoppage time, but NCFC goalkeeper Alex Tambakis rose to the occasion. Alone right in front of goal following a scramble that resulted from a set piece, Atlanta United’s Brandon Vazquez was denied from close range by Tambakis, who, from the ground, blocked the effort.

The save from Tambakis came just eight minutes after the goalkeeper was hit in the head twice in the 38th minute while sliding to gather a through ball. Luckily for NCFC, Tambakis was able to stay in the game and ultimately prevent Atlanta United from getting on the scoreboard right before halftime, which could have swung the momentum.  

Key Stat: 
NCFC has scored the first goal in five of its last six games. 

They Said It: 
“It felt great. I’ve missed it, and it was a warm welcome from the Triangle family and NCFC. Thanks to Colin and everyone else for giving me the opportunity to be back. It was good to get a win at home.” – Tiyi Shipalane. 

Notes: 
– With his second-half goal, Daniel Rios continued his good start to the season. Through eight matches, the Mexican striker has notched five goals, and he also  earned his first two assists of the season Friday night. 

– Thanks to another good night in goal, Alex Tambakis is up to four shutouts in 2018. The Greek goalkeeper has played every minute of USL action this season for NCFC. 

– Fan-favorite Tiyi Shipalane, who re-signed with NCFC on Thursday, entered the match as a substitute in the 85th minute to a large applause from the home crowd. Now in his eighth season with the club, Shipalane ranks second in club history in goals (33), minutes (11,661) and appearances (176) and first in assists (20). 

– Marios Lomis stayed in great goal-scoring form Friday night. With his 90th minute tally, Lomis has now scored in four consecutive matches. 
 
– Friday night’s match was the first ever between NCFC and Atlanta United 2, which is playing its first season. However, a longstanding soccer rivalry between Atlanta and Raleigh dates back to the 1990s with the Raleigh Flyers and Atlanta Ruckus.

Box Score:
 
Lineups:
NCFC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Futty Danso, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz © (Marcel Kandziora, 61’), Kyle Bekker (Tiyi Shipalane, 85’), Graham Smith, Steven Miller; Daniel Rios, Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 75’)

Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Dre Fortune, Connor Tobin, Aaron Guillen
 
ATL (4-5-1): Alec Kann; Jose Hernandez (Chris Goslin, 81’), Will Crain, Andrew Kendall-Moullin, Jack Metcalf ©; Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Jose Carranza, Laurent Kissiedou (Andrew Carleton, 46’), Lagos Kunga (Yosef Samuel, 61’), Jon Gallagher; Brandon Vasquez

Subs not used: Paul Christensen, Oliver Shannon, Devon Sandoval, AJ Cochran

Score:
NCFC: 4
ATL: 0
 
Goals:
NCFC: Donovan Ewolo (Daniel Rios, 7’), Will Crain (OG, 21’), Daniel Rios (Unassisted, 52’), Marios Lomis (Daniel Rios, 89’)
ATL: —

Cautions:
NCFC: Kyle Bekker 45+'
ATL: Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu 72’, Andrew Kendall-Moullin 72’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
ATL: —
 
Attendance: 3,710
 

###

CARY, N.C. (May 25, 2018) – North Carolina FC continued its stellar home form and picked up a second victory within a week’s time with Friday’s 4-0 win over Atlanta United 2 at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 
 
With the result, NCFC has now won four consecutive matches in Cary between USL and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup competition, outscoring opponents 14-1 during the stretch. 
 
NCFC’s dominant offensive showing was highlighted by goals from all three of its strikers, as Donovan Ewolo, Daniel Rios and Marios Lomis all found the back of the net.  

“Obviously delighted,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “Great result, great performance: four goals, a clean sheet. Great response to Cincinnati. It’s been a tough, long, hard seven days – three games, travel. I thought they were outstanding tonight.”

Having earned a start up top after scoring his first goal for the club midweek against Ocean City in the Open Cup, Ewolo gave North Carolina FC an early lead in the seventh minute. 

The scoring opportunity came about when Ewolo outleapt Atlanta United center back Andrew Kendall-Moullin and played in Rios with a headed pass. After rounding Atlanta United goalkeeper Alec Kann, Rios sent it back to Ewolo, who maneuvered past a defender before firing his shot in between the legs of both a defender and Kann and into the net. 

NCFC’s offensive aggressiveness continued as Atlanta struggled to play out of the back, and Steven Miller made the visitors pay in the 21st minute. Approaching the end line on the right side of the 18-yard box, Miller sent in a threatening cross that resulted in an own goal scored by Atlanta’s Will Crain. 

Clarke’s team took a 2-0 lead into halftime and didn’t rest on its laurels out of the break. Already with an assist to his name, Rios extended NCFC’s lead to three goals with a precise strike from a tight angle in the 52nd minute. Able to track down the rebound of midfielder Kyle Bekker’s effort, which unluckily hit the crossbar, Rios shielded a defender and fired a left-footed shot past Kann. 

From that point on, NCFC remained in full control and cruised to its third league win of 2018. In the 90th minute, Lomis, who came on in the 75th minute, added a fourth goal from just a few yards out after an on-target cross from Rios. 

Up Next: 
NCFC will play the second game of a four-match USL homestand on Saturday, June 2, at 7 p.m. ET against Bethlehem Steel. The match will be the first ever between the two teams. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

Game Changer: 
Ahead 2-0 as halftime neared, NCFC was in full control of the game. However, Atlanta United nearly nicked a goal one minute into first-half stoppage time, but NCFC goalkeeper Alex Tambakis rose to the occasion. Alone right in front of goal following a scramble that resulted from a set piece, Atlanta United’s Brandon Vazquez was denied from close range by Tambakis, who, from the ground, blocked the effort.

The save from Tambakis came just eight minutes after the goalkeeper was hit in the head twice in the 38th minute while sliding to gather a through ball. Luckily for NCFC, Tambakis was able to stay in the game and ultimately prevent Atlanta United from getting on the scoreboard right before halftime, which could have swung the momentum.  

Key Stat: 
NCFC has scored the first goal in five of its last six games. 

They Said It: 
“It felt great. I’ve missed it, and it was a warm welcome from the Triangle family and NCFC. Thanks to Colin and everyone else for giving me the opportunity to be back. It was good to get a win at home.” – Tiyi Shipalane. 

Notes: 
– With his second-half goal, Daniel Rios continued his good start to the season. Through eight matches, the Mexican striker has notched five goals, and he also  earned his first two assists of the season Friday night. 

– Thanks to another good night in goal, Alex Tambakis is up to four shutouts in 2018. The Greek goalkeeper has played every minute of USL action this season for NCFC. 

– Fan-favorite Tiyi Shipalane, who re-signed with NCFC on Thursday, entered the match as a substitute in the 85th minute to a large applause from the home crowd. Now in his eighth season with the club, Shipalane ranks second in club history in goals (33), minutes (11,661) and appearances (176) and first in assists (20). 

– Marios Lomis stayed in great goal-scoring form Friday night. With his 90th minute tally, Lomis has now scored in four consecutive matches. 
 
– Friday night’s match was the first ever between NCFC and Atlanta United 2, which is playing its first season. However, a longstanding soccer rivalry between Atlanta and Raleigh dates back to the 1990s with the Raleigh Flyers and Atlanta Ruckus.

Box Score:
 
Lineups:
NCFC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Futty Danso, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz © (Marcel Kandziora, 61’), Kyle Bekker (Tiyi Shipalane, 85’), Graham Smith, Steven Miller; Daniel Rios, Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 75’)

Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Dre Fortune, Connor Tobin, Aaron Guillen
 
ATL (4-5-1): Alec Kann; Jose Hernandez (Chris Goslin, 81’), Will Crain, Andrew Kendall-Moullin, Jack Metcalf ©; Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Jose Carranza, Laurent Kissiedou (Andrew Carleton, 46’), Lagos Kunga (Yosef Samuel, 61’), Jon Gallagher; Brandon Vasquez

Subs not used: Paul Christensen, Oliver Shannon, Devon Sandoval, AJ Cochran

Score:
NCFC: 4
ATL: 0
 
Goals:
NCFC: Donovan Ewolo (Daniel Rios, 7’), Will Crain (OG, 21’), Daniel Rios (Unassisted, 52’), Marios Lomis (Daniel Rios, 89’)
ATL: —

Cautions:
NCFC: Kyle Bekker 45+’
ATL: Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu 72’, Andrew Kendall-Moullin 72’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
ATL: —
 
Attendance: 3,710
 

###

CARY, N.C. (May 24, 2018) –North Carolina FC will host Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, aiming for its fourth-straight home victory.
 
The match is the first ever between the two teams, although NCFC has a history of competing against Atlanta-based soccer clubs. For years, the club competed against the Atlanta Silverbacks in the USL First Division and the NASL. Raleigh’s history with Atlanta goes back even further, as the Raleigh Flyers faced professional soccer teams from Atlanta since 1998.
 
In Atlanta United 2, however, NCFC will face a side affiliated with Atlanta United of Major League Soccer. While its parent club began competition in 2017, the 2018 season is Atlanta United 2’s first. 
 
Ten matches into the season, Atlanta United 2 finds itself in 13th place in the USL standings after a 2-1 loss at Louisville City FC on Saturday. 
 
The Atlanta United 2 squad features several young players with great upsides, including homegrown talent Andrew Carleton. A talented winger who has appeared for the U.S. U-20 National Team, Carleton is just 17 years old but has already made three senior appearances with Atlanta United. The Powder Springs, Ga., native has also made five appearances with Atlanta United 2 and scored his first USL goal in a 1-1 draw against Louisville City FC in April. 
 
Carleton and his Atlanta United 2 teammates will be facing an NCFC squad that’s been in good league form as of late. NCFC has taken points from four of its last five USL matches. 
 
A key factor in NCFC’s recent success has been the emergence of midfielder Kyle Bekker. Entering the week, the Canadian International has recorded five assists in his last three matches. 
 
NCFC head coach Colin Clarke’s group also received a boost when center back and co-captain Connor Tobin made his season debut against Lansdowne Bhoys FC after missing the first seven matches of the season due to injury. Tobin scored with his first touch of the season on a header in the second minute against Lansdowne, and his return helps solidify an already steady NCFC defense.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC rolled past the Ocean City Nor’easters 4-1 to advance to the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Marios Lomis, Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune and Donovan Ewolo all scored in the route. The win marked NCFC’s third win in a row at home.
 
Players to Watch:
#31 Jose Carranza
Carranza will make his return to Cary after spending the 2017 season with NCFC. Across all competitions, he featured in nine matches and played 488 minutes while recording one assist. This season, Carranza has been a big part of Atlanta’s midfield and has already played nine matches while logging 420 minutes. Look for the familiar face to play a big role in Atlanta’s distribution.
 
#1 Alex Tambakis
Tambakis signed with North Carolina FC in the offseason and has been a mainstay in net for the club in USL play. The goalkeeper is tied for sixth in the league with three shutouts on the season. Facing an Atlanta side with a keen eye for scoring goals, Tambakis will need to be sharp in this match.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will remain at home to face Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match is presented by Aetna and will be Campout Night.Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coast Credit Union Box Office.

###

CARY, N.C. (May 24, 2018) –North Carolina FC will host Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, aiming for its fourth-straight home victory.
 
The match is the first ever between the two teams, although NCFC has a history of competing against Atlanta-based soccer clubs. For years, the club competed against the Atlanta Silverbacks in the USL First Division and the NASL. Raleigh’s history with Atlanta goes back even further, as the Raleigh Flyers faced professional soccer teams from Atlanta since 1998.
 
In Atlanta United 2, however, NCFC will face a side affiliated with Atlanta United of Major League Soccer. While its parent club began competition in 2017, the 2018 season is Atlanta United 2’s first. 
 
Ten matches into the season, Atlanta United 2 finds itself in 13th place in the USL standings after a 2-1 loss at Louisville City FC on Saturday. 
 
The Atlanta United 2 squad features several young players with great upsides, including homegrown talent Andrew Carleton. A talented winger who has appeared for the U.S. U-20 National Team, Carleton is just 17 years old but has already made three senior appearances with Atlanta United. The Powder Springs, Ga., native has also made five appearances with Atlanta United 2 and scored his first USL goal in a 1-1 draw against Louisville City FC in April. 
 
Carleton and his Atlanta United 2 teammates will be facing an NCFC squad that’s been in good league form as of late. NCFC has taken points from four of its last five USL matches. 
 
A key factor in NCFC’s recent success has been the emergence of midfielder Kyle Bekker. Entering the week, the Canadian International has recorded five assists in his last three matches. 
 
NCFC head coach Colin Clarke’s group also received a boost when center back and co-captain Connor Tobin made his season debut against Lansdowne Bhoys FC after missing the first seven matches of the season due to injury. Tobin scored with his first touch of the season on a header in the second minute against Lansdowne, and his return helps solidify an already steady NCFC defense.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC rolled past the Ocean City Nor’easters 4-1 to advance to the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Marios Lomis, Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune and Donovan Ewolo all scored in the route. The win marked NCFC’s third win in a row at home.
 
Players to Watch:
#31 Jose Carranza
Carranza will make his return to Cary after spending the 2017 season with NCFC. Across all competitions, he featured in nine matches and played 488 minutes while recording one assist. This season, Carranza has been a big part of Atlanta’s midfield and has already played nine matches while logging 420 minutes. Look for the familiar face to play a big role in Atlanta’s distribution.
 
#1 Alex Tambakis
Tambakis signed with North Carolina FC in the offseason and has been a mainstay in net for the club in USL play. The goalkeeper is tied for sixth in the league with three shutouts on the season. Facing an Atlanta side with a keen eye for scoring goals, Tambakis will need to be sharp in this match.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will remain at home to face Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match is presented by Aetna and will be Campout Night.Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coast Credit Union Box Office.

###

CARY, N.C. (May 24, 2018)– North Carolina FC has welcomed back a familiar face with the re-signing of veteran and longtime club standout Tiyi Shipalane. The move improves the club’s depth and adds another dangerous attacking option to the roster. 

“Yes, it’s good to rejoin the team," said Shipalane. “Obviously, I’m looking forward to us making the playoffs. That’s a must-do. I’m excited to get started and I look forward to making 2018 another good year for my career.”

Shipalane is set to enter his eighth season with NCFC. Nicknamed ‘The Human Highlight Reel’, he’s provided plenty of game-changing moments for NCFC throughout his career. He ranks second in club history with 33 goals, 11,656 minutes and 175 appearances and first in club history with 20 assists. His experience and skill will allow him to contribute along the wings immediately.

Shipalane began his professional career in 2009 as he signed with the Harrisburg City Islanders, now known as Penn FC. He scored six goals in 18 appearances and was named the USL-2 Rookie of the Year. Following short stints with MLS club D.C. United and a loan with the Richmond Kickers of the USL, Shipalane re-signed with Harrisburg City for two games before ultimately signing with NCFC in 2010.

In addition to his success in league play with the club, Shipalane has a history of clutch performances in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as well. He made an impact as a substitute against the LA Galaxy in 2012, as he scored a 75th minute equalizer and assisted the 88th minute winner for NCFC’s first win over LA. He also added a goal in NCFC’s 3-1 victory over Chivas USA in 2013, helping the squad advance to the quarterfinals.

Additionally, North Carolina FC has announced that it has mutually parted ways with Carson Nsegbe, who is no longer on the team’s roster.

Shipalane will be available immediately for selection as NCFC continues its USL campaign against Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match will revive a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1998. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office. The night will be Military Appreciation Night and will feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

Name: Tiyi Shipalane
Number: 22
Position: Midfielder
Birthdate: 10/5/1985 (Age: 32)
Hometown: Tzaneen, South Africa
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 160 lbs
Citizenship: South Africa
Previous Club: North Carolina FC
Transaction: North Carolina FC has signed Tiyi Shipalane.

 

###

CARY, N.C. (May 24, 2018)– North Carolina FC has welcomed back a familiar face with the re-signing of veteran and longtime club standout Tiyi Shipalane. The move improves the club’s depth and adds another dangerous attacking option to the roster. 

“Yes, it’s good to rejoin the team,” said Shipalane. “Obviously, I’m looking forward to us making the playoffs. That’s a must-do. I’m excited to get started and I look forward to making 2018 another good year for my career.”

Shipalane is set to enter his eighth season with NCFC. Nicknamed ‘The Human Highlight Reel’, he’s provided plenty of game-changing moments for NCFC throughout his career. He ranks second in club history with 33 goals, 11,656 minutes and 175 appearances and first in club history with 20 assists. His experience and skill will allow him to contribute along the wings immediately.

Shipalane began his professional career in 2009 as he signed with the Harrisburg City Islanders, now known as Penn FC. He scored six goals in 18 appearances and was named the USL-2 Rookie of the Year. Following short stints with MLS club D.C. United and a loan with the Richmond Kickers of the USL, Shipalane re-signed with Harrisburg City for two games before ultimately signing with NCFC in 2010.

In addition to his success in league play with the club, Shipalane has a history of clutch performances in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup as well. He made an impact as a substitute against the LA Galaxy in 2012, as he scored a 75th minute equalizer and assisted the 88th minute winner for NCFC’s first win over LA. He also added a goal in NCFC’s 3-1 victory over Chivas USA in 2013, helping the squad advance to the quarterfinals.

Additionally, North Carolina FC has announced that it has mutually parted ways with Carson Nsegbe, who is no longer on the team’s roster.

Shipalane will be available immediately for selection as NCFC continues its USL campaign against Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match will revive a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1998. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office. The night will be Military Appreciation Night and will feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

Name: Tiyi Shipalane
Number: 22
Position: Midfielder
Birthdate: 10/5/1985 (Age: 32)
Hometown: Tzaneen, South Africa
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 160 lbs
Citizenship: South Africa
Previous Club: North Carolina FC
Transaction: North Carolina FC has signed Tiyi Shipalane.

 

###