News

Cary, N.C. (May 23, 2018)– North Carolina Football Club has announced July game platforms for North Carolina FC and NC Courage home matches, kicking off the month with a Fourth of July fireworks celebration and concluding with Faith & Family Night. 

The Courage begin its July slate of games with back-to-back home matches, the first of which comes against the Chicago Red Stars on July 4. Following the match, there will be a postgame fireworks show, and fans will be invited to go onto the field to watch the show. The game also serves as Military Appreciation Night presented by Duke Energy, as the Courage plan to honor active and former members of the military. 
 
Three days later, NCFC will host Wizard Night when the club takes on the Charleston Battery. Wizard House scarves can be purchased at the match, and several quidditch teams will make a halftime appearance. 

The NC Courage’s Wednesday, July 11 match against the Washington Spirit has been dubbed Wayback Wednesday presented by Ipreo. Throwback Carolina Courage merchandise will be available for purchase. 

On July 21, NCFC returns home for its first home match in two weeks against Toronto FC II. The match will be presented by Capitol Broadcast Company and the game will serve as Summer Camp Recognition Night, which includes special ticket offers. More information about this specific game’s additional themes and deals will be announced soon. 

Faith & Family Night will be held on July 28 when NCFC hosts the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. For the occasion, players will offer postgame testimonies. 
 
Below is a list of all the upcoming July game night platforms.

Wednesday, July 4 – NC Courage vs. Chicago Red Stars, 7 p.m., Military Appreciation Night presented by Duke Energy
Postgame fireworks show, $16 North Stand ticket special or $22 Lower Sideline ticket special with patriotic-themed hat. 
 
Saturday, July 7 – NCFC vs. Charleston Battery, 7 p.m., Wizard Night
NCFC Wizard Houses scarves, $39 Wizard Pack ticket special including two North or South Stand tickets and two scarves, $45 Southern Derby Rivalry Pack, a three-game ticket special with Lower Level Sideline seating to matches against Charleston (7/7), Charleston (8/4) and Charlotte (8/25). 
 
Wednesday, July 11 – NC Courage vs. Washington Spirit, 7 p.m., Wayback Wednesday presented by Ipreo 
$39 Wayback Ticket Pack, including two Lower Level Sideline tickets and two Wayback Courage t-shirts. 
 
Saturday, July 21 – NCFC vs. Toronto FC II, 7 p.m., presented by Capitol Broadcasting Company. Summer Camp Recognition.
$10 North Stand ticket offer for all local summer camps and families. More details to be announced soon
 
Saturday, July 28 – NCFC vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds, 7 p.m., Faith & Family Night
Special t-shirt available for purchase, choir performances, $14 Lower Sideline ticket, $22 Lower sideline ticket with t-shirt. 
 
Additional details and game platforms will be announced soon and fans can visit the NC Courageand North Carolina FC schedule pages for more information and to purchase tickets. 
 
About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the largest youth-to-professional soccer organization in the country, home to 14,000 players. The club is comprised of a women’s First Division team, North Carolina Courage (NWSL), a men’s Second Division team, North Carolina FC (USL), as well as a Premier Development League team, North Carolina FC U23 (USLPDL). The organization is also home to both Boys and Girls U.S. Soccer Development Academies in collaboration with NCFC Youth effectively creating a true pyramid from youth recreational all the way to the professional teams. The North Carolina Football Club is owned by local entrepreneur, Steve Malik, and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.
 

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Cary, N.C. (May 23, 2018)– North Carolina Football Club has announced July game platforms for North Carolina FC and NC Courage home matches, kicking off the month with a Fourth of July fireworks celebration and concluding with Faith & Family Night. 

The Courage begin its July slate of games with back-to-back home matches, the first of which comes against the Chicago Red Stars on July 4. Following the match, there will be a postgame fireworks show, and fans will be invited to go onto the field to watch the show. The game also serves as Military Appreciation Night presented by Duke Energy, as the Courage plan to honor active and former members of the military. 
 
Three days later, NCFC will host Wizard Night when the club takes on the Charleston Battery. Wizard House scarves can be purchased at the match, and several quidditch teams will make a halftime appearance. 

The NC Courage’s Wednesday, July 11 match against the Washington Spirit has been dubbed Wayback Wednesday presented by Ipreo. Throwback Carolina Courage merchandise will be available for purchase. 

On July 21, NCFC returns home for its first home match in two weeks against Toronto FC II. The match will be presented by Capitol Broadcast Company and the game will serve as Summer Camp Recognition Night, which includes special ticket offers. More information about this specific game’s additional themes and deals will be announced soon. 

Faith & Family Night will be held on July 28 when NCFC hosts the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. For the occasion, players will offer postgame testimonies. 
 
Below is a list of all the upcoming July game night platforms.

Wednesday, July 4 – NC Courage vs. Chicago Red Stars, 7 p.m., Military Appreciation Night presented by Duke Energy
Postgame fireworks show, $16 North Stand ticket special or $22 Lower Sideline ticket special with patriotic-themed hat. 
 
Saturday, July 7 – NCFC vs. Charleston Battery, 7 p.m., Wizard Night
NCFC Wizard Houses scarves, $39 Wizard Pack ticket special including two North or South Stand tickets and two scarves, $45 Southern Derby Rivalry Pack, a three-game ticket special with Lower Level Sideline seating to matches against Charleston (7/7), Charleston (8/4) and Charlotte (8/25). 
 
Wednesday, July 11 – NC Courage vs. Washington Spirit, 7 p.m., Wayback Wednesday presented by Ipreo 
$39 Wayback Ticket Pack, including two Lower Level Sideline tickets and two Wayback Courage t-shirts. 
 
Saturday, July 21 – NCFC vs. Toronto FC II, 7 p.m., presented by Capitol Broadcasting Company. Summer Camp Recognition.
$10 North Stand ticket offer for all local summer camps and families. More details to be announced soon
 
Saturday, July 28 – NCFC vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds, 7 p.m., Faith & Family Night
Special t-shirt available for purchase, choir performances, $14 Lower Sideline ticket, $22 Lower sideline ticket with t-shirt. 
 
Additional details and game platforms will be announced soon and fans can visit the NC Courageand North Carolina FC schedule pages for more information and to purchase tickets. 
 
About North Carolina Football Club
North Carolina Football Club is the largest youth-to-professional soccer organization in the country, home to 14,000 players. The club is comprised of a women’s First Division team, North Carolina Courage (NWSL), a men’s Second Division team, North Carolina FC (USL), as well as a Premier Development League team, North Carolina FC U23 (USLPDL). The organization is also home to both Boys and Girls U.S. Soccer Development Academies in collaboration with NCFC Youth effectively creating a true pyramid from youth recreational all the way to the professional teams. The North Carolina Football Club is owned by local entrepreneur, Steve Malik, and managed by North Carolina native and longtime soccer executive Curt Johnson. North Carolina Football Club was established in 2016 to bring the highest levels of men’s and women’s professional soccer to the state. For more information, please visit www.www.northcarolinafc.com.
 

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CARY, N.C. (May 22, 2018) – North Carolina FC navigated past a skilled amateur team for the second time in the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The team is moving on to the competition's fourth round following Tuesday’s third-round 4-1 victory over the Ocean City Nor’easters at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 
 
Four different players scored in the win, including forward Marios Lomis and midfielder Austin da Luz, who each recorded assists as well. 
 
With the victory, NCFC is guaranteed a matchup with an MLS side in the fourth round of the Open Cup. That match will be played on either June 5 or June 6, with the opponent and venue to be announced on Thursday, May 24. 
 
“Great result,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “We’re moving on to the next round – that’s the main thing. Started out well, got our goal and then gave up a poor one. We settled, and at halftime, 2-1 up, it was just go get the next goal and go from there.”

Facing an Ocean City team that scored two goals within the opening seven minutes of its second-round upset win of the Charlotte Independence last week, NCFC knew getting off to a good start would be crucial. 
 
Clarke’s team did just that in the eighth minute when Lomis opened up the scoring with a nifty goal with the outside of his foot. 
 
Positioned out on the left flank, da Luz sent in a precise cross aimed for Lomis, who made a near-post run. With a deft redirect, Lomis sent the ball between the legs of Ocean City goalkeeper Alec Smir and into the net. 
 
Not long after, in the 17th minute, the Nor’easters responded with a goal of their own. After a scramble for the ball in the box, Ocean City’s Uros Ilic let loose on a shot that took a deflection before finding the back of the net. 
 
Not discouraged by Ocean City’s swift response, NCFC offered one of its own to retake the lead in the 25th minute, and it was da Luz doing the scoring on this occasion. 
 
After midfielder Bernhard Luxbacher gathered possession out wide to the right of the 18-yard box, da Luz snuck past the Ocean City back line and headed home Luxbacher’s cross to put NCFC ahead 2-1. 
 
Becoming increasingly settled defensively as the game progressed, NCFC took a one-goal lead into the halftime break. 

Looking to pad its lead, NCFC added a third goal in the 66th minute thanks to clever link-up play from midfielder Dre Fortune and Lomis. With a lot of room to work with in transition, da Luz offered a service to Fortune, who dummied and let the pass roll to Lomis. Lomis quickly returned the favor and Fortune finished from close range, scoring his first goal of the season to make it a 3-1 game. 
 
NCFC added one more goal for good measure in the 83rd minute, as forward Donovan Ewolo found himself in the right place at the right time. Making a run toward goal as right back D.J. Taylor fired a shot, Ewolo inadvertently redirected Taylor’s effort past Ocean City goalkeeper Alec Smir. The goal was Ewolo’s first for the club. 
 
Up Next: 
North Carolina FC will remain at home for a USL match against Atlanta United 2, reigniting a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1998. NCFC will face Atlanta on Friday, May 25 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 night will be Military Appreciation Night and will feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

Game Changer: 
While Fortune’s 66th-minute goal gave NCFC some breathing room, the swiftness of NCFC’s reply following Ocean City’s first-half equalizer was pivotal. Coming within eight minutes of Ilic’s goal for the Nor’easters, da Luz’ header zapped any momentum the visitors gained and settled NCFC down. 

Key Stat: 
NCFC has scored four-plus goals in four of its last five Open Cup wins dating back to 2016. 

They Said It: 
“It’s what it’s all about for this club right now. To showcase our ability to not only play at that level, but to put on a show in this stadium, in this town, and fill it up. And bring in fans who might not normally come out to games and show them what it’s all about.” – Austin da Luz on NCFC earning the opportunity to face an MLS opponent in the fourth round of the Open Cup.

Notes: 
–With the win, NCFC improved to 21-10 all time in the Open Cup. 
 
–NCFC has scored multiple first-half goals in three consecutive home matches. 

–Marios Lomis has now scored three goals in his last three games. 
 
–Through two Open Cup matches, Bernhard Luxbacher has one goal and one assist. 
 
–Both of Austin da Luz’s goals this season have been headers. 
 
–Michael Harrington, who won the 2012 Open Cup with Sporting Kansas City, made his first start in this year’s tournament, playing the first half before being replaced by Futty Danso. 

Box Score: 
NCFC (4-5-1):Austin Guerrero; Aaron Guillen, Michael Harrington (Futty Danso, 46’), Connor Tobin © , Steven Miller; Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune (Donovan Ewolo, 77’), Marcel Kandziora, Kyle Bekker, Bernhard Luxbacher (DJ Taylor, 73’); Marios Lomis
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Peabo Doue, Graham Smith, Cameron Steele

OC (4-4-1-1): Alec Smir; Uros Ilic, Samuel Jones ©, Williams N’Dah, Michael Barrow; Matteo Bennati, Liam Bennett (Simone Raiola, 72’), Kyle Gurrieri, Daniel Lasarte (Spencer Patton, 56’); Deri Corfe; Fredlin Mompremier (Jacob Labovitz, 80’)
 
Subs not used: James Brett, George Knight, Abdul Mansaray, Joseph Korb
 
Score:
NCFC: 4
OC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Marios Lomis (Austin da Luz, 8’), Austin da Luz (Bernhard Luxbacher, 26’), Dre Fortune (Marios Lomis, 66’), Donovan Ewolo (DJ Taylor, 83’)
OC: Uros Ilic (unassisted, 17’)
 
Cautions:
NCFC: Dre Fortune 76’
OC: Uros Ilic 53’, Michael Barrow 58’, Jacob Labovitz 84’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
OC: —
 
Attendance: 1,778

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CARY, N.C. (May 22, 2018) – North Carolina FC navigated past a skilled amateur team for the second time in the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The team is moving on to the competition’s fourth round following Tuesday’s third-round 4-1 victory over the Ocean City Nor’easters at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 
 
Four different players scored in the win, including forward Marios Lomis and midfielder Austin da Luz, who each recorded assists as well. 
 
With the victory, NCFC is guaranteed a matchup with an MLS side in the fourth round of the Open Cup. That match will be played on either June 5 or June 6, with the opponent and venue to be announced on Thursday, May 24. 
 
“Great result,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “We’re moving on to the next round – that’s the main thing. Started out well, got our goal and then gave up a poor one. We settled, and at halftime, 2-1 up, it was just go get the next goal and go from there.”

Facing an Ocean City team that scored two goals within the opening seven minutes of its second-round upset win of the Charlotte Independence last week, NCFC knew getting off to a good start would be crucial. 
 
Clarke’s team did just that in the eighth minute when Lomis opened up the scoring with a nifty goal with the outside of his foot. 
 
Positioned out on the left flank, da Luz sent in a precise cross aimed for Lomis, who made a near-post run. With a deft redirect, Lomis sent the ball between the legs of Ocean City goalkeeper Alec Smir and into the net. 
 
Not long after, in the 17th minute, the Nor’easters responded with a goal of their own. After a scramble for the ball in the box, Ocean City’s Uros Ilic let loose on a shot that took a deflection before finding the back of the net. 
 
Not discouraged by Ocean City’s swift response, NCFC offered one of its own to retake the lead in the 25th minute, and it was da Luz doing the scoring on this occasion. 
 
After midfielder Bernhard Luxbacher gathered possession out wide to the right of the 18-yard box, da Luz snuck past the Ocean City back line and headed home Luxbacher’s cross to put NCFC ahead 2-1. 
 
Becoming increasingly settled defensively as the game progressed, NCFC took a one-goal lead into the halftime break. 

Looking to pad its lead, NCFC added a third goal in the 66th minute thanks to clever link-up play from midfielder Dre Fortune and Lomis. With a lot of room to work with in transition, da Luz offered a service to Fortune, who dummied and let the pass roll to Lomis. Lomis quickly returned the favor and Fortune finished from close range, scoring his first goal of the season to make it a 3-1 game. 
 
NCFC added one more goal for good measure in the 83rd minute, as forward Donovan Ewolo found himself in the right place at the right time. Making a run toward goal as right back D.J. Taylor fired a shot, Ewolo inadvertently redirected Taylor’s effort past Ocean City goalkeeper Alec Smir. The goal was Ewolo’s first for the club. 
 
Up Next: 
North Carolina FC will remain at home for a USL match against Atlanta United 2, reigniting a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1998. NCFC will face Atlanta on Friday, May 25 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 night will be Military Appreciation Night and will feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

Game Changer: 
While Fortune’s 66th-minute goal gave NCFC some breathing room, the swiftness of NCFC’s reply following Ocean City’s first-half equalizer was pivotal. Coming within eight minutes of Ilic’s goal for the Nor’easters, da Luz’ header zapped any momentum the visitors gained and settled NCFC down. 

Key Stat: 
NCFC has scored four-plus goals in four of its last five Open Cup wins dating back to 2016. 

They Said It: 
“It’s what it’s all about for this club right now. To showcase our ability to not only play at that level, but to put on a show in this stadium, in this town, and fill it up. And bring in fans who might not normally come out to games and show them what it’s all about.” – Austin da Luz on NCFC earning the opportunity to face an MLS opponent in the fourth round of the Open Cup.

Notes: 
–With the win, NCFC improved to 21-10 all time in the Open Cup. 
 
–NCFC has scored multiple first-half goals in three consecutive home matches. 

–Marios Lomis has now scored three goals in his last three games. 
 
–Through two Open Cup matches, Bernhard Luxbacher has one goal and one assist. 
 
–Both of Austin da Luz’s goals this season have been headers. 
 
–Michael Harrington, who won the 2012 Open Cup with Sporting Kansas City, made his first start in this year’s tournament, playing the first half before being replaced by Futty Danso. 

Box Score: 
NCFC (4-5-1):Austin Guerrero; Aaron Guillen, Michael Harrington (Futty Danso, 46’), Connor Tobin © , Steven Miller; Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune (Donovan Ewolo, 77’), Marcel Kandziora, Kyle Bekker, Bernhard Luxbacher (DJ Taylor, 73’); Marios Lomis
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Peabo Doue, Graham Smith, Cameron Steele

OC (4-4-1-1): Alec Smir; Uros Ilic, Samuel Jones ©, Williams N’Dah, Michael Barrow; Matteo Bennati, Liam Bennett (Simone Raiola, 72’), Kyle Gurrieri, Daniel Lasarte (Spencer Patton, 56’); Deri Corfe; Fredlin Mompremier (Jacob Labovitz, 80’)
 
Subs not used: James Brett, George Knight, Abdul Mansaray, Joseph Korb
 
Score:
NCFC: 4
OC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Marios Lomis (Austin da Luz, 8’), Austin da Luz (Bernhard Luxbacher, 26’), Dre Fortune (Marios Lomis, 66’), Donovan Ewolo (DJ Taylor, 83’)
OC: Uros Ilic (unassisted, 17’)
 
Cautions:
NCFC: Dre Fortune 76’
OC: Uros Ilic 53’, Michael Barrow 58’, Jacob Labovitz 84’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
OC: —
 
Attendance: 1,778

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CARY, N.C. (May 21, 2018) – North Carolina Football Club has revealed its full slate of events for Pride Week, which will run from June 14-23 and include two Pride Nights at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park as well as two meet-and-greet opportunities. 

Pride Week, which is sponsored by Credit Suisse, kicks off on Thursday, June 14, at 7:30 p.m., with celebrity bartending at London Bridge Pub in Raleigh. Players from both NCFC and the Courage will serve drinks, meet with fans, take pictures and sign autographs. 
 
Two days later, on June 16, the Courage return from a four-game road trip and host Pride Night against Utah Royals FC at 7 p.m. Special Pride merchandise will be available for purchase. 

On Thursday, June 21, the Boxcar Barcade in Raleigh will host Arcade For Pride at 6:30 p.m., which players from both NCFC and the Courage will attend to socialize and play games with fans. 

The festivities conclude on Saturday, June 23, when NCFC hosts Pride Night against Louisville City FC at 7 p.m. Like the Courage’s match against Royals FC, special Pride merchandise will be available for purchase. 

For the second year in a row, NCFC co-captain Austin da Luz is raising money for LGBTQ rights through his Playing For Pride fundraiser. A year ago, da Luz, the 2017 NASL Humanitarian of the Year, helped raise over $13,841 for the cause as he and other soccer players – from leagues of all levels, both men’s and women’s – made donations based on games played and other on-field contributions. 
 
This year, money raised will go to Athlete Ally, a nonprofit founded by Hudson Taylor, who’s organizational mission is to “end the rampant homophobia and transphobia in sport and to activate the athletic community to exercise their leadership to champion LGBTQ equality.” 

Other NCFC players involved with the fundraising campaign include: Connor Tobin, Steven Miller, Graham Smith, Austin Guerrero, George Marks, Kyle Bekker and Peabo Doue. Samantha Mewis, Lynn Williams, McCall Zerboni and Jessica McDonald of the Courage are all participating as well. 

Fans can also donate to the cause here.

Below is the full schedule of events for Pride Week: 

Pride Week Kickoff, London Bridge Pub, Thursday, June 14, 7:30 p.m. 

Pride Night, NC Courage vs. Utah Royals FC, Saturday, June 16, 7 p.m. 

Arcade For Pride, Boxcar Barcade, Thursday, June 21, 6:30 p.m. 
 
Pride Night, North Carolina FC vs. Louisville City FC, Saturday, June 23, 7 p.m. 

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CARY, N.C. (May 21, 2018) – North Carolina Football Club has revealed its full slate of events for Pride Week, which will run from June 14-23 and include two Pride Nights at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park as well as two meet-and-greet opportunities. 

Pride Week, which is sponsored by Credit Suisse, kicks off on Thursday, June 14, at 7:30 p.m., with celebrity bartending at London Bridge Pub in Raleigh. Players from both NCFC and the Courage will serve drinks, meet with fans, take pictures and sign autographs. 
 
Two days later, on June 16, the Courage return from a four-game road trip and host Pride Night against Utah Royals FC at 7 p.m. Special Pride merchandise will be available for purchase. 

On Thursday, June 21, the Boxcar Barcade in Raleigh will host Arcade For Pride at 6:30 p.m., which players from both NCFC and the Courage will attend to socialize and play games with fans. 

The festivities conclude on Saturday, June 23, when NCFC hosts Pride Night against Louisville City FC at 7 p.m. Like the Courage’s match against Royals FC, special Pride merchandise will be available for purchase. 

For the second year in a row, NCFC co-captain Austin da Luz is raising money for LGBTQ rights through his Playing For Pride fundraiser. A year ago, da Luz, the 2017 NASL Humanitarian of the Year, helped raise over $13,841 for the cause as he and other soccer players – from leagues of all levels, both men’s and women’s – made donations based on games played and other on-field contributions. 
 
This year, money raised will go to Athlete Ally, a nonprofit founded by Hudson Taylor, who’s organizational mission is to “end the rampant homophobia and transphobia in sport and to activate the athletic community to exercise their leadership to champion LGBTQ equality.” 

Other NCFC players involved with the fundraising campaign include: Connor Tobin, Steven Miller, Graham Smith, Austin Guerrero, George Marks, Kyle Bekker and Peabo Doue. Samantha Mewis, Lynn Williams, McCall Zerboni and Jessica McDonald of the Courage are all participating as well. 

Fans can also donate to the cause here.

Below is the full schedule of events for Pride Week: 

Pride Week Kickoff, London Bridge Pub, Thursday, June 14, 7:30 p.m. 

Pride Night, NC Courage vs. Utah Royals FC, Saturday, June 16, 7 p.m. 

Arcade For Pride, Boxcar Barcade, Thursday, June 21, 6:30 p.m. 
 
Pride Night, North Carolina FC vs. Louisville City FC, Saturday, June 23, 7 p.m. 

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CARY, N.C. (May 21, 2018) – North Carolina FC will look to keep it’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run going against the Ocean City Nor’easters on Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. With both teams aiming to add to their respective Open Cup histories, the matchup presents another exciting game for NCFC.
 
A sound and professional 3-0 victory over Lansdowne Bhoys FC sent NCFC to the third round. Connor Tobin, who made his season debut, scored on his first touch of the game to put NCFC up 1-0. Marios Lomis and Bernhard Luxbacher also added goals for NCFC.
 
The home team will need to replicate that professional display against an Ocean City side that have its fair share of Open Cup upsets throughout the years – including a 3-1 victory over the Charlotte Independence last week. In total, the Nor’easters have upset six professional sides in their history. Notably, Ocean City advanced to the third round of the competition in 2013, where the side eventually fell 2-1 to MLS opponent Philadelphia Union.
 
The 2018 Ocean City roster is highlighted by several local connections. NCFC Youth Academy product and former NCFC U-23 player Alex Rose currently plays for Ocean City. He’s joined with fellow UNC-Chapel Hill teammates Alex Smir (Greensboro, N.C. native) and Sam Jones. Additionally, Campbell’s Matt Barrow also features for Ocean City.
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC’s five-game unbeaten run was halted with a 4-1 loss to FC Cincinnati over the weekend. Marios Lomis scored NCFC’s goal off an assist from Kyle Bekker. The strike moved Lomis to three goals between all competitions this season and his second in as many matches. Bekker’s assist was his fifth of the season and his third-straight game recording an assist.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 31 Steven Miller
Miller is a former member of Ocean City, featuring with the PDL side from 2008-09 when the team was known as the Ocean City Barons. He made 23 appearances and scored eight goals with the team. Miller, who has scored big Open Cup goals for NCFC in the past, will look to continue that trend against his former club. This season, Miller has already logged one goal and one assist, while featuring in all eight of NCFC’s league contests.
 
No. 16 Kyle Gurrieri
Gurrieri, a New Jersey native, has come through the United States pipeline, playing with the U-14, U-15, and U-17 national teams throughout his development. After completing his freshman season at Syracuse, Gurrieri began playing for Nordvarmland FF, a team in the Swedish second division. Gurrieri has been big for Ocean City in the Open Cup already. His two early goals were ultimately the difference in his team’s 3-1 win over the Charlotte Independence in its Open Cup tie on Wednesday night.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home for a USL match against Atlanta United 2, reigniting a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1995. NCFC will face Atlanta on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. 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 night will be Military Appreciation Night and feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

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CARY, N.C. (May 21, 2018) – North Carolina FC will look to keep it’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run going against the Ocean City Nor’easters on Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. With both teams aiming to add to their respective Open Cup histories, the matchup presents another exciting game for NCFC.
 
A sound and professional 3-0 victory over Lansdowne Bhoys FC sent NCFC to the third round. Connor Tobin, who made his season debut, scored on his first touch of the game to put NCFC up 1-0. Marios Lomis and Bernhard Luxbacher also added goals for NCFC.
 
The home team will need to replicate that professional display against an Ocean City side that have its fair share of Open Cup upsets throughout the years – including a 3-1 victory over the Charlotte Independence last week. In total, the Nor’easters have upset six professional sides in their history. Notably, Ocean City advanced to the third round of the competition in 2013, where the side eventually fell 2-1 to MLS opponent Philadelphia Union.
 
The 2018 Ocean City roster is highlighted by several local connections. NCFC Youth Academy product and former NCFC U-23 player Alex Rose currently plays for Ocean City. He’s joined with fellow UNC-Chapel Hill teammates Alex Smir (Greensboro, N.C. native) and Sam Jones. Additionally, Campbell’s Matt Barrow also features for Ocean City.
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC’s five-game unbeaten run was halted with a 4-1 loss to FC Cincinnati over the weekend. Marios Lomis scored NCFC’s goal off an assist from Kyle Bekker. The strike moved Lomis to three goals between all competitions this season and his second in as many matches. Bekker’s assist was his fifth of the season and his third-straight game recording an assist.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 31 Steven Miller
Miller is a former member of Ocean City, featuring with the PDL side from 2008-09 when the team was known as the Ocean City Barons. He made 23 appearances and scored eight goals with the team. Miller, who has scored big Open Cup goals for NCFC in the past, will look to continue that trend against his former club. This season, Miller has already logged one goal and one assist, while featuring in all eight of NCFC’s league contests.
 
No. 16 Kyle Gurrieri
Gurrieri, a New Jersey native, has come through the United States pipeline, playing with the U-14, U-15, and U-17 national teams throughout his development. After completing his freshman season at Syracuse, Gurrieri began playing for Nordvarmland FF, a team in the Swedish second division. Gurrieri has been big for Ocean City in the Open Cup already. His two early goals were ultimately the difference in his team’s 3-1 win over the Charlotte Independence in its Open Cup tie on Wednesday night.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home for a USL match against Atlanta United 2, reigniting a soccer rivalry between the two cities that dates back to 1995. NCFC will face Atlanta on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. 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 night will be Military Appreciation Night and feature exclusive merchandise and ticket packages. Click here for more details.

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CINCINNATI, Ohio (May 19, 2018)– Playing in its first USL contest since April 28, North Carolina FC was dealt a tough 4-1 loss to FC Cincinnati at Nippert Stadium on Saturday night. The result halted NCFC’s five-match unbeaten run that had previously stretched back to April 14.
 
FC Cincinnati struck first with a goal from former NCFC player Nazmi Albadawi. The Raleigh, N.C., native put the home side ahead in the 12th minute with a blast from 23 yards out that pinged off the crossbar and into the net.
 
NCFC nearly answered back just two minutes later with a break towards goal. Daniel Rios placed his shot low and towards the bottom right corner of the net, but an FC Cincinnati defender added a last-second clearance to keep Rios’ shot out of the net.
 
In the 27th minute, NCFC nearly equalized. Steven Miller found the ball in space with an open net, but his goal-bound shot was cleared off the line and away from danger by the FC Cincinnati defense once again.
 
In the waning minutes of the first half, Cincinnati took control of the match with another goal from Albadawi. The midfielder found space in the box and made no mistake on the finish to put his team up 2-0 at the half.
 
The home side put the game out of reach in the second half with two goals in a seven-minute span. Emmanuel Ledesma converted a penalty kick in the 62nd minute and Danni Koing made it 4-0 in the 69th minute.
 
In the 86th minute, Marios Lomis pulled one back for NCFC. The rookie flicked Kyle Bekker’s corner into the far side of the net to score his second league goal of the year and fix the result at 4-1.
 
Up Next: 
NCFC will continue its Open Cup and USL campaigns at home next week. The team will host the Ocean City Nor’easters in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m. All seats are $10 and available for purchase online. NCFC will return to league action against Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. Click here to buy tickets for the match. Tickets can also be purchased at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office in person or over the phone at 919-459-8144.
 
 
Notes:
The club’s youth-to-pro pipeline was predominately featured once again, as NCFC Youth Academy product DJ Taylor started at right back and fellow Academy alum Dre Fortune was selected to the bench.
 
The match was NCFC's first USL league match since a 3-0 victory over Penn FC on April 28.
 
Marios Lomis scored his second USL goal of the season with a goal off an assist from Kyle Bekker in the 86th minute.
 
Box Score:
NCFC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Futty Danso, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz © (Donovan Ewolo 70’), Marcel Kandziora, Graham Smith (Bernhard Luxbacher 84’), Kyle Bekker, Steven Miller; Daniel Rios (Marios Lomis, 70’)
 
Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Aaron Guillen, Dre Fortune, Connor Tobin
 
CIN (4-4-2): Evan Newton; Justin Hoyte, Blake Smith, Dekel Keinan ©, Paddy Barrett; Kenny Walker, Richie Ryan (Michael Lahoud, 82’), Nazmi Albadawi, Corben Bone; Danni Koing (Jimmy McLaughlin, 84’), Emmanuel Ledesma (Emery Welshman, 71’)
 
Subs not sued: Spencer Richey, Matt Bahner, Sam de Wit, Russell Cicrerone
 
Score:
CIN: 4
NCFC: 1 
 
Goals:
CIN: Nazmi Albadawi (Emmanuel Ledesma, 11’), Nazmi Albadawi (Emmanuel Ledesma, 45’), Emmanuel Ledesma (PK, 62’), Danni Koing (Emmanuel Ledesma, 69’)
NCFC: Marios Lomis (Kyle Bekker, 86’)
 
Cautions:
CIN: Blake Smith 30’, Danni Konig 75’
NCFC: Kyle Bekker 65’
 
Ejections:
CIN: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance: 22,884

###

CINCINNATI, Ohio (May 19, 2018)– Playing in its first USL contest since April 28, North Carolina FC was dealt a tough 4-1 loss to FC Cincinnati at Nippert Stadium on Saturday night. The result halted NCFC’s five-match unbeaten run that had previously stretched back to April 14.
 
FC Cincinnati struck first with a goal from former NCFC player Nazmi Albadawi. The Raleigh, N.C., native put the home side ahead in the 12th minute with a blast from 23 yards out that pinged off the crossbar and into the net.
 
NCFC nearly answered back just two minutes later with a break towards goal. Daniel Rios placed his shot low and towards the bottom right corner of the net, but an FC Cincinnati defender added a last-second clearance to keep Rios’ shot out of the net.
 
In the 27th minute, NCFC nearly equalized. Steven Miller found the ball in space with an open net, but his goal-bound shot was cleared off the line and away from danger by the FC Cincinnati defense once again.
 
In the waning minutes of the first half, Cincinnati took control of the match with another goal from Albadawi. The midfielder found space in the box and made no mistake on the finish to put his team up 2-0 at the half.
 
The home side put the game out of reach in the second half with two goals in a seven-minute span. Emmanuel Ledesma converted a penalty kick in the 62nd minute and Danni Koing made it 4-0 in the 69th minute.
 
In the 86th minute, Marios Lomis pulled one back for NCFC. The rookie flicked Kyle Bekker’s corner into the far side of the net to score his second league goal of the year and fix the result at 4-1.
 
Up Next: 
NCFC will continue its Open Cup and USL campaigns at home next week. The team will host the Ocean City Nor’easters in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m. All seats are $10 and available for purchase online. NCFC will return to league action against Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. Click here to buy tickets for the match. Tickets can also be purchased at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office in person or over the phone at 919-459-8144.
 
 
Notes:
The club’s youth-to-pro pipeline was predominately featured once again, as NCFC Youth Academy product DJ Taylor started at right back and fellow Academy alum Dre Fortune was selected to the bench.
 
The match was NCFC’s first USL league match since a 3-0 victory over Penn FC on April 28.
 
Marios Lomis scored his second USL goal of the season with a goal off an assist from Kyle Bekker in the 86th minute.
 
Box Score:
NCFC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Futty Danso, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz © (Donovan Ewolo 70’), Marcel Kandziora, Graham Smith (Bernhard Luxbacher 84’), Kyle Bekker, Steven Miller; Daniel Rios (Marios Lomis, 70’)
 
Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Aaron Guillen, Dre Fortune, Connor Tobin
 
CIN (4-4-2): Evan Newton; Justin Hoyte, Blake Smith, Dekel Keinan ©, Paddy Barrett; Kenny Walker, Richie Ryan (Michael Lahoud, 82’), Nazmi Albadawi, Corben Bone; Danni Koing (Jimmy McLaughlin, 84’), Emmanuel Ledesma (Emery Welshman, 71’)
 
Subs not sued: Spencer Richey, Matt Bahner, Sam de Wit, Russell Cicrerone
 
Score:
CIN: 4
NCFC: 1 
 
Goals:
CIN: Nazmi Albadawi (Emmanuel Ledesma, 11’), Nazmi Albadawi (Emmanuel Ledesma, 45’), Emmanuel Ledesma (PK, 62’), Danni Koing (Emmanuel Ledesma, 69’)
NCFC: Marios Lomis (Kyle Bekker, 86’)
 
Cautions:
CIN: Blake Smith 30’, Danni Konig 75’
NCFC: Kyle Bekker 65’
 
Ejections:
CIN: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance: 22,884

###

MATCHDAY INFO:
FC CINCINNATI VS. NORTH CAROLINA FC
NIPPERT STADIUM
SATURDAY, May 19 – 7:30 PM ET
 
DIGITAL: ESPN+
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #CINvNC
 
CARY, N.C. (May 18, 2018) – North Carolina FC is set for a big test this weekend with its match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday May 19 at 7:30 p.m. at Nippert Stadium. NCFC will look to keep momentum high against Cincinnati who are tied at the top of the USL Eastern Conference standings with the Charleston Battery.
 
NCFC enters the match on a five-game unbeaten run between USL and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play. During the streak, NCFC has outscored opponents 9-1, most recently earning a 3-0 victory over Lansdowne Bhoys this past Wednesday in the Open Cup and a 3-0 victory over Penn FC on April 28 in league play.
 
NCFC’s run will be put to the test against an FC Cincinnati side that enters the match with plenty to show for early in the season. The team has 17 points in its league campaign to date and is looking to stay in the driver’s seat of the playoff qualification hunt. Despite having its four-match unbeaten run broken via a 4-1 loss to Charlotte last weekend, Cincinnati bounced back this week with a 4-1 victory over Detroit City FC in the Open Cup.
 
Led by a host of household names, Cincinnati’s roster is loaded with talent. 2017 NCFC stars, Nazmi Albadawi and Lance Laing both moved to FC Cincinnati in the offseason and are currently featuring regularly for their new team. Additionally, former NASL opponents, Emanuel Ledesma, Richie Ryan and Emery Welshman – to name a few – are also part of Cincinnati’s deep squad.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC is set to resume league play after a two-week bye. The club defeated Penn FC 3-0 on April 28 in its last USL match with goals from Austin da Luz, Kyle Bekker and Daniel Rios. NCFC also started its Open Cup campaign this week and knocked out Lansdowne Bhoys FC to advance to the third round with a 3-0 result. Connor Tobin returned to the field and scored, while Marios Lomis and Bernhard Luxbacher also tallied goals for NCFC.
 
Players to Watch
No. 5 Nazmi Albadawi
After leaving NCFC last season, Albadawi joined FC Cincinnati and has proven to be a difference maker in the midfield for his new club. In three USL games played so far for the club, Albadawi has already netted a goal. Prior to joining FC Cincinnati, Albadawi spent his career with NCFC, including time with NCFC U-23. Overall, Albadawi ranks as one of the most decorated players in club history with 10,139 minutes in 121 matches played, while adding 21 goals and 18 assists during his time with the club.
 
No. 10 Kyle Bekker
Bekker has been an instrumental part of an NCFC midfield that’s won the possession battle in over half of its matches. The midfielder is in fine form after coming off two consecutive two-assist games. Bekker also found himself on the other end of the ball during this streak, adding a goal to his tally.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will continue its Open Cup and USL campaigns at home next week. The team will host the Ocean City Nor’easters in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m. All seats are $10 and available for purchase online. NCFC will return to league action against Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. Click here to buy tickets for the match. Tickets can also be purchased at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office in person or over the phone at 919-459-8144.

###

MATCHDAY INFO:
FC CINCINNATI VS. NORTH CAROLINA FC
NIPPERT STADIUM
SATURDAY, May 19 – 7:30 PM ET
 
DIGITAL: ESPN+
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #CINvNC
 
CARY, N.C. (May 18, 2018) – North Carolina FC is set for a big test this weekend with its match against FC Cincinnati on Saturday May 19 at 7:30 p.m. at Nippert Stadium. NCFC will look to keep momentum high against Cincinnati who are tied at the top of the USL Eastern Conference standings with the Charleston Battery.
 
NCFC enters the match on a five-game unbeaten run between USL and Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play. During the streak, NCFC has outscored opponents 9-1, most recently earning a 3-0 victory over Lansdowne Bhoys this past Wednesday in the Open Cup and a 3-0 victory over Penn FC on April 28 in league play.
 
NCFC’s run will be put to the test against an FC Cincinnati side that enters the match with plenty to show for early in the season. The team has 17 points in its league campaign to date and is looking to stay in the driver’s seat of the playoff qualification hunt. Despite having its four-match unbeaten run broken via a 4-1 loss to Charlotte last weekend, Cincinnati bounced back this week with a 4-1 victory over Detroit City FC in the Open Cup.
 
Led by a host of household names, Cincinnati’s roster is loaded with talent. 2017 NCFC stars, Nazmi Albadawi and Lance Laing both moved to FC Cincinnati in the offseason and are currently featuring regularly for their new team. Additionally, former NASL opponents, Emanuel Ledesma, Richie Ryan and Emery Welshman – to name a few – are also part of Cincinnati’s deep squad.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC is set to resume league play after a two-week bye. The club defeated Penn FC 3-0 on April 28 in its last USL match with goals from Austin da Luz, Kyle Bekker and Daniel Rios. NCFC also started its Open Cup campaign this week and knocked out Lansdowne Bhoys FC to advance to the third round with a 3-0 result. Connor Tobin returned to the field and scored, while Marios Lomis and Bernhard Luxbacher also tallied goals for NCFC.
 
Players to Watch
No. 5 Nazmi Albadawi
After leaving NCFC last season, Albadawi joined FC Cincinnati and has proven to be a difference maker in the midfield for his new club. In three USL games played so far for the club, Albadawi has already netted a goal. Prior to joining FC Cincinnati, Albadawi spent his career with NCFC, including time with NCFC U-23. Overall, Albadawi ranks as one of the most decorated players in club history with 10,139 minutes in 121 matches played, while adding 21 goals and 18 assists during his time with the club.
 
No. 10 Kyle Bekker
Bekker has been an instrumental part of an NCFC midfield that’s won the possession battle in over half of its matches. The midfielder is in fine form after coming off two consecutive two-assist games. Bekker also found himself on the other end of the ball during this streak, adding a goal to his tally.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will continue its Open Cup and USL campaigns at home next week. The team will host the Ocean City Nor’easters in the third round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m. All seats are $10 and available for purchase online. NCFC will return to league action against Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. Click here to buy tickets for the match. Tickets can also be purchased at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office in person or over the phone at 919-459-8144.

###

CARY, N.C. (May 16, 2018) – North Carolina FC opened Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup action in fine form, defeating Lansdowne Bhoys 3-0 Wednesday night in the second round of the competition at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
Connor Tobin, who made his season debut and donned the captain’s armband, Marios Lomis and Bernhard Luxbacher each scored in the win.
 
With the victory, NCFC will host the Ocean City Nor’easters in third-round action on Tuesday, May 22, at 7 p.m.  

“Delighted with the result, a clean sheet,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “Got some minutes in to some younger kids at times. Overall, a pretty professional performance. It was good.”

It was a dream start for NCFC and Tobin. In just the second minute of action, a Kyle Bekker corner kick fell to Tobin, whose first touch of the season was a header that easily found the back of the net. Immediately following the score, an emotional Tobin celebrated his return, and the goal that came with it with the Oak City Supporters.

Playing full of confidence after taking an early lead, NCFC owned the bulk of the scoring chances in the first half and nearly doubled the advantage in the 26th minute when midfielder Dre Fortune’s strike hit the crossbar.

Thirteen minutes later, Luxbacher led a two-on-one break and set up Lomis, whose effort was turned away by Lansdowne goalkeeper Abdoukarim Danso.
 
However, Lomis couldn’t be denied in the 44th minute. A quick throw-in by midfielder Austin da Luz made its way to Fortune, who sprinted up the right flank before crossing to Lomis, who scored his second goal of the season from just a few yards out.
 
NCFC preserved the shutout with a clean and organized defensive effort in the second half. Lansdowne’s best scoring opportunity after the halftime break came in the 70th minute when striker Ovan Oakley cut inside at the top of the 18-yard box and released a right-footed shot, which Tobin was able to block.

Luxbacher all but sealed the victory with a 74th minute goal, his first for NCFC. Able to track down a lofted ball into the box sent in by Bekker, Luxbacher rounded Lansdowne’s Danso and dribbled the ball into the net.

Up Next: 
NCFC returns to league action on Saturday when it travels to face FC Cincinnati at 7:30 p.m. ET. The matchup will the first ever between the two clubs. FC Cincinnati is tied for the lead in the USL’s Eastern Conference with 17 points through nine matches (5W-2L-2D).
 
Game Changer:
Lomis’ goal came at a critical juncture for NCFC. After dominating the majority of the first half, NCFC only had one goal to show for it. But Lomis’ deft finish gave NCFC a bit more breathing room and was also a mental blow to a Lansdowne team that nearly went into the locker room down by just one goal.
 
Key Stat:
Tobin’s second-minute goal was NCFC’s earliest to start a game since Tyler Engel scored in the first minute against the Atlanta Silverbacks on September 19, 2015.
 
They Said It:
“It’s like being a rookie all over again. I was out for so long.” – Connor Tobin on making his season debut.
 
Notes:

– NCFC improved to 20-10 all time in the Open Cup.

– Kyle Bekker has recorded consecutive two-assist performances.
 
– Connor Tobin has now scored in the Open Cup two years in a row.

– Goalkeeper Austin Guerrero and midfielder Bernhard Luxbacher each started for the first time this season.
 
– Midfielders Cameron Steele and Nelson Blanco each made their professional debuts when they entered as substitutes in the 79th minute. Steele, a Clayton native, played at Cardinal Gibbons High School in Raleigh and collegiately at NC State and Penn State.
 
– Abdoukarim Danso, the brother of NCFC center back Futty Danso, started in goal for Lansdowne.

Box Score:
 
NCFC (4-5-1): Austin Guerrero; Aaron Guillen; Connor Tobin ©; Futty Danso; DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz (Peabo Doue, 79’); Kyle Bekker (Cameron Steele, 80’); Dre Fortune; Graham Smith (Nelson Blanco, 79’); Bernhard Luxbacher; Marios Lomis 
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis; Michael Harrington; Steven Miller; Daniel Rios
 
LAN (4-2-2): Abdoukarim Danso; Jean Voltaire; Craig Purcell; Sean Kelly ©; Shane Campbell (Martin Dadaj, 67’); Jannik Lobe (Joseph Lopez, 61’); Daryl Kavanaugh; Michael Holzer; Patrick McCann; Ovan Oakley; Mamadou Guirassy (Andrew Sousa, 67’)
 
Subs not used: —
 
Score:
NCFC: 3
LAN: 0
 
Goals:
NCFC: Connor Tobin (Kyle Bekker, 2’), Marios Lomis (Dre Fortune, 44’) Bernhard Luxbacher (Kyle Bekker, 74’)
LAN: —
 
Cautions:
NCFC: Graham Smith 38’, Austin da Luz 78’
LAN: —
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
LAN: —
 
Attendance: 1,754

###

CARY, N.C. (May 16, 2018) – North Carolina FC opened Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup action in fine form, defeating Lansdowne Bhoys 3-0 Wednesday night in the second round of the competition at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
Connor Tobin, who made his season debut and donned the captain’s armband, Marios Lomis and Bernhard Luxbacher each scored in the win.
 
With the victory, NCFC will host the Ocean City Nor’easters in third-round action on Tuesday, May 22, at 7 p.m.  

“Delighted with the result, a clean sheet,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “Got some minutes in to some younger kids at times. Overall, a pretty professional performance. It was good.”

It was a dream start for NCFC and Tobin. In just the second minute of action, a Kyle Bekker corner kick fell to Tobin, whose first touch of the season was a header that easily found the back of the net. Immediately following the score, an emotional Tobin celebrated his return, and the goal that came with it with the Oak City Supporters.

Playing full of confidence after taking an early lead, NCFC owned the bulk of the scoring chances in the first half and nearly doubled the advantage in the 26th minute when midfielder Dre Fortune’s strike hit the crossbar.

Thirteen minutes later, Luxbacher led a two-on-one break and set up Lomis, whose effort was turned away by Lansdowne goalkeeper Abdoukarim Danso.
 
However, Lomis couldn’t be denied in the 44th minute. A quick throw-in by midfielder Austin da Luz made its way to Fortune, who sprinted up the right flank before crossing to Lomis, who scored his second goal of the season from just a few yards out.
 
NCFC preserved the shutout with a clean and organized defensive effort in the second half. Lansdowne’s best scoring opportunity after the halftime break came in the 70th minute when striker Ovan Oakley cut inside at the top of the 18-yard box and released a right-footed shot, which Tobin was able to block.

Luxbacher all but sealed the victory with a 74th minute goal, his first for NCFC. Able to track down a lofted ball into the box sent in by Bekker, Luxbacher rounded Lansdowne’s Danso and dribbled the ball into the net.

Up Next: 
NCFC returns to league action on Saturday when it travels to face FC Cincinnati at 7:30 p.m. ET. The matchup will the first ever between the two clubs. FC Cincinnati is tied for the lead in the USL’s Eastern Conference with 17 points through nine matches (5W-2L-2D).
 
Game Changer:
Lomis’ goal came at a critical juncture for NCFC. After dominating the majority of the first half, NCFC only had one goal to show for it. But Lomis’ deft finish gave NCFC a bit more breathing room and was also a mental blow to a Lansdowne team that nearly went into the locker room down by just one goal.
 
Key Stat:
Tobin’s second-minute goal was NCFC’s earliest to start a game since Tyler Engel scored in the first minute against the Atlanta Silverbacks on September 19, 2015.
 
They Said It:
“It’s like being a rookie all over again. I was out for so long.” – Connor Tobin on making his season debut.
 
Notes:

– NCFC improved to 20-10 all time in the Open Cup.

– Kyle Bekker has recorded consecutive two-assist performances.
 
– Connor Tobin has now scored in the Open Cup two years in a row.

– Goalkeeper Austin Guerrero and midfielder Bernhard Luxbacher each started for the first time this season.
 
– Midfielders Cameron Steele and Nelson Blanco each made their professional debuts when they entered as substitutes in the 79th minute. Steele, a Clayton native, played at Cardinal Gibbons High School in Raleigh and collegiately at NC State and Penn State.
 
– Abdoukarim Danso, the brother of NCFC center back Futty Danso, started in goal for Lansdowne.

Box Score:
 
NCFC (4-5-1): Austin Guerrero; Aaron Guillen; Connor Tobin ©; Futty Danso; DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz (Peabo Doue, 79’); Kyle Bekker (Cameron Steele, 80’); Dre Fortune; Graham Smith (Nelson Blanco, 79’); Bernhard Luxbacher; Marios Lomis 
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis; Michael Harrington; Steven Miller; Daniel Rios
 
LAN (4-2-2): Abdoukarim Danso; Jean Voltaire; Craig Purcell; Sean Kelly ©; Shane Campbell (Martin Dadaj, 67’); Jannik Lobe (Joseph Lopez, 61’); Daryl Kavanaugh; Michael Holzer; Patrick McCann; Ovan Oakley; Mamadou Guirassy (Andrew Sousa, 67’)
 
Subs not used: —
 
Score:
NCFC: 3
LAN: 0
 
Goals:
NCFC: Connor Tobin (Kyle Bekker, 2’), Marios Lomis (Dre Fortune, 44’) Bernhard Luxbacher (Kyle Bekker, 74’)
LAN: —
 
Cautions:
NCFC: Graham Smith 38’, Austin da Luz 78’
LAN: —
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
LAN: —
 
Attendance: 1,754

###

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS. LANSDOWNE BHOYS FC
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16 – 7 PM ET
 
DIGITAL: www.northcarolinafc.com/WATCH
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, @OPENCUP

 
CARY, N.C. (May 15, 2018) – North Carolina FC will begin its 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup campaign, hosting a second-round match against Lansdowne Bhoys FC. The match will be played on Wednesday, May 16 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen's Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, N.C. Lansdowne advanced to face NCFC after a 2-0 victory over the Brooklyn Italians in the first round of the tournament.

NCFC season ticket members can use 'Game A' in their season ticket books. All seats are only $10 – tickets can be purchased online, at the gate or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
North Carolina FC has had tremendous success in the Open Cup throughout the years, including a semifinal appearance in 2007, three straight wins over the LA Galaxy from 2012-14, and numerous deep runs in the Cup. The team is looking to make another memorable run in the tournament this year.
 
Lansdowne Bhoys FC comes from the amateur ranks of U.S. Soccer and is in its second Open Cup appearance in the last three years. In 2016, Lansdowne earned the reputation of being upset artists and advanced to the third round with a 2-0 win over the USL’s Pittsburgh Riverhounds. Widely regarded as one of the top amateur teams in the United States, Lansdowne Bhoys FC currently hold both amateur national titles – the National Amateur Cup and the National Amateur Open Cup.

Lansdowne Bhoys FC is captained by a former Arsenal youth academy product Sean Kelly where he played alongside Cesc Fabregas. The veteran is in his fifth season with the club. He played for Galaway United, Limerick FC and Cork City before landing at Lansdowne Bhoys FC. Additionally, the roster ties come extremely close with the two clubs, as Lansdowne’s goalkeeper, Abdoukarim Danso, is the brother of current NCFC defender Futty Danso. Abdoukarim has starred in goal with Lansdowne and helped his team clinch an upset win over the USL’s Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the 2016 Open Cup.
 
In a tournament prone to upsets, North Carolina FC is hoping to avoid an early exit. NCFC will look to come out fast against a Lansdowne Bhoys side that’s hoping to become this year’s Open Cup Cinderella.
 
Last Time Out:
In its last match, North Carolina FC defeated Penn FC 3-0 for its first home win of the season. The match saw Austin da Luz and Kyle Bekker score their first goals of the 2018 season, while Daniel Rios netted his fourth. The team is on a undefeated run that has stretched to 38 days.
 
Players to Watch
#14 Daniel Rios
Rios came to North Carolina FC on loan from Chivas in February and has been on a tear ever since. The 23-year-old forward has already accounted for four goals in six matches for the club. Rios has scored in three of the last four matches for North Carolina FC.
 
#11 Lukas Zarges
Zarges has provided valuable minutes in for Lansdowne Bhoys FC, acting as the glue in an already talented midfield for the club. He played collegiately at UNCG, earning First Team All-Southern Conference honors before transferring to NC State for his senior season. 
 
Coming Up Next:
Following its Open Cup match, NCFC will continue league play on Saturday May 19 at Nippert Stadium against FC Cincinnati. This will be North Carolina FC’s first league game since a 3-0 victory over Penn FC on April 28th. The club will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to host Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. 

###

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS. LANSDOWNE BHOYS FC
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
WEDNESDAY, MAY 16 – 7 PM ET
 
DIGITAL: www.northcarolinafc.com/WATCH
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, @OPENCUP

 
CARY, N.C. (May 15, 2018) – North Carolina FC will begin its 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup campaign, hosting a second-round match against Lansdowne Bhoys FC. The match will be played on Wednesday, May 16 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, N.C. Lansdowne advanced to face NCFC after a 2-0 victory over the Brooklyn Italians in the first round of the tournament.

NCFC season ticket members can use ‘Game A’ in their season ticket books. All seats are only $10 – tickets can be purchased online, at the gate or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
North Carolina FC has had tremendous success in the Open Cup throughout the years, including a semifinal appearance in 2007, three straight wins over the LA Galaxy from 2012-14, and numerous deep runs in the Cup. The team is looking to make another memorable run in the tournament this year.
 
Lansdowne Bhoys FC comes from the amateur ranks of U.S. Soccer and is in its second Open Cup appearance in the last three years. In 2016, Lansdowne earned the reputation of being upset artists and advanced to the third round with a 2-0 win over the USL’s Pittsburgh Riverhounds. Widely regarded as one of the top amateur teams in the United States, Lansdowne Bhoys FC currently hold both amateur national titles – the National Amateur Cup and the National Amateur Open Cup.

Lansdowne Bhoys FC is captained by a former Arsenal youth academy product Sean Kelly where he played alongside Cesc Fabregas. The veteran is in his fifth season with the club. He played for Galaway United, Limerick FC and Cork City before landing at Lansdowne Bhoys FC. Additionally, the roster ties come extremely close with the two clubs, as Lansdowne’s goalkeeper, Abdoukarim Danso, is the brother of current NCFC defender Futty Danso. Abdoukarim has starred in goal with Lansdowne and helped his team clinch an upset win over the USL’s Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the 2016 Open Cup.
 
In a tournament prone to upsets, North Carolina FC is hoping to avoid an early exit. NCFC will look to come out fast against a Lansdowne Bhoys side that’s hoping to become this year’s Open Cup Cinderella.
 
Last Time Out:
In its last match, North Carolina FC defeated Penn FC 3-0 for its first home win of the season. The match saw Austin da Luz and Kyle Bekker score their first goals of the 2018 season, while Daniel Rios netted his fourth. The team is on a undefeated run that has stretched to 38 days.
 
Players to Watch
#14 Daniel Rios
Rios came to North Carolina FC on loan from Chivas in February and has been on a tear ever since. The 23-year-old forward has already accounted for four goals in six matches for the club. Rios has scored in three of the last four matches for North Carolina FC.
 
#11 Lukas Zarges
Zarges has provided valuable minutes in for Lansdowne Bhoys FC, acting as the glue in an already talented midfield for the club. He played collegiately at UNCG, earning First Team All-Southern Conference honors before transferring to NC State for his senior season. 
 
Coming Up Next:
Following its Open Cup match, NCFC will continue league play on Saturday May 19 at Nippert Stadium against FC Cincinnati. This will be North Carolina FC’s first league game since a 3-0 victory over Penn FC on April 28th. The club will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to host Atlanta United 2 on Friday, May 25 at 7 p.m. 

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CARY, N.C. (May 15, 2018) – The LA Galaxy left Cary without a win. Three years in a row. Chivas USA found trips to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer park frustrating, too. 

Over the years, North Carolina FC has produced moments of brilliance in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, often proving itself capable of deep tournament runs. 

In 2007, the club’s first year of competition, NCFC reached the semifinals of the Cup, and quarterfinals appearances followed in 2013 and 2014. 

Through 10 appearances in the competition, NCFC has recorded six wins over MLS clubs, serving as the poster child for the idea that all bets are off in an Open Cup tie. 

“I think the reality is one week in the Open Cup, you’re the giant. And then within a week or two or three as you advance, you can be the giant killer,” NCFC President and General Manager Curt Johnson said. “That is absolutely the beauty of the Open Cup and what gets everybody excited about it.”

Soccer fans in the Triangle have certainly gotten excited about NCFC’s past triumphs in the Open Cup, and now they’ll soon have the opportunity to see the club attempt to make another deep run in the competition. The journey begins with a second round matchup against Yonkers, N.Y.-based Lansdowne Bhoys on Wednesday, May 16, at 7 p.m. ET at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 

“There’s nothing like raising a trophy in football and The Cup is an opportunity every year to do that,” NCFC center back Michael Harrington said. “I’ve always taken the tournament seriously, and it’ll be the same this year with us.”

Harrington can speak from experience about lifting an Open Cup trophy. The Greenville, N.C., native won the 2012 Open Cup with Sporting Kansas City, appearing as an extra-time substitute in a 1-1 (3-2 PKs) victory against the Seattle Sounders in the final. 

Harrington said the experience of going far in the Open Cup can galvanize a team, and he’s hoping that the same is true this year. 

“Like I said, there’s nothing like winning a trophy and the excitement that comes with that and the buzz that it kinds of gives a group,” Harrington said. “It definitely lifts the group, so we’re excited to try to make a run.”

Harrington is not the only person within the organization to have won an Open Cup. Johnson did the same in 2004 when he served as the Kansas City Wizards general manager, a feat he still cherishes today. 

“There are certain times when the plan comes together and everything goes the way you want it to go on the field,” Johnson said, “and that was certainly a moment in time that was a highlight in my career.” 

For Johnson, the Open Cup has added meaning because of the man it is named after, Lamar Hunt. One of the most influential backers of soccer in the U.S., Hunt owned three MLS franchises, including the Kansas City Wizards, where Johnson worked under Hunt. 

“The reality is that without Lamar, we would not be in the same position that we’re in as a soccer country,” Johnson said. “He helped almost singlehandedly accelerate the growth and the popularity of soccer in the United States during the 70s, 80s, 90s and up until his passing in 2006.”

Since he joined NCFC in 2011, Johnson said the club has placed a great deal of importance in taking the Open Cup seriously, noting that, “Our record speaks for itself.” 

“It’s an opportunity to win a national championship,” he said. 

Although a club from outside of MLS has not won the Open Cup since the Rochester Rhinos did in 1999, recent history suggests that it’s not an impossible task. During the 2017 US Open Cup, Miami FC reached the quarterfinals and FC Cincinnati of the USL made it all the way to the semifinals. 

Of course, any round of the Open Cup can prove to be difficult, and NCFC will face a worthy challenger on Wednesday in Lansdowne, one the nation’s top amateur sides. 

“We try to take it like every other game, you know,” Harrington said. “Give it our best, and the stakes are a little bit higher because if you lose, you’re out. You’ve only got one opportunity, and you’ve got to take it game by game and put everything you have into it and try to get a good result. We’re excited for it.”

CARY, N.C. (May 15, 2018) – The LA Galaxy left Cary without a win. Three years in a row. Chivas USA found trips to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer park frustrating, too. 

Over the years, North Carolina FC has produced moments of brilliance in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, often proving itself capable of deep tournament runs. 

In 2007, the club’s first year of competition, NCFC reached the semifinals of the Cup, and quarterfinals appearances followed in 2013 and 2014. 

Through 10 appearances in the competition, NCFC has recorded six wins over MLS clubs, serving as the poster child for the idea that all bets are off in an Open Cup tie. 

“I think the reality is one week in the Open Cup, you’re the giant. And then within a week or two or three as you advance, you can be the giant killer,” NCFC President and General Manager Curt Johnson said. “That is absolutely the beauty of the Open Cup and what gets everybody excited about it.”

Soccer fans in the Triangle have certainly gotten excited about NCFC’s past triumphs in the Open Cup, and now they’ll soon have the opportunity to see the club attempt to make another deep run in the competition. The journey begins with a second round matchup against Yonkers, N.Y.-based Lansdowne Bhoys on Wednesday, May 16, at 7 p.m. ET at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. 

“There’s nothing like raising a trophy in football and The Cup is an opportunity every year to do that,” NCFC center back Michael Harrington said. “I’ve always taken the tournament seriously, and it’ll be the same this year with us.”

Harrington can speak from experience about lifting an Open Cup trophy. The Greenville, N.C., native won the 2012 Open Cup with Sporting Kansas City, appearing as an extra-time substitute in a 1-1 (3-2 PKs) victory against the Seattle Sounders in the final. 

Harrington said the experience of going far in the Open Cup can galvanize a team, and he’s hoping that the same is true this year. 

“Like I said, there’s nothing like winning a trophy and the excitement that comes with that and the buzz that it kinds of gives a group,” Harrington said. “It definitely lifts the group, so we’re excited to try to make a run.”

Harrington is not the only person within the organization to have won an Open Cup. Johnson did the same in 2004 when he served as the Kansas City Wizards general manager, a feat he still cherishes today. 

“There are certain times when the plan comes together and everything goes the way you want it to go on the field,” Johnson said, “and that was certainly a moment in time that was a highlight in my career.” 

For Johnson, the Open Cup has added meaning because of the man it is named after, Lamar Hunt. One of the most influential backers of soccer in the U.S., Hunt owned three MLS franchises, including the Kansas City Wizards, where Johnson worked under Hunt. 

“The reality is that without Lamar, we would not be in the same position that we’re in as a soccer country,” Johnson said. “He helped almost singlehandedly accelerate the growth and the popularity of soccer in the United States during the 70s, 80s, 90s and up until his passing in 2006.”

Since he joined NCFC in 2011, Johnson said the club has placed a great deal of importance in taking the Open Cup seriously, noting that, “Our record speaks for itself.” 

“It’s an opportunity to win a national championship,” he said. 

Although a club from outside of MLS has not won the Open Cup since the Rochester Rhinos did in 1999, recent history suggests that it’s not an impossible task. During the 2017 US Open Cup, Miami FC reached the quarterfinals and FC Cincinnati of the USL made it all the way to the semifinals. 

Of course, any round of the Open Cup can prove to be difficult, and NCFC will face a worthy challenger on Wednesday in Lansdowne, one the nation’s top amateur sides. 

“We try to take it like every other game, you know,” Harrington said. “Give it our best, and the stakes are a little bit higher because if you lose, you’re out. You’ve only got one opportunity, and you’ve got to take it game by game and put everything you have into it and try to get a good result. We’re excited for it.”