News

MATCHDAY INFO:
FC EDMONTON VS NORTH CAROLINA FC
KICKOFF: SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2017 – 4 P.M. ET
CLARKE STADIUM
 
DIGITAL: ESPN3
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #FCEvNCFC
 
CARY, N.C. (Sep. 8, 2017) – North Carolina FC (7W-8D-8L, 29 points, 5th place) enters the seventh week of the NASL Fall Season on a three-match unbeaten run. The team will travel to Clarke Stadium on Sunday, Sep. 10 at 4 p.m. ET to face FC Edmonton (6W-4D-12L, 22 points, 7th place) with another chance to gain ground in the NASL playoff race.
 
Sitting just three points from third place, a victory could see NCFC move back into a playoff position. The club is just two points behind the New York Cosmos and three points back from Jacksonville Armada FC.
 
Lance Laing and company are set to lead the charge toward a playoff spot with a strong offensive front featuring several proven goal scorers. The club has seven players that have scored more than one goal this season. Led by Laing’s eight goals, NCFC has scored 31 goals, which rank third in the league.
 
The club will need a complete effort to win at a venue that has provided challenges in the past. NCFC holds a 1W-4D-8L overall record in Edmonton. The team dropped a 2-1 result on July 7 in its last visit to Clarke Stadium.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC drew 1-1 with FC Edmonton in its last match. Christian Ibeagha secured the point with an early goal. The Eddies responded in the second half to split the points. With the result, NCFC extended its unbeaten streak to three matches.
 
Players to Watch:
No. 15 Christian Ibeagha
After just one goal in his first six seasons of professional soccer, Ibeagha has tallied two goals this season, both headers in the box. The central defender has played nearly every minute of the season so far with 1,890 minutes in 21 games. Look for Ibeagaha to challenge Edmonton’s center backs on set pieces in the box.
 
No. 16 Daryl Fordyce
Some fans may recognize Fordyce from years past. The talented striker is the Eddies all-time leading goal scorer with 29 goals. In 2017, Fordyce spent half a season with FC Cincinnati before returning to Edmonton. Since his return, Fordyce has scored once in five appearances.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will continue its road trip and face the Indy Eleven on Wednesday, Sep. 13 before returning to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Sep. 16 to take on Puerto Rico FC at 7:30 p.m. The match will be presented by Ipreo. Tickets are available online at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.

MATCHDAY INFO:
FC EDMONTON VS NORTH CAROLINA FC
KICKOFF: SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2017 – 4 P.M. ET
CLARKE STADIUM
 
DIGITAL: ESPN3
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #FCEvNCFC
 
CARY, N.C. (Sep. 8, 2017) – North Carolina FC (7W-8D-8L, 29 points, 5th place) enters the seventh week of the NASL Fall Season on a three-match unbeaten run. The team will travel to Clarke Stadium on Sunday, Sep. 10 at 4 p.m. ET to face FC Edmonton (6W-4D-12L, 22 points, 7th place) with another chance to gain ground in the NASL playoff race.
 
Sitting just three points from third place, a victory could see NCFC move back into a playoff position. The club is just two points behind the New York Cosmos and three points back from Jacksonville Armada FC.
 
Lance Laing and company are set to lead the charge toward a playoff spot with a strong offensive front featuring several proven goal scorers. The club has seven players that have scored more than one goal this season. Led by Laing’s eight goals, NCFC has scored 31 goals, which rank third in the league.
 
The club will need a complete effort to win at a venue that has provided challenges in the past. NCFC holds a 1W-4D-8L overall record in Edmonton. The team dropped a 2-1 result on July 7 in its last visit to Clarke Stadium.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC drew 1-1 with FC Edmonton in its last match. Christian Ibeagha secured the point with an early goal. The Eddies responded in the second half to split the points. With the result, NCFC extended its unbeaten streak to three matches.
 
Players to Watch:
No. 15 Christian Ibeagha
After just one goal in his first six seasons of professional soccer, Ibeagha has tallied two goals this season, both headers in the box. The central defender has played nearly every minute of the season so far with 1,890 minutes in 21 games. Look for Ibeagaha to challenge Edmonton’s center backs on set pieces in the box.
 
No. 16 Daryl Fordyce
Some fans may recognize Fordyce from years past. The talented striker is the Eddies all-time leading goal scorer with 29 goals. In 2017, Fordyce spent half a season with FC Cincinnati before returning to Edmonton. Since his return, Fordyce has scored once in five appearances.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will continue its road trip and face the Indy Eleven on Wednesday, Sep. 13 before returning to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Sep. 16 to take on Puerto Rico FC at 7:30 p.m. The match will be presented by Ipreo. Tickets are available online at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. The 2017 season is in week two and plenty of former NCFC Youth Academy and U23 players are continuing to make impacts for their respective teams.

UNCW Garners National Attention

Led by a host of former NCFC Youth Academy members, the UNC Wilmington men’s soccer team proved it could play with any team in the country over the holiday weekend. The Seahawks defeated then No. 4 UNC Chapel Hill 1-0 at home and went toe-to-toe with No. 12 Virginia on the road before falling 2-1 in extra time. UNCW’s play has sparked a move into the national rankings. The team is now ranked No. 15 in the latest poll.

Del Rosario Scores First College Goal

Lucas del Rosario opened his scoring account for No. 10 UNC Chapel Hill over the weekend, netting the team’s game-winning goal over UNCG. The 2017 Academy product finished off a cross from fellow former Academy member Jeremy Kelly.

Emory Wins Sonny Carter Tournament

Jason McCartney (NCFC Youth Academy) helped lead Emory to the Sonny Carter Tournament crown over the weekend. McCartney, who was named to the All-Tournament team, tallied a brace in Emory’s 3-0 victory over NC Wesleyan.

Academy Products Fuel Elon’s Victory

A pair of Academy products made an impact in Elon’s 2-0 victory over Presbyterian. Elijah Agu provided an assist on Elon’s first goal and defender Mickey Thomas found the back of the net for Elon’s second goal.

Duke Stays Undefeated

The Duke men’s soccer team remained undefeated after an overtime win and a draw. Former Academy player and current NCFC U23 member Cody Brinkman provided the game-winning assist in extra time during Duke’s 3-2 victory over High Point. On Tuesday night, former NCFC U23 player Brian White scored the Blue Devils’ only goal in a 1-1 draw with Presbyterian.

Additional Notes:

• A pair of goalkeepers with ties to the club are posting nation-leading numbers to start the season. NCFC U23 goalkeeper Nacho Miras is fourth in the country with 24 saves. Winthrop’s Kenneth Perkinson, a 2013 Academy graduate, is ranked eighth in the nation with 21 saves.
• Pittsburgh’s Josh Coan (NCFC U23) recorded an assist in Pitt’s 2-0 win over Longwood.
• Appalachian State’s Ian Bennett (NCFC U23) scored the first goal of his college career with a strike in the Mountaineers 1-1 draw with LIU Brooklyn.
• Steeve Ponna (NCFC U23) continued his hot start to the 2017 season with an assist in No. 12 Baker University’s(NAIA) 6-1 win over Ottawa University.
• Hank Gauger (NCFC Youth Academy) saw 23 minutes of action in No. 2 Wake Forest’s 4-1 victory over St. Louis.
• Danny Davis (NCFC Youth Academy) notched two assists for Davidson including the game-winning assist on the golden goal in the Wildcats' 3-2 OT victory over UNC Asheville.

* current rankings based on Sep. 5th United Soccer Coaches Poll

** previous rankings based on Aug. 29th United Soccer Coaches Poll

The North Carolina Football Club has over 90 soccer players with ties to the club’s NCFC Youth Academy or North Carolina FC U23 team taking part in men’s college soccer this season. The 2017 season is in week two and plenty of former NCFC Youth Academy and U23 players are continuing to make impacts for their respective teams.

UNCW Garners National Attention

Led by a host of former NCFC Youth Academy members, the UNC Wilmington men’s soccer team proved it could play with any team in the country over the holiday weekend. The Seahawks defeated then No. 4 UNC Chapel Hill 1-0 at home and went toe-to-toe with No. 12 Virginia on the road before falling 2-1 in extra time. UNCW’s play has sparked a move into the national rankings. The team is now ranked No. 15 in the latest poll.

Del Rosario Scores First College Goal

Lucas del Rosario opened his scoring account for No. 10 UNC Chapel Hill over the weekend, netting the team’s game-winning goal over UNCG. The 2017 Academy product finished off a cross from fellow former Academy member Jeremy Kelly.

Emory Wins Sonny Carter Tournament

Jason McCartney (NCFC Youth Academy) helped lead Emory to the Sonny Carter Tournament crown over the weekend. McCartney, who was named to the All-Tournament team, tallied a brace in Emory’s 3-0 victory over NC Wesleyan.

Academy Products Fuel Elon’s Victory

A pair of Academy products made an impact in Elon’s 2-0 victory over Presbyterian. Elijah Agu provided an assist on Elon’s first goal and defender Mickey Thomas found the back of the net for Elon’s second goal.

Duke Stays Undefeated

The Duke men’s soccer team remained undefeated after an overtime win and a draw. Former Academy player and current NCFC U23 member Cody Brinkman provided the game-winning assist in extra time during Duke’s 3-2 victory over High Point. On Tuesday night, former NCFC U23 player Brian White scored the Blue Devils’ only goal in a 1-1 draw with Presbyterian.

Additional Notes:

• A pair of goalkeepers with ties to the club are posting nation-leading numbers to start the season. NCFC U23 goalkeeper Nacho Miras is fourth in the country with 24 saves. Winthrop’s Kenneth Perkinson, a 2013 Academy graduate, is ranked eighth in the nation with 21 saves.
• Pittsburgh’s Josh Coan (NCFC U23) recorded an assist in Pitt’s 2-0 win over Longwood.
• Appalachian State’s Ian Bennett (NCFC U23) scored the first goal of his college career with a strike in the Mountaineers 1-1 draw with LIU Brooklyn.
• Steeve Ponna (NCFC U23) continued his hot start to the 2017 season with an assist in No. 12 Baker University’s(NAIA) 6-1 win over Ottawa University.
• Hank Gauger (NCFC Youth Academy) saw 23 minutes of action in No. 2 Wake Forest’s 4-1 victory over St. Louis.
• Danny Davis (NCFC Youth Academy) notched two assists for Davidson including the game-winning assist on the golden goal in the Wildcats’ 3-2 OT victory over UNC Asheville.

* current rankings based on Sep. 5th United Soccer Coaches Poll

** previous rankings based on Aug. 29th United Soccer Coaches Poll

CHICAGO (September 3, 2017) – Despite a strong effort from the first-place NC Courage, the Chicago Red Stars slipped by 2-1 on Sunday night at Toyota Park. The Courage remains in first place in the NWSL with 42 points.
 
An early goal from Lynn Williams gave the Courage a lead that held through halftime, but two second-half goals, including a tally in the 84th minute led to the win for Chicago.
 
After a dominant start from the first whistle, the Courage scored in the 15th minute when Williams scored off an assist from Jessica McDonald. The play started in the midfield when McCall Zerboni dispossessed a Red Stars midfielder. Zerboni fed McDonald who found Williams behind the defense. The forward added a composed finish for her sixth goal of the season, while McDonald picked up her third assist of 2017.
 
The Courage continued its attacking play for most of the half, accumulating 12 total shots in the opening 45 minutes. Williams nearly added a second goal in the 33rd minute after chipping Chicago’s goalkeeper, but the goal was canceled out by an offside call.
 
On the defensive end, the Courage backline held strong, limited Chicago to just three shots with none on target in the first half.
 
Following the restart, the Red Stars opted to bring on Yuki Nagasato. The forward made a huge impact for the Red Stars, scoring the equalizer and providing the assist on the game-winning goal.
 
The Courage looked set to double its lead early in the half. Denise O’Sullivan dribbled through most of the Chicago defense and cut the ball past goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher towards an open net, but a last-second clearance from the Chicago defense kept the Red Stars in the match.
 
The home side used a lightning fast counter attack to draw level in the 52nd minute when Nagasato tapped in a goal off an assist from Christen Press. Press pulled Courage goalkeeper Katelyn Rowland off her line on a breakaway and found an open Nagasato for the equalizer.
 
With time winding down, the Red Stars struck again after Nagasato got on the end of a clearance. Nagasato played a cross into the Courage’s box and found the head of Julie Ertz, who headed in the cross in the 84th minute.
 
The Red Stars held off the Courage over the final minutes of the match to hold on for the win.
 
Coming Up Next:
The NC Courage return home to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Sept. 9 as they host the Houston Dash for Breast Cancer Awareness Night. Tickets can be purchased at NCFCTix.com or by calling our box office at 919-459-9144.
 
Notes:

Lynn Williams scored her team-leading sixth goal of the season off Jessica McDonald’s third assist of the year.
McCall Zerboni picked up her fifth yellow card of the season, which will cause her to miss the team’s next game.
 
Lineups:

CHI: Alyssa Naeher; Casey Short, Samantha Johnson, Katie Naughton, Arin Gilliland; Danielle Colaprico, Julie Ertz, Alyssa Mautz (Yuki Nagasato, 46’); Christen Press ©, Sodia Huerta, Taylor Comeau (Morgan Brian, 64’)
 
Subs not used: Jennfer Hoy, Sarah Gordon, Michele Dalton, Stephanie McCaffrey
 
NCC: Katelyn Rowland; Jaelene Hinkle, Abby Erceg ©, Abby Dahlkemper, Taylor Smith; McCall Zerboni, Sam Mewis, Denise O’Sullivan (Debinha, 78’), Kristen Hamilton Lynn Williams, Jess McDonald (Ashley Hatch, 72’)
 
Subs not used: Sabrina D’Angelo, Meredith Speck, Sam Witteman, Makenzy Doniak, Elizabeth Eddy
 
Score:
CHI: 2
NCC: 1
 
Goals:
CHI: Yuki Nagasato (Christen Press, 52’), Julie Ertz (Yuki Nagasato, 84’)
NCC: Lynn Williams (Jess McDonald, 15’)
 
Cautions:
CHI: Danielle Colaprico (40’), Julie Ertz (73’)
NCC: McCall Zerboni (77’)
 
Ejections:
CHI: —
NCC: —
 
Attendance: 3,745

CHICAGO (September 3, 2017) – Despite a strong effort from the first-place NC Courage, the Chicago Red Stars slipped by 2-1 on Sunday night at Toyota Park. The Courage remains in first place in the NWSL with 42 points.
 
An early goal from Lynn Williams gave the Courage a lead that held through halftime, but two second-half goals, including a tally in the 84th minute led to the win for Chicago.
 
After a dominant start from the first whistle, the Courage scored in the 15th minute when Williams scored off an assist from Jessica McDonald. The play started in the midfield when McCall Zerboni dispossessed a Red Stars midfielder. Zerboni fed McDonald who found Williams behind the defense. The forward added a composed finish for her sixth goal of the season, while McDonald picked up her third assist of 2017.
 
The Courage continued its attacking play for most of the half, accumulating 12 total shots in the opening 45 minutes. Williams nearly added a second goal in the 33rd minute after chipping Chicago’s goalkeeper, but the goal was canceled out by an offside call.
 
On the defensive end, the Courage backline held strong, limited Chicago to just three shots with none on target in the first half.
 
Following the restart, the Red Stars opted to bring on Yuki Nagasato. The forward made a huge impact for the Red Stars, scoring the equalizer and providing the assist on the game-winning goal.
 
The Courage looked set to double its lead early in the half. Denise O’Sullivan dribbled through most of the Chicago defense and cut the ball past goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher towards an open net, but a last-second clearance from the Chicago defense kept the Red Stars in the match.
 
The home side used a lightning fast counter attack to draw level in the 52nd minute when Nagasato tapped in a goal off an assist from Christen Press. Press pulled Courage goalkeeper Katelyn Rowland off her line on a breakaway and found an open Nagasato for the equalizer.
 
With time winding down, the Red Stars struck again after Nagasato got on the end of a clearance. Nagasato played a cross into the Courage’s box and found the head of Julie Ertz, who headed in the cross in the 84th minute.
 
The Red Stars held off the Courage over the final minutes of the match to hold on for the win.
 
Coming Up Next:
The NC Courage return home to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Sept. 9 as they host the Houston Dash for Breast Cancer Awareness Night. Tickets can be purchased at NCFCTix.com or by calling our box office at 919-459-9144.
 
Notes:

Lynn Williams scored her team-leading sixth goal of the season off Jessica McDonald’s third assist of the year.
McCall Zerboni picked up her fifth yellow card of the season, which will cause her to miss the team’s next game.
 
Lineups:

CHI: Alyssa Naeher; Casey Short, Samantha Johnson, Katie Naughton, Arin Gilliland; Danielle Colaprico, Julie Ertz, Alyssa Mautz (Yuki Nagasato, 46’); Christen Press ©, Sodia Huerta, Taylor Comeau (Morgan Brian, 64’)
 
Subs not used: Jennfer Hoy, Sarah Gordon, Michele Dalton, Stephanie McCaffrey
 
NCC: Katelyn Rowland; Jaelene Hinkle, Abby Erceg ©, Abby Dahlkemper, Taylor Smith; McCall Zerboni, Sam Mewis, Denise O’Sullivan (Debinha, 78’), Kristen Hamilton Lynn Williams, Jess McDonald (Ashley Hatch, 72’)
 
Subs not used: Sabrina D’Angelo, Meredith Speck, Sam Witteman, Makenzy Doniak, Elizabeth Eddy
 
Score:
CHI: 2
NCC: 1
 
Goals:
CHI: Yuki Nagasato (Christen Press, 52’), Julie Ertz (Yuki Nagasato, 84’)
NCC: Lynn Williams (Jess McDonald, 15’)
 
Cautions:
CHI: Danielle Colaprico (40’), Julie Ertz (73’)
NCC: McCall Zerboni (77’)
 
Ejections:
CHI: —
NCC: —
 
Attendance: 3,745

CARY, N.C. (Sep. 2, 2017) – North Carolina FC (7W-8D-8L; 28 points) earned a valuable point in the standings on Saturday night at Sahlen's Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park as the club played to a 1-1 draw against Edmonton FC (6W-4D-12L; 21 points).

North Carolina broke out with a 1-0 lead early in the first half with a 4th minute header from Christian Ibeagha. The defender found Lance Laing’s corner out in front of the net to swiftly put the ball past Eddies goalkeeper Tyson Farago.

As Edmonton continued to get a feel for NCFC, the home club had another opportunity – this time a chance from Dre Fortune. In the 15th minute, the Raleigh product fired a shot from outside the box after finding the ball from James Marcelin.

North Carolina continued with an onslaught of opportunities and nearly added to their lead in the 34thminute, as Nazmi Albadawi connected with Laing, but Farago came up with the stop on the Jamaican midfielder’s shot.

Ultimately, NCFC brought the 1-0 lead into halftime, as Brian Sylvestre remained staunch in net, denying Edmonton of two opportunities in the waning minutes of the first half.

Back from intermission, North Carolina continued to apply pressure as the club looked to add onto Ibeagha’s goal. The first look came in the 50th minute, as Renan Gorne’s rocket of a shot sailed too high.

Though NCFC continued to attack, the game became equal in the 70th minute when Sylvestre mishandled a ball that found its way just barely over the goal line. NCFC countered one minute later with a shot from the captain, but Albadawi’s effort veered left of the net.

Despite the efforts of both clubs in the remaining time, neither found the back of the net, resulting in one point added to the standings for both North Carolina and Edmonton.

"We're still in there fighting, there's still a long way to go and a lot of points to play for," said head coach Colin Clarke. "We'll go out next weekend and look to get three points. We've been on the road in Miami and gotten three, we've been to San Francisco and got one, so we've been picking up points on the road. We've only been beaten once in the past seven games. I'd love to be here picking three points up every game." 

Coming Up Next: North Carolina FC will next travel to Edmonton to face the Eddies for a second match on Sep. 10 at 4:00 p.m. ET at Clarke Stadium. The club will then stay on the road for a Wednesday, Sep. 13 match against the Indy Eleven, but will be back at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Sep. 16 to play Puerto Rico FC at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online at NCFCTix.com or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club ticket office at 919-459-8144.

Notes:

– Christian Ibeagha scored his 2nd goal of the Fall Season.

– Lance Laing picked up his 4th assist of the year

Lineups
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Paul Black, Christian Ibeagha, Connor Tobin, Steven Miller; Lance Laing (Jonathan Glenn, 84th), Dre Fortune (Marcel Kandziora, 72’), James Marcelin, Nazmi Albadawi ©, Tiyi Shipalane (Jose Carranza, 71’); Renan Gorne

Subs not used: Macklin Robinson, Kareem Moses, Austin da Luz, Alex Molano

FCE: Tyson Farago; Shawn Nicklaw (Nicolas Di Biase, 58’), Abdoulaye Diakite, Pedro Galvao, Netan Sansara; Allan Zebie, Ben McKendry, Ben Fisk (Sainey Nyassi, 78’), Dustin Correa; Tomi Ameobi ©, Jake Keegan (Daryl Fordyce, 65’)

Subs not used: Chris Konopka, Mauro Eustaquio

Score:
NCFC: 1
FCE: 1

Goals:
NCFC: Christian Ibeagha (Lance Laing, 4’)
FCE: Brian Sylvestre (o.g. 70’)

Cautions: 

NCFC: —
FCE: —

Ejections:

NCFC: —
FCE: —

Attendance: 3,388

CARY, N.C. (Sep. 2, 2017) – North Carolina FC (7W-8D-8L; 28 points) earned a valuable point in the standings on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park as the club played to a 1-1 draw against Edmonton FC (6W-4D-12L; 21 points).

North Carolina broke out with a 1-0 lead early in the first half with a 4th minute header from Christian Ibeagha. The defender found Lance Laing’s corner out in front of the net to swiftly put the ball past Eddies goalkeeper Tyson Farago.

As Edmonton continued to get a feel for NCFC, the home club had another opportunity – this time a chance from Dre Fortune. In the 15th minute, the Raleigh product fired a shot from outside the box after finding the ball from James Marcelin.

North Carolina continued with an onslaught of opportunities and nearly added to their lead in the 34thminute, as Nazmi Albadawi connected with Laing, but Farago came up with the stop on the Jamaican midfielder’s shot.

Ultimately, NCFC brought the 1-0 lead into halftime, as Brian Sylvestre remained staunch in net, denying Edmonton of two opportunities in the waning minutes of the first half.

Back from intermission, North Carolina continued to apply pressure as the club looked to add onto Ibeagha’s goal. The first look came in the 50th minute, as Renan Gorne’s rocket of a shot sailed too high.

Though NCFC continued to attack, the game became equal in the 70th minute when Sylvestre mishandled a ball that found its way just barely over the goal line. NCFC countered one minute later with a shot from the captain, but Albadawi’s effort veered left of the net.

Despite the efforts of both clubs in the remaining time, neither found the back of the net, resulting in one point added to the standings for both North Carolina and Edmonton.

“We’re still in there fighting, there’s still a long way to go and a lot of points to play for,” said head coach Colin Clarke. “We’ll go out next weekend and look to get three points. We’ve been on the road in Miami and gotten three, we’ve been to San Francisco and got one, so we’ve been picking up points on the road. We’ve only been beaten once in the past seven games. I’d love to be here picking three points up every game.” 

Coming Up Next: North Carolina FC will next travel to Edmonton to face the Eddies for a second match on Sep. 10 at 4:00 p.m. ET at Clarke Stadium. The club will then stay on the road for a Wednesday, Sep. 13 match against the Indy Eleven, but will be back at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Sep. 16 to play Puerto Rico FC at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online at NCFCTix.com or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club ticket office at 919-459-8144.

Notes:

– Christian Ibeagha scored his 2nd goal of the Fall Season.

– Lance Laing picked up his 4th assist of the year

Lineups
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Paul Black, Christian Ibeagha, Connor Tobin, Steven Miller; Lance Laing (Jonathan Glenn, 84th), Dre Fortune (Marcel Kandziora, 72’), James Marcelin, Nazmi Albadawi ©, Tiyi Shipalane (Jose Carranza, 71’); Renan Gorne

Subs not used: Macklin Robinson, Kareem Moses, Austin da Luz, Alex Molano

FCE: Tyson Farago; Shawn Nicklaw (Nicolas Di Biase, 58’), Abdoulaye Diakite, Pedro Galvao, Netan Sansara; Allan Zebie, Ben McKendry, Ben Fisk (Sainey Nyassi, 78’), Dustin Correa; Tomi Ameobi ©, Jake Keegan (Daryl Fordyce, 65’)

Subs not used: Chris Konopka, Mauro Eustaquio

Score:
NCFC: 1
FCE: 1

Goals:
NCFC: Christian Ibeagha (Lance Laing, 4’)
FCE: Brian Sylvestre (o.g. 70’)

Cautions: 

NCFC: —
FCE: —

Ejections:

NCFC: —
FCE: —

Attendance: 3,388

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS FC EDMONTON
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
 
TV: WRAL2, WILM-TV10
DIGITAL: ESPN3, WRAL.COM
RADIO: 95.7 THE TICKET (95.7 FM & 1330 AM)
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvFCE
 
CARY, N.C. (Sep. 1, 2017) – North Carolina FC (7W-7D-8L, 28 points, 5th place) will take on FC Edmonton (6W-3D-12L, 21 points, 7th place) Saturday, Sep. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match will be presented by WakeMed.
 
After playing the last five matches against teams currently in the upper half of the NASL combined standings, tonight’s match marks the first of four consecutive matches against lower-table sides. NCFC held its own during the tough stretch of play, getting points from four of its last five matches.
 
NCFC sits just one point back from Jacksonville Armada FC and only two points away from the third-place New York Cosmos. With only 10 games remaining in the regular season, the points will be critical for a playoff race that is shaping up for a close finish.
 
The club has shored up its backline during the Fall Season after injuries prevented Steven Miller, Christian Ibeagha, Connor Tobin and Paul Black from lining up together 11 times since the start of the season. When the original back four play together, NCFC has taken points from 72 percent of its matches, compared to just a 54-percent mark without the quartet.
 
A healthy backline mixed with an attacking unit featuring several proven goal scorers will go a long way in providing NCFC with the personnel needed to reach the postseason.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 7 Lance Laing
Laing has already scored eight times this season, including a goal against FC Edmonton on April 15. He’ll be eager to add to his tally against his former club. The Jamaican spent 2013-15 with the Eddies and scored 16 goals for the club. Look for Laing to cause problems on the left wing and be a threat anytime NCFC wins a free kick in the attacking half.
 
No. 18 Tomi Ameobi
Ameobi is one of Edmonton’s most dangerous attacking options. The 6’3” target forward has scored six goals with two of them coming against NCFC. Ameobi has played the full 90 minutes in 14 consecutive matches. Look for the forward to continue causing problems for NCFC with his height and natural goal-scoring ability.
 
Last Time Out:
The club is coming off a 2-2 draw with the New York Cosmos on Aug. 26. Renan Gorne scored his first NASL goal to draw the side level with a strike in the 90th minute. The goal salvaged a point and kept NCFC firmly in the NASL playoff race. NCFC captain Nazmi Albadawi made his 100th appearance for the club and added a goal.
 
Up Next:
Following a return trip to FC Edmonton on Sep. 10 and a midweek bout against the Indy Eleven on Sep. 13, NCFC will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Sep. 16 to take on Puerto Rico FC at 7:30 p.m. The match will be presented by Ipreo. Tickets are available online at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS FC EDMONTON
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
 
TV: WRAL2, WILM-TV10
DIGITAL: ESPN3, WRAL.COM
RADIO: 95.7 THE TICKET (95.7 FM & 1330 AM)
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvFCE
 
CARY, N.C. (Sep. 1, 2017) – North Carolina FC (7W-7D-8L, 28 points, 5th place) will take on FC Edmonton (6W-3D-12L, 21 points, 7th place) Saturday, Sep. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match will be presented by WakeMed.
 
After playing the last five matches against teams currently in the upper half of the NASL combined standings, tonight’s match marks the first of four consecutive matches against lower-table sides. NCFC held its own during the tough stretch of play, getting points from four of its last five matches.
 
NCFC sits just one point back from Jacksonville Armada FC and only two points away from the third-place New York Cosmos. With only 10 games remaining in the regular season, the points will be critical for a playoff race that is shaping up for a close finish.
 
The club has shored up its backline during the Fall Season after injuries prevented Steven Miller, Christian Ibeagha, Connor Tobin and Paul Black from lining up together 11 times since the start of the season. When the original back four play together, NCFC has taken points from 72 percent of its matches, compared to just a 54-percent mark without the quartet.
 
A healthy backline mixed with an attacking unit featuring several proven goal scorers will go a long way in providing NCFC with the personnel needed to reach the postseason.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 7 Lance Laing
Laing has already scored eight times this season, including a goal against FC Edmonton on April 15. He’ll be eager to add to his tally against his former club. The Jamaican spent 2013-15 with the Eddies and scored 16 goals for the club. Look for Laing to cause problems on the left wing and be a threat anytime NCFC wins a free kick in the attacking half.
 
No. 18 Tomi Ameobi
Ameobi is one of Edmonton’s most dangerous attacking options. The 6’3” target forward has scored six goals with two of them coming against NCFC. Ameobi has played the full 90 minutes in 14 consecutive matches. Look for the forward to continue causing problems for NCFC with his height and natural goal-scoring ability.
 
Last Time Out:
The club is coming off a 2-2 draw with the New York Cosmos on Aug. 26. Renan Gorne scored his first NASL goal to draw the side level with a strike in the 90th minute. The goal salvaged a point and kept NCFC firmly in the NASL playoff race. NCFC captain Nazmi Albadawi made his 100th appearance for the club and added a goal.
 
Up Next:
Following a return trip to FC Edmonton on Sep. 10 and a midweek bout against the Indy Eleven on Sep. 13, NCFC will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Sep. 16 to take on Puerto Rico FC at 7:30 p.m. The match will be presented by Ipreo. Tickets are available online at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.

CARY, N.C. (Aug. 26, 2017) – On a beautiful Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, North Carolina FC drew 2-2 with the New York Cosmos in come-from-behind fashion.
 
NCFC trailed 2-1 with 19 minutes left in the contest, but a 90th-minute equalizer from Renan Gorne saved a point for NCFC to keep the club firmly in the NASL playoff race.
 
“It was a good game between two good teams,” said NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke. “We’re disappointed not to get the result we were looking for. I thought we deserved it with the overall balance of play, but I’m pleased with the way we played. I think that’s the best we’ve played for quite a while.”
 
The home team put together a dominating first half. North Carolina outshot New York 5-0, while putting two shots on goal. In the 25th minute, Paul Black’s cross found Tiyi Shipalane behind the defense, but Jimmy Maurer did well to block the shot with his foot. Steven Miller also forced a save from Maurer in the 40thminute, while Lance Laing nearly connected with a cross from Shipalane in stoppage time of the first half.
 
Following the restart, Nazmi Albadawi buried the game’s first goal less than a minute into the second half. Albadawi connected with fellow Raleigh native Dre Fortune who provided the assist. The goal was Albadawi’s second of the year, while Fortune collected his first assist of the season.
 
NCFC nearly tallied a pair of goals just 10 minutes later when Fortune almost caught Maurer off his line. However, the goalkeeper made a diving save to keep the Cosmos in the game. Just a minute later, Maurer came up big again, making another diving save on a shot from Miller.
 
Despite the increased attacking pressure, NCFC would fall behind when New York tallied goals in the 59thand 71st minutes against the run of play. Andres Flores struck first off an assist from Ayoze. Just 12 minutes later, the Cosmos would take the lead after Eugene Starikov scored unassisted.
 
With time winding down, NCFC poured numbers forward in hopes of a goal. Gorne made the most of his first home start and buried the equalizer in the 90th minute. The Brazilian found himself in the right place at the right time following a mishandled save from Maurer. The forward added a cool finish from close range for the first goal of his NCFC career, bringing the match to its final score of 2-2.

Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home for another week as it takes on FC Edmonton on Saturday, Sep. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match will be presented by WakeMed Health and Hospitals. Tickets are available online at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.
 
Notes:

• Nazmi Albadawi made his 100th NASL appearance today, and scored his second goal of the season.
• Renan Gorne earned the second start of his NCFC career, and scored his first goal for the club.
• North Carolina FC has now drawn 2-2 in its last two matches against the Cosmos.

Lineups
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Paul Black, Christian Ibeagha, Connor Tobin, Steven Miller; Lance Laing (Jon Orlando 80’), Dre Fortune (Alex Molano 80’), James Marcelin, Nazmi Albadawi ©, Tiyi Shipalane (Matt Fondy 89’); Renan Gorne
 
Subs not used: Macklin Robinson, Kareem Moses, Austin da Luz, Marcel Kandziora
 
NYC: Jimmy Maurer; Ryan Richter, Carlos Mendes ©, Ayoze, Darrius Barnes; Javi Marquez (Danny Szetela 90’), Andres Flores, Juan Guerra, Emmanuel Ledesma (Kobi Moyal 82’), Jimmy Mulligan; Pablo Vranjican (Eugene Starikov 60’)
 
Subs not used: Dejan Jakovic, Kyle Zobeck, Eric Calvillo, Lucky Mkosana

Score:
NCFC: 2
NYC: 2

Goals:
NCFC: Albadawi (Fortune 46’), Gorne (Unassisted 90+’)
NYC: Flores (Ayoze 59’), Starikov (Unassisted 71’)

Cautions: 
NCFC: Nazmi Albadawi 45’, Alex Molano 86’
NYC: Pablo Vranjican 19’, Danny Szetela 90+’, Ryan Richter 90+’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
NYC: —
 
Attendance: 4,205

CARY, N.C. (Aug. 26, 2017) – On a beautiful Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park, North Carolina FC drew 2-2 with the New York Cosmos in come-from-behind fashion.
 
NCFC trailed 2-1 with 19 minutes left in the contest, but a 90th-minute equalizer from Renan Gorne saved a point for NCFC to keep the club firmly in the NASL playoff race.
 
“It was a good game between two good teams,” said NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke. “We’re disappointed not to get the result we were looking for. I thought we deserved it with the overall balance of play, but I’m pleased with the way we played. I think that’s the best we’ve played for quite a while.”
 
The home team put together a dominating first half. North Carolina outshot New York 5-0, while putting two shots on goal. In the 25th minute, Paul Black’s cross found Tiyi Shipalane behind the defense, but Jimmy Maurer did well to block the shot with his foot. Steven Miller also forced a save from Maurer in the 40thminute, while Lance Laing nearly connected with a cross from Shipalane in stoppage time of the first half.
 
Following the restart, Nazmi Albadawi buried the game’s first goal less than a minute into the second half. Albadawi connected with fellow Raleigh native Dre Fortune who provided the assist. The goal was Albadawi’s second of the year, while Fortune collected his first assist of the season.
 
NCFC nearly tallied a pair of goals just 10 minutes later when Fortune almost caught Maurer off his line. However, the goalkeeper made a diving save to keep the Cosmos in the game. Just a minute later, Maurer came up big again, making another diving save on a shot from Miller.
 
Despite the increased attacking pressure, NCFC would fall behind when New York tallied goals in the 59thand 71st minutes against the run of play. Andres Flores struck first off an assist from Ayoze. Just 12 minutes later, the Cosmos would take the lead after Eugene Starikov scored unassisted.
 
With time winding down, NCFC poured numbers forward in hopes of a goal. Gorne made the most of his first home start and buried the equalizer in the 90th minute. The Brazilian found himself in the right place at the right time following a mishandled save from Maurer. The forward added a cool finish from close range for the first goal of his NCFC career, bringing the match to its final score of 2-2.

Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home for another week as it takes on FC Edmonton on Saturday, Sep. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match will be presented by WakeMed Health and Hospitals. Tickets are available online at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.
 
Notes:

• Nazmi Albadawi made his 100th NASL appearance today, and scored his second goal of the season.
• Renan Gorne earned the second start of his NCFC career, and scored his first goal for the club.
• North Carolina FC has now drawn 2-2 in its last two matches against the Cosmos.

Lineups
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Paul Black, Christian Ibeagha, Connor Tobin, Steven Miller; Lance Laing (Jon Orlando 80’), Dre Fortune (Alex Molano 80’), James Marcelin, Nazmi Albadawi ©, Tiyi Shipalane (Matt Fondy 89’); Renan Gorne
 
Subs not used: Macklin Robinson, Kareem Moses, Austin da Luz, Marcel Kandziora
 
NYC: Jimmy Maurer; Ryan Richter, Carlos Mendes ©, Ayoze, Darrius Barnes; Javi Marquez (Danny Szetela 90’), Andres Flores, Juan Guerra, Emmanuel Ledesma (Kobi Moyal 82’), Jimmy Mulligan; Pablo Vranjican (Eugene Starikov 60’)
 
Subs not used: Dejan Jakovic, Kyle Zobeck, Eric Calvillo, Lucky Mkosana

Score:
NCFC: 2
NYC: 2

Goals:
NCFC: Albadawi (Fortune 46’), Gorne (Unassisted 90+’)
NYC: Flores (Ayoze 59’), Starikov (Unassisted 71’)

Cautions: 
NCFC: Nazmi Albadawi 45’, Alex Molano 86’
NYC: Pablo Vranjican 19’, Danny Szetela 90+’, Ryan Richter 90+’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
NYC: —
 
Attendance: 4,205

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS NEW YORK COSMOS
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, AUGUST 26, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
 
TV: WRAL2, WILM-TV10
DIGITAL: ESPN3, WRAL.COM
RADIO: 95.7 THE TICKET (95.7 FM & 1330 AM)
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvNYC
 
CARY, N.C. (Aug. 26, 2017) – With time winding down on the 2017 NASL Regular Season, the playoff race is heating up. North Carolina FC (7W-6D-8L, 27 points, 4th place) and the New York Cosmos (7W-8D-5L, 29 points, 3rd place) are two of seven teams still searching for three remaining bids to the 2017 playoffs. The two teams will meet on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to continue the fight for the playoffs. The match will be presented by Northwestern Mutual.
 
Only two points separate NCFC and the Cosmos, setting up a match that could go a long way in deciding which teams claim the final playoff spots. Historically, New York has owned the matchup, winning six of the last eight matches in the series. However, NCFC most recently battled New York to a 2-2 draw in Brooklyn on June 10 with superb goals from Billy Schuler and Lance Laing.
 
The hosts will look to its talented attacking unit to fuel its playoff hopes. Laing leads the way with eight goals, including two in his last three matches. NCFC’s newest striker, Renan Gorne, earned his first start last week, while Schuler and Matt Fondy have also been relied on for goals this season.
 
Despite New York’s strong Spring Season, the side’s form has dropped recently. The team opened the Fall Season with a win over Miami, but lost to San Francisco in its next match. In its last two matches, New York has drawn with lower-table sides FC Edmonton and the Indy Eleven.
 
Emmanuel Ledesma is the talisman for New York’s attack with six goals, but the team has used a variety of options to find the back of the net. In addition to Ledesma, 13 players have scored at least one goal this season for the Cosmos.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC drew 1-1 with the San Francisco Deltas last weekend at Kezar Stadium. After conceding in the 60thminute, Lance Laing rescued a point by converting a penalty kick in the 72nd minute. Goalkeeper Brian Sylvestre also had a great match, accumulating six saves against a determined Deltas attack.
 
Players to Watch:
 
No. 17 Billy Schuler
Schuler emerged as a starter midway through the Fall Season and provided North Carolina with a big boost in the attack. The forward has totaled four league goals and an assist before an injury sidelined him for over a month. Look for him to regain his form against a New York Cosmos side that he’s already scored against this season.
 
No. 26 Eric Calvillo
After making a name for himself with the U.S. Youth National Team, Calvillo is emerging as an attacking threat for the New York Cosmos this season. The 19-year-old had scored three times and added one assist in just 527 minutes of play. Cavillo is part of dangerous New York attacking unit, which has caused problems for NCFC in the past. Look for Calvillo to make plays all over the field as a box-to-box midfielder with a knack for finishing.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home for another week as it takes on FC Edmonton on Saturday, Sep. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match will be presented by WakeMed Health and Hospitals. Tickets are available online at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.

MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS NEW YORK COSMOS
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, AUGUST 26, 2017 – 7:30 P.M. ET
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
 
TV: WRAL2, WILM-TV10
DIGITAL: ESPN3, WRAL.COM
RADIO: 95.7 THE TICKET (95.7 FM & 1330 AM)
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #NCFCvNYC
 
CARY, N.C. (Aug. 26, 2017) – With time winding down on the 2017 NASL Regular Season, the playoff race is heating up. North Carolina FC (7W-6D-8L, 27 points, 4th place) and the New York Cosmos (7W-8D-5L, 29 points, 3rd place) are two of seven teams still searching for three remaining bids to the 2017 playoffs. The two teams will meet on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to continue the fight for the playoffs. The match will be presented by Northwestern Mutual.
 
Only two points separate NCFC and the Cosmos, setting up a match that could go a long way in deciding which teams claim the final playoff spots. Historically, New York has owned the matchup, winning six of the last eight matches in the series. However, NCFC most recently battled New York to a 2-2 draw in Brooklyn on June 10 with superb goals from Billy Schuler and Lance Laing.
 
The hosts will look to its talented attacking unit to fuel its playoff hopes. Laing leads the way with eight goals, including two in his last three matches. NCFC’s newest striker, Renan Gorne, earned his first start last week, while Schuler and Matt Fondy have also been relied on for goals this season.
 
Despite New York’s strong Spring Season, the side’s form has dropped recently. The team opened the Fall Season with a win over Miami, but lost to San Francisco in its next match. In its last two matches, New York has drawn with lower-table sides FC Edmonton and the Indy Eleven.
 
Emmanuel Ledesma is the talisman for New York’s attack with six goals, but the team has used a variety of options to find the back of the net. In addition to Ledesma, 13 players have scored at least one goal this season for the Cosmos.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC drew 1-1 with the San Francisco Deltas last weekend at Kezar Stadium. After conceding in the 60thminute, Lance Laing rescued a point by converting a penalty kick in the 72nd minute. Goalkeeper Brian Sylvestre also had a great match, accumulating six saves against a determined Deltas attack.
 
Players to Watch:
 
No. 17 Billy Schuler
Schuler emerged as a starter midway through the Fall Season and provided North Carolina with a big boost in the attack. The forward has totaled four league goals and an assist before an injury sidelined him for over a month. Look for him to regain his form against a New York Cosmos side that he’s already scored against this season.
 
No. 26 Eric Calvillo
After making a name for himself with the U.S. Youth National Team, Calvillo is emerging as an attacking threat for the New York Cosmos this season. The 19-year-old had scored three times and added one assist in just 527 minutes of play. Cavillo is part of dangerous New York attacking unit, which has caused problems for NCFC in the past. Look for Calvillo to make plays all over the field as a box-to-box midfielder with a knack for finishing.
 
Coming Up Next:
North Carolina FC will remain at home for another week as it takes on FC Edmonton on Saturday, Sep. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match will be presented by WakeMed Health and Hospitals. Tickets are available online at NCFCTIX.com or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.

SAN FRANCISCO (Aug. 19, 2017) – North Carolina FC battled to a 1-1 draw with the San Francisco Deltas to earn a point on the road on Saturday night at Kezar Stadium. The draw keeps NCFC at fourth in the NASL Fall Season table and fourth in the combined standings.
 
After San Francisco took a 1-0 lead at the hour mark, Lance Laing recused the point by converting a penalty kick in the 73rd minute. On the defensive end, Brian Sylvestre posted a man-of-the-match performance with several key saves.
 
The teams opened the match with exciting end-to-end play and attacking chances for both sides. As the match rolled on, San Francisco began to establish a stronger hold in the attack, but excellent play from Sylvestre kept NCFC from conceding.
 
San Francisco’s strong defensive front limited the visitors in the attack, but NCFC entered the half with a 60.8-39.2 percent advantage in possession. NCFC saw strong play on the wing from Laing to set up most of the club’s attacking chances. Laing had a cross nearly deflected into the back of the net, but a heads up play from San Francisco goalkeeper Romuald Peiser pushed the attempt over the bar and out of danger.
 
Following the break, the game opened to a more free-flowing second half. San Francisco took advantage of its attacking chance first and scored the game’s opening goal in the 60th minute. Patrick Hopkins scored after directing Jackson’s corner kick in from a tight angle.
 
NCFC equalized just 13 minutes later. After James Marcelin was pulled down in the box, Laing stepped up and converted the penalty kick to tie the match and score his team-leading eighth goal of the season.
 
The match played out at a frantic pace with end-to-end play. Sylvestre came up with a huge double save in the 86th minute. The keeper produced an excellent effort to deny a pair of San Francisco attackers on the break.
 
On the other end, Nazmi Albadawi led NCFC into San Francisco’s box. The midfielder juked a defender and sent a cross past Peiser towards a gaping net at the far post. However, his effort was cleared to safety by the San Francisco defense and the game ended in a tie.
 
Coming Up Next:
The team will return home to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. to host the New York Cosmos in another important battle for a postseason playoff spot. The match will be presented by Northwestern Mutual. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.
 
 
Notes:

• Marcel Kandziora and Renan Gorne both appeared in the Starting XI for the first time this season
• Lance Laing scored his eighth goal of the season by converting a penalty kick in the 73rd minute

Lineups
SFD: Romuald Peiser ©; Karl Ouimette, Patrick Hopkins, Reiner Ferrerira; Jackson, Michael Stephens (Pablo Dyego 76’), Tyler Gibson, Greg Jordan (Kyle Becker 73’), Maxim Tissot; Dagoberto (Devon Sandoval 86’), Tommy Heinemann
 
Subs not used: Alex Mangels, Bryan Burke, Kenny Teijesse, Andrew Lubahn
 
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Paul Black, Connor Tobin, James Marcelin, Steven Miller; Lance Laing (Kareem Moses 90+), Dre Fortune, Marcel Kandziora (Bolu Akinyode,76’), Nazmi Albadawi ©, Austin da Luz, Renan Gorne (Billy Schuler 86’)
 
Subs not used: Macklin Robinson, Tiyi Shipalane, Brad Ruhaak, Alex Molano
 
Score:
SFD: 1
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
SFD: Hopkins (Jackson, 60’)
NCFC: Laing (PK, 73’)
 
Cautions:
SFD: Dagoberto 71’
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre 25’, Austin da Luz 85’
 
Ejections:
SFD: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance: 2,094

SAN FRANCISCO (Aug. 19, 2017) – North Carolina FC battled to a 1-1 draw with the San Francisco Deltas to earn a point on the road on Saturday night at Kezar Stadium. The draw keeps NCFC at fourth in the NASL Fall Season table and fourth in the combined standings.
 
After San Francisco took a 1-0 lead at the hour mark, Lance Laing recused the point by converting a penalty kick in the 73rd minute. On the defensive end, Brian Sylvestre posted a man-of-the-match performance with several key saves.
 
The teams opened the match with exciting end-to-end play and attacking chances for both sides. As the match rolled on, San Francisco began to establish a stronger hold in the attack, but excellent play from Sylvestre kept NCFC from conceding.
 
San Francisco’s strong defensive front limited the visitors in the attack, but NCFC entered the half with a 60.8-39.2 percent advantage in possession. NCFC saw strong play on the wing from Laing to set up most of the club’s attacking chances. Laing had a cross nearly deflected into the back of the net, but a heads up play from San Francisco goalkeeper Romuald Peiser pushed the attempt over the bar and out of danger.
 
Following the break, the game opened to a more free-flowing second half. San Francisco took advantage of its attacking chance first and scored the game’s opening goal in the 60th minute. Patrick Hopkins scored after directing Jackson’s corner kick in from a tight angle.
 
NCFC equalized just 13 minutes later. After James Marcelin was pulled down in the box, Laing stepped up and converted the penalty kick to tie the match and score his team-leading eighth goal of the season.
 
The match played out at a frantic pace with end-to-end play. Sylvestre came up with a huge double save in the 86th minute. The keeper produced an excellent effort to deny a pair of San Francisco attackers on the break.
 
On the other end, Nazmi Albadawi led NCFC into San Francisco’s box. The midfielder juked a defender and sent a cross past Peiser towards a gaping net at the far post. However, his effort was cleared to safety by the San Francisco defense and the game ended in a tie.
 
Coming Up Next:
The team will return home to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. to host the New York Cosmos in another important battle for a postseason playoff spot. The match will be presented by Northwestern Mutual. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.
 
 
Notes:

• Marcel Kandziora and Renan Gorne both appeared in the Starting XI for the first time this season
• Lance Laing scored his eighth goal of the season by converting a penalty kick in the 73rd minute

Lineups
SFD: Romuald Peiser ©; Karl Ouimette, Patrick Hopkins, Reiner Ferrerira; Jackson, Michael Stephens (Pablo Dyego 76’), Tyler Gibson, Greg Jordan (Kyle Becker 73’), Maxim Tissot; Dagoberto (Devon Sandoval 86’), Tommy Heinemann
 
Subs not used: Alex Mangels, Bryan Burke, Kenny Teijesse, Andrew Lubahn
 
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Paul Black, Connor Tobin, James Marcelin, Steven Miller; Lance Laing (Kareem Moses 90+), Dre Fortune, Marcel Kandziora (Bolu Akinyode,76’), Nazmi Albadawi ©, Austin da Luz, Renan Gorne (Billy Schuler 86’)
 
Subs not used: Macklin Robinson, Tiyi Shipalane, Brad Ruhaak, Alex Molano
 
Score:
SFD: 1
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
SFD: Hopkins (Jackson, 60’)
NCFC: Laing (PK, 73’)
 
Cautions:
SFD: Dagoberto 71’
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre 25’, Austin da Luz 85’
 
Ejections:
SFD: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance: 2,094

MATCHDAY INFO:
SAN FRANCISCO DELTAS VS NORTH CAROLINA FC
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017 – 8 P.M. ET
KEZAR STADIUM
 
DIGITAL: TWITTER @SFDELTAS
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #SFDvNCFC
 
CARY, N.C. (Aug. 18, 2017) – North Carolina FC (1W-2D-1L, 5 points, 4th place) will make the cross-country journey to face the San Francisco Deltas (1W-2D-0L, 5 points, 3rd place) on Saturday, Aug. 19 at Kezar Stadium at 8 p.m.
 
North Carolina FC is off to a hot start to the Fall Season, taking points from three of its first four matches. The results feature a 3-2 victory against Miami FC on Aug. 5 and a 2-2 draw against Jacksonville on Aug 12.
 
The club will need to continue its strong play to take down a tough San Francisco side. North Carolina has struggled against the 2017 expansion side, dropping both of its matches to the Deltas so far. San Francisco came away with a 3-1 victory the last time the two teams met at Kezar Stadium, scoring a pair of late goals to clinch the win on April 8.
 
NCFC will aim for its high-scoring offense to break through a solid San Francisco defense that has only allowed 22 goals all season. Lance Laing will lead the charge after scoring his seventh goal of the season last weekend. He’ll have help from Billy Schuler and Matt Fondy. The two strikers have combined for nine goals.
 
Players to Watch:
No. 11 Tiyi Shipalane
Shipalane has appeared in 15 matches this season. He recently made the difference in the team’s 3-2 win over Miami. The midfielder provided a perfectly-placed free kick, which led to a game-winning goal from Christian Ibeagha. Look for Shipalane’s pace on the wing to put San Francisco’s defenders under constant pressure.
 
No. 9 Tommy Heinemann
Heinemann has been the Deltas' most consistent attacking threat all season. The 6’4” target forward has scored six goals, including two against NCFC. Heinemann is a familiar name for the franchise. He spent the 2010 season with NCFC and tallied six goals in 12 appearances. Look for Heinemann’s height and hold up play to fuel San Francisco’s attack.
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC suffered its first loss of the Fall Season, falling 1-0 to Miami FC on Aug. 15 at home. Despite NCFC starting the match with most of the attacking chances, Miami struck quickly for a goal in the 15th minute. The visitors held off NCFC the rest of the match to take all three points.
 
Coming Up Next:
The team will return home to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. to host the New York Cosmos in another important battle for a postseason playoff spot. The match will be presented by Northwestern Mutual. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.

MATCHDAY INFO:
SAN FRANCISCO DELTAS VS NORTH CAROLINA FC
KICKOFF: SATURDAY, AUGUST 19, 2017 – 8 P.M. ET
KEZAR STADIUM
 
DIGITAL: TWITTER @SFDELTAS
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC #SFDvNCFC
 
CARY, N.C. (Aug. 18, 2017) – North Carolina FC (1W-2D-1L, 5 points, 4th place) will make the cross-country journey to face the San Francisco Deltas (1W-2D-0L, 5 points, 3rd place) on Saturday, Aug. 19 at Kezar Stadium at 8 p.m.
 
North Carolina FC is off to a hot start to the Fall Season, taking points from three of its first four matches. The results feature a 3-2 victory against Miami FC on Aug. 5 and a 2-2 draw against Jacksonville on Aug 12.
 
The club will need to continue its strong play to take down a tough San Francisco side. North Carolina has struggled against the 2017 expansion side, dropping both of its matches to the Deltas so far. San Francisco came away with a 3-1 victory the last time the two teams met at Kezar Stadium, scoring a pair of late goals to clinch the win on April 8.
 
NCFC will aim for its high-scoring offense to break through a solid San Francisco defense that has only allowed 22 goals all season. Lance Laing will lead the charge after scoring his seventh goal of the season last weekend. He’ll have help from Billy Schuler and Matt Fondy. The two strikers have combined for nine goals.
 
Players to Watch:
No. 11 Tiyi Shipalane
Shipalane has appeared in 15 matches this season. He recently made the difference in the team’s 3-2 win over Miami. The midfielder provided a perfectly-placed free kick, which led to a game-winning goal from Christian Ibeagha. Look for Shipalane’s pace on the wing to put San Francisco’s defenders under constant pressure.
 
No. 9 Tommy Heinemann
Heinemann has been the Deltas’ most consistent attacking threat all season. The 6’4” target forward has scored six goals, including two against NCFC. Heinemann is a familiar name for the franchise. He spent the 2010 season with NCFC and tallied six goals in 12 appearances. Look for Heinemann’s height and hold up play to fuel San Francisco’s attack.
 
Last Time Out:
North Carolina FC suffered its first loss of the Fall Season, falling 1-0 to Miami FC on Aug. 15 at home. Despite NCFC starting the match with most of the attacking chances, Miami struck quickly for a goal in the 15th minute. The visitors held off NCFC the rest of the match to take all three points.
 
Coming Up Next:
The team will return home to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. to host the New York Cosmos in another important battle for a postseason playoff spot. The match will be presented by Northwestern Mutual. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.

CARY, N.C. (Aug. 15, 2017) – North Carolina FC was handed its first loss in five matches after Miami FC held on for a 1-0 win Tuesday night at WakeMed Soccer Park. The visiting side scored via a goal from Jaime Chavez in the 15th minute and denied NCFC for the rest of the contest to clinch the shutout, evening the overall series to a record of 2W-4D-2L for both teams.

“Obviously, we’re disappointed to not have gotten something from this match,” said NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke. “It was two good teams. I thought it was a good game for the neutral to watch with a lot of good play. Unfortunately, they edged us tonight.”

In the eighth minute, Nazmi Albadawi and Billy Schuler connected to create the game’s first dangerous chance. Albadawi whipped a cross to an open Schuler in the box, but his header was saved by Miami FC goalkeeper Daniel Vega. Vega came up with another big save just minutes later when he forced Albadawi’s shot from distance over the bar.
 
Despite NCFC’s abundance of chances, Miami struck first, netting a goal in the 15th minute. Chavez found the back of the net from close range for the visitors after Ariel Martinez played in the forward.
 
The home side nearly equalized on several occasions during the first half. Carranza sparked a counter attack in the 19th minute when he played a ball into Laing behind the Miami defense, but the Jamaican’s shot went high. In the 34th minute, Albadawi once again cut through the Miami FC defense, but Vega was in a good position to make the save on the NCFC captain’s powerful shot.
 
The attacking chances continued in the second half despite Miami FC pulling men behind the ball. Vega denied Laing in another one-on-one opportunity in the 55th minute.
 
On the other side of the pitch, Albadawi added to his strong performance and provided a goal-line clearance to deny Rhett Berstein’s header in the 60th minute.
 
With time winding down, NCFC had its opportunities to equalize, but a composed Miami backline combined with solid play from Vega and clinched the result to hand NCFC a loss for the first time since July 7.
 
Notes:
– Renan Gorne made his club debut, coming on as a substitute in the 72nd minute.
– Nazmi Albadawi and Brian Sylvestre are the only two players to have played all 1,800 minutes of the NASL season so far.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will make the cross-country trip to face the San Francisco Deltas on Saturday, Aug. 19 at 8 p.m. at Kezar Stadium. The team will return home on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. to host the New York Cosmos in another important battle for a postseason playoff spot. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.

Box Score 
 
Lineups
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Steven Miller, Christian Ibeagha, Connor Tobin, Paul Black; Jose Carranza (Tiyi Shipalane, 72’), Nazmi Albadawi ©, Bolu Akinyode (Marcel Kandizora, 81’), Austin daLuz, Lance Laing (Renan Gorne, 72’); Billy Schuler
 
Subs not used: Mack Robinson, Matt Fondy, Kareem Moses, Alex Molano
 
MIA: Daniel Vega; Hunter Freeman, Rhett Bernstein, Tyler Ruthven, Blake Smith; Michael Lahoud ©, Richie Ryan, Dylan Mares (Calvin Rezende 90+’); Jaime Chavez, Ariel Martinez (Lovel Palmer, 67’), Kwadwo Poku (Vincenzo Rennella, 78’)
 
Subs not used: Ryan Herman, Jonathan Borrajo, Gabriel Farfan, Michel

Score:
NCFC: 0
MIA: 1

Goals:
NCFC: —
MIA: Jaime Chavez (Ariel Martinez, 15’)

Cautions: 
NCFC: Jose Carranza 43’
MIA: Michael Lahoud 47’, Jaime Chavez 75’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
MIA: —
 
Attendance: 3,525

CARY, N.C. (Aug. 15, 2017) – North Carolina FC was handed its first loss in five matches after Miami FC held on for a 1-0 win Tuesday night at WakeMed Soccer Park. The visiting side scored via a goal from Jaime Chavez in the 15th minute and denied NCFC for the rest of the contest to clinch the shutout, evening the overall series to a record of 2W-4D-2L for both teams.

“Obviously, we’re disappointed to not have gotten something from this match,” said NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke. “It was two good teams. I thought it was a good game for the neutral to watch with a lot of good play. Unfortunately, they edged us tonight.”

In the eighth minute, Nazmi Albadawi and Billy Schuler connected to create the game’s first dangerous chance. Albadawi whipped a cross to an open Schuler in the box, but his header was saved by Miami FC goalkeeper Daniel Vega. Vega came up with another big save just minutes later when he forced Albadawi’s shot from distance over the bar.
 
Despite NCFC’s abundance of chances, Miami struck first, netting a goal in the 15th minute. Chavez found the back of the net from close range for the visitors after Ariel Martinez played in the forward.
 
The home side nearly equalized on several occasions during the first half. Carranza sparked a counter attack in the 19th minute when he played a ball into Laing behind the Miami defense, but the Jamaican’s shot went high. In the 34th minute, Albadawi once again cut through the Miami FC defense, but Vega was in a good position to make the save on the NCFC captain’s powerful shot.
 
The attacking chances continued in the second half despite Miami FC pulling men behind the ball. Vega denied Laing in another one-on-one opportunity in the 55th minute.
 
On the other side of the pitch, Albadawi added to his strong performance and provided a goal-line clearance to deny Rhett Berstein’s header in the 60th minute.
 
With time winding down, NCFC had its opportunities to equalize, but a composed Miami backline combined with solid play from Vega and clinched the result to hand NCFC a loss for the first time since July 7.
 
Notes:
– Renan Gorne made his club debut, coming on as a substitute in the 72nd minute.
– Nazmi Albadawi and Brian Sylvestre are the only two players to have played all 1,800 minutes of the NASL season so far.
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will make the cross-country trip to face the San Francisco Deltas on Saturday, Aug. 19 at 8 p.m. at Kezar Stadium. The team will return home on Saturday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. to host the New York Cosmos in another important battle for a postseason playoff spot. Tickets are available online or over the phone by calling the North Carolina Football Club Ticket Office at 919.459.8144.

Box Score 
 
Lineups
NCFC: Brian Sylvestre; Steven Miller, Christian Ibeagha, Connor Tobin, Paul Black; Jose Carranza (Tiyi Shipalane, 72’), Nazmi Albadawi ©, Bolu Akinyode (Marcel Kandizora, 81’), Austin daLuz, Lance Laing (Renan Gorne, 72’); Billy Schuler
 
Subs not used: Mack Robinson, Matt Fondy, Kareem Moses, Alex Molano
 
MIA: Daniel Vega; Hunter Freeman, Rhett Bernstein, Tyler Ruthven, Blake Smith; Michael Lahoud ©, Richie Ryan, Dylan Mares (Calvin Rezende 90+’); Jaime Chavez, Ariel Martinez (Lovel Palmer, 67’), Kwadwo Poku (Vincenzo Rennella, 78’)
 
Subs not used: Ryan Herman, Jonathan Borrajo, Gabriel Farfan, Michel

Score:
NCFC: 0
MIA: 1

Goals:
NCFC: —
MIA: Jaime Chavez (Ariel Martinez, 15’)

Cautions: 
NCFC: Jose Carranza 43’
MIA: Michael Lahoud 47’, Jaime Chavez 75’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
MIA: —
 
Attendance: 3,525