Recent News

Cary, NC (May 23, 2019) – The North Carolina Football Club will once again celebrate diversity and inclusivity with Pride Week activities starting on Tuesday, June 11 and culminating in the club’s Pride Night on Saturday, June 15 with the NCFC and NC Courage doubleheader. Pride Week is presented by Credit Suisse and supported by Citrix, Hi-Wire Brewing, the Raleigh Beer Garden, Alliance of Aids Services Carolina, ACLU of NC, Equality NC, Human Rights Campaign, and the LGBT Center of Raleigh.
 
Pride Week continues the club’s commitment to celebrating diversity and equality while supporting LGBTQ causes. Over the last few years, the club has hosted events, tailgates and games in support of equality and celebrating the ability of the world’s game to unite people from all walks of life. 
 
Pride Week will kick off on Tuesday, June 11 at 6 p.m. with an event at Hi-Wire Brewing in Durham. Players from both NCFC and the NC Courage will be in attendance to mingle with fans and sign autographs. Additionally, there will be soccer pool as well as food trucks for hungry fans. 
 
On Thursday, June 13, at 7 p.m., the Raleigh Beer Garden will host Stars Behind the Bar, an event in which NCFC and NC Courage players will act as guest bartenders and socialize with fans. Tips collected by the players will benefit Austin da Luz’s Playing for Pride initiative. 
 
Da Luz started Playing for Pride in 2017 as a way to garner attention for LGBTQ issues while raising money for different organizations that benefit this often-discriminated against community. The initiative continues to involve soccer players across leagues from all over the world, who pledge money for starts, goals, assists and clean sheets, and has raised over $30,000 to date. For the second consecutive year, Playing for Pride will run during the whole month of June and will benefit Athlete Ally, an organization whose 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. Click here for more information on how to donate to Playing for Pride.
 
Pride Week will conclude on Saturday, June 15 as NCFC takes on Swope Park Rangers and the NC Courage face the Portland Thorns in a doubleheader starting at 5 p.m. For the occasion, the club will debut pride-themed merchandise, including a rainbow star hat and co-branded pride scarves. A portion of the pride merchandise sales will also benefit Playing for Pride. 
 
One ticket will provide access to both games for the June 15 doubleheader and tickets are available online at Ticketmaster.com or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919.459.8144.

 

 

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Cary, NC (May 23, 2019) – The North Carolina Football Club will once again celebrate diversity and inclusivity with Pride Week activities starting on Tuesday, June 11 and culminating in the club’s Pride Night on Saturday, June 15 with the NCFC and NC Courage doubleheader. Pride Week is presented by Credit Suisse and supported by Citrix, Hi-Wire Brewing, the Raleigh Beer Garden, Alliance of Aids Services Carolina, ACLU of NC, Equality NC, Human Rights Campaign, and the LGBT Center of Raleigh.
 
Pride Week continues the club’s commitment to celebrating diversity and equality while supporting LGBTQ causes. Over the last few years, the club has hosted events, tailgates and games in support of equality and celebrating the ability of the world’s game to unite people from all walks of life. 
 
Pride Week will kick off on Tuesday, June 11 at 6 p.m. with an event at Hi-Wire Brewing in Durham. Players from both NCFC and the NC Courage will be in attendance to mingle with fans and sign autographs. Additionally, there will be soccer pool as well as food trucks for hungry fans. 
 
On Thursday, June 13, at 7 p.m., the Raleigh Beer Garden will host Stars Behind the Bar, an event in which NCFC and NC Courage players will act as guest bartenders and socialize with fans. Tips collected by the players will benefit Austin da Luz’s Playing for Pride initiative. 
 
Da Luz started Playing for Pride in 2017 as a way to garner attention for LGBTQ issues while raising money for different organizations that benefit this often-discriminated against community. The initiative continues to involve soccer players across leagues from all over the world, who pledge money for starts, goals, assists and clean sheets, and has raised over $30,000 to date. For the second consecutive year, Playing for Pride will run during the whole month of June and will benefit Athlete Ally, an organization whose 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. Click here for more information on how to donate to Playing for Pride.
 
Pride Week will conclude on Saturday, June 15 as NCFC takes on Swope Park Rangers and the NC Courage face the Portland Thorns in a doubleheader starting at 5 p.m. For the occasion, the club will debut pride-themed merchandise, including a rainbow star hat and co-branded pride scarves. A portion of the pride merchandise sales will also benefit Playing for Pride. 
 
One ticket will provide access to both games for the June 15 doubleheader and tickets are available online at Ticketmaster.com or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919.459.8144.

 

 

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Match Info:
North Carolina FC at New York Red Bulls II
Friday, May 24 – 7 p.m.
MSU Soccer Park
 
Broadcast Info:
ESPN+ (https://es.pn/2HyANJV)
 
 
CARY, N.C. (May 23, 2019) –North Carolina FC faces another big test with a visit to MSU Soccer Park to play New York Red Bulls II on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. The game is a pivotal match in the USL Championship playoff race. A win could boost NCFC as high as third place in the Eastern Conference.
 
Red Bulls II have developed into an early contender in the playoff race, and currently sit at second in the Eastern Conference standings with a 6W-2L-2D record and 20 points. The only losses of the season are an out-of-character 3-1 loss against Loudoun United and a recent 2-0 defeat to the Tampa Bay Rowdies. 
 
The side was led by Tom Barlow, but after scoring eight goals in eight games, the dynamic player was signed by the New York Red Bulls MLS side. The team still has attacking options in Jared Stroud (4 goals, 3 assists) and three-goal scorers Derrick Etienne and Mathias Jørgensen. Additionally, the team is full of Red Bulls Academy products who currently play important minutes, including Chris Lema and Evan Louro.
 
NCFC will aim to return to form with a plethora of scoring options. Robert Kristo has scored four goals in all competitions, including two goals last week in Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play. Marios Lomis has six goals on the season, while eight other players have found the back of the net for NCFC.
 
Last Time Out:
Despite controlling most of the play last weekend, NCFC settled for a scoreless draw with Birmingham Legion FC. Alex Tambakis came up with three huge saves in the shutout, while NCFC hit the woodwork in both halves and visiting goalkeeper Trevor Spangenberg added some high-quality saves. 
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 7 Donovan Ewolo
After a goal and an assist against Louisville City FC in the season opener, Ewolo has not made the scoresheet since. The speedy, athletic winger is a handful for defenders and it’s only a matter of time before his scoring form returns. Watch for the capable Cameroonian to pressure New York’s defenders. His efforts in the last trip to MSU Soccer Park earned NCFC a late equalizer against the Red Bulls.
 
New York Red Bulls II – No. 42 Brian White
White, a former NCFC U-23 player, returned to his hometown club after an impressive college career with Duke. The forward has split time between the MLS and USL Championship New York Red Bulls teams. If he makes it on the pitch this weekend, look for the dangerous attacking option to show his quality. In 28 total USL Championship appearances, White has scored 11 goals.
 
Up Next:
NCFC’s USL Championship road swing continues next weekend with a trip to Hartford Athletic on Saturday, June 1 at 7 p.m. NCFC continues Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play on Wednesday, May 29 at 7 p.m. against the Florida Soccer Soldiers on Field 2 at WakeMed Soccer Park. All tickets are $10 and can be purchased online by clicking here or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.

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Match Info:
North Carolina FC at New York Red Bulls II
Friday, May 24 – 7 p.m.
MSU Soccer Park
 
Broadcast Info:
ESPN+ (https://es.pn/2HyANJV)
 
 
CARY, N.C. (May 23, 2019) –North Carolina FC faces another big test with a visit to MSU Soccer Park to play New York Red Bulls II on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. The game is a pivotal match in the USL Championship playoff race. A win could boost NCFC as high as third place in the Eastern Conference.
 
Red Bulls II have developed into an early contender in the playoff race, and currently sit at second in the Eastern Conference standings with a 6W-2L-2D record and 20 points. The only losses of the season are an out-of-character 3-1 loss against Loudoun United and a recent 2-0 defeat to the Tampa Bay Rowdies. 
 
The side was led by Tom Barlow, but after scoring eight goals in eight games, the dynamic player was signed by the New York Red Bulls MLS side. The team still has attacking options in Jared Stroud (4 goals, 3 assists) and three-goal scorers Derrick Etienne and Mathias Jørgensen. Additionally, the team is full of Red Bulls Academy products who currently play important minutes, including Chris Lema and Evan Louro.
 
NCFC will aim to return to form with a plethora of scoring options. Robert Kristo has scored four goals in all competitions, including two goals last week in Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play. Marios Lomis has six goals on the season, while eight other players have found the back of the net for NCFC.
 
Last Time Out:
Despite controlling most of the play last weekend, NCFC settled for a scoreless draw with Birmingham Legion FC. Alex Tambakis came up with three huge saves in the shutout, while NCFC hit the woodwork in both halves and visiting goalkeeper Trevor Spangenberg added some high-quality saves. 
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 7 Donovan Ewolo
After a goal and an assist against Louisville City FC in the season opener, Ewolo has not made the scoresheet since. The speedy, athletic winger is a handful for defenders and it’s only a matter of time before his scoring form returns. Watch for the capable Cameroonian to pressure New York’s defenders. His efforts in the last trip to MSU Soccer Park earned NCFC a late equalizer against the Red Bulls.
 
New York Red Bulls II – No. 42 Brian White
White, a former NCFC U-23 player, returned to his hometown club after an impressive college career with Duke. The forward has split time between the MLS and USL Championship New York Red Bulls teams. If he makes it on the pitch this weekend, look for the dangerous attacking option to show his quality. In 28 total USL Championship appearances, White has scored 11 goals.
 
Up Next:
NCFC’s USL Championship road swing continues next weekend with a trip to Hartford Athletic on Saturday, June 1 at 7 p.m. NCFC continues Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play on Wednesday, May 29 at 7 p.m. against the Florida Soccer Soldiers on Field 2 at WakeMed Soccer Park. All tickets are $10 and can be purchased online by clicking here or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.

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CARY, N.C. (May 18, 2019) – North Carolina FC had the chances, but some unlucky finishing, paired with a Birmingham Legion FC side content to settle for a point, led to a scoreless draw on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
NCFC tallied 11 corner kicks and outshot Birmingham 17-10, but couldn’t find the back of the net. NCFC remains in seventh place in the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 4W-2L-4D.

“It was a frustrating night," said NCFC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. "I thought we should’ve walked away with three points tonight. I didn’t think in the first half our soccer was as good as we could be. I thought we played a little slowly. I think we could’ve upped the tempo. Having said that, I thought we created a few chances that we didn’t convert. We didn’t really concede a whole lot. In the second half, it was similar. I thought our tempo was better. Our passing was a little better. It was one of those nights. We hit a couple posts, there were skirmishes where I think we should get on the end of it and we walk away with one point instead of three.”
 
Even from the early stages of the match, NCFC seemed set to take the lead. In the 24th minute, a low cross from Ben Speas opened a big hole in the Birmingham defense, but Marios Lomis’ shot hit the post and bounced away from danger.
 
In the 31st minute, the visitor’s goal was exposed once again. A ball played to Steven Miller seemed destined for the back of the net, but goalkeeper Trevor Spangenberg came across his line and dived to block the shot away at the last second.
 
The action in front of the Birmingham goal continued in the second half, but once again the final ball wasn’t there. 
 
A dangerous buildup in the 67th minute led to several chances in front of the goal, but missed shots, paired with several defensive blocks once again kept the game scoreless.
 
Dre Fortune produced NCFC’s closest chance of the second half in the 81st minute of play. The midfielder created space and unleashed a curling ball headed for the far post, but his shot rebounded back off the crossbar. 
 
In stoppage time, Birmingham’s Zachary Herivaux earned his second yellow card in a four-minute span to put Birmingham down to 10 men. The final minutes ticked on, and Alex Tambakis made a save late as the game ended in a scoreless draw.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC hits the road for an away match at New York Red Bulls II on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. The team returns home for a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, May 29 at 7 p.m. against the Florida Soccer Soldiers. The match will be played on Field 2 at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online or can be purchased over the phone at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:
The club’s youth-to-professional pipeline was well represented with NCFC Academy products Dre Fortune, Manny Perez and DJ Taylor starting for NCFC alongside NCFC U23 product Alex Comsia. Fellow Academy and U23 product Caleb Duvernay appeared on the NCFC bench, but did not enter the match.
 
The team earned its fourth shutout of the season behind a three-save performance from Alex Tambakis.
 
Box Score:
NCFC (4-2-3-1): Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Dre Fortune, Victor Igbekoyi; Steven Miller © (Yamikani Chester, 71’), Ben Speas, Manny Perez (Donovan Ewolo, 80’); Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 85’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Caleb Duvernay, Graham Smith, Tommy McCabe
 
BHM (4-3-3): Trevor Spangenberg; Kyle Culbertson, Mathieu Laurent, Femi Hollinger-Janzen, Eric Avila; Daniel Johnson (Tyler Turner, 83’), Mikey Lopez ©, Zachary Herivaux; Prosper Kasim (Razak Cromwell, 46’), Brian Wright, Eddie Opoku (JJ Williams, 57’)
 
Subs not used: Matt VanOekel, Joe Holland, Chandler Hoffman, Daigo Kobayashi,
 
Score:
NCFC: 0
BHM: 0
 
Goals:
NCFC: —
BHM: —
                                                                                                                                                                         
Cautions:
NCFC: Sam Brotherton 89’
BHM: Femi Hollinger-Janzen 45+’, Zachary Herivaux 88’, 90+’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
BHM: Zachary Herivaux 90+’
 
Attendance: 5,448

 

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CARY, N.C. (May 18, 2019) – North Carolina FC had the chances, but some unlucky finishing, paired with a Birmingham Legion FC side content to settle for a point, led to a scoreless draw on Saturday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
NCFC tallied 11 corner kicks and outshot Birmingham 17-10, but couldn’t find the back of the net. NCFC remains in seventh place in the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 4W-2L-4D.

“It was a frustrating night,” said NCFC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “I thought we should’ve walked away with three points tonight. I didn’t think in the first half our soccer was as good as we could be. I thought we played a little slowly. I think we could’ve upped the tempo. Having said that, I thought we created a few chances that we didn’t convert. We didn’t really concede a whole lot. In the second half, it was similar. I thought our tempo was better. Our passing was a little better. It was one of those nights. We hit a couple posts, there were skirmishes where I think we should get on the end of it and we walk away with one point instead of three.”
 
Even from the early stages of the match, NCFC seemed set to take the lead. In the 24th minute, a low cross from Ben Speas opened a big hole in the Birmingham defense, but Marios Lomis’ shot hit the post and bounced away from danger.
 
In the 31st minute, the visitor’s goal was exposed once again. A ball played to Steven Miller seemed destined for the back of the net, but goalkeeper Trevor Spangenberg came across his line and dived to block the shot away at the last second.
 
The action in front of the Birmingham goal continued in the second half, but once again the final ball wasn’t there. 
 
A dangerous buildup in the 67th minute led to several chances in front of the goal, but missed shots, paired with several defensive blocks once again kept the game scoreless.
 
Dre Fortune produced NCFC’s closest chance of the second half in the 81st minute of play. The midfielder created space and unleashed a curling ball headed for the far post, but his shot rebounded back off the crossbar. 
 
In stoppage time, Birmingham’s Zachary Herivaux earned his second yellow card in a four-minute span to put Birmingham down to 10 men. The final minutes ticked on, and Alex Tambakis made a save late as the game ended in a scoreless draw.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC hits the road for an away match at New York Red Bulls II on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. The team returns home for a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, May 29 at 7 p.m. against the Florida Soccer Soldiers. The match will be played on Field 2 at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online or can be purchased over the phone at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:
The club’s youth-to-professional pipeline was well represented with NCFC Academy products Dre Fortune, Manny Perez and DJ Taylor starting for NCFC alongside NCFC U23 product Alex Comsia. Fellow Academy and U23 product Caleb Duvernay appeared on the NCFC bench, but did not enter the match.
 
The team earned its fourth shutout of the season behind a three-save performance from Alex Tambakis.
 
Box Score:
NCFC (4-2-3-1): Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Dre Fortune, Victor Igbekoyi; Steven Miller © (Yamikani Chester, 71’), Ben Speas, Manny Perez (Donovan Ewolo, 80’); Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 85’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Caleb Duvernay, Graham Smith, Tommy McCabe
 
BHM (4-3-3): Trevor Spangenberg; Kyle Culbertson, Mathieu Laurent, Femi Hollinger-Janzen, Eric Avila; Daniel Johnson (Tyler Turner, 83’), Mikey Lopez ©, Zachary Herivaux; Prosper Kasim (Razak Cromwell, 46’), Brian Wright, Eddie Opoku (JJ Williams, 57’)
 
Subs not used: Matt VanOekel, Joe Holland, Chandler Hoffman, Daigo Kobayashi,
 
Score:
NCFC: 0
BHM: 0
 
Goals:
NCFC: —
BHM: —
                                                                                                                                                                         
Cautions:
NCFC: Sam Brotherton 89’
BHM: Femi Hollinger-Janzen 45+’, Zachary Herivaux 88’, 90+’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
BHM: Zachary Herivaux 90+’
 
Attendance: 5,448

 

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Match Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Birmingham Legion FC
Saturday, May 18 – 7 p.m.
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+: es.pn/2JO5zjt
 
CARY, N.C. (May 17, 2019) – North Carolina FC resumes its USL Championship home schedule on Saturday, May 18 at 7 p.m. against expansion side Birmingham Legion FC at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. This is the first-ever meeting between the two teams. The sides are separated by four points, and NCFC enters the meeting at seventh place in the table, while Birmingham is 12th in the Eastern Conference. 
 
NCFC has fared well to start the season and it’s 4W-2L-3D league record has the side firmly in the playoff hunt. A win could move NCFC as high as third place in the Eastern Conference Standings. 
 
In order to get past Birmingham, the side will need to keep its scoring form. The good news is, NCFC has scored in bunches at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park so far. In home league matches this season, NCFC is averaging 2.5 goals per game, compared to just 1.2 goals per game on the road. Marios Lomis has scored six times already and is always a threat to find the back of the net. Steven Miller has also scored twice in the last three league matches and is NCFC’s most in-form attacker.
 
While new to the league, Birmingham will be a challenge. The side earned early road victories over Louisville City FC and Saint Louis FC. Birmingham is coming off a 4-1 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup win over West Chester United SC, but is winless in its last three league matches. 
 
The visitor’s roster is highlighted by Columbus Crew SC loanee J.J. Williams and USL Championship journeyman Chandler Hoffman, both have scored two goals this season. Fans might also recognize goalkeeper Trevor Spangenberg, who has played against NCFC the last few years with Puerto Rico FC and Richmond Kickers. 
 
Last Time Out:
A 4-1 U.S. Open Cup win over the Richmond Kickers on Wednesday, May 15, resumed NCFC’s scoring form. Robert Kristo netted a brace along with goals from Dre Fortune and Yamikani Chester. In total, there were eight changes to the team’s lineup as NCFC flexed its depth.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 31 Steven Miller
Miller has two goals in the last three league games for NCFC. He’ll certainly be a favorite to extend that scoring form against Birmingham. The midfielder has also taken up captain duties while Austin da Luz is recovering from a knock. Look for Miller to make an impact from the wings.
 
Birmingham Legion FC – No. 5 Mikey Lopez
Lopez may be a familiar name to some in the area, as he spent two season with UNC Chapel Hill, including the 2011 NCAA National Championship season. Lopez is a versatile midfielder and has started in all but two league contests for Birmingham so far. 
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC hits the road for an away match at New York Red Bulls II on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. The team returns home for a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, May 29 at 7 p.m. against the Florida Soccer Soldiers. The match will be played on Field 2 at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online or can be purchased over the phone at 919-459-8144.

###

Match Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Birmingham Legion FC
Saturday, May 18 – 7 p.m.
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+: es.pn/2JO5zjt
 
CARY, N.C. (May 17, 2019) – North Carolina FC resumes its USL Championship home schedule on Saturday, May 18 at 7 p.m. against expansion side Birmingham Legion FC at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. This is the first-ever meeting between the two teams. The sides are separated by four points, and NCFC enters the meeting at seventh place in the table, while Birmingham is 12th in the Eastern Conference. 
 
NCFC has fared well to start the season and it’s 4W-2L-3D league record has the side firmly in the playoff hunt. A win could move NCFC as high as third place in the Eastern Conference Standings. 
 
In order to get past Birmingham, the side will need to keep its scoring form. The good news is, NCFC has scored in bunches at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park so far. In home league matches this season, NCFC is averaging 2.5 goals per game, compared to just 1.2 goals per game on the road. Marios Lomis has scored six times already and is always a threat to find the back of the net. Steven Miller has also scored twice in the last three league matches and is NCFC’s most in-form attacker.
 
While new to the league, Birmingham will be a challenge. The side earned early road victories over Louisville City FC and Saint Louis FC. Birmingham is coming off a 4-1 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup win over West Chester United SC, but is winless in its last three league matches. 
 
The visitor’s roster is highlighted by Columbus Crew SC loanee J.J. Williams and USL Championship journeyman Chandler Hoffman, both have scored two goals this season. Fans might also recognize goalkeeper Trevor Spangenberg, who has played against NCFC the last few years with Puerto Rico FC and Richmond Kickers. 
 
Last Time Out:
A 4-1 U.S. Open Cup win over the Richmond Kickers on Wednesday, May 15, resumed NCFC’s scoring form. Robert Kristo netted a brace along with goals from Dre Fortune and Yamikani Chester. In total, there were eight changes to the team’s lineup as NCFC flexed its depth.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 31 Steven Miller
Miller has two goals in the last three league games for NCFC. He’ll certainly be a favorite to extend that scoring form against Birmingham. The midfielder has also taken up captain duties while Austin da Luz is recovering from a knock. Look for Miller to make an impact from the wings.
 
Birmingham Legion FC – No. 5 Mikey Lopez
Lopez may be a familiar name to some in the area, as he spent two season with UNC Chapel Hill, including the 2011 NCAA National Championship season. Lopez is a versatile midfielder and has started in all but two league contests for Birmingham so far. 
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC hits the road for an away match at New York Red Bulls II on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m. The team returns home for a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match on Wednesday, May 29 at 7 p.m. against the Florida Soccer Soldiers. The match will be played on Field 2 at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online or can be purchased over the phone at 919-459-8144.

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CARY, N.C. (May 15, 2019) – North Carolina FC roared to a 4-1 win over rival Richmond Kickers in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday night. NCFC continued its recent domination of the series, winning its third-straight match against Richmond. 
 
The teams have met three times in Open Cup history (2007, 2009, 2019), and NCFC has come away with all three wins. NCFC moves to 22W-11L in Open Cup history with a goal differential of +37. 
 
“I had some words with the boys at halftime and we made some adjustments,” said NCFC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “I thought our second half was much better than the first. We made it hard for them. Robert Kristo getting a couple goals for us was important. We took care of business. In the Open Cup, you have to be ready for anything. I think Richmond is a good team and they made us make some decisions today. It was a good test for us and I was pleased with guys that got 90 minutes that haven’t gotten 90 minutes before.”
 
It didn’t take long for NCFC to get started, as Dre Fortune scored with a beautiful, curling volley from outside the box in the 16th minute. Austin Panchot played a looping cross in from the right flank before Donovan Ewolo provided the layoff for Fortune who hit the ball on the bounce.
 
The lead wouldn’t hold up for long. Richmond scored an equalizer in the 34th minute. Joe Gallardo recorded an assist as his cross found Wahab Ackwei at the far post. 
 
The teams entered halftime on level terms, but a quick response from NCFC out of the break opened an insurmountable lead. 
 
In the 52nd minute, NCFC pulled ahead with a header from Robert Kristo. Caleb Duvernay lofted a booming cross in from the left wing and Kristo outjumped a Richmond defender and headed home the goal. 
 
Just minutes later, Kristo extended the lead to 3-1 after earning and converting a penalty kick. Kristo was fouled in the box after dribbling past a defender. The forward stepped up to the spot and coolly buried the shot to bring him to four goals on the season in all competitions.
 
In the 70th minute and just minutes after coming in the game, Yamikani Chester extended the lead and scored his first career goal for NCFC. Manny Perez started the play by getting free on the right side. His pinpoint cross floated across the six-yard box before Chester ran on the end of the pass and blasted the shot into the far corner.
 
From there, NCFC saw out the reaming minutes of the game to earn the victory.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup continues on Wednesday, May 29 as NCFC faces the Florida Soccer Soldiers from the UPSL on Field 2 at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
Notes:
North Carolina FC rookies Austin Panchot and Timmy Mehl earned their professional debuts, with both appearing in the starting lineup.
 
Duval Wapiwo made his NCFC debut and earned his first start, while Robert Kristo also appeared in the starting lineup for the first time in his NCFC career.

The club’s youth-to-professional pipeline was well represented with NCFC Academy products Dre Fortune, Manny Perez and Caleb Duvernay starting for NCFC. Fellow Academy product DJ Taylor appeared on the NCFC bench, and played the entire second half. Nick Retzlaff, another former Academy and NCFC U23 player, started the game for the Richmond Kickers.

Former RailHawks Akira Fitzgerald and Daniel Jackson were in the 18 for Richmond. Fitzgerald started and played 90 minutes, while Jackson was an unused substitute. 
 
Dre Fortune scored his first goal of the season off an assist from Donovan Ewolo.
 
Robert Kristo recorded a brace with an assist from Caleb Duvernay on the first goal. He converted a PK for his second goal.
 
Yamikani Chester scored the first goal of his NCFC career off an assist from Manny Perez.
 
NCFC improves to 5W-1L-0D in official competitions against the Richmond Kickers.
 
NCFC has advanced past its first U.S. Open Cup opponent for the 10th time in club history. 
 
Box Score:
NCFC (4-2-3-1): Darrin MacLeod; Caleb Duvernay, Aaron Guillen ©, Tim Mehl, Manny Perez; Duval Wapiwo, Tommy McCabe (Graham Smith, 77’); Donovan Ewolo (Yamikani Chester, 68’), Dre Fortune, Austin Panchot (DJ Taylor, 46’); Robert Kristo
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Steven Miller, Ben Speas, Marios Lomis
 
RIC (4-5-1): Akira Fitzgerald; Scott Thomsen, Ivan Magalhães, Conor Shanosky (Josh Hughes, 63’), Wahab Ackwei; Braeden Troyer (Eli Lockaby, 62’), Nick Retzlaff (Mutaya Mwape, 63’), Maxi Rodriguez ©, Matt Bolduc, Joe Gallardo; Charles Boateng
 
Subs not used: Joe Rice, Greg Boehme, Dennis Chin, Daniel Jackson 
 
Score:
NCFC: 4
RIC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Dre Fortune (Donovan Ewolo, 16’), Robert Kristo (Caleb Duvernay, 52’, Penalty, 61’), Yamikani Chester (Manny Peres, 70’)
RIC: Wahab Ackwei (Joe Gallardo, 34’)
                                                                                                                                                                       
Cautions:
NCFC: Tommy McCabe 47’, Dre Fortune 53’, Duval Wapiwo 82’
RIC: Wahab Ackwei 60’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
RIC: —
 
Attendance:1,553

###

CARY, N.C. (May 15, 2019) – North Carolina FC roared to a 4-1 win over rival Richmond Kickers in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday night. NCFC continued its recent domination of the series, winning its third-straight match against Richmond. 
 
The teams have met three times in Open Cup history (2007, 2009, 2019), and NCFC has come away with all three wins. NCFC moves to 22W-11L in Open Cup history with a goal differential of +37. 
 
“I had some words with the boys at halftime and we made some adjustments,” said NCFC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. “I thought our second half was much better than the first. We made it hard for them. Robert Kristo getting a couple goals for us was important. We took care of business. In the Open Cup, you have to be ready for anything. I think Richmond is a good team and they made us make some decisions today. It was a good test for us and I was pleased with guys that got 90 minutes that haven’t gotten 90 minutes before.”
 
It didn’t take long for NCFC to get started, as Dre Fortune scored with a beautiful, curling volley from outside the box in the 16th minute. Austin Panchot played a looping cross in from the right flank before Donovan Ewolo provided the layoff for Fortune who hit the ball on the bounce.
 
The lead wouldn’t hold up for long. Richmond scored an equalizer in the 34th minute. Joe Gallardo recorded an assist as his cross found Wahab Ackwei at the far post. 
 
The teams entered halftime on level terms, but a quick response from NCFC out of the break opened an insurmountable lead. 
 
In the 52nd minute, NCFC pulled ahead with a header from Robert Kristo. Caleb Duvernay lofted a booming cross in from the left wing and Kristo outjumped a Richmond defender and headed home the goal. 
 
Just minutes later, Kristo extended the lead to 3-1 after earning and converting a penalty kick. Kristo was fouled in the box after dribbling past a defender. The forward stepped up to the spot and coolly buried the shot to bring him to four goals on the season in all competitions.
 
In the 70th minute and just minutes after coming in the game, Yamikani Chester extended the lead and scored his first career goal for NCFC. Manny Perez started the play by getting free on the right side. His pinpoint cross floated across the six-yard box before Chester ran on the end of the pass and blasted the shot into the far corner.
 
From there, NCFC saw out the reaming minutes of the game to earn the victory.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup continues on Wednesday, May 29 as NCFC faces the Florida Soccer Soldiers from the UPSL on Field 2 at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
Notes:
North Carolina FC rookies Austin Panchot and Timmy Mehl earned their professional debuts, with both appearing in the starting lineup.
 
Duval Wapiwo made his NCFC debut and earned his first start, while Robert Kristo also appeared in the starting lineup for the first time in his NCFC career.

The club’s youth-to-professional pipeline was well represented with NCFC Academy products Dre Fortune, Manny Perez and Caleb Duvernay starting for NCFC. Fellow Academy product DJ Taylor appeared on the NCFC bench, and played the entire second half. Nick Retzlaff, another former Academy and NCFC U23 player, started the game for the Richmond Kickers.

Former RailHawks Akira Fitzgerald and Daniel Jackson were in the 18 for Richmond. Fitzgerald started and played 90 minutes, while Jackson was an unused substitute. 
 
Dre Fortune scored his first goal of the season off an assist from Donovan Ewolo.
 
Robert Kristo recorded a brace with an assist from Caleb Duvernay on the first goal. He converted a PK for his second goal.
 
Yamikani Chester scored the first goal of his NCFC career off an assist from Manny Perez.
 
NCFC improves to 5W-1L-0D in official competitions against the Richmond Kickers.
 
NCFC has advanced past its first U.S. Open Cup opponent for the 10th time in club history. 
 
Box Score:
NCFC (4-2-3-1): Darrin MacLeod; Caleb Duvernay, Aaron Guillen ©, Tim Mehl, Manny Perez; Duval Wapiwo, Tommy McCabe (Graham Smith, 77’); Donovan Ewolo (Yamikani Chester, 68’), Dre Fortune, Austin Panchot (DJ Taylor, 46’); Robert Kristo
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Steven Miller, Ben Speas, Marios Lomis
 
RIC (4-5-1): Akira Fitzgerald; Scott Thomsen, Ivan Magalhães, Conor Shanosky (Josh Hughes, 63’), Wahab Ackwei; Braeden Troyer (Eli Lockaby, 62’), Nick Retzlaff (Mutaya Mwape, 63’), Maxi Rodriguez ©, Matt Bolduc, Joe Gallardo; Charles Boateng
 
Subs not used: Joe Rice, Greg Boehme, Dennis Chin, Daniel Jackson 
 
Score:
NCFC: 4
RIC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC: Dre Fortune (Donovan Ewolo, 16’), Robert Kristo (Caleb Duvernay, 52’, Penalty, 61’), Yamikani Chester (Manny Peres, 70’)
RIC: Wahab Ackwei (Joe Gallardo, 34’)
                                                                                                                                                                       
Cautions:
NCFC: Tommy McCabe 47’, Dre Fortune 53’, Duval Wapiwo 82’
RIC: Wahab Ackwei 60’
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
RIC: —
 
Attendance:1,553

###

Match Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Richmond Kickers
Wednesday, May 15 – 7 p.m.
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+ (https://es.pn/2LJoyi1)
 
 
CARY, N.C. (May 14, 2019) –North Carolina FC has enjoyed a long history of success in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and is looking forward to the possibility of making another tournament run. On Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m., NCFC will host longtime rival Richmond Kickers at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park in the second round of this year’s competition.
 
The match is NCFC’s first Open Cup action of the year, while Richmond defeated Virginia United in the first round to advance to this game. The club takes the competition seriously and its results prove that. NCFC owns an overall record of 21W-11L in the Open Cup. The club’s lengthy history in the competition is highlighted by a semifinal appearance in 2007, three consecutive wins over the LA Galaxy from 2012-2014 and advancing to at least the fourth round of the tournament six times in the last seven seasons. In total, NCFC has gone on to face MLS clubs on 14 different occasions. This matchup will be the first against a team in the newly-formed USL League One.
 
NCFC players Marios Lomis and Austin da Luz have both scored multiple goals in the Open Cup, with Lomis totaling three tallies in last season’s campaign that ended in the fourth round. Advancing past the first game has been a specialty for NCFC in the Open Cup. The club has only lost its first game in the tournament on one occasion.
 
The matchup with Richmond comes with additional exciting connections that only add fuel to the rivalry. NCFC has enjoyed the better of the series results against Richmond. In official competitions, NCFC is 4W-1L-0D against its neighbors. NCFC defeated Richmond in Open Cup contests in 2007 and 2009 and won two of three regular-season games in 2018. Richmond’s roster features plenty of ties to the club with club icon, Akira Fitzgerald minding the net for the Kickers. Former RailHawk Daniel Jackson (2014-15) and NCFC Youth Academy product Nick Retzlaff also feature for the visitors. Current North Carolina Football Club President and General Manager, Curt Johnson, worked with Richmond early in his career, and the areas have enjoyed a soccer rivalry dating back to the early 90's to add another layer to the matchup
 
Richmond enters the game undefeated in its last five matches. The Kickers took down Virginia United 6-2 a week ago in the Open Cup First Round before beating FC Tucson 2-0 in USL League One action over the weekend.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 9 Marios Lomis 
NCFC’s leading scorer has a knack for finding the back of the net in the Open Cup. While still early in his career, he’s scored in every Open Cup game he’s ever played in, including an equalizing strike against DC United last season. 
 
Richmond Kickers – No. 1 Akira Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald totaled nearly 90 appearances for the Carolina RailHawks from 2011-16. Now later in his career, he’s still a recognizable face and one of the most-capped players in club history. After two seasons in Tampa, Fitzgerald joined Richmond ahead of this season and has played every minute of every game so far.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 

###

Match Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Richmond Kickers
Wednesday, May 15 – 7 p.m.
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+ (https://es.pn/2LJoyi1)
 
 
CARY, N.C. (May 14, 2019) –North Carolina FC has enjoyed a long history of success in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and is looking forward to the possibility of making another tournament run. On Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m., NCFC will host longtime rival Richmond Kickers at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park in the second round of this year’s competition.
 
The match is NCFC’s first Open Cup action of the year, while Richmond defeated Virginia United in the first round to advance to this game. The club takes the competition seriously and its results prove that. NCFC owns an overall record of 21W-11L in the Open Cup. The club’s lengthy history in the competition is highlighted by a semifinal appearance in 2007, three consecutive wins over the LA Galaxy from 2012-2014 and advancing to at least the fourth round of the tournament six times in the last seven seasons. In total, NCFC has gone on to face MLS clubs on 14 different occasions. This matchup will be the first against a team in the newly-formed USL League One.
 
NCFC players Marios Lomis and Austin da Luz have both scored multiple goals in the Open Cup, with Lomis totaling three tallies in last season’s campaign that ended in the fourth round. Advancing past the first game has been a specialty for NCFC in the Open Cup. The club has only lost its first game in the tournament on one occasion.
 
The matchup with Richmond comes with additional exciting connections that only add fuel to the rivalry. NCFC has enjoyed the better of the series results against Richmond. In official competitions, NCFC is 4W-1L-0D against its neighbors. NCFC defeated Richmond in Open Cup contests in 2007 and 2009 and won two of three regular-season games in 2018. Richmond’s roster features plenty of ties to the club with club icon, Akira Fitzgerald minding the net for the Kickers. Former RailHawk Daniel Jackson (2014-15) and NCFC Youth Academy product Nick Retzlaff also feature for the visitors. Current North Carolina Football Club President and General Manager, Curt Johnson, worked with Richmond early in his career, and the areas have enjoyed a soccer rivalry dating back to the early 90’s to add another layer to the matchup
 
Richmond enters the game undefeated in its last five matches. The Kickers took down Virginia United 6-2 a week ago in the Open Cup First Round before beating FC Tucson 2-0 in USL League One action over the weekend.
 
Players To Watch:
North Carolina FC – No. 9 Marios Lomis 
NCFC’s leading scorer has a knack for finding the back of the net in the Open Cup. While still early in his career, he’s scored in every Open Cup game he’s ever played in, including an equalizing strike against DC United last season. 
 
Richmond Kickers – No. 1 Akira Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald totaled nearly 90 appearances for the Carolina RailHawks from 2011-16. Now later in his career, he’s still a recognizable face and one of the most-capped players in club history. After two seasons in Tampa, Fitzgerald joined Richmond ahead of this season and has played every minute of every game so far.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 

###

OTTAWA (May 12, 2019) – North Carolina FC was dealt a 2-1 loss to Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday afternoon at TD Place Stadium. NCFC’s overall record is 4W-2L-3D and the team moves to seventh place in the Eastern Conference standings.
 
Ottawa has historically been a difficult place for NCFC to gain positive results and today was no different, as NCFC was forced to deal with a persistent Ottawa side. 
 
The home team continually attacked throughout the first half before scoring in the 41st minute. A through ball found its way over the defense and to the feet of the speedy Mour Samb. The attacker finished the one-on-one chance to take the lead into halftime.
 
In the second half, Ottawa tried to extend its grip on the contest, but a goal from NCFC in the 66th minute tied the match. Caleb Duvernay dribbled into Ottawa’s half before finding an open Marios Lomis in the box. Lomis tapped the ball into the path of Steven Miller, who rocketed his shot into the back of the net. The goal was his second of the season.
 
The score wouldn’t hold long as Ottawa responded with a goal in the 70th minute. Kévin Oliveira converted a chance inside the box to give Ottawa a 2-1 lead.
 
Despite bringing on attacking options Yamikani Chester and Donovan Ewolo, NCFC struggled to crack a tough Ottawa team. 
 
The remaining minutes would play out without another goal. The result is NCFC’s second loss of the season.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will be at home for two matches this week. NCFC will enter the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. to face regional rival Richmond Kickers (tickets). The team will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 
 
Notes:
The club’s youth-to-professional pipeline was well represented with NCFC Academy products DJ Taylor, Manny Perez and Caleb Duvernay starting alongside NCFC U-23 product Alex Comsia. Fellow Academy product Dre Fortune appeared on the bench, but did not enter the match.
 
Duvernay made his official professional debut, and played 90 minutes.
 
Darrin MacLeod earned the first official start of his NCFC career and Victor Igbekoyi earned his first start of the season.
 
Steven Miller scored his second goal of the season off an assist from Marios Lomis 
 
Box Score:
Lineups:
OTT: Callum Irving; Jérémy Gagnon-Laparé, Thomas Meilleur-Giguère, Dakota Barnathan (Nana Attakora, 80’), Carl Haworth ©; Chris Mannella (Onua Obasi, 72’), Charlie Ward, Wal Fall; Kévin Oliveira (Aidan Daniels, 90+), Christiano François, Mour Samb
 
Subs not used: Robert Boskovic, David Monsalve, Jamar Dixon, Protais Mutambala
 
NCFC: Darrin MacLeod; Caleb Duvernay, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Steven Miller ©, Victor Igbekoyi (Tommy McCabe, 66’), Graham Smith, Ben Speas (Yamikani Chester, 77’), Manny Perez (Donovan Ewolo, 84’); Marios Lomis
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Dre Fortune, Austin Panchot, Aaron Guillen
 
Score:
OTT: 2
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
OTT: Mour Samb (Dakota Barnathan, 41’) Kévin Oliveira (Wal Fall, 70’)
NCFC: Steven Miller (Marios Lomis, 66’)
 
Cautions:
OTT: Mour Samb 42’
NCFC: Graham Smith 13’, Sam Brotherton 74’
 
Ejections:
OTT: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance: 3,551

###

OTTAWA (May 12, 2019) – North Carolina FC was dealt a 2-1 loss to Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday afternoon at TD Place Stadium. NCFC’s overall record is 4W-2L-3D and the team moves to seventh place in the Eastern Conference standings.
 
Ottawa has historically been a difficult place for NCFC to gain positive results and today was no different, as NCFC was forced to deal with a persistent Ottawa side. 
 
The home team continually attacked throughout the first half before scoring in the 41st minute. A through ball found its way over the defense and to the feet of the speedy Mour Samb. The attacker finished the one-on-one chance to take the lead into halftime.
 
In the second half, Ottawa tried to extend its grip on the contest, but a goal from NCFC in the 66th minute tied the match. Caleb Duvernay dribbled into Ottawa’s half before finding an open Marios Lomis in the box. Lomis tapped the ball into the path of Steven Miller, who rocketed his shot into the back of the net. The goal was his second of the season.
 
The score wouldn’t hold long as Ottawa responded with a goal in the 70th minute. Kévin Oliveira converted a chance inside the box to give Ottawa a 2-1 lead.
 
Despite bringing on attacking options Yamikani Chester and Donovan Ewolo, NCFC struggled to crack a tough Ottawa team. 
 
The remaining minutes would play out without another goal. The result is NCFC’s second loss of the season.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will be at home for two matches this week. NCFC will enter the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. to face regional rival Richmond Kickers (tickets). The team will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 
 
Notes:
The club’s youth-to-professional pipeline was well represented with NCFC Academy products DJ Taylor, Manny Perez and Caleb Duvernay starting alongside NCFC U-23 product Alex Comsia. Fellow Academy product Dre Fortune appeared on the bench, but did not enter the match.
 
Duvernay made his official professional debut, and played 90 minutes.
 
Darrin MacLeod earned the first official start of his NCFC career and Victor Igbekoyi earned his first start of the season.
 
Steven Miller scored his second goal of the season off an assist from Marios Lomis 
 
Box Score:
Lineups:
OTT: Callum Irving; Jérémy Gagnon-Laparé, Thomas Meilleur-Giguère, Dakota Barnathan (Nana Attakora, 80’), Carl Haworth ©; Chris Mannella (Onua Obasi, 72’), Charlie Ward, Wal Fall; Kévin Oliveira (Aidan Daniels, 90+), Christiano François, Mour Samb
 
Subs not used: Robert Boskovic, David Monsalve, Jamar Dixon, Protais Mutambala
 
NCFC: Darrin MacLeod; Caleb Duvernay, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Steven Miller ©, Victor Igbekoyi (Tommy McCabe, 66’), Graham Smith, Ben Speas (Yamikani Chester, 77’), Manny Perez (Donovan Ewolo, 84’); Marios Lomis
 
Subs not used: Alex Tambakis, Dre Fortune, Austin Panchot, Aaron Guillen
 
Score:
OTT: 2
NCFC: 1
 
Goals:
OTT: Mour Samb (Dakota Barnathan, 41’) Kévin Oliveira (Wal Fall, 70’)
NCFC: Steven Miller (Marios Lomis, 66’)
 
Cautions:
OTT: Mour Samb 42’
NCFC: Graham Smith 13’, Sam Brotherton 74’
 
Ejections:
OTT: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance: 3,551

###

Game Information:
North Carolina FC at Ottawa Fury FC
Sunday, May 12 – 2 p.m.
TD Place Stadium
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+ | https://es.pn/2YlCmRk
 
CARY, N.C. (May 10, 2019) – North Carolina FC will face Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday, May 12 at 2 p.m. as the team continues its USL Championship season. After a great start to the season, North Carolina FC is firmly in contention for the top spot in the Eastern Conference.
 
The team has earned a record of 4W-1L-3D good for 15 points and fourth place in the standings. In the last time out, NCFC battled Indy to a scoreless draw, while Alex Tambakis made five saves to preserve his third clean sheet of the season. NCFC’s road form has been good since the season started, compiling a 2W-1L-1D record away from home, including wins over Bethlehem Steel FC and Charlotte Independence.
 
Ottawa will certainly test NCFC’s away form as a side that has been historically tough to get a result against. Going back to the start of the series history in 2014, NCFC has never won a league game in Ottawa. Last year the squad battled to a 1-1 draw, but overall, NCFC has logged a 0W-3L-2D record when playing Ottawa on the road.
 
Sunday's matchup will have big implications for both teams in the Eastern Conference standings. A win could push NCFC as high as third place, while an Ottawa win could move the home side from ninth to sixth in the table. Ottawa has seen mixed results to start the season. The team has defeated three teams outside of the current playoff picture, but has lost to mid-table sides Louisville City FC and Nashville SC and drawn with frontrunners New York Red Bulls II and Charleston Battery.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 9 Carl Haworth
Haworth has been a feature in the Ottawa side since the team started in 2014. Overall, the 29-year-old has totaled more than 10,000 minutes with the franchise, while playing in a variety of positions. Haworth will be a dangerous player to watch for as NCFC looks to find a way to win in Ottawa. 
 
No. 9 Marios Lomis
Lomis didn’t score in the last match, but he tallied a goal in four-straight matches before that. Through eight games, the forward has six goals, which is a much higher rate than his five goals in 23 appearances in 2018. Look for Lomis to head up NCFC’s attack.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will be at home for two matches this upcoming week. NCFC will enter the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. to face regional rival Richmond Kickers (tickets). The team will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 

###

Game Information:
North Carolina FC at Ottawa Fury FC
Sunday, May 12 – 2 p.m.
TD Place Stadium
 
Broadcast:
ESPN+ | https://es.pn/2YlCmRk
 
CARY, N.C. (May 10, 2019) – North Carolina FC will face Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday, May 12 at 2 p.m. as the team continues its USL Championship season. After a great start to the season, North Carolina FC is firmly in contention for the top spot in the Eastern Conference.
 
The team has earned a record of 4W-1L-3D good for 15 points and fourth place in the standings. In the last time out, NCFC battled Indy to a scoreless draw, while Alex Tambakis made five saves to preserve his third clean sheet of the season. NCFC’s road form has been good since the season started, compiling a 2W-1L-1D record away from home, including wins over Bethlehem Steel FC and Charlotte Independence.
 
Ottawa will certainly test NCFC’s away form as a side that has been historically tough to get a result against. Going back to the start of the series history in 2014, NCFC has never won a league game in Ottawa. Last year the squad battled to a 1-1 draw, but overall, NCFC has logged a 0W-3L-2D record when playing Ottawa on the road.
 
Sunday’s matchup will have big implications for both teams in the Eastern Conference standings. A win could push NCFC as high as third place, while an Ottawa win could move the home side from ninth to sixth in the table. Ottawa has seen mixed results to start the season. The team has defeated three teams outside of the current playoff picture, but has lost to mid-table sides Louisville City FC and Nashville SC and drawn with frontrunners New York Red Bulls II and Charleston Battery.
 
Players To Watch:
No. 9 Carl Haworth
Haworth has been a feature in the Ottawa side since the team started in 2014. Overall, the 29-year-old has totaled more than 10,000 minutes with the franchise, while playing in a variety of positions. Haworth will be a dangerous player to watch for as NCFC looks to find a way to win in Ottawa. 
 
No. 9 Marios Lomis
Lomis didn’t score in the last match, but he tallied a goal in four-straight matches before that. Through eight games, the forward has six goals, which is a much higher rate than his five goals in 23 appearances in 2018. Look for Lomis to head up NCFC’s attack.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC will be at home for two matches this upcoming week. NCFC will enter the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. to face regional rival Richmond Kickers (tickets). The team will resume its USL Championship campaign on Saturday, May 18 against Birmingham Legion FC (tickets). Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144. 

###

INDIANAPOLIS (May 4, 2019) – North Carolina FC played to a scoreless draw against Indy Eleven on Saturday night at Lucas Oil Stadium. Both sides picked their moments to go forward carefully, but superb showings from the goalkeepers kept the game scoreless.
 
With the result, North Carolina FC moves to 4W-1L-3D on the season, good for 15 points and fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings.
 
After North Carolina FC started the game with an attacking surge, Indy Eleven largely took over possession and pace of play in the first half. The home side seemed content to sit back with the ball and the half played out with very few concrete chances.
 
Indy totaled three shots on target in the first half, but Alex Tambakis was able to easily protect the net.
 
The game opened up to start the second half. Dre Fortune created North Carolina FC’s best chance of the game by firing a low, driven ball accurately toward the corner of the goal. However, Evan Newton made a terrific diving save to push the ball off the post. On the follow up attempt, Steven Miller had a go at goal, but Newton stood tall to deflect the chance away from danger.
 
In the 67th minute, NCFC had another good look at goal, but Newton was there to save Ben Speas’ shot from the top of the 18-yard box.
 
As the game wore on, Tambakis came up big when called on, which included keeping the dangerous attacking duo of Dane Kelly and Thomas Enevoldsen from scoring. In total, Tambakis tallied five saves and the young NCFC defense held its composure to earn the team’s third shutout of the season.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC faces an away match at Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday, May 12, before returning home on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. NCFC will face the winner between Richmond Kickers and Virginia United. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:
NCFC goalkeeper Alex Tambakis earned his third clean sheet of the season behind a five-save performance.
 
North Carolina Football Club’s youth-to-pro pipeline was vibrantly displayed. NCFC Youth Academy products Manny Perez, DJ Taylor and Dre Fortune started the match alongside NCFC U-23 product Alex Comsia. Caleb Duvernay, a former Academy and NCFC U-23 player made the bench, but was not subbed in.           
 
Former Carolina RailHawks, Matt Watson (2008-2011, 2016) and Kenny Walker (2013) both made the bench for the Indy Eleven, while Martin Rennie, who coached the RailHawks from 2009-2011, is Indy’s head coach.
 
Box Score:
IND (3-4-3): Evan Newton, Neveal Hackshaw ©, Karl Ouimette, Alex Crognale; Ayoze, Nico Matern, Tyler Gibson, Macauley King (Matthew Watson, 72’); Dane Kelly (Alioune Diakhate, 86’), Thomas Enevoldsen, Tyler Pasher (Joshua Penn, 74’)
 
Subs not used: Lucas Farias, Ilija Ilic, Kenney Walker, Jordan Farr, 
 
NCFC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Steven Miller © (Donovan Ewolo 81’), Tommy McCabe, Dre Fortune (Graham Smith, 68’), Ben Speas, Manny Perez; Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 86’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Caleb Duvernay, Yamikani Chester, Victor Igbekoyi, 
 
Score:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Goals:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Cautions:
IND: Alioune Diakhate 90’
NCFC: —
 
Ejections:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance:9,017

 
###

INDIANAPOLIS (May 4, 2019) – North Carolina FC played to a scoreless draw against Indy Eleven on Saturday night at Lucas Oil Stadium. Both sides picked their moments to go forward carefully, but superb showings from the goalkeepers kept the game scoreless.
 
With the result, North Carolina FC moves to 4W-1L-3D on the season, good for 15 points and fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings.
 
After North Carolina FC started the game with an attacking surge, Indy Eleven largely took over possession and pace of play in the first half. The home side seemed content to sit back with the ball and the half played out with very few concrete chances.
 
Indy totaled three shots on target in the first half, but Alex Tambakis was able to easily protect the net.
 
The game opened up to start the second half. Dre Fortune created North Carolina FC’s best chance of the game by firing a low, driven ball accurately toward the corner of the goal. However, Evan Newton made a terrific diving save to push the ball off the post. On the follow up attempt, Steven Miller had a go at goal, but Newton stood tall to deflect the chance away from danger.
 
In the 67th minute, NCFC had another good look at goal, but Newton was there to save Ben Speas’ shot from the top of the 18-yard box.
 
As the game wore on, Tambakis came up big when called on, which included keeping the dangerous attacking duo of Dane Kelly and Thomas Enevoldsen from scoring. In total, Tambakis tallied five saves and the young NCFC defense held its composure to earn the team’s third shutout of the season.
 
Up Next:
North Carolina FC faces an away match at Ottawa Fury FC on Sunday, May 12, before returning home on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. NCFC will face the winner between Richmond Kickers and Virginia United. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online or by calling the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144.
 
Notes:
NCFC goalkeeper Alex Tambakis earned his third clean sheet of the season behind a five-save performance.
 
North Carolina Football Club’s youth-to-pro pipeline was vibrantly displayed. NCFC Youth Academy products Manny Perez, DJ Taylor and Dre Fortune started the match alongside NCFC U-23 product Alex Comsia. Caleb Duvernay, a former Academy and NCFC U-23 player made the bench, but was not subbed in.           
 
Former Carolina RailHawks, Matt Watson (2008-2011, 2016) and Kenny Walker (2013) both made the bench for the Indy Eleven, while Martin Rennie, who coached the RailHawks from 2009-2011, is Indy’s head coach.
 
Box Score:
IND (3-4-3): Evan Newton, Neveal Hackshaw ©, Karl Ouimette, Alex Crognale; Ayoze, Nico Matern, Tyler Gibson, Macauley King (Matthew Watson, 72’); Dane Kelly (Alioune Diakhate, 86’), Thomas Enevoldsen, Tyler Pasher (Joshua Penn, 74’)
 
Subs not used: Lucas Farias, Ilija Ilic, Kenney Walker, Jordan Farr, 
 
NCFC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, Alex Comsia, DJ Taylor; Steven Miller © (Donovan Ewolo 81’), Tommy McCabe, Dre Fortune (Graham Smith, 68’), Ben Speas, Manny Perez; Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 86’)
 
Subs not used: Darrin MacLeod, Caleb Duvernay, Yamikani Chester, Victor Igbekoyi, 
 
Score:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Goals:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Cautions:
IND: Alioune Diakhate 90’
NCFC: —
 
Ejections:
IND: —
NCFC: —
 
Attendance:9,017

 
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