Recent News

MATCHDAY INFO:
D.C. UNITED VS. NORTH CAROLINA FC
MARYLAND SOCCERPLEX, BOYDS, MD. 
TUESDAY, JUNE 5 – 7 PM ET
 
WATCH: USSOCCER.COM
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, #DCvNC
 
CARY, N.C. (June 4, 2018) – North Carolina FC will resume 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup action on Tuesday when it travels to face Major League Soccer’s D.C. United in the fourth round of the competition at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md. at 7 p.m.
 
Since first participating in the Open Cup in 2007, NCFC has earned six victories against MLS opponents, but has yet to face D.C. United. 
 
NCFC earned the chance to play D.C. United by picking up a pair of home victories in the second and third rounds. On May 16, NCFC earned a 3-0 win against Lansdowne Bhoys FC, one of the nation’s top amateur teams, thanks to goals from defender Connor Tobin, forward Marios Lomis and midfielder Bernhard Luxbacher. 
 
In the third round, NCFC scored a season-best four goals in a 4-1 win against the Ocean City Nor’easters, a PDL side which defeated the Charlotte Independence in second-round action. Lomis, midfielder Austin da Luz, midfielder Dre Fortune and forward Donovan Ewolo each netted in the win, NCFC’s 21st all-time victory in the Open Cup. 
 
Tuesday’s match will be D.C. United’s first in this year’s Open Cup, as all MLS sides enter in the fourth round. In 2017, D.C. United defeated Christos FC 4-1 in the fourth round before exiting in the Round of 16 with a 2-1 loss against the New England Revolution. Since 1996, D.C. United has won three Open Cup titles, most recently in 2013 against Real Salt Lake. 

Ten matches into its league slate, D.C. United occupies 11th place in the MLS’ Eastern Conference and has a record of 2W-5L-3D. 
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC saw a four-match home winning streak come to a close with a 2-1 loss against Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Left back Peabo Doue scored a first-half goal in the match. 

Players to Watch: 
 
NCFC – #9 Marios Lomis 
The 23-year-old striker has enjoyed a good run of form recently, scoring four goals in his last five matches. Against Lansdowne Bhoys, Lomis found the back of the net right before the halftime break to put NCFC up by two goals, and he followed that effort up with a one-goal, one-assist performance against Ocean City in the third round. Against D.C. United, the 6’2” Dutchman could use his height and physicality to make an impact up front for NCFC.  
 
D.C. United – #11 Darren Mattocks 
On a personal level, Mattocks’ time with D.C. United has gotten off to a dream start. After playing for, but not consistently starting with, the Portland Timbers in the 2016-17 seasons, Mattocks has made the most of consistent playing time in D.C. Through nine matches, Mattocks leads his team with five goals, which matches his scoring output in 43 matches with Portland. In order to have a successful outing on Tuesday, NCFC will undoubtedly have to contain the 27-year-old Jamaican international. 
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will return home and resume league action on Saturday, June 9, when it hosts FC Cincinnati at 7 p.m. ET at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

 

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MATCHDAY INFO:
D.C. UNITED VS. NORTH CAROLINA FC
MARYLAND SOCCERPLEX, BOYDS, MD. 
TUESDAY, JUNE 5 – 7 PM ET
 
WATCH: USSOCCER.COM
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, #DCvNC
 
CARY, N.C. (June 4, 2018) – North Carolina FC will resume 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup action on Tuesday when it travels to face Major League Soccer’s D.C. United in the fourth round of the competition at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md. at 7 p.m.
 
Since first participating in the Open Cup in 2007, NCFC has earned six victories against MLS opponents, but has yet to face D.C. United. 
 
NCFC earned the chance to play D.C. United by picking up a pair of home victories in the second and third rounds. On May 16, NCFC earned a 3-0 win against Lansdowne Bhoys FC, one of the nation’s top amateur teams, thanks to goals from defender Connor Tobin, forward Marios Lomis and midfielder Bernhard Luxbacher. 
 
In the third round, NCFC scored a season-best four goals in a 4-1 win against the Ocean City Nor’easters, a PDL side which defeated the Charlotte Independence in second-round action. Lomis, midfielder Austin da Luz, midfielder Dre Fortune and forward Donovan Ewolo each netted in the win, NCFC’s 21st all-time victory in the Open Cup. 
 
Tuesday’s match will be D.C. United’s first in this year’s Open Cup, as all MLS sides enter in the fourth round. In 2017, D.C. United defeated Christos FC 4-1 in the fourth round before exiting in the Round of 16 with a 2-1 loss against the New England Revolution. Since 1996, D.C. United has won three Open Cup titles, most recently in 2013 against Real Salt Lake. 

Ten matches into its league slate, D.C. United occupies 11th place in the MLS’ Eastern Conference and has a record of 2W-5L-3D. 
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC saw a four-match home winning streak come to a close with a 2-1 loss against Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Left back Peabo Doue scored a first-half goal in the match. 

Players to Watch: 
 
NCFC – #9 Marios Lomis 
The 23-year-old striker has enjoyed a good run of form recently, scoring four goals in his last five matches. Against Lansdowne Bhoys, Lomis found the back of the net right before the halftime break to put NCFC up by two goals, and he followed that effort up with a one-goal, one-assist performance against Ocean City in the third round. Against D.C. United, the 6’2” Dutchman could use his height and physicality to make an impact up front for NCFC.  
 
D.C. United – #11 Darren Mattocks 
On a personal level, Mattocks’ time with D.C. United has gotten off to a dream start. After playing for, but not consistently starting with, the Portland Timbers in the 2016-17 seasons, Mattocks has made the most of consistent playing time in D.C. Through nine matches, Mattocks leads his team with five goals, which matches his scoring output in 43 matches with Portland. In order to have a successful outing on Tuesday, NCFC will undoubtedly have to contain the 27-year-old Jamaican international. 
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will return home and resume league action on Saturday, June 9, when it hosts FC Cincinnati at 7 p.m. ET at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CARY, N.C. (June 2, 2018) – North Carolina FC saw its four-match home winning streak come to a close Saturday evening as it ended up on the wrong side of a 2-1 result against Bethlehem Steel FC at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park despite controlling much of the action. 
 
“Bitterly disappointed,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “We’ve done a lot of very, very good things. Particularly in the first half, I thought we moved [the ball] when we passed it – some of our passing was very, very good. In a one-nil there’s always that opportunity [to give up a goal]. We didn’t do a good enough job of getting ourselves organized for the last 15 minutes of the game.”
 
The night started off well for NCFC, as Clarke’s team continued its trend of scoring early. NCFC opened up the scoring in the 16th minute, thanks to left back Peabo Doue’s first goal for the club. Positioned near the back post as midfielder Kyle Bekker sent in a corner kick, Doue saw the ball roll past a bevy of bodies before finishing from just a few yards out. 
 
Bekker’s assist was his sixth of the season, a team-high. 
 
Right out of the halftime break, Alex Tambakis, who had a relatively quiet night up to that point thanks to his defense, came up with an important save in the 48th minute. As Bethlehem’s Chris Nanco broke through for a one-on-one scoring opportunity, Tambakis alertly came flying off of his line and deflected the shot away. 
 
After NCFC closely missed out on multiple opportunities to go ahead by two goals, Bethlehem Steel FC equalized in the 83rd minute on a goal from defender Ben Ofeimu. Two minutes later, the visitors added a second goal as midfielder Michee Ngalina scored from close range. 
 
Up Next: 
NCFC will attempt to prolong its Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run when it travels to face D.C. United at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md., in the fourth round of the competition Tuesday night at 7 p.m. NCFC will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to host FC Cincinnati on Saturday, June 9 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

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

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

Notes: 
– For the third consecutive game, NCFC scored within the opening 20 minutes. 
– Center back Connor Tobin made his first USL start of the season. 
– Midfielder Kyle Bekker has now recorded at least one assist in five of his last six games. 
– The match was the first ever between the two teams. 
– Forward Marios Lomis, midfielder Dre Fortune and midfielder Tiyi Shipalane each appeared as substitutes for NCFC.
 
Box Score:
 
NCFC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Connor Tobin, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz ©, Marcel Kandziora (Tiyi Shipalane, 87’), Graham Smith, Kyle Bekker; Daniel Rios (Dre Fortune, 80'), Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 68’)
 
Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Aaron Guillen, Wuilito Fernandes, Cameron Steele
 
BST (4-2-3-1): Jake McGuire; Matt Real, Brandon Aubrey, Ben Ofeimu, Matt Mahoney; James Chambers ©, Adam Najem, Santi Moar, Fabian Herbers (Drew Skundrich, 61’), Michee Ngalina (Mike Catalano, 90+’); Aidan Apodaca (Chris Nanco, 45+’)
 
Subs not used: Prosper Chiluya, AJ Paterson,
 
Score:
NCFC: 1
BST: 2
 
Goals:
NCFC:  Peabo Doue (Kyle Bekker, 16’)
BST: Ben Ofeimu (Santi Moar, 83’), Michee Ngalina (Santi Moar, 85’)
 
Cautions:
NCFC: Connor Tobin 57’, Michael Harrington 67’, Austin da Luz 89’
BST: Adam Najem 25’, 
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
BST: —
 
Attendance: 3,526

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CARY, N.C. (June 2, 2018) – North Carolina FC saw its four-match home winning streak come to a close Saturday evening as it ended up on the wrong side of a 2-1 result against Bethlehem Steel FC at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park despite controlling much of the action. 
 
“Bitterly disappointed,” NCFC head coach Colin Clarke said. “We’ve done a lot of very, very good things. Particularly in the first half, I thought we moved [the ball] when we passed it – some of our passing was very, very good. In a one-nil there’s always that opportunity [to give up a goal]. We didn’t do a good enough job of getting ourselves organized for the last 15 minutes of the game.”
 
The night started off well for NCFC, as Clarke’s team continued its trend of scoring early. NCFC opened up the scoring in the 16th minute, thanks to left back Peabo Doue’s first goal for the club. Positioned near the back post as midfielder Kyle Bekker sent in a corner kick, Doue saw the ball roll past a bevy of bodies before finishing from just a few yards out. 
 
Bekker’s assist was his sixth of the season, a team-high. 
 
Right out of the halftime break, Alex Tambakis, who had a relatively quiet night up to that point thanks to his defense, came up with an important save in the 48th minute. As Bethlehem’s Chris Nanco broke through for a one-on-one scoring opportunity, Tambakis alertly came flying off of his line and deflected the shot away. 
 
After NCFC closely missed out on multiple opportunities to go ahead by two goals, Bethlehem Steel FC equalized in the 83rd minute on a goal from defender Ben Ofeimu. Two minutes later, the visitors added a second goal as midfielder Michee Ngalina scored from close range. 
 
Up Next: 
NCFC will attempt to prolong its Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup run when it travels to face D.C. United at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Md., in the fourth round of the competition Tuesday night at 7 p.m. NCFC will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to host FC Cincinnati on Saturday, June 9 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

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

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

Notes: 
– For the third consecutive game, NCFC scored within the opening 20 minutes. 
– Center back Connor Tobin made his first USL start of the season. 
– Midfielder Kyle Bekker has now recorded at least one assist in five of his last six games. 
– The match was the first ever between the two teams. 
– Forward Marios Lomis, midfielder Dre Fortune and midfielder Tiyi Shipalane each appeared as substitutes for NCFC.
 
Box Score:
 
NCFC (4-4-2): Alex Tambakis; Peabo Doue, Michael Harrington, Connor Tobin, DJ Taylor; Austin da Luz ©, Marcel Kandziora (Tiyi Shipalane, 87’), Graham Smith, Kyle Bekker; Daniel Rios (Dre Fortune, 80′), Donovan Ewolo (Marios Lomis, 68’)
 
Subs not used: Austin Guerrero, Aaron Guillen, Wuilito Fernandes, Cameron Steele
 
BST (4-2-3-1): Jake McGuire; Matt Real, Brandon Aubrey, Ben Ofeimu, Matt Mahoney; James Chambers ©, Adam Najem, Santi Moar, Fabian Herbers (Drew Skundrich, 61’), Michee Ngalina (Mike Catalano, 90+’); Aidan Apodaca (Chris Nanco, 45+’)
 
Subs not used: Prosper Chiluya, AJ Paterson,
 
Score:
NCFC: 1
BST: 2
 
Goals:
NCFC:  Peabo Doue (Kyle Bekker, 16’)
BST: Ben Ofeimu (Santi Moar, 83’), Michee Ngalina (Santi Moar, 85’)
 
Cautions:
NCFC: Connor Tobin 57’, Michael Harrington 67’, Austin da Luz 89’
BST: Adam Najem 25’, 
 
Ejections:
NCFC: —
BST: —
 
Attendance: 3,526

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MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS. BETHLEHEM STEEL FC
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
SATURDAY, JUNE 2 – 7 PM ET
 
TV: WRAL2
RADIO: 1550 AM, 99.9 HD3
DIGITAL: ESPN+
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, #NCvBST
 
CARY, N.C. (June 1, 2018) –  North Carolina FC enters the weekend on form with four consecutive home victories, while outscoring opponents 14-1 during the stretch. That form will be tested against Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match is presented by Aetna.
 
With goals of moving up the table, NCFC has another golden opportunity to gain points in the playoff race in front of its home fans. A victory could push the team up to eighth place in the USL’s Eastern Conference Standings.
 
NCFC will look for the victory behind an offense that has been on fire in recent weeks, netting at least three goals in each of its last four home matches. The goals have come from eight different goal scorers. That attack has given the club six points from its last three USL games and helped NCFC advance to the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup – where the team will travel to face D.C. United on Tuesday, June 5 at 7 p.m.
 
The offense will be put to the test against a Bethlehem side that has struggled away from home. Bethlehem Steel FC has secured just three points from five away matches this season. The visitors also enter the match coming off a 1-0 loss to Ottawa Fury FC in their last USL match. NCFC will look to take advantage of Bethlehem’s struggles away from home and keep climbing up the USL table. The game will be the first ever official meeting between the two clubs.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC maintained its great form with a 4-0 victory over Atlanta United 2. Donovan Ewolo, Daniel Rios, and Marios Lomis all found the back of the net in addition to an Atlanta own goal. The victory was the club’s fourth consecutive win at home. 
 
Players to Watch: 
#14 Daniel Rios
Rios has enjoyed a stellar start to the season scoring five goals and adding two assists in eight appearances thus far. He is coming off his best performance of the season as he scored a goal and dished out two assists in the match against Atlanta United 2 last weekend. Rios will look to continue his productive start in Saturday’s match against Bethlehem. 
 
#48 Matthew Mahoney
Mahoney has started in 11 matches for Bethlehem Steel FC, the most by any player in the squad. The central defender has emerged as a constant in the club’s lineup and will likely play a big part in trying to slow down NCFC, who has scored 14 goals in its four-match winning streak at home. 
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will continue its homestand when it faces FC Cincinnati on Saturday, June 9, at 7 p.m. for Our State, Our Club Night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

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MATCHDAY INFO:
NORTH CAROLINA FC VS. BETHLEHEM STEEL FC
SAHLEN’S STADIUM at WAKEMED SOCCER PARK
SATURDAY, JUNE 2 – 7 PM ET
 
TV: WRAL2
RADIO: 1550 AM, 99.9 HD3
DIGITAL: ESPN+
LIVE UPDATES: @NORTHCAROLINAFC, #NCvBST
 
CARY, N.C. (June 1, 2018) –  North Carolina FC enters the weekend on form with four consecutive home victories, while outscoring opponents 14-1 during the stretch. That form will be tested against Bethlehem Steel FC on Saturday, June 2 at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match is presented by Aetna.
 
With goals of moving up the table, NCFC has another golden opportunity to gain points in the playoff race in front of its home fans. A victory could push the team up to eighth place in the USL’s Eastern Conference Standings.
 
NCFC will look for the victory behind an offense that has been on fire in recent weeks, netting at least three goals in each of its last four home matches. The goals have come from eight different goal scorers. That attack has given the club six points from its last three USL games and helped NCFC advance to the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup – where the team will travel to face D.C. United on Tuesday, June 5 at 7 p.m.
 
The offense will be put to the test against a Bethlehem side that has struggled away from home. Bethlehem Steel FC has secured just three points from five away matches this season. The visitors also enter the match coming off a 1-0 loss to Ottawa Fury FC in their last USL match. NCFC will look to take advantage of Bethlehem’s struggles away from home and keep climbing up the USL table. The game will be the first ever official meeting between the two clubs.
 
Last Time Out:
NCFC maintained its great form with a 4-0 victory over Atlanta United 2. Donovan Ewolo, Daniel Rios, and Marios Lomis all found the back of the net in addition to an Atlanta own goal. The victory was the club’s fourth consecutive win at home. 
 
Players to Watch: 
#14 Daniel Rios
Rios has enjoyed a stellar start to the season scoring five goals and adding two assists in eight appearances thus far. He is coming off his best performance of the season as he scored a goal and dished out two assists in the match against Atlanta United 2 last weekend. Rios will look to continue his productive start in Saturday’s match against Bethlehem. 
 
#48 Matthew Mahoney
Mahoney has started in 11 matches for Bethlehem Steel FC, the most by any player in the squad. The central defender has emerged as a constant in the club’s lineup and will likely play a big part in trying to slow down NCFC, who has scored 14 goals in its four-match winning streak at home. 
 
Coming Up Next:
NCFC will continue its homestand when it faces FC Cincinnati on Saturday, June 9, at 7 p.m. for Our State, Our Club Night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NCFC enters the weekend with a four-match home winning streak. The side will look to keep that momentum going on Saturday night (June 2) against Bethlehem Steel FC at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NCFC enters the weekend with a four-match home winning streak. The side will look to keep that momentum going on Saturday night (June 2) against Bethlehem Steel FC at 7 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

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

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

 

#919toMLS

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

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

 

#919toMLS

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

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

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

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

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

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