Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Friday, April 26, 2013

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery head into Saturday’s game against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds looking for their second win of the 2013 season. The Battery defeated Antigua last week in their home opener at Blackbaud stadium by a score of 4-0. The game against Pittsburgh is presented by NBSC; gates open at 6 p.m. with kick off set for 7:30 p.m. ($10 - $18, 971-GOAL / www.charlestonbattery.com).

Four different Battery players scored in last week’s match to claim the first win of the 2013 season and bring the Battery record to 1-1-0. Heviel Cordoves, Ben Fisk, Dane Kelly and Zach Prince each recorded their first goals of the season. Charleston will face a more veteran side this week in the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, who were founded in 1999 in Pittsburgh, Pa.

The two sides have met 16 times since 1999, each team has five wins and the two have had six draws. Last season, the Battery enjoyed the better of the series, winning both games and scoring a total of four goals. Saturday’s game will be the first meeting between the two teams since May of 2012 – the teams will face off for a second and final time on June 15 in Pittsburgh.

The Pittsburgh squad is coached by Justin Evans, who took over as the Riverhounds head coach in 2010, but is not a stranger to the organization. Evans started as a player in 1999 and was actually the Riverhounds first number one draft pick and their first player. Evans spent some time in the MLS and even spent the 2002 season with the Charleston Battery where he made 29 league appearances.

The Riverhounds play at Highmark Stadium, which opened on April 13, 2013 making it the nation’s newest soccer stadium. It is located right in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh and has a seating capacity of 3,500, while also having the ability to hold approximately 10,000 for concerts. It features a brand new virtual scoreboard with an LED screen as well as a beautiful view of the Monongahela River.

Three Pittsburgh Players to Watch

Jose Angulo: The 25-year-old Colombian-American is always going to be a threat up top. Angulo went pro straight out of high school and already has one goal for two points in the 2013 season. Angulo spent some time with MLS’ New York Red Bulls but only made one appearance for the club before his move to Pittsburgh.

Matthew Dallman: Dallman is in only his second season with the Riverhounds, but already this season has tallied two assists in just two games played. Dallman will be the man to watch in the middle of the field with his ability to create scoring plays.

Kevin Kerr: The native of Germany is only 24 years of age and is in his first season with the Riverhounds. When he has gotten the opportunity to play, he has proved to be a productive goal scorer. With a goal to his name already this season, Kerr will surely threatening for more.

Live Broadcast Information
There will be a live local radio broadcast of Saturday’s match on SportsRadio1450 AM WQNT starting at 7 PM presented by the Angie Gainey Bailey Real Estate Company. In addition to uninterrupted play-by-play, the broadcast features a 30 minute pregame show and an extended postgame show with match analysis from Coach Mike Anhaeuser and an interview with the Man of the Match. The match will also be streamed live on www.uslnation.com.

$2 Beer’s until Kick Off & a chance to win $10,000
Fan’s can enjoy $2 Miller Lite drafts in both Battery Beer Gardens until kick off on Saturday night. There will also be a variety of specialty frozen cocktails for sale plus Pusser’s Rum Painkillers! At half time one luck fan will have the chance to win $10,00 in the Heritage Trust Kick for Cash.

Tickets are on sale now starting at just $10; to purchase tickets or for more information please call (843) 971-GOAL (4625) or visit www.charlestonbattery.com.

North Sound SeaWolves News Release -- www.seawolvesfc.com

Saturday, April 27, 2013

EDMONDS, Wash. — The North Sound SeaWolves added to their 2013 roster by signing four versatile players for the upcoming Premier Development League season. The signings of Renato Bandeira, Nick Hamer, Chase Raskowsky and Brad Jacobson brings the roster to 15 as the team prepares for its May 18 opener against the Portland Timbers U-23s.

“I like the way things are coming together,” SeaWolves owner Alex Silva said. “We’ve got some talented players, guys who are fast, physical and athletic and guys who are very competitive.”

Bandeira played for the SeaWolves in 2011. A midfielder/forward from Eastlake High School in Sammamish, he currently plays for Seattle University where he played for new SeaWolves coach Ed Moore. He had a goal and an assist for the Redhawks in 2012.

Hamer, a midfielder from Gonzaga, joins his older brother and Zags teammate Nick on the 2013 SeaWolves. The native of Spokane has started 27 games in two years for Gonzaga and had two goals and an assist in 2012.

Raskowsky, a native of San Anselmo, Calif. where he was a First Team All-State pick for Marin Catholic High School, is a defender/midfielder from Oregon State University. He played 17 games for the Beavers in 2012, scoring a goal and having an assist.

Jacobson is a midfielder from Larchmont, N.Y. He played two years at Dartmouth College before recently transferring to the University of Washington. For Dartmouth in 2012, Jacobson had two goals and an assist in 16 games.

“All of the players we’ve signed are physical, tough players who know how to compete,” Silva said. “That was something we really focused on this season. Last season we gave up too many easy goals and lost too many balls. The guys we’ve brought in this season are guys are going to compete all game.”

The SeaWolves are a member of the Northwest Division of the Premier Development League, the highest level of amateur soccer in the United States. The team plays its home games at Edmonds Stadium between May and July.

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Friday, April 26, 2013

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery head into Saturday’s game against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds looking for their second win of the 2013 season. The Battery defeated Antigua last week in their home opener at Blackbaud stadium by a score of 4-0. The game against Pittsburgh is presented by NBSC; gates open at 6 p.m. with kick off set for 7:30 p.m. ($10 - $18, 971-GOAL / www.charlestonbattery.com).

Four different Battery players scored in last week’s match to claim the first win of the 2013 season and bring the Battery record to 1-1-0. Heviel Cordoves, Ben Fisk, Dane Kelly and Zach Prince each recorded their first goals of the season. Charleston will face a more veteran side this week in the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, who were founded in 1999 in Pittsburgh, Pa.

The two sides have met 16 times since 1999, each team has five wins and the two have had six draws. Last season, the Battery enjoyed the better of the series, winning both games and scoring a total of four goals. Saturday’s game will be the first meeting between the two teams since May of 2012 – the teams will face off for a second and final time on June 15 in Pittsburgh.

The Pittsburgh squad is coached by Justin Evans, who took over as the Riverhounds head coach in 2010, but is not a stranger to the organization. Evans started as a player in 1999 and was actually the Riverhounds first number one draft pick and their first player. Evans spent some time in the MLS and even spent the 2002 season with the Charleston Battery where he made 29 league appearances.

The Riverhounds play at Highmark Stadium, which opened on April 13, 2013 making it the nation’s newest soccer stadium. It is located right in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh and has a seating capacity of 3,500, while also having the ability to hold approximately 10,000 for concerts. It features a brand new virtual scoreboard with an LED screen as well as a beautiful view of the Monongahela River.

Three Pittsburgh Players to Watch

Jose Angulo: The 25-year-old Colombian-American is always going to be a threat up top. Angulo went pro straight out of high school and already has one goal for two points in the 2013 season. Angulo spent some time with MLS’ New York Red Bulls but only made one appearance for the club before his move to Pittsburgh.

Matthew Dallman: Dallman is in only his second season with the Riverhounds, but already this season has tallied two assists in just two games played. Dallman will be the man to watch in the middle of the field with his ability to create scoring plays.

Kevin Kerr: The native of Germany is only 24 years of age and is in his first season with the Riverhounds. When he has gotten the opportunity to play, he has proved to be a productive goal scorer. With a goal to his name already this season, Kerr will surely threatening for more.

Live Broadcast Information
There will be a live local radio broadcast of Saturday’s match on SportsRadio1450 AM WQNT starting at 7 PM presented by the Angie Gainey Bailey Real Estate Company. In addition to uninterrupted play-by-play, the broadcast features a 30 minute pregame show and an extended postgame show with match analysis from Coach Mike Anhaeuser and an interview with the Man of the Match. The match will also be streamed live on www.uslnation.com.

$2 Beer’s until Kick Off & a chance to win $10,000
Fan’s can enjoy $2 Miller Lite drafts in both Battery Beer Gardens until kick off on Saturday night. There will also be a variety of specialty frozen cocktails for sale plus Pusser’s Rum Painkillers! At half time one luck fan will have the chance to win $10,00 in the Heritage Trust Kick for Cash.

Tickets are on sale now starting at just $10; to purchase tickets or for more information please call (843) 971-GOAL (4625) or visit www.charlestonbattery.com.

Sounders FC U-23 News Release -- www.soundersu23.com

Saturday, April 27, 2013

TACOMA, Wash. – The Sounders FC U-23 have announced the signing of two additional top-notch NCAA players. Midfielder Eric Stevenson of Akron University and goalkeeper Earl Edwards of UCLA will join an already very talented Sounders U-23 side for the 2013 PDL season.

Stevenson is coming off of his redshirt-junior season for the Zips, starting all 22 games. He posted seven goals and five assists against highly competitive Mid-American Conference foes, and was named to the All-MAC Second Team.

“I am really excited about my opportunity to come to Seattle and play for the Sounders U-23,” Stevenson said. “I have heard really good things about the organization from teammates and current Sounders players like DeAndre [Yedlin], and it will be a great experience for me to get quality training and games with quality players.”

Pryor to his college career, Stevenson was a well decorated high school player earning NSCAA High School All-American, and two-time Division III All-Ohio first team honors.

Edwards started 15 games for the Bruins in his redshirt-sophomore season, allowing only 19 goals with a record of 10-3-2 over that span. He brings the experience of being a team captain for the Bruins to the Sounders U-23, and the confidence to lead a team.

“As a goalkeeper I think I have good size, I'm athletic and have a strong presence. I organize my defense well, and my distribution can help a team possess the ball,” Edwards said.

He also brings his experience of international play to the team. Edwards is a member of the U.S. U-20 National Team, and was the starting keeper for the U.S. at the 2009 U-17 World Cup.

The Sounders U-23 open up PDL regular season play against the Portland Timbers U-23 on May 16th at JELD-WEN field in Portland. Their first home match will come on May 24th at 7:00 p.m. at Curtis High School Stadium against the Kitsap Pumas.

For more information on roster signings, schedule and U.S. Open Cup draw, visit SoundersU23.com, follow us on Twitter: @SoundersU23, or ’Like’ us on Facebook.

Harrisburg City Islanders News Release -- www.cityislanders.com

Friday, April 26, 2013

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Harrisburg City Islanders celebrate their 10th Anniversary season with the Home Opener this Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex, City Island. The Islanders opened their season on the road with two straight winning games. With this 10th season the Islanders have become a staple in Central Pennsylvania sports culture.

“Did we have any idea where this was going to lead?” asked Eric Pettis, Islanders CEO. “Absolutely not, but, along the way we have made some history, entertained Central Pa. with high quality soccer that keeps getting better and became a valuable resource for local sports fans and players.”

Pettis added that it seems like yesterday that Mayor Reed was complaining that we had created a traffic mess with all of the fans that came to the first-ever home match against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in 2004.

The Islanders season started this year on April 13 with a cross-state match against their rivals, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. The season opener ended in a 2-1 win with two late goals. The Islanders then made USL PRO history as they took victory against Major League Soccer's Colorado Rapids Reserves last Saturday night, with Cris Hernandez recording a goal and assist in a 2-1 victory. 

The home opener on Saturday will pit the Islanders against a familiar rival, the Rochester Rhinos.

“We have developed quite a rivalry with Rochester since we started competing in the same league in 2011,” said City Islanders coach Bill Becher. “Every game we have played against them has had a playoff type atmosphere, and I expect it to be the same for our home opener.”

The gates will open at 5:30 p.m. and kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. The Islanders have many things planned for off the field to celebrate this momentous occasion including the first 1,000 fans will receive a commemorative 10th Anniversary color changing stadium cup compliments of Capital BlueCross. In addition, fans at every USL PRO Islanders match will have the chance to win one of 10 Anniversary Presents offered by sponsors and local businesses. More than 250 gifts with a value of more than $6,500 will be offered to Islander fans throughout the 2013 season. Finally the Islanders have completed a list of the top 10 milestones including single game performances, memorable goals and games. The club's All-Decade team will also be announced this season.

Islanders General Manager John Gregg said that the 10th anniversary is a perfect time to show the local community there is more than just pro soccer.

“We have 3-versus-3 tournament, our first annual Capital Cup soccer tournament, and a number of wonderful promotional events with a number of our business partners,” Gregg said. “Everyone has been working extremely hard to make this the best season ever.”

The Islanders have been committed to professional soccer for the past 10 seasons. The latest addition in the growth of professional soccer and the Harrisburg organization included the most recent approved agreement between the club and their exclusive affiliate of Major League Soccer, the Philadelphia Union. Part of the approved agreement includes placement of four Union players permanently with the Islanders for this season.

Pettis said that if they can continue to develop as they have over the first 10 years into the next 10 that he is confident that the organization will be able to jump on the new wave of soccer fans that get what professional soccer can be.

“There have been a ton of sacrifices made by so many people over the past decade that have allowed us to survive,” Pettis said. “We want to take this opportunity to thank those past and present that gave themselves so freely to keep this club going.”

“This is Central Pa’s team!”

Tickets for the home opener on Saturday night at 7 p.m. against the Rochester Rhinos are now on sale. The Islanders have reduced the prices from the 2012 season. Tickets are $12 Adults (ages 18and over) $10 Seniors (62 and over) $7 Youth (ages 4 and under). Purchase tickets online and save an additional dollar per ticket. For more information or to purchase tickets for the upcoming
season, call 717-441-GOAL or visit www.cityislanders.com.

Saturday, April 27, 2013

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery defeated the Pittsburgh Riverhounds 2-0 on Saturday night at Blackbaud Stadium in front of 3,262 fans. Midfielder Mike Azira made his presence known, scoring the only two goals in the game and his first two goals of the USL PRO regular season.

With the win, the Battery improve to 2-1-0 and a share of the seventh position in the USL PRO standings with six points. Despite some tough play this season, the Riverhounds, (0-4-1), still have yet to win a game.

“It was a real defensive battle out there tonight with a lot of physical play and we were pretty lucky to come away with a 2-0 victory,” said Battery coach Mike Anhaeuser.

Azira was in the right place at the right time to record his first goal of the season as he headed in the goal off a deflected John Wilson cross into the penalty area in the 24th minute. In the 61st minute, Azira did it again; this time it was former College of Charleston standout Zach Prince that assisted the goal with a burst of speed to the outside and a clever drop pass to Azira who blasted it past the Riverhounds keeper.

The Battery weathered a couple of Riverhounds' opportunities and Battery goalkeeper Odisnel Cooper recorded his second shutout of the season, showing off his excellent reflexes and great awareness between the pipes late on to deny Pittsburgh an avenue back into the game.

Up next, the Charleston Battery head to Pennsylvania to take on the Harrisburg City Islanders and then it is off to Ohio to challenge the Dayton Dutch Lions. Both games start at 7 p.m. and will be streamed live at uslnation.com and on the air on 1450 AM WQNT.

Saturday, April 27, 2013

ORLANDO, Fla. — Led by three first-half goals, Orlando City (4-1-1, 13 points) handed the visiting Dayton Dutch Lions (2-1-0, 6 points) their first loss of the season with a 4-0 victory on Saturday night in front of a regular-season record 9,589 fans at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The win gives the Lions a 3-0-0 home record in USL PRO regular season play as Orlando continues its home stand on Tuesday night against VSI Tampa Bay FC.

“It was a very good, professional performance tonight,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I’m proud of the boys.“

Dayton, which won its first two games of the season coming into Orlando, played the Lions tough early on. The Ohio-based side held strong defensive lines as an attempt to disrupt forward movement by Orlando, but as the first half went on the Lions began to find breaks.

After multiple chances by the Lions frontline, Orlando broke through in the 28th minute with a goal from forward Dennis Chin. The 2012 USL PRO scoring champion, who was making his first start for Orlando in the 2013 regular season, slotted home the opener after Jamie Watson found the striker in stride past the Dayton backline. Chin chipped the Watson feed up and over Dutch Lions’ goalkeeper Matt Williams for the 1-0 advantage.

Once the first goal arrived, Orlando opened up the match. Defender Rob Valentino found Sporting Kansas City loanee Dom Dwyer in the penalty area in the 34th minute, with the former South Florida Bull finding the back of the net after eluding Dayton’s backline for his fourth goal of the season and 2-0 advantage.

Just five minutes later, Dwyer again found himself in scoring position only for a Dayton defender to trip him inside the 18-yard-box, earning the Lions a penalty kick. Watson, who came into the game leading the league in overall points, calmly converted the attempt in the lower right-hand corner to give the Lions a 3-0 lead heading into the half.

Orlando continued to press in the second half, showing no let-up from the first 45 minutes of play. It was again Dwyer who scored for the Lions, weaving his way past a Dayton defender on the left side of the pitch in the 72nd minute for his brace and the 4-0 advantage.

The 4-0 scoreline tied the franchise’s largest goal differential in a regular season match, with the game ending in the same tally.
Orlando quickly turns their attention to a home match this Tuesday night against expansion side VSI Tampa Bay. Tampa Bay (3-3-0, nine points) has won two out of its last three coming into Tuesday night’s match, which marks the first-ever meeting between the two Florida clubs.

The 9,589 fans Saturday night marks the second-straight week in which Orlando City set a regular-season attendance record. The previous week, 9,140 came out to see the Lions top LA 3-2, a record in its own right.

For more information on Tuesday night’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com. 

Saturday, April 27, 2013

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- On a perfect spring night in Central Pennsylvania the Harrisburg City Islanders' 10th Anniversary season home opener was also the 100th win in team history. The Islanders downed the Rochester Rhinos by a score of 5-1 at Skyline Sports Complex on Saturday night, with Lucky Mkosana scoring twice as Harrisburg pulled away from their northeastern rival.

“This win is the culmination of 10 years of hard work and sacrifice,” Eric Pettis said. “Seeing where we have come from and where we are going is really exciting.”

The victory allowed the City Islanders to remain undefeated on the season after a strong showing by the entire team. Seven different players had either a goal or an assist in the game, with Mkosana coming off of the bench in the 68th minute to score his two goals. Jimmy McLaughlin, with Harrisburg on a season-long loan from the Philadelphia Union, Yann Ekra and Sainey Touray also found the back of the net. 

The victory was also Harrisburg coach Bill Becher’s 100th win as he has been with the team since its inaugural season.

“The win is a testament to the great players we have had here throughout the years,” Becher said. “It’s good to come home and build on what we did on the road, if we would’ve came home and lost it would’ve been giving back points we earned on the road.”

The Islanders had a few great scoring chances before breaking through in the 31st minute with a goal from McLaughlin. Ekra picked out McLaughlin's run into the right channel as he was able to slip behind the Rochester defense. After a great first touch, McLaughlin made a nice move around Rochester goalkeeper Kristian Nicht and put his first goal of the season into an open net.

It only got tougher for Rochester from there. In the 43rd minute, Blake Brettschneider made a strong challenge on Sainey Touray, which resulted in a straight red card. Despite being down a man the Rhinos broke through in the 62nd minute. Former Islander Bilal Duckett tapped in the tying goal off a header after a cross by Michael Reidy. 

The Islanders regained the lead four minutes later as Ekra found the back of the net off a corner kick from Cristhian Hernandez. Defender Coady Andrews earned the assist, heading the ball goalwards from the corner, and Ekra was on hand to tuck away a finish from close range.

Mkosana’s first goal of the night came less than ten minutes after he entered the game as a pass from Don Anding released Mkosana into the left side of the penalty area behind the defense in the 75th minute. Nicht was able to get a fingertip on the left-footed shot, but it wasn’t enough as the ball deflected in off the far post and in.

Touray added to the lead in the 80th minute as he ran onto a pass from Colin Zizzi to put the Islanders up 4-1. Mkosana’s final goal of the night came on the last kick of the match, cementing one of the best starts in Islander history while keeping Rochester winless at Skyline Sports Complex before 1,817 fans.

The Islanders next game is at Skyline Sports Complex and will come against the Charleston Battery at 7 p.m. on Wednesday night. The Islanders will look to build on a great start to the 2013 season as they host the 2012 USL PRO champions in their first meeting since last season's playoffs.

Phoenix FC News Release -- www.phoenixfc.com

Saturday, April 27, 2013

PHOENIX -- Phoenix FC returns home to Tempe this Sunday night to host the Wilmington Hammerheads for a 7:30 p.m. PT contest at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium. The Wolves earned a point this week, playing to a scoreless tie against Major League Soccer's Real Salt Lake Reserves at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, Utah, on Monday night. The match was highlighted by a brawl in first half stoppage play that drew red cards for starting goalkeeper Andrew Weber and defenseman Renan Felipe Boufleur, both of whom will be ineligible this week as they serve suspensions following their ejections.

Phoenix FC is 1-3-1 after Monday night's match. Backup goalkeeper Sheldon Parkinson played a standout game in Utah, coming in for the ejected Weber and holding Real Salt Lake scoreless. Parkinson withstood a second half attack from Real Salt Lake's offense, which had a one-player advantage following the first half melee. The experience and playing time was invaluable for Parkinson, who gave up three goals to the Los Angeles Blues in his only prior appearance of the season on April 14, and the momentum of his breakthrough performance looks to carry over for the Wilmington match-up.

Phoenix FC's all-purpose player, Netinho, was carried off the field in the second half Monday night with an injury to his right lower leg. Netinho's status for Sunday's match has not yet been determined. Netinho, Diego Faria and Scott Morrison have the three goals for Phoenix FC in its five matches this season. Also injured and questionable for this week's match are forwards Peabo Doue and Aaron King, both with hamstring injuries.

Wilmington returns a number of players from last year's squad, which made it to the USL PRO Championship Game before losing to Charleston Battery by a score of 1-0. The Hammerheads are anchored by a pair of experienced midfielders in William Heaney and Aaron Patrick, with former Seattle Sounders defender Daniel Steres holding down the defense.

Wilmington is coming off its first game and first win of the season, a 2-0 home victory against the Antigua Barracudas. Forward Kyle Greig scored the first goal in his professional debut for the Hammerheads, while midfielder Paul Nicholson added a second to put the game away. After one game, Greig leads the team with five shots and one goal. Goalkeeper Philip Tuttle, who last year played with USL PRO's Harrisburg City Islanders, posted his first shutout of the season.

Phoenix FC and the Wilmington Hammerheads will meet for the return match when the Wolves travel to North Carolina on June 1 at Legion Stadium.

Sunday, April 28, 2013

TEMPE, Ariz. -- Diego Faria and Netinho netted goals for Phoenix FC as the Wolves stopped a three-game winless streak with a 3-1 win against the Wilmington Hammerheads on Sunday night at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium. The victory was Phoenix’s second of the season, and handed the Hammerheads their second consecutive defeat.

Phoenix FC (2-3-1) started well, as a cross from midfielder Scott Morrison looked to be headed for Faria in front of the goal in the sixth minute. Faria didn’t get to it, but Wilmington defender Uriah Bentick, in his effort to clear the cross, headed the ball into his own net for a 1-0 lead for the Wolves.

Phoenix midfielder Jose Ramos, finally healthy after being forced to miss the club’s first four games due to injury, made a major difference in the lineup. His work in the 19th minute almost resulted in another goal. Phoenix FC kept up the attack, with Netinho scoring in the 35th minute after working the ball down the pitch with forward Aaron King. Both Netinho and Faria scored their second goals of the season.

The Hammerheads pulled a goal back in the 40th minute as Kyle Greig finished a free kick by William Heaney to cut Phoenix FC’s lead to 2-1. But the momentum swung back to the home team when Wilmington’s Shawn Nicklaw was shown red for a hard tackle on Jose Ramos in the 60th minute. Wilmington was forced to play a man down, and Phoenix FC had a good chance to capitalize when Morrison’s shot hit the woodwork in the 73rd minute.

The Wolves sealed victory with Faria’s 83rd-minute goal. The crowd of 1,427 roared its approval and celebrated victory with the players at full time. Goalkeeper Sheldon Parkinson, coming off a solid effort in shutting out the Real Salt Lake reserves just six days earlier, made three saves to claim the victory.

The Hammerheads fell to 1-2-0 and lost their second straight, both on the West Coast road trip that took them to Los Angeles and Phoenix. The Wolves have seven points from six matches.

Phoenix FC will host the Pittsburgh Riverhounds this Friday night, May 3 at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. PT.

Mississippi Brilla News Release -- www.brillasoccer.org

Monday, April 29, 2013

CLINTON, Miss. -- Belhaven University captured the 2012 NAIA National Championship in December, and in April, the Mississippi Brilla captured three of Belhaven's players for their 2013 roster. Eduardo Cruz, Victor France, and Tom Gavin have all committed to play for Mississippi this season, and the Brilla hope their winning ways translate to the Premier Development League.

Cruz, a junior from Sao Paulo, Brazil, was a major force for the Blazers this year, notching six goals and six assists in 23 starts. He is a creative attacker and the Brilla will look to him to connect with other impact players to create goal scoring opportunities.

"Eduardo is a special player with great vision and control of the ball," Brilla head coach Drew Courtney said. "We are excited to see him bring his experience from a national championship to our squad."

Also joining the Brilla this season is Cruz's compatriot, Victor France. A sophomore from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, France had five goals and two assists for Belhaven this season. Brilla hopes to see him using his blazing speed and quick feet as he runs at defenders. Brilla Vice-President Scott Taylor was impressed by France early on.

"I heard about Victor from Coach Courtney, but had not seen him yet," Taylor said. "After signing, he came out to our tryout to meet some of the other potential players and help bring the level of play up in the tryout. It was immediately clear that Coach Courtney had made a shrewd move by signing Victor early."

Rounding out the Belhaven signings is defender Tom Gavin, a freshman from Hartlepool, England who was a key player for the Blazers this season, playing in all 24 games while starting 22 of them. Gavin will almost certainly figure into the Brilla back line from the beginning. Brilla Executive Director Rusty Bryant noted Gavin's ability at our recent tryout.

"Despite being a relatively young player," Bryant said, "Tom demonstrated a willingness to take control and give direction to other players. He is an intelligent young man and should make everyone around him a better player."

The Brilla kick off their season on May 23 on the road in Ft. Lauderdale. The club's home opener will be on Friday, May 31 at Clinton High School at 7 p.m. For a complete schedule, or to purchase season tickets, visit brillasoccer.org.

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Monday, April 29, 2013

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando City (4-1-1, 13 points) hosts expansion side VSI Tampa Bay FC (3-3-0, 9 points) for the first time on Tuesday night at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. as the Lions attempt to keep their regular season home unbeaten streak alive through the early part of the 2013 USL PRO season.

“I thought we put in a good performance (Saturday night),” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We didn’t pick up any knocks and have our attention toward Tuesday.”

Behind three first-half goals, Orlando handed the visiting Dayton Dutch Lions (2-1-0, 6 points) their first loss of the season on Saturday night, taking a 4-0 victory in front of a regular-season record 9,589 fans. Sporting KC loanee Dom Dwyer scored a pair of goals, while Jamie Watson and Dennis Chin added one each as the Lions moved back to the top of the USL PRO standings.

Tuesday’s match brings expansion side VSI Tampa Bay FC to central Florida for the first time. Tampa is led by forward Andriy Budnyy, who has notched two goals through his first six games. Goalkeeper Alexander Horwath has recorded a 1.000 goals against average, putting Tampa into a competitive position in each game they play.

The Lions then wrap up their three game homestand this Saturday night at Fifth Third Bank at the Florida Citrus Bowl against Antigua Barracuda FC. The Barracudas are currently 0-3-0 through three games in 2013. The Lions are 5-1-0 all-time against Antigua, with their only loss coming at home in 2011, the last time Orlando lost at home in the regular season.

LA Misioneros FC News Release -- www.lamisionerosfc.com

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

LOS ANGELES – The LA Misioneros FC have announced the signing of four additional top-level NCAA players. Returning midfielder Rene Anguiano of Cal State Northridge, midfielder Chris Smith and forward Brian Behrad both from CSUN and returning Chivas USA Supplemental Draft Pick Jose Diaz from UC Riverside will be joining the LA Misioneros this 2013 PDL season.

Anguiano earned a spot on the All-Big West Conference Second Team for his work in 2012. He competed in 21 of 22 matches for the CSUN Matadors and had one goal and two assists for four points. His lone goal came in double overtime in a home match against UC Riverside. Following a corner kick, Anguiano fired off a shot from the edge of the box that curled over defenders and into the top left corner of the goal to give CSUN its first home overtime win in over three seasons.

Smith competed in 19 matches for the Matadors in 2012. He scored one goal and finished second on the team with seven assists. He had a pair of assists in a 5-0 win at San Diego and scored a goal in the 2-1 double-overtime win over UC Riverside. Smith also earned the game-winning assist in the Big West Tournament Championship, helping the Matadors win the title for the first time.

Behrad competed in 15 matches for Northridge in 2012. Mainly as a substitute, Behrad scored three goals and one assist for seven points. He had a goal in CSUN's 5-0 win over Army. He also tallied an assist in Northridge's 2-1 win over Temple. Behrad took a total of 26 shots on the season with 13 on goal.

Diaz was selected by Chivas USA as the second overall pick during the 2013 MLS Supplemental Draft. The University of California at Riverside defender played a total of 62 games (58 starts) in his collegiate career with the Highlanders. In 2012, he scored three goals, a personal best for Diaz. He hopes to take his career to the next level with the LA Misioneros.
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The LA Misioneros FC open up PDL regular season play against the Fresno Fuego on May 4th at the Cal State San Bernardino field out in the Inland Empire.

For more information on roster signings, schedule, and news updates visit LAMisionerosFC.com, follow us on Twitter: @MisionerosFC, or ’Like’ us on Facebook. 

Victoria Highlanders News Release -- www.victoriahighlandersfc.com

Monday, April 29, 2013

VICTORIA, B.C. -- The Victoria Highlanders are pleased to announce the resigning of Kalem Scott. The 18-year-old Georgia native stands 5-foot-10 and weighs 170 pounds and grew up in the Comox Valley; he has played soccer in British Columbia since elementary school. He will return to the Highlanders defensive line for the second consecutive season after starting 14 of the 16 games he played for the team last year.

“Kalem’s a highly versatile defender who we’ll be able to use in various roles as required,” said Steve Simonson, Highlanders’ head coach, “As a 17-year-old last year he was able to play 90 minutes every game for us and now has that year of experience under his belt. He’s had good growth as a play away at Trinity Western. Hopefully he’ll have a good year with us and a bright future in the game.”

Kalem returns after his first season playing for Trinity Western University where he studies fine arts. In the season there he started most games, mostly playing ninety minutes, and scored one goal in Trinity Western’s campaign that ended just short of the bronze medal in the Canada West Championship. Kalem has also played for the Vancouver Whitecaps’ Residency squad in 2010, BC’s provincial team and the Upper Vancouver Island Metro league where he was named Most Valuable Player in consecutive seasons.

“The Highlanders FC is a top class organization, so I’m very excited to be coming back for the 2013 PDL season,” said Scott, “I’m looking forward to joining a great group of talented players and being a part of a successful season.”

Scott is a young, talented defender who has excelled in every league he’s been a part of. He’s consistently been moving forward in the football world and adding his talents to an already strong Highlanders back field should make them tough to score on. 

Reading United AC News Release -- www.readingunitedac.com

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

READING, Pa. – With less than two weeks until Reading United kicks off the 2013 Premier Development League season, the club has added three more very talented players to the roster. Fatai Alashe, Wes Charpie and Ben Sweat, pictured, will call Reading home during United’s 2013 campaign.

Alashe is a holding midfielder from Michigan State University. Alashe, a sophomore for the 2012 Big Ten Conference Tournament Champions, started 22 of 23 games for the Spartans. The native of Northville, Mich. recorded a goal and five assists for MSU in 2012, following a 2011 season that saw Alashe earn Big Ten All-Freshman team honors. The midfielder was also a part of the Columbus Crew’s U19 Boys Team that won the United States Youth Soccer National Championship. When United Head Coach Brendan Burke described Alashe’s style of play, he referenced Reading’s most recent captain. “He is hard, fast and reads the game very well. He should fill the hole left by Stephen Okai very, very well for us.”

Charpie joins United after a successful sophomore season at the University of South Florida. The midfielder appeared in 19 matches for the Bulls, scoring two goals and recording three assists. The native of Tarpon Springs, Fla. spent the summer of 2010 training in England with Premier League clubs Aston Villa and Blackburn Rovers. Charpie was also a part of the Crew’s U19 Boys Team in 2012. Coach Burke envisions the USF midfielder adding width to United’s attack. “Wes Charpie is being brought in from USF where he has been an important part of their team as a wide player and more recently a left back.”

Sweat, a junior from South Florida, joins United after appearing in 18 matches for the Bulls. The left back scored two goals and recorded two assists for USF in 2012. Sweat comes to Reading with PDL experience on his resume, appearing in 13 matches VSI Tampa Bay in 2012. The native of Palm Harbor, Fla. also spent time over the summer of 2012 trialing with Swedish Allsvenskan club, Djurgarden. Coach Burke has high hopes for the USF defender. “Sweat is being brought in to replace Greg Cochrane at left back. He has been very successful as an attacking left back at USF over the last few years and is a top prospect at that position.”

Reading United kickoff their 2013 PDL campaign on Saturday, May 11 at 7pm against the Westchester Flames. All United home games will be played at Exeter Township High School’s Don Thomas Stadium in Reiffton, PA. Tickets are available at www.readingunitedac.com. Reading United offer 2013 Game Day Youth Packages, Group Discount Packages, Birthday Parties and Fundraising Ticket Packages. Contact Denise Strohmayr at denise@readingunitedac.com for all your group needs. 

USL PRO News Release

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – USL PRO named its Team of the Week for Week Six of the season on Tuesday, with Harrisburg City Islanders forward Sainey Touray earning Player of the Week honors after recording a goal and an assist in his side’s 5-1 victory against the Rochester Rhinos. The win was Harrisburg’s 100th in franchise history, and came in the home opener of its 10th anniversary season.

Touray was outstanding throughout the contest, challenging the Rhinos defense with his speed. He had a pair of chances to open his account in the first half, hitting the post moments after Jimmy McLaughlin had opened the scoring. It wasn’t until the second half that he was able to add his name to the score sheet, using his speed to get in behind the defense before firing home in the 80th minute. Touray then added an assist, putting Lucky Mkosana through for his second goal of the night to cap the scoring.

Joining Touray on the Team of the Week from the City Islanders was Don Anding, who had a strong performance both defensively and moving up-field in Saturday’s victory. Anding placed a perfectly-weighted pass that found the run of Mkosana for the City Islanders’ third goal of the game, and was strong defensively down the left side.

Orlando City also had a pair of players named to the Team of the Week, with Dom Dwyer chosen after taking the lead in the Golden Boot race with three goals in two games. Dwyer had a goal in Orlando’s 1-1 draw against Charlotte this past Tuesday, and added a pair of finishes in a 4-0 win against Dayton on Saturday night.

Rob Valentino also earned a berth on the team, putting in two strong performances while assisting on Dwyer’s first goal against the Dutch Lions. He was joined in the Team of the Week defense by Anding, Phoenix FC’s Netinho, who put in a strong two-way performance in the Wolves’ 3-1 win against Wilmington, and Alex Freitas, who was dangerous throughout VSI Tampa Bay FC’s 1-0 defeat against Dayton.

Charlotte goalkeeper Eric Reed and midfielder Christian Meza both earned berths on the team, with Reed conceding one goal in two games while making eight saves during the week. Reed has conceded one goal in four games so far this season. Meza, meanwhile, shone in the Eagles’ 2-0 win against Pittsburgh on Friday night, recording a goal and an assist.

Rounding out the selections were midfielders Mike Azira of Charleston, who scored a pair of goals for the Battery in their 2-0 win against the Riverhounds, and Mershad Momeni of Los Angeles, who drove home an outstanding finish for the Blues in their victory against Wilmington. Dayton forward Brandon Swartzendruber was also acknowledged for his game-winning goal for the Dutch Lions against VSI Tampa Bay FC.

The 2013 USL PRO season continues on Tuesday night as Orlando City hosts VSI Tampa Bay FC at 7:30 p.m. ET in the first meeting between the Florida rivals. Wednesday night sees another big game, with the Harrisburg City Islanders welcoming the Charleston Battery to Skyline Sports Complex at 7 p.m. ET.

Friday night brings four games, with the Richmond Kickers visiting the Wilmington Hammerheads at 7:30 p.m. ET. Charleston continues its trip as it visits Dayton at 7 p.m., while Antigua Barracuda FC returns to league action against VSI Tampa Bay FC at 8 p.m. ET. The night ends with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds visiting Phoenix FC at 10:30 p.m. ET.

Saturday night sees a return match as the Rochester Rhinos host the Harrisburg City Islanders in their home opener at Sahlen’s Stadium at 7:05 p.m. ET. Also on Saturday night, the Richmond Kickers face the Charlotte Eagles at City Stadium at 7 p.m., while Antigua completes its trip to Florida with a visit to face Orlando City at 7:30 p.m. ET. The week concludes on Sunday as Pittsburgh visits the Los Angeles Blues at Titan Stadium at 7 p.m. ET.

Every game of the USL PRO season can be seen on USLNation.com, with live updates also available via Twitter (@USLPRO), Facebook and Google+.

USL PRO Team of the Week

Honorable Mention: Charleston – Zach Prince, Dane Kelly; Charlotte – Nate Thornton, Christian Ramirez; Dayton – Eric Kissinger, Matt Williams; Harrisburg – Yann Ekra, Lucky Mkosana, Colin Zizzi; Los Angeles –Shay Spitz, Allan Russell; Orlando – Dennis Chin, Jamie Watson; Phoenix – Diego Faria, Anthony Obodai; Pittsburgh – Andrew Marshall, Kevin Kerr; Rochester – Mike Reidy; Tampa Bay –J.T. Noone; Wilmington – Kyle Greig, William Heaney.

Fredericksburg Impact News Release - www.fasaimpact.com  

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. - The Fredericksburg Impact announced that former Conference Carolinas Player of the Year Ashley Alderin-Fleagle and former University of Mary Washington standout Allison DiPippa have signed for the 2013 W-League season.

Starring at Limestone College from 2008-11, Alderin-Fleagle totaled 28 goals and 13 assists. In her senior season of 2011, the former Saint led Division II with 20 goals and became the school’s all-time leading goal scorer. Alderin-Fleagle was named first-team all-conference, Conference Carolinas Player of the Year, and was chosen for the All-America First Team. She totaled four multi-goal games and six assists.

Impact Head Coach Rich Stoneman knows Alderin-Fleagle well from Conference Carolinas.

"Ashley is real good outside mid and can attack on the back," Stoneman said. "She wants to continue playing and explore her options with the W-League and after the Impact season explore options overseas to play. She’s real smart on the ball and going to be a great addition to the attack."

Fredericksburg will see a familiar face for the area as DiPippa returns to suit up for the red and black in 2013.

A standout at Division III University of Mary Washington from 2006-09, DiPippa tallied 13 goals and six assists in her career. The former Eagle defined her playing career in 2009 as she led U.M.W. to the Capital Athletic Conference championship and a run in the NCAA Tournament. In her senior season, DiPippa tied a career high with five goals and led the team with two game-winning goals.

University of Mary Washington Head Coach Corey Hewson remembers DiPippa as a leader and grinder on the field.

“She’s a smart player, very crafty with the ball and she can come up with big plays when needed,” Hewson said.

The Impact start their season on May 11 as they travel to Virginia Beach for a 7 p.m. kick. Fredericksburg will open its home schedule on May 27 as the Washington Spirit Reserves visit the Fredericksburg Field House.

Sacramento Pro Soccer News Release -- www.SacProSoccer.com

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Sacramento Professional Soccer, LLC, (Sac Pro Soccer) today announced hiring the team’s new Technical Director, Graham Smith. Smith, pictured right with Sac Pro Soccer President Warren Smith, will be responsible for appointing all soccer related personnel, monitoring and implementing soccer policy throughout the club, providing opportunities for international exhibition games, among other duties.

As technical director, Smith will also create coaching clinics, soccer camps and evaluate potential players for the team. Additionally, he will organize and oversee a system for development of players. This system will be used, in part, for the possible sale and transfer of players in the domestic and international markets.

Smith joins Sac Pro Soccer as a seasoned soccer professional with strong relationships in the soccer community worldwide. He brings best-in-class professional soccer managing experience to the organization. Most notably, he previously served on the Board of Directors of Chelsea Football Club of the EPL and as a player, appeared in more than 250 professional matches. He also founded and serves as president of First Wave Sports Marketing, the third largest sports agency in the United States, and was the head coach and technical director of the PDL's Ventura County Fusion.

“I’m very excited about our momentum and the announcement today,” said Warren Smith, president of Sac Pro Soccer. “We are proud to have Graham joining the organization. He is a very experienced soccer professional, well respected in the soccer community and we are confident that he will be an essential asset to our organization moving forward.”

“Today is very special to me,” said Graham Smith, technical director of Sac Pro Soccer. “I am thrilled to be joining this organization and know my vast experience will help us take the team to the next level. Sacramento is a great community and the perfect place for a United Soccer League Professional (USL PRO) team. I look forward to working with Warren and everyone else involved to build a great team for Sacramento soccer fans.”

Sacramento’s USL PRO franchise plans to host a series of exhibition matches during 2013 involving domestic and international professional soccer teams. In addition, supporter events, soccer clinics and player appearances will be scheduled leading up to the 2014 inaugural season.

For more information about Sacramento Soccer Day, visit SacProSoccer.com and signup for the team’s newsletter. Supporters can also “Like” the team on Facebook at Facebook.com/SacProSoccer or follow them on Twitter @SacProSoccer.

PDL Preview

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

The Northwest Division has been one of the most competitive in the PDL’s recent history, with two of the last three champions hailing from its ranks, and the Sounders FC U-23 winning the Western Conference a year ago. With three MLS-affiliated squads, and other teams that have grabbed strong talent from colleges in the Pacific Northwest, little is likely to change in terms of competition, and the high level of play on offer.

Kitsap Pumas – The Pumas finished third in the division a season ago, being edged out of a place in the U.S. Open Cup by the Portland Timbers U-23s on goal difference in the regular season before falling in the division semifinals to the same team. This year’s squad sees some familiar faces returning, with Zach Sampson back in defense after making 14 appearances a season ago. Kennedy Chongo also arrives after having played for the Ventura County Fusion a season ago.

North Sound SeaWolves – The SeaWolves return some talented players, including Brady Ballew, who had three goals and four assists a season ago, but the club’s focus has been on bringing in new talent for the new season. To that end, former Portland Timbers U-23s midfielder Nick Hamer arrives after earning All-West Coast Conference First Team honors with Gonzaga last fall, while 6-foot-7 goalkeeper Ryan Herman is a former U.S. U18 international who spent last summer with the Sounders FC U-23.

Portland Timbers U-23s – After finishing as runner-up in the division a season ago, and earning a second consecutive berth in the U.S. Open Cup as a result, the Timbers U-23s have reloaded on talent for the new season. Back with the side is U.S. U20 international Eric Miller of Creighton, and 2012 All-League selection Mark Sherrod of Memphis. Sherrod had 10 goals and three assists last summer, and will be hoping to replicate that accomplishment again.

Sounders FC U-23 – After rebranding from the Tacoma Tide, the Sounders U-23 put together a remarkable run to not only the top of the division but also to the national semifinals of the playoffs. While they will be without standout defender DeAndre Yedlin, now starring for the Sounders in MLS, there is plenty of talent returning, including Aodhan Quinn (six goals, three assists) and Darwin Jones (four goals, two assists). Also joining the squad is Abduwali Aman, formerly of North Sound, after he recorded five goals last season.

Vancouver Whitecaps FC U-23 – The Whitecaps just missed out on the playoffs a year ago, but continue to use their strong academy system to provide talent for the club’s U-23 side. Among those returning this season are defender James Farenhorst, who had three goals and an assist in 16 games last season, while Gangandeep Dohsanjh is also expected back after making 15 appearances a year ago.

Victoria Highlanders FC – The Highlanders will be looking to make a return to the playoffs this season, and have returned a number of players to that end. Leading scorer Craig Gorman, who had five goals and three assists in 15 games, leads the way, with backing from goalkeeper Elliot Mitrou, who had six shutouts and a 1.125 goals against average while playing every minute of the season. Joining the squad this season is veteran attacking midfielder Riley O’Neill, who returns to his native British Columbia after playing overseas.

Washington Crossfire – The Crossfire made a notable coaching change for the new season, with Nik Besagno taking the reins as player/coach. After playing 12 games last season for the Crossfire after coming over from Kitsap, Besagno will have some good talent to work with as he tries to lead the side back to the playoffs. University of Washington goalkeeper Spencer Richey was a standout for Timbers U-23s a season ago, recording a 0.970 goals against-average in 14 games, while Nick James returns to lead the club’s back four. 

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Tuesday, April 30

ORLANDO, Fla. — The match between Orlando City SC and VSI Tampa Bay FC was postponed due to severe weather just before 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday night at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. After an hour delay, team and league officials called the game due to an incoming severe weather system that would not allow play to occur. The match will be rescheduled at a future date, which is currently to be determined.

Tickets for tonight’s match will be valid for the rescheduled game. For more information on tickets, fans can call 855-ORL-CITY.

The Lions now turn their attention toward Saturday, May 4, against Antigua Barracuda FC. The Barracudas are currently 0-3-0 through three games in 2013. The Lions are 5-1-0 all-time against Antigua, with their only loss coming at home in 2011, the last time Orlando has lost at home in the regular season.

For more information on Saturday’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.