Super Y Feature

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – The Brooklyn Knights U-12 Girls’ team has started off well this season. The season opened with a hard-fought draw against NJ Stallion Academy, and this was followed up by a convincing win against Parsippany SC. But after a tough 3-2 loss to Rage SC this past Sunday, the young Knights are looking forward to their next match on Sunday, June 22 against Long Island Rough Riders at Metropolitan Oval in Queens, NYC.

For such a young team, the U12 Brooklyn Knights girls exhibit great possession of the ball. The Knights are able to play out of the back with short passes in order to build the play and combine further up the field to involve their attacking players. This is particularly impressive taking the age of the players into account.

Top players from the U12 Brooklyn Knights include Layla Devlin, Kate McNamara, and Angela Aguero.

Kate McNamara

Kate McNamara is one of the youngest players on the team. Despite her age, she recognizes her role as a target striker. She sets up her teammates by utilizing her awareness of space, often checking the ball off for layoff passes. Her field understanding and passing skill helped to dish out three assists against Parsippany. She also scored in the first three minutes to provide an early boost for her side.

“Kate is fun to watch. She is a dedicated player that just wants to learn and work hard,” Head Coach Christian Galvan said of his player.
“She may not be our tallest player but when she is on the field, she fights for every ball.”

Layla Devlin

Devlin is described as a dangerous winger. She is able to dribble and cut with the ball with great skill. A one-on-one player on the wing, she looks to beat defenders before sending in her crosses or moving in for a shot on goal. Additionally, she is very composed in the 18-yard box and makes sure to place her shots away from the goalkeeper. Layla scored a hat trick in the match against Parsippany SC.

“Layla reminds me of Alex Morgan when she dribbles the ball.” Galvan said when asked about Devlin

“Her long ponytail swings when she cuts or changes speed. It looks identical.”

Angela Aguero

Angela Aguero is gifted as a wonderful dribbler. She has been able to create goal scoring chances for her teammates with great foot skills and game awareness. Aguero consistently creates dangerous opportunities and can beat multiple defenders off the dribble. Angela also scored two goals and assisted another the side’s victory against Parsippany.

“It’s always special to see Angela play,” said Galvan. “The way she moves with the ball – beating one, two players – it’s amazing.

“You can only smile when you see her play.”

The Brooklyn Knights currently stand second in the North Atlantic Division, trailing Rage SC by two points while holding a game at hand. The teams will meet in the last game of the season, August 4th in Queens. The Knights currently have eight games remaining in the season.
 

PDL Feature

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Following the success of Reading United, the Ocean City Nor'easters, Des Moines Menace and FC Tucson in this year's edition of the U.S. Open Cup, PDL Senior Director Ryan Brooks looks at what PDL players gain from competing against professional players in the tournament, and discusses with Reading United and University of South Florida full back Ben Sweat his experience against the New York Red Bulls he prepares to embark on a professional career of his own following his senior season for USF this fall.

Every player has experiences that help shape their career, which take them out of their comfort zone and stretch them to places they never knew existed. The PDL’s version of this growth is the US Open Cup. Coaches and managers often cite “meaningful games” as a key factor in player development. It seems straightforward that if you compete alongside or against strong opponents in games, rather than weaker ones, the games are more meaningful. 

The U.S. Open Cup allows 16 PDL teams to enter into the longest-standing tournament in the United States. In the 2013 U.S. Open Cup, a total of 210 PDL players competed against professional teams in the first and second rounds, while 56 of the 210 played in the next round against MLS opponents. The value PDL players receive from competing against professionals is immeasurable, and is instrumental in the development of PDL players, who are the future of U.S. soccer.

If you take a meaningful game with a quality opponent - and in the case of the Open Cup, against professional teams - the game is full of teaching moments. The professionals are savvier and more intelligent than the amateur. A pro is a couple of steps ahead in his brain, and use the opponent’s naiveté to beat him, so essentially the player beats himself. That is not a knock on amateurs, but they just don’t have the “gray hair” a professional has (the term was coined by a mentor who explained to me that “gray hair” symbolizes an experienced versus a younger coach; although I feel it is applicable in this comparison as well).

So how does an amateur develop the “gray hair?” It is simple: train and play in games where the environment stretches you, because the environment shapes the player. That is why the U.S. Open Cup is a great competition for PDL players to learn more about their game and see, feel and smell what is like to be a professional. While player and ordinary fans can watch on television, the experience of going into a stadium, getting changed in the locker room and playing against professionals cannot be replicated unless you go out and experience it firsthand.

I watched many of the Open Cup games this season and there was a five-minute stretch in Reading United’s third-round contest against the New York Red Bulls game that was a prime example of my previous thoughts. This specific game shaped the professional development of Reading United’s left back, Ben Sweat.

Sweat is entering his senior year at the University of South Florida in the Big East, and has earned call-ups with the U20 National Team. 

In the game I saw him get beaten twice within five minutes by New York’s right wing. Sweat stabbed in to make a tackle and the player touched the ball to the side and went around him, creating scoring opportunities. Sweat could view those two plays simply as being beaten by an opponent, but it was much more than that.

I got the opportunity to talk to Sweat to hear his thoughts, and after our conversation I realized how coachable he was and that he understands that although he is an MLS prospect, he needs to keep learning and developing because there is always a higher level.

Brooks: Talk me through those two plays on the left wing.

Sweat: I saw the ball was a couple of feet from him and attempted to make the tackle - something I have done many times in my career - but he blew right by me. He knew if he had the ball in a certain position, I would dive in. I did, and was he was able to take the ball down the wing in the Red Bulls’ final third. He was a couple of steps ahead of me in his mind and knew I would “take the bait.”

Brooks: Those plays were symbols of the differences between pros and amateurs, and were more than just getting beaten twice in row. We could talk about speed, technique, and tactics, but tell me more about the ‘gray hair’ that your opponent had?

Sweat: The position that he put the ball in before I made the tackle was strategically placed, but I thought it was an opportunity to dispossess him. Man, was I wrong! What is funny is that I have done what he did to others many times in my career.

The Red Bulls game showed me that every time one of the professionals made an action - either a run or touch, or communication with a teammate - there was a reason. There was purpose to everything in their game, which was a great learning experience for me.

Brooks: This game is all about continued learning. What adjustments did you make within the game, and will you make moving forward in your career?

Sweat: After those two defensive mistakes I had to adjust my game. I know as a defender that I am athletic enough to make up for mistakes by chasing an attacker if I am beaten. In spite of this, I should not be immature and dive in as I did on those plays. So, I pretty much told myself to not let it happen again and to make sure I kept the attacker in front of me, as well as keep my feet moving and my eyes on the ball.

As a defender, it’s having experience and being a part of the Red Bull game, and seeing the quickness of the next level. My aim is to be a more intelligent player, combined with my skills that I currently possess.

Brooks: Playing in the PDL and having the opportunity to play against two professional teams in the U.S. Open Cup, will this shape your outlook on the improvements of your game and trying to get to the next level?

Sweat: Having the opportunity to play two quality pro teams, I noticed the speed of play, sharpness and cleanliness of touches and passes, and the intensity it takes to perform at your best at that level. Those are qualities I am already adding to my game this summer and if I continue to execute those qualities every day, I know I will be ready for the next level.

W-League News Release

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – The W-League announced its Team of the Week for Week 6 of the 2013 season today, honoring Laval forward Catherine Charron-Delage as Player of the Week after she scored the game-winning goal as the Comets defeated Ottawa 1-0 to move into second place in the Central Conference.

Charron-Delage, a member of Canada’s 2012 U-20 World Cup squad who plays for the University of Montreal, picked an opportune time to tally her first goal of the season, striking in the 17th minute as the Comets surprised the defending champions on their home turf. Laval (4-1-1) sits tied for second with Ottawa in the conference and holds the head-to-head tiebreaker.

Charron-Delage is joined on the Team of the Week by teammate Genevieve Richard, who backstopped the shutout at Ottawa and made six saves in a 2-1 win at Quebec City for the Comets. A trio of defenders is led by Pali veteran Sasha Andrews, who scored both goals in a 2-1 win at the Colorado Rapids. She is joined by Dayton’s Elizabeth Soto, who scored in an important 2-1 win at Charlotte, and Long Island’s Sue Weber, who helped limit North Jersey to three shots on goal as the Rough Riders moved within a point of the Northeastern Conference lead.

Washington Spirit Reserves midfielder Amber Stobbs produced a strong performance against the New Jersey Wildcats, tallying a goal and two assists as Washington improved to 4-1-0. Midfielder Alyscha Mottershead helped Ottawa rebound from the Laval loss with the game-winning goal in a 3-0 defeat of London, and Seattle’s Rachel Mercik scored twice in a 3-2 victory at the Colorado Rapids that kept the Sounders Women atop the Western Conference. Rounding out the midfield is Toronto’s Nicole Waters, who scored the game-winner as Toronto stayed undefeated with a 2-0 win against K-W United.

Joining Charron-Delage at forward this week is Virginia Beach’s Esther Anyanwu, who had a goal and an assist in a 3-1 win against New York, and Carolina Elite’s India Trotter, who scored the game-winner as the Cobras defeated Dayton 3-1 to stay atop the Southeastern Conference.

W-League Team of the Week

Honorable Mention – Atlanta - Savannah Jordan; Bay Area - Yiana Dimmitt, Leah Morales, Brandi Vega; Carolina Elite – Alexandra Ramsey; Charlotte - Macky Wingo; Colorado Rapids - Erin Gunther, Kristen Hamilton; Colorado Rush - Bethany Kanten, Morgan Kennedy; Dayton - Emilie Fillion, Brooke McCurdy; Fredericksburg - Kimmy Cummings; Laval - Nkemjika Ezurike, Amy Pietrangelo; Long Island - Kim DeCesare; Los Angeles - Kristy Moore; New York - Brittany Pfaff; Ottawa - Kori Chapic, Amanda Fancher; Santa Clarita - Ana Borges, Tara Corcoran, Diane Hare; Seattle - Janine Beckie, Erin McNulty, Shannon Woeller; Toronto - Noelle Leon-Palmer; Washington - Tiffany Brown, Meghan Cox, Morgan Reuther, Kara Wilson.

USL Feature

Monday, October 11, 2010

By NICHOLAS MURRAY

TAMPA, Fla. – Before the Rochester Rhinos and Carolina RailHawks, for Chris Economides, there was the Kansas City Attack.

“I actually got my start in professional soccer in the indoor game,” Economides said, speaking at the USL offices. “I was one of the owners of the old Kansas City Attack in the NPSL in the early nineties. One of my early claims to fame was winning an indoor championship in my second season in Kansas City with the Attack beating some of my soon-to-be Rhino players that were members of the Cleveland Crunch.”

Now the Senior Director of USL PRO is getting back to his indoor roots as the leader of the USL’s I-League, scheduled to begin play in November, 2011. With just over a year until the league’s launch, Economides is confident of finding success both on and off the field for the franchises that make up the league’s inaugural season.

“I think just as you’ve seen with USL PRO, we’re trying to have a business model that makes sense,” Economides said. “The days of operating with multi-million dollar operating budgets, it just doesn’t make any sense from a financial perspective, from an operational perspective, so I think just as we’ve done with USL PRO, we’re trying to create a business model with the I-League that makes sense, which preaches financial prudence, which preaches income versus expenses.

“It’s a pretty simple, common sense aspect where your expenses shouldn’t outweigh your income. We’re preaching financial prudence when it comes to the I-League, it will be a very structured budget, not with a lot of high costs.”

The Rochester Lancers are, as yet, the only confirmed member of the I-League, but Economides expects to have at least eight, and even as many as 12, teams playing in regional competition. The main focus of the league in terms of franchises is currently the Northeast, Mid Atlantic and Midwest regions, but Economides believes that in the long-term, the league could grow across the country.

“The sky is the limit. If the business model makes sense, if the franchises are profitable, as we grow this it will grow regionally,” Economides said. “As this thing grows, as we build the entire indoor pyramid structure of the USL, we hope to be in over 100 markets in the PDL, W-League and USL PRO perspective.”

While building a pyramid similar to the one USL currently uses for the outdoor game, incorporating indoor youth leagues and potentially divisions that mirror the PDL and W-League, is part of the long-term strategy, Economides is also aiming to have I-League and USL PRO franchises develop partnerships that would offer the ability to build the brand with year-round exposure from the indoor and outdoor game.

“As we looked at the overall model of the I-League, I think that’s one of the common synergies that needs to take place,” Economides said. “As we talk to potential I-League markets, we’re hoping that an I-League market will either have a relationship with a USL PRO team or even take it one step further, if a USL PRO market wants to take on and have what I call year-round exposure and year-round opportunity, that’s an ideal scenario to have both the indoor and outdoor operators own the franchises themselves.”

It would also have a benefit for the players, who would have the ability to move between the two franchises and play year-round.

“I think it allows players to make soccer more of a year-round opportunity,” Economides said, “a year-round job to let them focus on their playing career, to let them focus on honing their skills, indoor and outdoor. As we look to build the sport in this country, I think it could be a key aspect that will provide players with year-round employment opportunities.”

What Economides hopes most of all, though, is that the I-League can bring back the type of entertainment and excitement the sport saw in its heyday.

“We’re in the entertainment business,” Economides said. “We’re competing with high school sports, we’re competing with movies, we’re competing with a whole host of things, so I think it has to be something that’s family-oriented, that’s family-affordable fun. I envision our ticket prices being very affordable for a family of four to go to a match and then make it an experience for the kids, for mom and dad to have a good time.”

All this week, look for video conversations with USL Senior Director of USL PRO Chris Economides on the I-League on USLSoccer.com.
 

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

SOUTH HUNTINGDON, N.Y. -- In a game that saw two very different halves, the Ocean City Nor'easters rallied to take a 3-1 victory against the Long Island Rough Riders on Wednesday night at Cy Donnelly Stadium. After controlling the first half and claiming a 1-0 lead after 45 minutes, the Rough Riders gave up three second-half goals to an Ocean City team that grew continually stronger throughout the game.

Although the game started with a 45-minute delay due to a late arrival of the visiting team, the Rough Riders were wide awake from the start and put pressure on Ocean City deep in their half. The home team’s attacking style led to four shots in the opening 15 minutes, but neither Stephan Barea, nor Tyler Arnone or Stephen Roche were able to convert their chances.

The Nor’easters sought success in a very physical defense, trying to stop the Rough Riders with all legal means. In the 32nd minute Long Island found some open space when Kevin Knowles sent Danny Kramer wide on his right flank. Kramer beat a defender, dribbled all the way to the goal line and saw his low cross being deflected into the back of the net by Ocean City’s defender Jordan Murrel.
The Rough Riders stayed on top throughout the rest of the first half, but were unable to threated Ocean City’s goal again as they carried the 1-0 lead into halftime.

Ocean City seemed determined to turn around the game in the second half and started attacking the Rough Riders from the moment the match continued. Nick Perea had the first dangerous opportunity in the 50th minute, when his volley from inside the penalty area went just wide left of the goal.

In the 51st minute Barea almost doubled the advantage for the Rough Riders after Arnone’s cross from the right flank. His right-footed shot got blocked by a defender but when the ball rebounded to his strong left leg, he fired the volley to the far corner, only to hit the post.

What could have been a security goal for the Rough Riders proved to be their last strike of genius in this game. From then on it was the Nor'easters who dictated the pace and fired shot after shot. Right back Shawn McLaws played a lot more offensively and got involved in most of the attacks. McLaws and forward Zoncher Dennis recorded shots and it took a collective effort of the Rough Riders’ defense to stop them from scoring.

What looked promising for the Rough Riders for more than 70 minutes of the game was destroyed within the final 20. In the 72nd minute, a miscommunication between center back Tom Wharf and goalkeeper Marco Jorgensen presented McLaws with an easy opportunity to score. He got his head on the ball before the Rough Riders goalie and headed it into the empty net to tie the game.

The equalizer brought Ocean City fully back into the game and broke the Rough Riders’ confidence as they struggled to answer. Only seven minutes after the first goal, center back Tyler Hilliard’s long ball over the Rough Riders’ defense found Dwayne Reid, who put the ball past Jorgensen after beating the offside trap.

The Nor’easters added a third in the 85th minute from a counter-attack as the Rough Riders pushed forward in search of an equalizer. Reid beat two defenders on the right flank and passed to Frank Tweneboa, who had no difficulty finding the back of the net.

This victory puts the Ocean City Nor’easters into first place in the Mid Atlantic Division; the Rough Riders remain in fifth place with 11 points.

The Rough Riders are back in action on Tuesday, June 25th when they take on the Central Jersey Spartans at Cy Donnelly Stadium, South Huntington. The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available online at www.liroughriders.com/tickets or at the Rough Riders ticket box on game day (opens 60 minutes before kickoff). 

Long Island Rough Riders News Release - www.liroughriders.com

Thursday, June 20, 2012

PLAINVIEW, N.Y. - The Long Island Rough Riders face an important three-game road trip starting tonight when they travel to Washington, D.C. and Virginia to take on the Washington Spirit Reserves, Virginia Beach Piranhas and the Fredericksburg Impact. The trip will be crucial for the Rough Riders as they look to maintain their position in the W-League’s Northeastern Conference.

The Rough Riders kick off against the Washington Spirit Reserves at 7 p.m. tonight, and Washington (4-1-0) is currently tied with Long Island for second place in the conference with 12 points. The Spirit Reserves are a strong attacking force, having recording 20 goals while only conceding two in six games this season. Ten different players have scored for the Spirit Reserves, with forward Ashley Herndon and midfielder Katie Yensen each contributing three goals. 

After a short break on Friday the Rough Riders will return to action Saturday against the conference leaders, the Virginia Beach Piranhas (4-1-1). The Piranhas are new to the Northeastern Conference but have made their mark. Forward Shan Jones is a scoring sensation, tallying five goals in five games played thus far. Forward Esther Anyanwu is a well-balanced player, tallying three goals and three assists to bring the Piranhas to the top spot. The Piranhas have a technically proficient midfield which will make for a great matchup against Rough Riders midfielders Kim DeCesare, Amanda Epstein and Luana Miessa, who have led their side to an impressive start. The game will be played at Virginia Beach Sportsplex at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday.

The Rough Riders will wrap up the trip Sunday against the Fredericksburg Impact (0-4-2), less than 24 hours after the Virginia Beach game. In this year’s season opener the Rough Riders were able to run away with a 3-1 win against Fredericksburg thanks to goals by Amanda Ferranti, Amanda Epstein and Lulu Echeverry. The Impact are currently in seventh place with two points in the Northeastern Conference.

The Rough Riders will return to Cy Donnelly Stadium on Saturday, June 29 to host the second encounter with the Washington Spirit Reserves. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m.

NEXT GENERATION SERIES NEWS RELEASE

Thursday, June 20, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. - United Soccer Leagues is pleased to announce the acceptance of VSI Pinellas into the Next Generation Series. This new league initiative between USL and IMG Academy features a forward-looking, innovative, comprehensive, and unique program designed to develop the complete elite youth soccer player through a defined regimen of training, competition, testing, and evaluation.

VSI Pinellas focuses primarily on player development and seeks to further that focus through partnership with NextGen. 

“The Tampa Bay area has waited a long time for something like this to be in place,” CEO and Executive Director of Soccer Tony Paris said. “With the expertise that USL offers it will make a huge difference to youth soccer not only here, but nationwide.”

The inspiration for NextGen was the repeated and consistent message received from top youth soccer clubs and coaches that they were seeking a fresh development initiative specifically geared toward younger teams and players.

“It’s exciting to have VSI Pinellas in the Next Generation Series,” NextGen Director Abe Thompson said. “It’s a local club relative to where we’re at geographically, but it’s a very dynamic club that is producing top talent. Working together with VSI Pinellas, I think we’ll have a profound impact on soccer in the bay area.”

The 2013 Next Generation Series format will consist of U12 and U14 boys and girls teams participating in an eight-month season beginning in August and culminating in April. More than just another youth soccer league, top players will be identified through the NextGen Player Tracking Program and invited to attend the NextGen ID Training Camp at IMG presenting the unique opportunity for these elite soccer players to showcase their talents and train with distinguished IMG and NGS coaches.

“The level of competition is where our players will excel,” Paris said. “This is needed week in and week out, and NextGen will give that to them.”

NextGen was launched to fill the void by providing a comprehensive platform for clubs to best prepare their young players for the challenges which await them at the next level. Paris and VSI Pinellas share the same belief. 

The ultimate goal of VSI Pinellas is, “To give our players the opportunity to play at the next level and beyond,” Paris said.

The world’s largest and most advanced multi-sport training and education complex, IMG Academy hosted myriad soccer team training camps in 2012, including clubs such as the Seattle Sounders, D.C. United, the Columbus Crew, Sweden’s Malmö FF, as well as the U.S. Women’s National Team preparing for the London Olympic Games and the Antigua & Barbuda Men’s National Team preparing for World Cup qualifying.

To learn more please visit www.NGSsoccer.com. 

Super Y-League Feature

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Junior Lone Star FC was founded in 2001 by West African refugees from Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and the Ivory Coast who fled their countries due to separate series’ of brutal civil wars. Based in urban Southwest Philadelphia, and with no sponsors, JLSFC is an all-volunteer, self-supported soccer organization that provides free soccer programs to the disadvantaged children and young adults in the community.

Dempster currently plays at Holy Family University.

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

Thursday, June 20, 2013

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The growing rivalry between the Harrisburg City Islanders and their cross-state foes the Pittsburgh Riverhounds will resume on Friday night as they meet for the second edition of the Keystone Derby this season.

The Islanders have had a strong season so far and look to continue their winning ways in the league as they have won four out of their last five league games. Harrisburg sits firmly in second place in the league with 28 points (9-3-1) and will be within one point of league leading-Orlando City should they take victory against the Riverhounds. Pittsburgh is currently in ninth place in the league, but a win on the Island could move them as high as seventh in the standings after Friday night's games.

The Islanders opened up this season's series between the teams in Pittsburgh, and beat the Riverhounds in their first game at Highmark Stadium. The Islanders defeated Pittsburgh 2-1 in their home opener with Lucky Mkosana and Sainey Touray starting their high-scoring campaigns late in the game.

Jose Angulo, a former Islander, scored the first goal of the game in the 70th minute to give the Riverhounds the lead. Touray was able to knot the game up at one, eight minutes later. The game was looking like an opening day draw until Mkosana put in a goal in the 90th minute to get the Islanders their first win of the season.

The Islanders boast a few top players in the league with Touray and Nick Noble near the top of their respected positions. Touray is tied with for third in both overall points and goals on the season. Noble, the Islanders’ goalkeeper, is at the top for goals-against average, shutouts, wins and has let in the fewest goals in the league this year. Noble was rested in the Islanders’ friendly match against the Philadelphia Union on Tuesday but will start Friday.

For information and tickets please visit cityislanders.com or call (717)-441-GOAL. Also, for up to date pictures, news and stats on the Islanders and their USL PRO conquest please follow us on Twitter (@city_islanders) or Facebook at The Harrisburg City Islanders.

PDL News Release

Thursday, June 20, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – The PDL announced its Team of the Week for the seventh week of the season today, with Michigan Bucks forward Gerald Ben being honored as the Player of the Week. Ben, pictured left, scored both goals as the Bucks took a 2-0 victory on the road against FC London this past Friday, moving into first place in the Great Lakes Division in the process.

London entered Saturday’s game with a perfect five wins from five to start the season. It held the upper hand in the first half, but was unable to take the lead before the break. Ben’s introduction in the 57th minute proved pivotal, with the forward giving his side the lead after just two minutes as he put away a chance created by Stewart Givens. Ben then doubled the Bucks’ lead with 20 minutes to go, giving the Bucks victory and some revenge for their elimination by London in the 2012 PDL Playoffs.

Ben was joined in the Team of the Week attack by the Ottawa’s Carl Haworth, who had a hat trick in the Fury’s 4-1 win against the Real Boston Rams on Saturday night. Rounding out the trio is Austin’s Andres Cuero, who had two goals and an assist as the Aztex remained perfect with victory against El Paso on Saturday night.

Another player who helped his side maintain its perfect record was also honored, with Thunder Bay’s Sergio Campano leading the midfield selections after he had a goal and an assist in Saturday night’s 2-0 win against the Des Moines Menace. Also selected were Baltimore’s Michael Gamble, who had two goals and an assist in the Bohemian’s victory against Westchester, Kitsap’s Neil Schaffer, who had both goals in the Pumas’ 2-2 draw with Portland, and Reading’s Fatai Alashe, who keyed United’s comeback to earn a 1-1 draw with Ocean City.

The LA Misioneros’ Angel De Alba led the defensive selections after leading his side to a 3-0 win against the Ventura County Fusion on Saturday night. He was joined by Laredo’s Felipe Souza, who scored twice in the Heat’s 3-1 win against El Paso on Friday, and Springfield’s Rhys Cairns, who played a key role in back-to-back shutouts for the Demize against Winnipeg. Toronto Lynx goalkeeper Triston Henry was also honored after recording a pair of shutouts in his side’s games on the road against the Chicago Fire PDL and Chicago Inferno.

PDL Team of the Week

Honorable Mention – Austin: Mikey Ambrose, Dan Metzger; Baltimore: Hugh Roberts, Pete Caringi; Bradenton: Martin Elijah, Andrew Wolverton; Carolina: Hakan Ilhan, Mamadee Nyepon; CFC Azul: Simon Nett, Pat Boucher; El Paso: Hugo Samano, Jorge Duarte; Houston: Jelle van Kruissen; Jersey: Walter Hines, Joseph Ovenseri; K-W United: Austin Stone; Kitsap: Josh Kelly; LA Misioneros: Rodolfo Sandoval; Laredo: Juan Ibarra, Daniel Garza; London: Jordan Ayris; Michigan: Stewart Givens, Tom Catalano; Mississippi: Martin Gonzalez, Eduardo Cruz; Ocala: Bruno Castro, Kyle Breitmeyer; Oklahoma City: Adam Black, Matt Bray; Ottawa: Eddie Jones; Orlando: Tyler Blackwood, Paul Clowes; Portland: Mark Sherrod, Jose Ribas; Reading: Ben Sweat, Jason Plumhoff; SC United: Robert Beebe, Ryan Freiburger; Sounders FC U23: Zac Lubin; Southern West Virginia: Billy Forbes, Miguel Teos; Tampa Bay: Greg Crowell; Thunder Bay: Axel Sjoberg, Sunny Omoregie; Virginia Beach: Charles Nweke; Washington: James Moberg; Western Mass: Warren Gross; Winnipeg: Tyson Farago, Ali Musse.

Friday, June 21, 2013

Having won two of the past three USL PRO titles and four championships overall, the Charleston Battery have been one of the most successful professional franchises in USL history, on and off the field. The Battery, founded in 1993, moved into Blackbaud Stadium - the first privately funded soccer specific stadium in the United States - in 1999.

Longtime Battery President Andrew Bell recently took the time to answer our questions about building and maintaining a successful USL PRO franchise.

What inspired you to acquire a USL franchise?

Our ownership group wanted to help the sport of soccer grow while simultaneously providing family friendly entertainment in Charleston. We’ve been members of the USL family since 1993 and we continue to support the structure that has helped us through the years.

What is your favorite aspect of operating a USL franchise/team?

I love the sport the soccer and enjoy all aspects of it. We own our facility so in addition to the Charleston Battery games, we also host a variety of other events for our community throughout the year. In August we will host a World Cup qualifier for USA Rugby and in October, for the third consecutive year, we will be the site of the Southern Ground Festival featuring Zac Brown Band. Soccer is challenging and fun, but some of the other events make it a really unique work environment.

What differentiates your franchise from others?

We are one of the oldest professional soccer teams in the U.S., and we play in the first soccer-specific stadium built in the U.S. Our history and longevity mean that we have a unique link to the soccer fans in our community. This year we actually have a young player on our squad [Austin Savage], who grew up watching and supporting the Battery from when he was young.

What words of advice would you provide to potential franchise owners?

Test your market before you jump in. Hold an exhibition match to gauge the level of fan interest. Soccer is growing quickly in the U.S., but until you host a game you never really know what sort of response the community will have to it.

Where do you see your franchise in 3-5 years?

I see us having a much closer and stronger relationship with an MLS team.

What is your franchise’s greatest accomplishment to date?

That has to be winning four USL professional championships. That’s always the ultimate goal. But, in addition, our longevity probably sets us apart a little. We are in our 21st season in 2013.

What traits do you find valuable when adding members to your staff?

They need to have passion for the game and the willingness to work very hard to make the business work.

Who has been the greatest influence in your career? Please explain.

Tony Bakker, CEO of the Charleston Battery. He gave me the opportunity to work for a professional soccer team, and he is a visionary and builder of the sport in the U.S.

Washington Spirit Reserves News Release - www.washingtonspirit.com

Friday, June 21, 2013

WOODBRIDGE, VA – The Washington Spirit Reserves powered through a gritty Long Island performance to best the Rough Riders 2-0 Thursday evening at Howison Complex in Woodbridge, Virginia. Spirit Reserves forward Amber Stobbs scored early and defender Jenn Skogerboe added a goal in stoppage to edge the solid Rough Rider defense and extend the Washington win streak to five games.

The victory temporarily secures the Northeastern Conference top spot for the Spirit Reserves, currently two points ahead of the Virginia Beach Piranhas. Both teams play again on Saturday and Long Island has two games during the next three days, keeping the standings in a potential state of flux during the weekend.

With what now seems like a Spirit Reserves hallmark, Washington pressured quickly and got on the scoreboard early in the match. Midfielder Katie Yensen broke free down the left side of the Long Island defense and smacked a driven cross in front of the Rough Riders' net. A crashing Stobbs caught the cross in full volley, rocketing the ball past Long Island keeper Samantha Whitney untouched for the 1-0 lead.

Long Island’s defense was dealt a significant blow near the onset of the match when prominent veteran defender Sue Weber suffered a serious ankle injury and was forced to leave the match. Things became even more challenging for the Rough Riders as midfielder Kim DeCesare rolled her ankle in the 29th minute and also could not continue.

Washington continued its rapid attack throughout the match, sending a flurry of shots at the Long Island goal. Solid defending and some absolute heroics from keeper Whitney kept the match undecided throughout much of the night, however.

Spirit Reserve forward Tiffany Brown and midfielder Yensen both fired what seemed to be sure goals on separate occasions, only to see the acrobatic Whitney managed to tip the shots wide. In the second half, defender Meghan Cox blasted a header on frame from six yards out that the Long Island keeper somehow managed to deflect wide.

In took the full 90 minutes before Washington figured a way to break down the Long Island defense again. Forward Morgan Reuther fed a crisp through ball between two defenders to the foot of the streaking Skogerboe in the waning moments of the match. Skogerboe cracked a laser-line shot into the opposite side of the goal to secure the 2-0 final score.

“Great team performance at all levels tonight,” W-League Director Tim Schweitzer said. “As our offense fought all night to solve a very tough Long Island team, our defense afforded them the full time to accomplish the win through superb coordination and control of the match.

“Gutsy performance tonight from Long Island after some early bad luck,” Schweitzer continued. “Sue [Weber] is a stalwart legend in the USL and players like her are what the W-League is all about, we wish her and Kim [DeCesare] a speedy recovery.”

With just a single day's rest, the Spirit Reserves return to action Saturday afternoon on the road. Washington faces the North Jersey Valkyries at 4 p.m. in Wayne, New Jersey.

W-20 Feature

Friday, June 21, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – The 2013 W-20 season is three weeks in and teams have begun to rise to the top of the standings in the 20-team league, formerly known as the Super-20 League women. Caroline Houser, Alexandra Heffron, and Kyla Kellerman are among the players who posted top performances in last weekend’s fixtures to help their teams pick up vital league points.

Caroline Houser
Triangle FC

Playing their second game of a three-game road trip, the Triangle FC W-20s trailed 1-0 at the half against the unbeaten Carolina Elite Cobras. Houser scored back-to-back goals in the second half to lead TFC to a 2-1 comeback win.

Her first goal came in the 59th minute as teammate Gretchen Dettlinger picked up a loose ball at midfield. Dettlinger slipped a through ball to Houser, who ran onto it for a one-touch finish. Not long after, Houser was again on the receiving end of a pinpoint pass, this time from Maddie Cannon, and she did not miss her chance to win the match.

In the next game for Triangle FC, Houser netted two more goals in a 4-1 win against SSA. Triangle FC trailed after conceding within the opening two minutes, but Houser and Triangle FC responded well. TFC scored twice more to take all three points.

“I’m really proud of the effort from Caroline Houser over the three games this past weekend,” Triangle FC Head Coach Tom Misuraca said. “Being a U16 player competing at the W20 level has been a challenge that she’s met with tremendous success.”

“Her work rate and uncanny ability to put herself in the right spots to score goals helped our team find out rhythm this weekend”

Houser won the U16 Golden Boot as Triangle FC captured the 2012 Super Y-League National Championship at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida last year.

Alexandra Heffron
Kalamazoo Kingdom

The Kalamazoo Kingdom has taken 18 points from seven games to start their W-20 campaign, scoring a remarkable 35 goals while only conceding three times for an outstanding goal differential of +31. One big contributor to this success is midfielder Heffron.

In her last match, Heffron scored three goals and tallied an assist. A constant threat to the opposing team, her movement and aggressive play in the attacking third have caused problems for defenses throughout the Midwest Division.

“Alex’s movement as a center forward is the best I have seen in the women’s game. She is constantly making runs and always moving which makes her impossible to defend for 90 minutes,” Heffron’s head coach, Lewis Robinson, said.

“She creates so many chances and always makes players around her better. Alex has been a great leader for our team so far and she is getting fitter, sharper, and more match-fit with every game she plays.

“She is surrounded by a great cast of top level players who give her great service, which always helps too.”

Heffron will play at Marquette this fall.

Kyla Kellerman
Force Football Academy

Force Football Academy is undefeated this season, taking all of the nine available points so far. The team boasts a +11 goal differential, with 12 goals scored. Featuring at attack for Force Football Academy is Kellerman, who scored three goals and assisted another in FFA’s most recent match against the Dayton Dutch Lions.

“We knew that Kyla was going to be a special player for us after being named Summit League Offensive Player of the Year in 2012,” FFA W-20 Head Coach Kevin Garner said.

“We have been more than pleased with her efforts in our first three games of the year.”

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Friday, June 21, 2013

ORLANDO, Fla. — U.S. Soccer announced on Thursday that Orlando City SC will host a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Semifinal match on Wednesday, August 7, against the winner of the New England Revolution/DC United quarterfinal match if the club advances past Wednesday’s quarterfinal in Bridgeview, Ill., against the Chicago Fire. The game would kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl.

The Orlando City/VSI Tampa Bay USL PRO match originally scheduled on August 7 will be moved to another date. Stay tuned for an announcement about the rescheduling in the upcoming weeks.

Orlando first has to take on the Chicago Fire, with that game kicking off at 8:30 p.m. ET at Toyota Park on June 26. Chicago currently holds a 4-7-3 record in MLS regular season play. The club is led by midfielder Mike Magee, who was acquired from the LA Galaxy on May 25. Magee has been in MLS since 2003, scoring 44 goals in his career.

The Lions advanced past their MLS affiliate Sporting Kansas City 1-0 in the fourth round of the Open Cup, with an early score by forward Long Tan giving Orlando the lead and win. The win marked the club’s first-ever win against Sporting KC and advancement to the quarterfinals. Orlando previously topped MLS’ Colorado Rapids 3-1 at the Citrus Bowl in the third round of the knockout tournament.

The four Sporting loanees who did not play against Sporting, including Dom Dwyer, Christian Duke, Yann Songo’o and Jon Kempin, will be eligible for the June 26 match against Chicago barring a call-up from Kansas City.

The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is the oldest ongoing national soccer competition in the United States and is open to United States Soccer Federation (USSF) affiliated teams. This year marks the centennial edition of the tournament. This year’s field consisted of 68 teams, the largest field in US Open Cup history.

Portland Timbers Feature -- www.portlandtimbers.com

Friday, June 21, 2013

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Often times, the greatest source of support for an athlete is family. As players move on to more advanced levels of competition, they usually travel far from the familiar confines of home. But for Danielle and Zack Foxhoven, not only is family nearby, it’s in the same organization.

Colorado natives, Danielle and Zack are currently playing for Portland Thorns FC and the Portland Timbers U-23s, respectively. Danielle played her collegiate soccer at the University of Portland, and returned to the Rose City after a short stint with FC Energiya Voronezh in Russia. Zack recently finished his junior season at the University of Louisville, where he scored five goals in 20 games, and is playing for the Timbers U-23s of United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League (USL PDL) during the collegiate offseason.

Like many siblings, their relationship growing up was one of a competitive nature. They talked about their daily backyard battles and trying to one-up each other in club games.

“Every day we’d play out back on the basketball court, we’d play soccer tennis,” said Zack, a 6-foot-1 forward who played his first two seasons of college soccer at powerhouse UCLA. “She was my biggest motivator growing up. We had the biggest competitions.”

“We both played soccer and played in the same club,” said Danielle, who ranks fourth all-time in points (139) at the University of Portland. “It was always like ‘This Foxhoven is doing this and this Foxhoven is doing this. Which one can get results for their team?’”

Danielle is the older of the two and came to the University of Portland when Zack was still in high school. Zack said he would visit his sister in Portland as often as he could, and that he has always liked the area. When it came time to find a PDL team to play on for the summer, it was an easy choice.

“I’ve always liked Portland,” Zack said. “And knowing that she was up here kind of helped me make my decision.”

“College players now, they’re always looking to play with a PDL team,” said Danielle. “This year, since I was here, he was like ‘Absolutely, why not be with my sister?’”

The two are very supportive of each other, and make it to most of each other’s games.

“I think I’ve been to every single one that he’s had here,” said Danielle, “and he’s been to most of mine.”

Playing for different teams means different training and travel schedules, but the two say they find plenty of brother and sister time.

“Being so close makes it so easy to go get a bite to eat or go hangout every now and then,” said Zack. “It’s been really nice.”

Both have had successful starts to their seasons. Danielle has appeared in ten games for the Thorns , and Zack has made eight appearances across all competitions for the Timbers U-23s as of June 18. Keeping their competitive streak alive, Danielle has three goals in 2013 while Zack has two.

When asked who would finish the season with more goals, Zack was careful not to give his sister any bulletin board material.

“That will be a good competition,” he said. “We’ll see.” 

Friday, June 21, 2013

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Eagles earned a 1-0 victory against visiting VSI Tampa Bay FC in USL PRO action on Friday night. Charlotte’s Sergio Villasenor scored in the 74th minute and goalkeeper, Eric Reed, recorded his fifth shutout of the season.

The Eagles controlled the offensive pressure early on as Jorge Herrera found Fejiro Okiomah, but his header missed the mark. Okiomah was active from set pieces all night but never found the back of the net.  Herrera took a Christian Ramirez back-heel pass in the 11th minute, but his shot didn’t beat VSI Tampa Bay’s Alex Horwath and the match remained scoreless. Samuel Asante kept the pressure on the Tampa Bay defense as he dribbled around Sean Reynolds, but again his shot was denied by Horwath.

Mauricio Salles had Tampa Bay’s best chance of the first half, but his header was deflected out for a corner. On the ensuing corner kick the ball found Shawn Chin at the top of the box, but his shot sailed high and wide. Late in the first half Herrera again found Okiomah on the corner kick, only for the defender’s header to go off the crossbar and out for a goal kick.

Salles started the second half with some excitement as his attempted bicycle kick was handled by Eric Reed, but it was Charlotte's second-half substitutes Tommy Smith and Sergio Villasenor who combined for the game’s only goal in the 74th minute. Villasenor took possession on the left wing and played a ball to Smith, who played a nice give-and-go back to Villasenor, who was able to flick the ball over an onrushing Horwath.

A few minutes later Charlotte almost added a second goal as Brady Bryant, returning from a knee injury, took the ball from the midfield and sent a rocket just high of the Tampa net. The one goal would prove to be enough, however, as Charlotte won its second consecutive game.

Charlotte’s victory moves them past Dayton, which plays in Phoenix later on Friday night, into a tie for sixth place with Los Angeles. The Eagles' record now stands at 5-2-5. The Eagles now travel to Wilmington to take on the Hammerheads on Saturday night at 7:30 pm.

Keep that Orange Flag Flying High and be sure to tune in to USLNation.com tomorrow night to catch the Eagles and Hammerheads!

Friday, June 21, 2013

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- It was a tale of two halves at Skyline Sports Complex on Friday night as the Pittsburgh Riverhounds beat the Harrisburg City Islanders 4-3 to extend their undefeated streak to nine games. The City Islanders had held a two-goal halftime lead, but the Riverhounds scored four consecutive goals, including a pair by Jose Angulo, in the second half to take victory.

With the game tied 2-2 with 20 minutes to go in the second half, Ryan Kinne took a shot at goal that hit goalie Nick Noble in the shin for the initial save, but Noble could not control the rebound. The ball bounced back to former Islander Angulo, who struck the ball first-time and blew it past Noble to give the Riverhounds the lead for good. Mike Seth added a fourth goal for the Riverhounds with seven minutes to go, and the insurance goal proved neccesary as Sainey Touray pulled a goal back for Harrisburg in stoppage time, only for the City Islanders’ rally to come up short.

The game started off at a high tempo, with the Islanders opening the scoring on the very first shot in the first minute. Tom Mellor had a ball land at his feet after a misplayed ball by the Riverhounds defense, and the English winger made a few moves to his right and then drove a shot to the upper-right corner, off the post and past the diving goalkeeper.

The Islanders were able to break through and get past the hard play of Pittsburgh to take a two-goal lead in the 21st minute off a great pass by captain Jason Pelletier to Jimmy McLaughlin, who snuck behind the defensive line just as the pass split two defenders. McLaughlin was in on goal alone, and chipped it past the advancing goalkeeper and in.

The City Islanders comfortably held their two-goal lead until the halftime break, but the game turned early in the second half when the Riverhounds received a penalty off a push from Islanders’ defender Aaron Wheeler just inside the penalty area. Angulo stepped up to the spot and made goalkeeper Nick Noble guess left as he fired it to the right.

The first goal gave Pittsburgh the confidence they needed to score again. Darren Amoo tied the game off a cross by Matt Dallman. The cross came flying into the box and Amoo was there to head the ball inside the right post past a sprawling Noble to knot the game up at two.

Harrisburg had a chance to regain the lead as Lucky Mkosana had a quality opportunity just minutes after being substituted in. Mkosana came streaking down the sideline and cut into the middle of the field for a hard shot that challenged Pittsburgh goalkeeper Hunter Gilstrap, who saved to keep the game tied.

After Angulo had given his side the lead, the Riverhounds delivered the knockout blow on a pass from Stefan Lundberg that crossed almost the whole penalty box until found the foot of Seth, who directed the shot to the far post again and past Noble. This goal gave Pittsburgh its first win on the road this season, and some revenge for the Islanders win at Highmark Stadium earlier this season.

The Islanders fell to (9-4-1) on the season and are 2-2-0 in league play during their five game homestand. They have one game left in that homestand to post a winning record during that time. They will play the Phoenix FC Wolves for the first time at Skyline Sports Complex.

For tickets and information on the Harrisburg City Islanders go to www.cityislanders.com or call (717)-441-GOAL.

Richmond Kickers News Release -- www.richmondkickers.com

Friday, June 21, 2013

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers conclude their eight-game home stand this Saturday night with a contest against Major League Soccer’s Vancouver Whitecaps Reserves at City Stadium. Summer Fest, presented by Relay Foods, will begin at 5 p.m. featuring a one-of-a-kind Splash Zone, inflatable games, live music by From the Edge and the Kickers new outdoor bar, with the pro game kicking off at 7 p.m. Get four tickets for $20 before 6 p.m. or order regularly priced tickets ($12/adults, $7/youth) in advance at RichmondKickers.com.

As a component of the groundbreaking affiliation between USL PRO and MLS, the interleague home and away series between the Kickers and the Whitecaps will count in both the official USL PRO and MLS Reserve League standings. The Kickers and the Whitecaps conclude this year’s two-game series in Vancouver on Tuesday, July 23.

Undefeated through their first 11 regular season games, the Kickers extended their unbeaten streak at City Stadium last Friday through a 4-0 win over Antigua Barracuda FC. Midfielder Brian Ownby notched a pair of second-half goals and Nate Robinson contributed a goal and an assist before rookie midfielder Joseph Haboush rounded out the scoreline as the Kickers posted their fifth shutout of the season.

Meanwhile, the Whitecaps Reserves are 2-0-2 on the season, most recently battling Chivas USA Reserves to a 3-3 draw. Vancouver midfielder Kekuta Mennah and forward Tommy Heinemann gave their side a 3-0 first-half lead before Chivas rallied with three unanswered second-half goals to level the score.

Rivals when the two clubs played in the USL First Division, the Kickers and the Whitecaps meet for the first time since 2005. Conceding a 0-2 loss and 1-1 tie against Vancouver during the 2005 regular season, the Kickers went on to battle the Whitecaps to a pair of scoreless draws in the postseason, ousting their west coast opponent 5-4 on penalties to advance to the USL First Division Semifinals.

Players to Watch
Kickers: Midfielder Philippe Davies made 29 appearances with the Vancouver Whitecaps (USL-1/USSF D2) over two seasons, before signing as the first-ever homegrown and Canadian player with the Major League Soccer side in 2010. The Canadian International recorded his first-ever goal in a Kickers uniform with a 25-yard blast against Wilmington earlier this month.

Midfielder Brian Ownby earned USL PRO Team of the Week honors for the second time this season after leading the Kickers with a pair of goals in their 4-0 win over Antigua last week. Splitting time between the Richmond Kickers and Houston Dynamo, the former Richmond Strikers midfielder is third on the team in scoring with three goals and four assists in eight appearances.

Defender Henry Kalungi returns from Uganda National Team duty following a pair of World Cup Qualifiers against Liberia and Angola. The experienced defender shores up the Kickers defensive unit that has allowed just eight goals through their first 11 regular season games.

Whitecaps: Forward Corey Hertzog signed with the Vancouver Whitecaps prior to the 2013 season after spending two seasons with the New York Red Bulls and a loan stint with the Wilmington Hammerheads. Making four appearances and notching one goal with the senior Whitecaps this season, he led the Hammerheads in 2012 with nine goals and five assists for 23 points in 17 games, en route to a USL PRO Championship appearance.

Former Charleston Battery forward Tommy Heinemann led the USL PRO side to the 2010 Championship, posting seven goals and five assists for 19 points. He spent two seasons with the Columbus Crew before signing with the Whitecaps in 2013 and has since made five appearances with the senior team, most recently notching a pair of goals in the Reserves’ 3-3 draw with Chivas USA earlier this month.

Defender Greg Klazura has been a positive presence for the Whitecaps Reserves, playing every minute during the 2012 season. This season he has been pulling double duty, making the 18-man roster for every senior game, while starting reserve matches. Now in his sophomore season with the Whitecaps, the former Notre Dame standout was selected in the 2012 MLS Supplemental Draft.

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Friday, June 21, 2013

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery (7-3-4) will host VSI Tampa Bay FC (7-5-1) this Saturday night at Blackbaud Stadium; kickoff is set for 7:30 PM.  Saturday night is Christmas in June presented by Rick Hendrick Automotive Group to benefit Toys for Tots. Fans who bring a new unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots will receive free admission to the game.

The Battery are coming off a 1-1 draw against the Rochester Rhinos last Sunday afternoon. The draw was the Battery’s third in five games as they now sit in a tie for third in the USL PRO standings. Former College of Charleston defender, Shawn Ferguson, scored his first goal of his professional career as he tallied the equalizer for the Battery with a volley past Rochester’s goalkeeper early in the second half.

The Rhinos goalkeeper, Kristian Nicht played an excellent game and was able to hold off the Battery attack late in the match to get the 1-1 draw.

2013 is VSI Tampa Bay’s inaugural season in USL PRO, and this will be the first ever meeting between the two squads. Although it is the first ever meeting between the two sides, there will be some familiar faces out on the pitch on Saturday. Tampa Bay players Tony Donatelli, Sallieu Bundu, and Kyle Hoffer were all features for the Charleston Battery’s 2012 championship squad, although Hoffer is unlikely to be available due to injury.

Tampa Bay currently has 22 points and is in sole possession of fifth place in the USL PRO standings. The Charleston Battery have 25 points and are in a tie for third place with the Richmond Kickers.

Live Broadcast Information

Saturday’s match will be broadcast live on SportsRadio 1450 AM WQNT presented by the Angie Gainey Bailey Real Estate Team; the match will also be streamed live on www.uslnation.com.

Ticket Information

All Charleston Battery home games are played at Blackbaud Stadium, Daniel Island; gates open at 4 p.m. Saturday with the Charleston Battery kick off set for 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at just $10 (includes both games); for directions, more information or to purchase tickets please call (843) 971-GOAL (4625) or visit www.charlestonbattery.com.

El Paso Patriots News Release -- www.elpasopatriots.com

Friday, June 21, 2013

EL PASO, Texas -- After a tough road trip, the El Paso Patriots are hoping there's no place like home. The Patriots (1-6-1, 4 points, sixth Mid South) will try to break the spell of a four-game losing streak against a West Texas Sockers (2-4-1, 7 points, T-fourth Mid South) team that has enjoyed every game it has played against the Patriots this Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. MT, at the Socorro Student Activities Complex.

Though West Texas has allowed eight more goals (18) than they've scored (10), they have earned points against El Paso in each of the three matches the teams have played against each other, including a 2-0 win two weeks ago at the SAC. 

Playing without its top scorers, Naoyas Aizawa and Kiki Cervantes, both out with leg injuries, El Paso floundered on the road against border rival Laredo and division-leading Austin last weekend in its last two outings. The Patriots rebounded to tie the match, 1-1, against the Heat in the closing minutes of the first half only to see Laredo score twice more after the break for a 3-1 loss last Friday.

Saturday against Austin, a tired and dejected El Paso team suffered the worst defeat in the franchise's 23 seasons -- an 8-0 evisceration at the hands of the rough and ready Aztex that stung the entire nine-hour ride home. With the playoffs all but out of reach, the Patriots are facing a test of mettle that unfamiliar to a franchise with a history of prouder moments, and it must start defensively.

El Paso has given up a league-high 25 goals, most in the Mid South Division and tied for third-most in the 64-team Premier Development League. The Patriots minus-16 goal differential isn't helping matters, either, but a healthy Aizawa and Cervantes can help that stat by scoring goals.

In the meantime, a two-week swing at the SAC and some good home cooking should help put an end to the road blues.

Saturday night will be the test to see if that's enough. Gates open at 6 p.m. MT, and fans and media can follow the game action via Twitter by following the team, @ElPasoPatriots.