Saturday, June 29, 2013

CHICAGO, Ill. – The Charlotte Eagles took a 2-1 victory against the Chicago Fire Reserves on Saturday evening at Toyota Park. The Eagles went ahead early in the third and 14th minute courtesy of goals from Christian Meza and Shaun Francis. Maicon Santos pulled the Men in Red within one in the second half before a 78th minute red card to Alex forced the Fire to finish the match a man down.

In the third minute the Eagles opened the scoring when Meza dribbled down the left flank and into the box and sent his low, driven shot inside the far post to put the visitors ahead. The Eagles would double their lead 10 minutes later when Francis pounced on a loose ball and unleashed a wicked half-volley into the back of the net.

The Fire would pull one back in the 51st minute. Maicon Santos danced around the Eagles backline and broke into the 18-yard-box. Santos dribbled nearly to the endline and at the sharpest of angles, whipped in a curving shot that bent past Charlotte goalkeeper Eric Reed and just inside the far post to pull the Fire within one.

In the 68th minute, Alex was shown a yellow card for an infraction in the center circle. This would come in to play just 10 minutes later when the Brazilian was shown a second yellow card for a foul outside the Fire’s 18-yard-box and forcing the Men in Red to finish the match a man down.

Fire ‘keeper Paolo Tornaghi made two point-blank saves in the 81st minute to keep the score within one, but the Eagles would claim victory as they moved into fifth place in the USL PRO standings while extending their undefeated streak to five games.

The Fire kick off a three-game homestand in Major League Soccer against the San Jose Earthquakes at Toyota Park on Wednesday, July 3 at 7:30 p.m. CT (My50/La Ley 107.9). Tickets are available by calling 888-MLS-Fire or by visiting www.Chicago-Fire.com.

Saturday, June 29, 2013

AUSTIN, Texas -- The Austin Aztex (8-0-1) remained undefeated on the season and inched closer to a playoff spot when they defeated the Houston Dutch Lions (2-7-1) 4-0 on Saturday night at House Park. The win allowed for the Aztex to sweep the Dutch Lions after four matches and extend their defensive shutout streak to 409 minutes, not having allowed a goal since June 8.

“I think our defense has been outstanding,” Aztex Head Coach Paul Dalglish said. “It is an incredible achievement for the level we are playing at. We’ve rotated the backfield, we’ve rotated the midfield, and we’ve rotated the forwards and so the whole squad can feel proud about what we are achieving.”

The Aztex maintained control of the game from the opening whistle as it kept possession looking to build its attack. The Dutch Lions decided to sit back defensively, giving Aztex defenders Leone Cruz and Aaron Guillen ample time to choose their passing targets and move the ball forward.

Aztex midfielders Tony Rocha and Zachary Garcia were able to take control of midfield and switch the ball out wide. The Aztex utilized their speed out on the left side of the field with Chuy Cortes and Robbie Derschang, when attacking, creating many scoring chances. The midfielders and attacking four paired well with the timing of their runs and navigating the passing lanes.

“Paul (Dalglish) told us to move around the channels, making the movements we have been learning all season,” Cortes said.

Sito Seoane nearly scored for the Aztex in the seventh minute when he saw Dutch Lions goalkeeper Jaimy Schaap out of position during a breakaway. Seoane sent a long-ranged blast that caromed off of the crossbar.

The team’s strategy paid off in the 33rd minute. Rocha lobbed a through ball to Cortes, who worked his way into the middle of the field from the left flank and set up Cuero, who shot past Schaap for the opening goal.

Tyrpak provided insurance with the second goal in the 40th minute after Cuero collected the ball in front of goal after a scrum from a free kick. Cuero saw Tyrpak make an early run and flicked the ball to him, and the forward hammered the ball past Schaap.

The Aztex scored again in the final seconds of the first half when Seoane sent in a long free kick 40 yards from goal. Cuero helped free Tyrpak during the run in, causing two defenders to pursue Tyrpak while giving Cuero space in front of goal. Cuero was able to get to the ball and flicked it into the net with his head.

The Dutch Lions tried to get back into the second half with three substitutions at halftime. However, the Aztex defense was able to contain their efforts. Houston had opportunities after rare turnovers from the Aztex backline. However, goalkeeper Devin Cook appeared to have a personal mission to keep the shutout streak intact and made several plays to disrupt the Dutch Lions' attack. Cook finished the game with three saves.

The Aztex added their fourth goal in the 81st minute when Aaron Guillen headed the ball in from a corner kick from Seth Casiple.

The Austin Aztex will travel to face the Laredo Heat on Wednesday night at Texas A&M International University in Laredo. The Aztex currently lead the PDL's Mid South Division with 25 points and lead Oklahoma City FC by six points. Meanwhile, OKC FC are ahead of the Heat in the standings by two points, while the Heat have played one fewer game.

“The Heat need as many points as they can get right now at the end of the season so that they can get into second place,” Aztex defender Max Gunderson said. “They will be fighting hard. Our game next week will be a home game for them, so it will be loud. We have got to push through and we will need to know our responsibilities and work for each other."

Ottawa Fury News Release - www.ottawafury.com

Saturday, June 29, 2013

QUEBEC CITY, QC - In their final road game of the regular season the Fury shut down the Quebec City Amiral and Alyscha Mottershead was the difference for the second consecutive game as the Fury reclaimed top spot in the W-League's Central Division with a 1-0 victory.

Jasmine Phillips collected the shutout in goal despite not facing a shot. The Fury (6-1-2) now sit two points clear of second-place Laval (5-1-3) and four points ahead of third-place Toronto (4-0-4).

After a disappointing start to the first half Friday night in Laval, the Fury came out a much brighter side on Saturday afternoon in Quebec City. In the 10th minute Emily Gielnik's free kick was stopped by former Fury W-League keeper Cynthia Leblanc, but Mottershead put home the rebound for her fourth goal of the season and third of the weekend.

Ottawa continued to press for a second and after outshooting the Amiral 4-0 in the opening half, the Fury took a 1-0 lead into halftime.

Ottawa pushed for an insurance marker to start the second half, but found itself caught offside on eight occasions in the half - 12 total in the game. The Fury had a handful of set pieces, but were unable to break down the Amiral defense. As a team the Fury were solid defensively as the Amiral failed to record a shot.

The two teams will meet against next weekend when the Fury host the Amiral on July 7 for their annual 'Think Pink' game in support of Breast Cancer Action Ottawa. After their match on July 7 the Fury will prepare for their final two games of the regular season against rivals Laval (July 10) and Toronto (July 13).

Saturday, June 29, 2013

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando City SC (10-2-2, 32 points) fell to the visiting Richmond Kickers (8-0-5, 29 points) 2-0 on Saturday night at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The loss tightens the top of the USL PRO standings, with the Lions holding a one-point advantage heading into the second half of the USL PRO season.

“I didn’t think we looked sharp tonight,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I think if we would’ve scored first, it (the goal) would’ve given us something to hang on to. I knew it would be a very difficult task for us against Richmond.“

Richmond, which came into Orlando for just its second road game of the 2013 regular season, kept up with the Lions in the early parts of the first half. Early chances by Richmond forwards Michael Seaton and Brian Ownby were saved by Orlando goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo to keep the game scoreless clean early on.

Orlando, which was without leading-scorer Dom Dwyer due to his recall by Major League Soccer (MLS) affiliate Sporting Kansas City, responded with attacks of its own, including combination plays between forwards Dennis Chin and Jamie Watson. Near chances for the duo occurred as the first half wore on, only for through-balls and crosses in to be slightly off in scoring opportunities. Despite the late pressure, Orlando went into the locker room tied 0-0. 

The back-and-forth affair between the two clubs persisted though the beginning of the second half. Richmond, which came into the match allowing a league-low nine goals on the season, broke through in the 57th minute with a strike by Seaton. The striker got behind the Orlando backline, blasting his shot past Gallardo in the lower-left corner of the net for the 1-0 lead.

After a few Orlando counters, Richmond struck again in the 78th minute behind a Bryan Ownby bicycle kick just inside the 18-yard-box. The conversion gave the visiting Kickers a 2-0 lead, cementing the win and three points.

Saturday night’s loss ended Orlando’s regular season home-unbeaten streak of 25 games, which was a league record. The club’s last loss at home occurred in June of 2011 to Antigua Barracuda FC.

The Lions continue USL PRO play with their next two matches occurring on the road, facing the Wilmington Hammerheads on July 3 and then the Charleston Battery on July 5. Orlando previously topped the Hammerheads 4-1 at home on May 25, with four different Lions scoring in the win. The Lions and Battery have yet to meet in 2013.

For more information on the upcoming games and ticket information for Orlando’s next home match July 11, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Sunday, June 30, 2013

READING, Pa. -- Reading United and the Jersey Expres played to a 2-2 draw as the Express scored late on to force a stalemate between the Mid Atlantic Division powers. First-place United and third-place Jersey finished deadlocked in the first game of a home-and-home series that will have massive implications on the divisional playoff race.

United were on the front foot from the opening whistle. Reading’s midfield tandem of Dante Marini and Jason Plumhoff worked to create openings for forwards Larry Ndjock and Mario Pinto. Even with Jersey keeping numbers behind the ball, Pinto and Ndjock were able to find holes in the Express’ back line.

Plumhoff, currently leading United in assists, created the first clear chance of the match in the 15th minute. Working down the left channel, the midfielder looked up and saw defender Jimmy Ockford streaking toward goal. Plumhoff hit a perfect ball that Ockford headed just inches wide of the Jersey net.

Jersey had its own good chance to open the scoring just five minutes later. Express forward Moriken Sangary stole a ball from United captain Damion Lowe and raced into the United penalty area. Fortunately for the home side, Sangary fizzed his shot well wide of Alex Bono’s net.

United opened the scoring in the 25th minute, following a foul by Jersey 29 yards from goal. Plumhoff, who has been excellent for United all season in dead ball situations, stood over the free kick and struck a well placed ball that Pinto flicked on to Ndjock. The forward from Loyola University calmly headed the ball into the back of the Express goal to hand Reading a deserved lead.

United continued to hold the edge in possession and outshot the Express six to three in the opening 45 minutes. The teams went into locker rooms at halftime with United in control with a 1-0 lead.

The second half opened with Jersey causing early troubles for the Reading defense as the Express searched for the equalizer. United absorbed the pressure well and began to settle into their pass and move style of play. Express keeper Jon Dawson did very well to keep Reading’s lead at just one, making several clutch saves to deny the potent United attack.

As the match drew towards its conclusion, the Express mounted heavy pressure on Reading’s defense. In the 84th minute, Jersey midfield Brayan Martinez stripped the ball from Ockford and was in one on one with Bono. The goalkeeper did well to block Martinez’s first shot, but the rebound trickled on toward goal. Lowe raced in to clear the ball off the goal line and end the threat.

Jersey would get its equalizer in the 86th minute. Thomas McNamara wriggled his way past two United defenders and beat Bono low and to the near post to help the Express draw level. Undeterred and looking for the victory, United took the kickoff and charged into the Jersey end of the pitch. Darius Madison found space along the right touchline and worked the ball into the box. The Union Academy product found Pinto with a precision pass. With defenders converging, the forward flicked a ball towards the center of the Express penalty. Second half substitute Manolo Sanchez volleyed a shot into the back of the net to put United back in front in the 88th minute.

There would be one final twist in the dramatic closing minutes of the match. Deep in stoppage time, the Express won a corner kick and piled numbers into the Reading penalty area. McNamara took the corner and fired into the scrum of bodies, where Joseph Niouky lost his marker and headed home the equalizer.

The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with both teams set to face off again in Newark, N.J. on Monday night.

“We have to win now," Reading coach Brendan Burke said. "This would have been a huge win that would have allowed us to go get a point there tomorrow and keep ahead in the standings. But this tripped us up, so we have a lot of work to do tomorrow.”

Sunday, June 30, 2013

PLANT CITY, Fla. -- VSI Tampa Bay FC held the third-placed Richmond Kickers to a 0-0 draw on Sunday night at Plant City Stadium. Back to back games on the road tested the Kickers this weekend in Florida. The Kickers' point against VSI came only 24 hours after they had defeated currentl league-leader Orlando City 2-0 at the Florida Citrus Bowl.

Tampa Bay created many goal scoring opportunities in the first half building the ball up patiently through the midfield and were able to spring balls to the flanks feeding Alex Freitas and Richard Dixon. Sallieu Bundu delivered an exciting performance for VSI, holding the ball up well. and coming close to finding the back of the net on a handful of opportunities.

Although VSI supplied an abundance of shots, Kickers’ keeper Andrew Dykstra delivered a perfect performance keeping VSI scoreless. VSI goalkeeper Alex Horwath, not to be outdone, secured a clean sheet as well as he led VSI's defense in denying Richmond’s attack.

The Kickers (8-0-6) remain undefeated and move on to face Dayton at Beavercreek Stadium on Saturday night, while Tampa Bay (7-6-3) breaks for the July 4th holiday and returns to action at Plant City Stadium on Saturday, July 13 to host the Charleston Battery at 7:30 p.m. ET. Tickets to the match are available on VSI Tampa Bay FC website at www.vsi-fc.com or by calling 813-615-2182. The match is also available online at www.uslnation.com.

VSI Tampa Bay also play host to 3v3 Live soccer on July 13. Registration is open at www.3v3live.com for 3v3 teams wishing to participate in the tournament. Every player registered in the tournament receives a ticket into the Charleston Battery match that evening.

All of VSI Tampa Bay FC’s 2013 USL PRO, PDL, W-League and Super-20s home matches will be played out of VSI’s Plant City Stadium, which is located at 1810 East Park Road, Plant City, Florida 33563. More information on the teams is available online at www.vsi-fc.com or on our social media sites by searching VSI Tampa Bay FC.  

Dayton Dutch Lions News Release

Sunday, June 30, 2013

DAYTON, Oh. – A beautiful Sunday afternoon was the scene for the second meeting between the Lady Lions of Dayton and the Lady Silverbacks of Atlanta. Despite only a day to rest between games, both teams came ready to continue where they left off Friday evening. Neither team could find the breakthrough and the game finished scoreless. With the point, the Dutch Lions moved into first place in the Southeastern Conference. 

In the first half the Lady Lions were patient and played their possession style ball. In the 18th minute a steal in the midfield by Emilie Fillion gave the Dutch Lions the first chance. The pass was sent out to Juliana Libertin on the left who found Kathryn Dolesh across the field, a touch a little too far out allowed Atlanta to block the shot. Atlanta countered with an attempt of their own in the 22nd minute. Atlanta’s Kansas Bayly sent the ball over the Dayton defense to Savannah Jordan who made a great run, but the attack ended with an offsides call.  A yellow card in the 31st minute on Atlanta’s Hastings gave Dayton an opportunity. Fillion fired the shot on target, but the Silverbacks keeper Jamie Simmons was able to get a finger on it to tip it over the goal.  Despite numerous attempts at goal from both sides, great defending on both ends left the game scoreless at the half.

Atlanta came out strong and fast in the second half going on the attack immediately but the shot by Lexi Hastings from 20 yards out flew over the crossbar. A serve in from the right side in the 54th minute by Stacey Balaam had Dayton beat with Atlanta’s Jamie Pollack and Cherie Sayon both vying for the ball in the box, but Dayton’s defense stepped in and neither could put a head on it.

Dayton countered in the 60th minute with a ball sent up from Abby Pearson to Fillion who slipped behind the Silverbacks defense but the shot rolled off her foot and was easily handled by the Atlanta keeper.  Both coaches had winning on their mind when in the 71st minute, Dayton defender Abby Pearson was substituted out for forward Ashley Miltko. In the 73rd minute Atlanta made a substitution of their own taking out defender Kansas Bayly for midfielder Ryann Davies. Davies wasted no time and began to control the middle for the Lady Silverbacks serving the ball to her forwards for multiple chances, but the Lions defense held strong and no goals were allowed. Van Druenen pushed Dayton forward in the 90’ minute, but due to good defending from Atlanta, they were still unable to capitalize on any opportunities being created. The game ended scoreless with each team taking a point.

“I think it was a game with two halves," said Dutch Lions head coachvan DruenenAtlanta came with a specific plan. They wanted to defend as much as possible, compact as much as possible. They were hoping for that one chance that they didn’t really get because we were also defending strongly. It took us 45 minutes to know what to do, we came to the second half with a different game plan and I think we did better. The message is clear, we have a trip to Charlotte on Friday. Beat Charlotte and we are guaranteed a spot in the playoffs. We tied today, but I am still happy that the points are there and we have first place.”

The Dayton Dutch Lion’s Womens’ team (4-1-2) hit the road for their next two matches, facing the Charlotte Lady Eagles (3-4-0) on July 5 and then Atlanta (3-3-2) on July 6.

Sunday, June 30, 2013

HILLSBORO, Ore. — Playing their third game in as many days, the Portland Timbers U-23s lost 2-0 to Northwest Division-leader the Victoria Highlanders FC on Sunday afternoon in a matchup between the division’s top two teams before 1,054 fans at Hare Field.

With the victory, Highlanders FC (8-2-1, 26pts) extended their lead in the standings to six points. The Timbers U-23s (6-3-2, 20pts) remain in second place and own just a three-point lead over the third-place Vancouver Whitecaps FC U-23.

The Timbers U-23s were handed a second straight loss in league play, after falling 3-2 to the Washington Crossfire on Friday. Portland also played the Martinique National Team in a friendly on Saturday.

Despite the Timbers U-23s’ 15-6 advantage in shots, the Highlanders played the majority of the match with a 1-0 lead, finding the opening goal on the second effort following a corner kick in the 18th minute. Victoria then added an insurance goal three minutes from full time to help extend its unbeaten streak to six games.

The Highlanders’s first goal came following a corner kick from the right side in the 18th minute. The ball deflected out to forward Jordan Hughes at the upper left corner of the box. Hughes then sent a cross into a crowd in front of the goal, where forward Blair Sturrock fielded the ball after a couple of ricochets and punched it in for his second goal of the season.

After the goal, forward Zack Foxhoven gave the Timbers U-23s a couple of chances for an equalizer before the end of the first half. In the 34th minute, Foxhoven put a hard shot on frame after winning the ball from a couple of defenders, but Victoria goalkeeper Elliott Mitrou made the save. In the first minute of first-half stoppage time, Foxhoven beat a couple Victoria defenders on the left flank before serving a cross into the box for forward Clark Phillips, who put another shot on frame for the Timbers U-23s.

Phillips also set up midfielder Jose Ribas for an opportunity in the 15th minute. Phillips flicked on a long ball from goalkeeper David Meves, sending Ribas in one-on-one with Mitrou, but Ribas’ shot missed just wide.

The Timbers U-23s kept the pressure up in the second half, outshooting Victoria 6-3 in the half, but Victoria’s Brett Levis would put the visitors on top 2-0 in the 87th minute. Levis dribbled through the Timbers U-23s defense, forcing Meves to come off his line, and was able to slip a shot into the back of the net from six yards out.

After playing eight games during the month of June, the Timbers U-23s have a break in league play. The team will take a two-game road trip to British Columbia for their next two matches, starting Friday, July 12 against Whitecaps FC U-23 at Thunderbird Stadium. Portland will then play Victoria on Saturday, July 13 at Royal Athletic Park.

Sunday, June 30, 2013

HARRISON, N.J. – The Wilmington Hammerheads scored a pair of second-half goals to rally for a 2-1 victory against the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on Sunday afternoon. The victory gave the Hammerheads a sweep of the home-and-home series between the teams, and moved the Hammerheads into 10th place in the USL PRO standings, four points out of eighth.

The game-winner came in the 88th minute as second-half substitute Steven Perry put home a cross by Bryce Taylor from the right at the near post. The Hammerheads had taken a 1-0 win against the Red Bulls Reserves in their first meeting of the season at Legion Stadium.

The Red Bulls Reserves had a good early opportunity as the ball broke to them for a three-on-two break, but Lloyd Sam sent his shot from just inside the penalty area just over the crossbar. Wilmington came close in the 18th minute as Daniel Steres’ header from a corner kick went just wide of the right post, and the Red Bulls also went close from a corner of their own two minutes later as Matt Miazga headed off the post.

The Red Bulls continued to threaten as the half went on, and Troy Hernandez made a good save to deny Marius Obekop after the left winger cut into the penalty area for a shot from 15 yards. Bradley Wright-Phillips also went close twice, only to miss the target each time, for the Red Bulls, but Obekop would give New York the lead seven minutes before halftime as he controlled and fired home into the left corner of the net after a good spell of pressure.

Wilmington opened the second half more brightly, and had a couple of early efforts on goal as they tried to get back on even terms from Shawn Nicklaw and Bryce Taylor. The Hammerheads would get back on even terms as new signing Mickael Oliveira drove home an outstanding finish from outside the penalty area after being brought on as a halftime substitute.

Both sides went after a game-winner in the final half-hour, with Hernandez making a comfortable save from Andre Akpan on a header and Oliveira sending a long-range effort over the bar from 20 yards.
Amando Moreno also had a good effort for the Red Bulls with four minutes to go, sending a shot from 20 yards over the crossbar, but it was the Hammerheads who stole all three points with two minutes to go as Perry put away Taylor’s cross for a crucial victory.

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.
 

Seattle Sounders Women News Release - www.sounderswomen.com

Monday, July 1, 2013

TUKWILA, Wash. – With a chance to host the Western Conference Championship by winning their final three matches; the Sounders Women stumbled on the first step with a 2-1 defeat against the Colorado Rapids Women. Two goals from Kristen Hamilton led the Rapids, and the lone goal for Seattle came on a penalty kick earned and finished by Sara Campbell.

The Sounders and Rapids met on a scorcher at Tukwila, Washington's Starfire Sports, with temperatures reaching into the 90s before first kick, and during the first half of the match.

Hamilton knocked in goals in both halves of the match, putting her Rapids up 2-0 early in the second period. The lead proved to be insurmountable for the Sounders, who tallied a Campbell penalty kick conversion, but could not manage to equalize late.

Coming off their first loss of the W-League season last week against the Pali Blues, the Sounders came out with a new formation, and the addition of their returning University of Washington players. The Sounders produced a confident start. They maintained possession in the attacking third, and created a few chances on goal, while limiting the Rapids touches throughout the first 25 minutes of the match.

The Sounders looked most likely to score first. In the 28th minute, midfielder Rachel Mercik played a ball from the left side and sent it in with a cross to the back post where she found Janine Beckie wide open. Beckie rose and met it with her head, looking to direct it inside the far post, but the ball took a slight deflection off of a Rapids defender and went out for a corner kick.

On the ensuing kick from the left corner, Canadian National Team player Melissa Busque sent a dangerous, swinging ball in to the face of the goal. The cross nearly found its way in just under the cross bar at the back post, but Rapids goalkeeper Hannah Clark was able to slap the danger away.

The Rapids immediately responded to the pressure from the Sounders and counter attacked. Just as the Sounders looked to be on the verge of getting out ahead with a goal, the Rapids flipped the script, and put themselves on the scoreboard first. Hamilton took a pass from the inside out to the right wing. She worked her way past a Sounders defender heading to the near post. The Rapids forward managed to split two defenders and sneak a right-footed poke underneath goalkeeper Erin McNulty at the near post.

After the goal, the momentum and control of the match took an obvious swing in the Rapids' favor. They were finding more opportunities to move the ball with a purpose in their attack.

The Sounders Women found themselves scrambling after the 30th-minute goal. They began to turn the ball over on poor touches and mental errors in the latter part of the first half, and even needed a Jenna Peterson clearance off the line to keep the score at 1-0.

Despite the Sounders coming out of the halftime break with good energy, Hamilton scored once again, picking up a long pass down the right channel and beating the Sounders defense with a big chop toward the front of goal. As McNulty slid out to close the space, Hamilton lifted it over her for her second goal of the game.

The Sounders nearly found themselves back in the game in the 65th minute when Jenna Richardson earned room in the penalty area. She took a ball in from the left and made a well-timed turn to shed a Rapids defender. Richardson lined up a shot and put it on target low at the near post, but Clark was there to make the save.

On the resulting corner kick, the Sounders once again nearly hit paydirt. Busque sent the corner to the near post where she found Richardson. Richardson angled a header with scoring potential over Clark, but the effort slammed off the crossbar, where it was cleared out for another Sounders corner.

Busque linked up with her Canadian teammate Richardson again at the near post on the second corner, but this time her header fell wide, and relieved the pressure on the Rapids.

Seattle finally turned attack into a goal in the 82nd minute. Campbell calmly converted an 82nd-minute penalty kick for her team-leading fourth goal of the season. The foul was committed by Clark when she came out high in the penalty area to meet a long-ball from McNulty. Campbell got to the ball first, and was put to the ground with heavy contact by Clark, who missed her effort to clear it.

"[McNulty] played a direct, excellent through ball over the top, a defender missed it, and I happened to be that second runner that was able to get a touch on it before I got clipped," Campbell said. "Looking back on it, perhaps getting fouled I may have wanted to regroup and let somebody else take the penalty kick, but in the moment I felt it, and put it away."

After converting the penalty, the Sounders continued to press the issue but could not create any leveling chances late in the dwindling minutes. The loss was only the second of the Sounders' W-League season, but also their second consecutive.

The Sounders Women are back at Starfire Sports on Friday, July 5 for their final home match of the 2013 W-League campaign. They take on the Santa Clarita Blue Heat at 7 p.m.

Super-20 League News Release

Junior Lone Star FC from Southwest Philadelphia has enjoyed a highly successful season in 2013. With an undefeated record of 5-0-2, Junior Lone Star FC has accumulated 17 points from its seven games. JLSFC is the first team to qualify out of the Mid Atlantic Division and the second spot remains open with Potomac SC, Real Maryland FC, and Harrisburg City Islanders all still in the hunt.

USL PRO News Release

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – USL PRO named its Team of the Week for Week 15 of the season on Tuesday, with Richmond Kickers goalkeeper Andrew Dykstra earning Player of the Week honors after recording a pair of shutouts as the Kickers remained undefeated after a weekend trip to Florida. Dykstra, on loan from D.C. United, is now tied for the league lead with six shutouts this season.

Dykstra became the first goalkeeper in USL PRO to shut out Orlando City at the Citrus Bowl as the Kickers took a 2-0 victory on Saturday night. Dykstra made four saves to record the shutout, including a pair of outstanding stops that kept the Kickers ahead in the second half while up 1-0. The following night, he continued his strong weekend as he made six saves in a scoreless draw with VSI Tampa Bay FC that moved the Kickers within two points of Orlando at the top of the USL PRO standings.

Dykstra was joined on the Team of the Week by teammates Joseph Ngwenya and Michael Seaton, who combined for what proved to be the game-winning goal in the Kickers’ win against Orlando. Ngwenya put in a strong performance in the center of midfield for the Kickers, helping his side control possession and break on the attack. His well-weighted pass sprang Seaton behind the Lions’ back four as he was able to score his third goal of the season with a fine low finish.

Joining Seaton in the Team of the Week attack is Harrisburg’s Sainey Touray, who had the game-winning goal as the City Islanders defeated Phoenix 2-1, and Wilmington’s Steven Perry, whose 88th-minute goal gave the Hammerheads a 2-1 win against the New York Red Bulls Reserves.

New Wilmington signing Mickael Oliveira is also named to the Team of the Week after he began the Hammerheads’ comeback with a fine long-range strike against New York. He is joined in the midfield by Charlotte’s Jorge Herrera, who had a goal and an assist in the Eagles’ 2-2 draw with Dayton, and Phoenix’s Obodai, who helped the Wolves earn a scoreless draw with the Rochester Rhinos.

Dayton’s Shane Smith leads a trio of defenders after his 85th-minute goal earned the Dutch Lions a point against Charlotte on Friday night, and he is joined by Charlotte’s Shaun Francis, who scored the game-winning goal for the Eagles in their win against the Chicago Fire Reserves. VSI Tampa Bay FC’s Alex Freitas, who was impressive at both ends in his side’s scoreless draw with Richmond, rounds out the selections.

The USL PRO season continues Wednesday night as the Wilmington Hammerheads host Orlando City at Legion Stadium at 7:30 p.m. ET. Thursday brings a Fourth of July tripleheader, with the Dayton Dutch Lions and Rochester Rhinos leading off the day at 1 p.m. ET at Dayton’s Beavercreek Stadium. The Pittsburgh Riverhounds then host the Charlotte Eagles at Highmark Stadium at 7 p.m. ET, with Antigua Barracuda FC’s visit to the Los Angeles Blues rounding out the night at 10:30 p.m. ET.

Friday night brings one of the marquee matches of the season as defending USL PRO champion the Charleston Battery hosts 2011 champion Orlando City at Blackbaud Stadium at 7:30 p.m. ET. Then on Saturday night, five games round out the holiday weekend, with the Richmond Kickers visiting the Dayton Dutch Lions looking to continue their undefeated run through the season at 7:30 p.m. Also slated for Saturday on the east coast is a visit by the Los Angeles Blues to Pittsburgh, the Rochester Rhinos hosting the Charlotte Eagles at Sahlen’s Stadium, and the Wilmington Hammerheads welcoming the Harrisburg City Islanders to Legion Stadium. The night is capped by Phoenix’s FC’s return to Sun Devil Soccer Stadium as they host Antigua Barracuda FC.

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: Charlotte – Christian Meza, Stephen Okai; Dayton – Joel DeLass; Harrisburg – Tom Mellor, Yann Ekra; Orlando – Bryan Burke; Phoenix – Reid Schmitt, Sheldon Parkinson; Richmond –Brian Ownby, Phillipe Davies; Rochester – Kristian Nicht; Tampa Bay – Alex Horwath, Darren Toby; Wilmington – Troy Hernandez, Bryce Taylor.

USL PRO News Release

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – USL PRO announced today that an expansion franchise in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma will join the league for the 2014 season. The announcement was made at a news conference in Oklahoma City. The franchise will be locally owned by Prodigal LLC, led by CEO Bob Funk Jr.

USL PRO is the strongest, best operated and most experienced North American men’s professional soccer league below and in support of MLS, both on and off the field. Focused on franchise stability and longevity, USL PRO features 13 teams in 2013 with more than half boasting a decade or more of operational experience, and the distinction of being the longest standing pro league affiliate member of the US Soccer Federation with over two decades of successful operations.

“We are thrilled about the addition of Oklahoma City for the 2014 season and as our 15th franchise member,” USL President Tim Holt said. “Oklahoma City is a market that passionately supports its professional sports teams and is quickly establishing itself as a soccer hotbed. Bob Funk Jr. and Prodigal LLC are leaders on both fronts in Oklahoma City and we have no doubt that they will produce a successful franchise for many years to come. With not only USL PRO and US Open Cup action, but also exhibitions involving MLS and international clubs coming to Oklahoma City, it is local soccer fans that are the true winners.”

USL PRO is focused on aggressive, but deliberate growth by adding teams fully capable of meeting USL and US Soccer Federation standards, which are located in markets that further promote regional league play. The addition of Oklahoma City is yet another exciting development in USL PRO’s western expansion initiative, with the Phoenix FC Wolves having joined Los Angeles Blues in 2013 and a franchise previously announced for Sacramento, California in 2014. In addition to league play, USL PRO teams will continue to compete in the national Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and various domestic and international exhibitions.

In 2013 USL PRO began a groundbreaking, multi-year partnership with MLS that has further elevated the quality and stature of USL PRO, strengthened the competition in both leagues, and established a solid foundation for future collaboration.

“As we move into USL PRO’s next operational phase, Bob Funk Jr. and Prodigal LLC represent the level of ownership we will be seeking,” USL CEO Alec Papadakis said. “This group meets all of the criteria and requirements, and they offer the caliber of ownership that will be necessary for USL PRO’s future.”

Prodigal LLC is a full service event management company based in Oklahoma City. Prodigal operates the Oklahoma City Barons professional hockey team, co-promotes Professional Bull Riders (PBR) events in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, operates the Ram National Circuit Finals Rodeo (RNCFR), serves as the co-organizer for the March of Dimes Sports Headliner Banquet and produces the Bricktown 4th Fest and is sales and marketing partner with All College and World Cup of Softball.

”We look forward to joining the USL PRO family,” Prodigal CEO Bob Funk Jr said. “This is a natural progression for our city to bring in top-flight professional soccer. USL PRO’s direct affiliation with Major League Soccer made it the best choice for Oklahoma City.”

Funk Jr. has worked on a variety of project in the sports and entertainment world including Summer and Winter X Games, AND 1 Mix Tape tour as well as Davis and Fed Cup matches. He serves as Chairman of the newly formed Greater Oklahoma City Sports Consortium and is an organizing member for the National Sports Forum. The Funk family also previously owned baseball’s Oklahoma City RedHawks before selling their interest in 2010.

Wilmington Hammerheads News Release -- www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

WILMINGTON, N.C. – The Wilmington Hammerheads are scheduled to host Orlando City Soccer Club on Wednesday night at Legion Stadium. Wilmington returns to their home field following their 2-1 victory at Red Bull Arena on Sunday against the New York Red Bulls Reserves.

Orlando currently holds the top slot in the 2013 USL PRO rankings with an overall record of 10-2-2 as the Harrisburg City Islanders sit one point behind. The Hammerheads host the City Islanders on Saturday night at Legion Stadium.

Wilmington and Orlando last encountered in May at the Florida Citrus Bowl when they were scheduled for back-to-back road matches in Florida. The Hammerheads took a tough 4-1 loss at Orlando, a contrasting turn of events after the 2012 USL PRO Semifinals when Wilmington defeated Orlando 4-3 to advance to the Championship Game.

Wilmington has won three of its last four home matches, the fourth being a draw, and is coming off completing a season sweep of the Red Bulls Reserves. Hammerheads forward Mickael Oliveira made his USL PRO debut during Sunday’s match at Red Bull Arena after being made officially eligible through international clearance, scoring the first Wilmington goal of the match. He will claim a spot on the Wilmington Hammerheads roster for the remainder of the season.

Directly following Wednesday’s match at Legion Stadium, a postgame fireworks display will take place on the backfield in celebration of Independence Day.

For further information regarding the Wilmington Hammerheads, please contact (910) 777-2111 or visit www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com.

Austin Aztex News Release -- www.austinaztex.com

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

AUSTIN, Texas -- The Austin Aztex (8-0-1) travel to Laredo to face the Heat (5-2-2) in a showdown with playoff implications for both squads.

“The Heat need as many points as they can get right now at the end of the season so that they can get into second place,” Aztex defender Max Gunderson said. “They will be fighting hard. Our game next week will be a home game for them, so it will be loud. We have got to push through and we will need to know our responsibilities and work for each other."

The Aztex currently lead the PDL's Mid South Division with 25 points and are looking to book their spot into the Southern Conference Final Four. The Aztex also enter Wednesday’s game with the best regular season record in the conference, something they wish to keep intact if they want home field advantage for the playoffs.

Laredo, the four-time defending division champions, enter the game on the outside looking in for a playoff bid. The Heat sit at third in the Mid South Division with 17 points, but are only two points behind second place OKC FC with a game in hand from their Oklahoma rivals.

The last time Austin and Laredo met, Seth Casiple scored on his first touch as an Aztex player on a free kick for a 1-0 victory at House Park on May 25. Since then, the Heat have bounced back and climbed toward back toward the top of the table with a 4-1-1 record during the month of June.

The main battle of Wednesday’s match will be the contest in midfield. Both Austin and Laredo are patient in their attack and look to maintain possession if they control the midfield. Austin’s midfield trio of Zachary Garcia, Tony Rocha, and Andres Cuero will look to take control of the ball and move it to lanes for the Aztex front line. However, Laredo has strong midfielders in Greg Mulamba and Juan de Dios Ibarra who are also capable of controlling the midfield.

“I feel that we are confident going into the game,” Rocha said. “Our goal is to go into every game as if it is the Southern Conference championship. If we win game-by-game then the ultimate result will come.”

The matchup features two of the top goalkeepers in the Mid South Division. Aztex goalkeeper Devin Cook is tied for the lead in the USL PDL in shutouts with seven while Heat goalkeeper Emmanuel Frias is tied for sixth with five shutouts. Cook also carries a miniscule goals-against-average of 0.36 through all competitions.

If Laredo wishes to leapfrog OKC FC in the standings, they will need to put an end to Austin’s 409 minute shutout streak which dates back to June 8.

Daniel Garza leads the Heat in points scored with 13 and proves to be a dangerous focal point to the team’s attack. However, the Heat show that they have a variety of players who are dangerous on the attack, as they have seven players who have scored between four and six points.

The Aztex counter with Cuero, who looks to make a strong encore after his five point performance Saturday night versus Houston. Cuero leads the Aztex with 14 points among all competitions. Kris Tyrpak (10 points), Sito Seoane (nine points), and Tucker Hume (eight points) are additional threatening options in the Aztex attack.

PDL News Release

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – The PDL announced its Team of the Week for the ninth week of the season today, with Ocean City Nor’easters forward Frank Tweneboa being honored as the Player of the Week. Tweneboa, a Super-20 League All-Tournament Team selection in 2011, had a hat trick and two assists to power the Nor’easters past the Central Jersey Spartans as the battle for the playoffs in the Mid Atlantic Division continued.

Tweneboa, a key catalyst to his side’s success in the past two seasons, put in a dominant display against the Spartans on Sunday night, setting up Ken Tribbett for the opening goal in the 11th minute. Tweneboa then scored in the 35th minute to give his side a 2-0 lead at the break before adding his second at the hour mark. After recording the assist on Timothy Mulgrew’s goal with 16 minutes to go, Tweneboa capped his performance by completing his hat trick 10 minutes later to keep the Nor’easters in the hunt as they defend their division title.

The Ottawa Fury had a pair of players selected to the Team of the Week after picking up three victories without conceding a goal. Goalkeeper Chad Bush had all three shutouts, giving him five in six appearances this season, while forward Carl Haworth had three goals and four assists in the three games, the four assists all coming in a 5-0 win against Vermont on Wednesday night.

Haworth and Tweneboa were joined in the Team of the Week attack by St. Louis’ Vadim Cojocov, who scored twice as the Lions handed the Thunder Bay Chill their first defeat of the season.

Panama City Beach’s Taian de Souza leads a quartet of defenders after he scored both goals to lead the Pirates to a 2-1 victory against the Mississippi Brilla on June 25. He is joined by Real Colorado’s Lorne Donaldson, who had a goal and an assist in the Foxes’ 2-0 win against WSA Winnipeg on Saturday night, and Ventura County’s Harrison Delbridge, who scored the game-tying goal in stoppage time as the Fusion earned a 1-1 draw against FC Tucson. Ocala’s Ben Knight is also honored after playing a key role in the Stampede’s 5-1 win against Orlando City U23 on Saturday night.

Austin’s Andres Cuero is again honored after scoring two goals and adding an assist in the Aztex’s 4-0 win against the Houston Dutch Lions, and he is joined by Oklahoma City’s Danny Frid, who scored twice in OKC’s 6-2 win against West Texas on Saturday night. Victoria’s Brett Levis is the third selection after he scored in both of the Highlander’s games this past weekend, helping his side earn four points as it moved six points clear in the Northwest Division.

PDL Team of the Week

Honorable Mention – Austin: Aaron Guillen, Kris Tyrpak; Baltimore: Geaton Caltabiano, Pete Caringi; Boston: Cole DeNormandie, Matt Keys; Carolina: Mahdi Ali, Peyton Ford; CFC Azul: Mark Grant, Luke Perry; Chicago Fire: Tyler Miller; Colorado: Oliver gore, Jamie Gilbert; Fresno: Paul Islas; Jersey: Tommy McNamara; Kitsap: Ben Truax; LA Misioneros: Christian King, Vincent Weijl; Laredo: Juan Nava, Juan Ibarra; Long Island: Dominick Sarle, Tyler Botte; Michigan: Matt Walker; No. Virginia: Joel Helmick, Eber Martinez; Ocala: Kyle Breitmeyer, Bruno Castro; Ocean City: Ken Tribbett, Tapiwa Machingueta; Oklahoma City: Nicolas Alberto, Kevin Cabello; Ottawa: Shaun Foster; Panama City Beach: Ricardo Oliveira, Drew Russell; Reading: Mario Pinto, Dante Marini; SC United: Jack Metcalf, Robert Beebe; Southern West Virginia: Billy Forbes, Jon Grant; St. Louis: Paul Keys; Tampa Bay: Joao Ehlers, Jack McVey; Thunder Bay: Pedro Adan; Tucson: Dallas Jaye; Victoria: Elliot Mitrou, Tyler Hughes; Virginia Beach: Devin Pierce; Washington: Sean Russell, Christian Roldan; West Virginia: Predrag Ivanovic; Western Mass: Alencar Junior.

W-League News Release,

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

TAMPA, Fla. – The W-League announced its Team of the Week for Week 8 of the 2013 season today, honoring Colorado Rapids Women forward Kristen Hamilton as Player of the Week after she almost singlehandedly kept her squad’s playoff hopes alive.

Hamilton, who will be a senior at the University of Denver in the fall, tallied a goal and an assist in a 2-1 win vs. Santa Clarita Thursday, and followed that performance with both goals in a huge 2-1 win at Seattle Sunday that kept the Rapids in the hunt for the Western Conference playoffs. Hamilton is joined on the Team of the Week by teammate Erin Gunther, who scored the game-winning goal in a 1-0 win vs. Bay Area that started Colorado’s three-win week.

Joining Gunther on defense are Long Island’s Gabby Charno, who led the Rough Riders to a shutout win vs. the Washington Spirit Reserves, and Rachel Daly of the LA Strikers, who held the back line together in a huge 2-1 win vs. the Pali Blues that kept the Strikers in the thick of the Western Conference playoff race. Selected for the goalkeeper spot is Charlotte’s Robyn Jones, who recorded 10 saves in a 2-0 win at Carolina Elite Thursday that tightened the Southeastern Conference playoff picture.

This week’s midfield is highlighted by Ottawa’s Alyscha Mottershead, who received strong consideration for Player of the Week after scoring twice in a comeback draw at Laval Friday. She also scored the only goal in a 1-0 win at Quebec City less than 24 hours later. She is joined by Dayton’s Kathryn Dolesh, who recorded a hat trick in a 4-1 win vs. Atlanta that helped the Dutch Lions move atop the Southeastern Conference standings, and Washington’s Amber Stobbs, who tallied a goal and an assist in a 2-1 bounce-back win against New York.

Rounding out the forwards are Bay Area’s Najma Homidi, who recorded a goal and two assists in a 3-1 win at the Colorado Rush, Shan Jones, who scored in both of Virginia Beach’s wins this past week, and Charlotte’s Macky Wingo, who tallied a goal and an assist in the win at Carolina Elite.

W-League Team of the Week
 

Honorable Mention – Atlanta - Alexis Hastings; Bay Area - Marissa Mykines; Carolina Elite - Rose Hull; Colorado Rapids - Pascale Pinard; Dayton - Alex Warren; Fredericksburg - Caty Butler; K-W United - Julie Karn, Maxine Murchie; Long Island - Grace Hawkins; New York - Candice Clark, Brittany Pfaff; Ottawa - Shalina Zadorsky; Santa Clarita - Ana Borges, Natalia Gomez Junco; Virginia Beach - Meghan Magee.

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

WILMINGTON, N.C. -- The Wilmington Hammerheads held the league leaders Orlando City Soccer Club at Legion Stadium on Wednesday night in a 2-2 draw. Hammerheads midfielder Daniel Steres added both goals for Wilmington to earn his side a point with Orlando and to remain undefeated at Legion for the last five matches.

Wilmington started the match with high intensity as forward Kyle Greig went in for a header in the sixth minute, only to have it trail directly into the hands of Orlando goalkeeper, Miguel Gallardo. Greig bounced back shortly thereafter as he tallied an assist onto Daniel Steres' first goal of the night in the eighth minute, putting the Hammerheads 1-0 over the Lions.

In his first appearance at Legion Stadium with the Hammerheads this season, forward Mickael Oliveira took several attempts on goal but was denied opportunities to find the back of the net. Oliveira had a big chance to give the Hammerheads an insurance goal four minutes after they had taken the lead as he beat Gallardo in the penalty area for shot, only to put his shot over the crossbar.

Orlando came close to equalizing off a free kick at the top of the penalty area from midfielder Adama Mbengue as the half began to close in, but was denied off a deflection from Hammerheads goalkeeper Troy Hernandez.

Orlando pulled level in the 66th minute off a goal by midfielder Jamie Watson. Orlando then took the lead the 79th minute as Mbengue got a body on the ball in a scuffle in front of the Wilmington goal.

The Hammerheads were able to pull even two minutes later as forward Cody Arnoux was taken down by Gallardo in the penalty area, resulting in a penalty kick by Steres that led to his second goal of the evening. Both sides had chances in the final 10 minutes to grab all three points, but both were forced to settle for a point as the game ended in a draw.

The Hammerheads will host the Harrisburg City Islanders at Legion Stadium on Saturday, July 6 for their second encounter of the season. For further information regarding the Wilmington Hammerheads, please contact (910) 777-2111 or visit online at www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com. 

Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Riverhounds return to USL PRO action over the holiday weekend for a pair of matches at Highmark Stadium. Following a 10-day break, the Riverhounds host the Charlotte Eagles on Thursday night and the L.A. Blues on Saturday night for their final meetings of the regular season. Both matches are slated for a 7 p.m. kick off in Station Square.

The Riverhounds celebrate their first Independence Day along the banks of the Monongahela River this Thursday with a crucial match against the Eagles. The Riverhounds are carrying a 10-game undefeated streak into the match, while the Eagles are unbeaten in their last six outings. Currently the Eagles sit in fifth place in the USL PRO standings, just four points ahead of the eighth-placed Riverhounds. With the top eight teams earning a berth into the playoffs, every point is critical heading into the final six weeks of the season.

“The break from league play was extremely beneficial to the team, it gave us time to rejuvenate our bodies and allow a few players to recover from injuries,” said Head Coach Justin Evans. “Tomorrow night’s game against the Eagles is of utmost importance, with only a few points between us, we must focus on the task at hand and continue moving up in the league standings.”

Following the match, fans are invited to stay at Highmark Stadium to enjoy the Independence Day fireworks display that will be taking place at Point State Park.

Following a home game against the Antigua Barracudas on July 4, the Blues travel to the east coast for a set of games in the Keystone State. On Saturday, the Riverhounds will host the Blues for their second meeting of the 2013 season. The two sides met at Titan Stadium in early May, resulting in a 0-0 draw.

At the game, the Riverhounds will be celebrating Latino Heritage Night to honor the Latin culture. Latin-inspired music and salsa dancing from Los Sabrosos will take place when the gates open at 5:00 p.m. Throughout the game, the Riverhounds will raffle off door prizes from local Latin-based restaurants and businesses. Following the game, an after party will take place on the concourse area outside of the Starting XI Bistro with more Latin music, dancing, and drink specials. The Law Offices of Kristen A. Schneck, LLC and the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring the entertainment for the evening.

The Riverhounds return to Highmark Stadium on Wednesday, July 17, when they host Orlando City. The first-ever ‘Hounds Night’ will take at Highmark Stadium, with patrons invited to bring their dogs to the game for an exciting night of soccer in Station Square. For more specific information about ‘Hounds Night’ at Highmark Stadium, visit Riverhounds.com/HoundsNight.

International soccer is coming to Highmark Stadium! Tickets are on sale now for the Frank B. Fuhrer International Friendly and Fireworks featuring Wigan Athletic FC presented by KEYTEX Energy. Don’t miss your chance to see the current FA Cup Champions take on the Riverhounds. To purchase tickets, visit Riverhounds.com or call (800) 745-3000.