Atlanta Silverbacks News Release - www.atlantasilverbacksfc.com

Friday, June 20, 2014

ATLANTA, Ga. – The Atlanta Silverbacks announced today that they will sign Erin Holt to the squad for their final W-League home game of the 2014 season as they welcome the Charlotte Lady Eagles to Silverbacks Park at 8 p.m. ET Saturday night. Holt, a former college soccer player severely injured by a drunk driver in 2013, will serve as the honorary 12th starter for Atlanta.

Fifty percent of the ticket proceeds from Saturday’s match will go directly to the Holt family to cover Holt’s medical expenses.

On November 1, 2013, Holt was critically injured after being run over by a truck driven by a drunk driver. She spent several weeks in a coma after being diagnosed with severe brain trauma. She was first brought to Memorial Hospital in Savannah before being transferred to the Shepherd Center here in Atlanta. She was released from the center in mid-February and is still undergoing extensive physical therapy on the road to complete recovery.

In addition to signing her to the team, the Silverbacks will also present Holt with her jersey for tomorrow’s contest, #25, which is the number she wore in college. The Silverbacks will also take donations to give to the family as well. 

Holt is a graduate of Armstrong Atlantic State University and Walton High School out of Marietta, Georgia. She played soccer for the Pirates from 2008-11, was a member of three Peach Belt Conference Championship teams, and played in the NCAA Division II Final Four in her senior year of 2011. She ranks seventh all time in Armstrong history in matches played, 10th in points, ninth in goals and 10th in assists. She was named to the 2010 Peach Belt All-Tournament Team and Presidential Honor Roll as well. She was teammates at Armstrong with current Silverback players Kristin Burton and Morgan Mitchell.

For more information on Holt and for updates on her recovery, fans can visit pushforward25.com.

Fans will want to show up early for the match against Charlotte to see Erin take the field with the starters as the honorary 12th starter for Atlanta.Tickets can be bought at the gate for $10. Groups of 10 or more and youth tickets are available for $5 each.

The Silverbacks (1-5-0) dropped their last home game against the Dayton Dutch Lions 2-0, while Charlotte (3-1-1) will play at Gulf Coast Friday night prior to traveling to Atlanta.

In the season opener for both sides, the Lady Eagles defeated the Silverbacks 1-0 behind Leah Fortune’s goal in the 33rd minute of play. Atlanta only got two shots off the entire match, but the defense kept Atlanta in the game.

For Atlanta to win, Ashley Nagy will need to lead the Silverbacks’ offense as she has during the past few matches, and the defense will have to slow down Fortune and Amanda Naeher, who have a team-leading three goals each.

This week, Fortune was named to the W-League Team of the Week, and Naeher and Summer Lanter were named Honorable Mentions for the week.

USL PRO Game Report

Friday, June 20, 2014

ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- The Rochester Rhinos broke a four-match winless streak at Sahlen's Stadium with a 2-0 victory against the Dayton Dutch Lions on Friday night. Levi Houapeu scored the game-winning goal off an assist from Minh Vu early in the second half  before the home side doubled their advantage from the penalty spot with a goal from JC Banks just past the hour-mark. The victory moved Rochester into sole possession of fourth place in the USL PRO standings – three points in front of fifth place Sacramento Republic FC who still had a match to play on Friday night.

The Rhinos opened the scoring in the 54th minute. Rochester center back Kyle Hoffer played Vu through down the right flank, and Vu crossed the ball to striker Houapeu at the top of the six yard box, and Houapeu powered a header over Dutch Lions goalkeeper Matt Williams and into the upper left corner of the net. The goal was Houapeu's second of the season, and the assist was Vu's second of the season.

Banks doubled the Rhinos' advantage in the 61st minute. Dayton Dutch Lions center back Matt Wiet made contact with Banks in the Dutch Lions penalty area, and Banks fell to the Sahlen's Stadium turf. Head referee Juan Carlos Rivero did not hesitate to point to the penalty spot. Banks took the spot kick himself, and calmly finished it into the right side of the net after he sent Williams the wrong way. The goal was Banks' fifth of the season, which moved him back into the Top 10 in USL PRO in points and goals scored.

New England Revs loanee Luis Soffner made two saves on five shots faced for his second clean sheet of the season, and the Rhinos seventh shutout in USL PRO in 2014.

The Rhinos next match is on Sunday night at 8 p.m. ET at Pribil Stadium against OKC Energy FC. The match can be seen live in its entirety via streaming video on YouTube Live.

The Rhinos next home match is set for Saturday, June 28th at 7:05 p.m. ET against the Charlotte Eagles. Tickets for any match on the Rhinos home schedule will be available by by calling (585) 454-KICK (5425), by visiting the MVP Health Care Box Office at Sahlen's Stadium, or by visiting ticketmaster.com. Rochester Rhinos season tickets, flex packages and group ticket sales are also currently available. 

Seattle Sounders Women News Release - www.sounderswomen.com

Friday, June 20, 2014

TUKWILA, Wash. – The Sounders Women (4-1-0) earned a dominant 7-0 win against the Colorado Storm Friday night at Starfire Stadium, earning their second shutout in a week. The Sounders moved up to fourth position in the Western Conference with two games in hand against the top three.

The Sounders took a secure lead within the first 45 minutes of the match, entering halftime up 4-0. Substitute Kennya Cordner started and ended the scoring in the second half of the match, finishing with a hat-trick. The Sounders maintained pressure, connected their passes and for the majority of the match, kept possession in Storm territory.

In the 12th minut a Storm defender scored an own goal in an attempt to clear the ball from the net. The goal came from a fantastic cross from Rachel Pitman, and was well deserved. A few Sounders players were prepared to knock it in the net but failed, leaving the Storm to accidentally tap it in for a goal.  

The second goal of the night was scored in the 27th minute when Emma Follis set up the play and sent the ball to Elise Wyatt, who was just outside of the 18-yard box. Wyatt crossed to the back post where Nicole Setterlund was in the right place at the right time to head the ball home.  

The Sounders secured a comfortable 3-0 lead in the 32nd minute. M’ily Reiter crossed the ball into the box and Sharis Lachappelle booted the ball to the top of the net. Eight minutes after Lachappelle’s first goal, she had the opportunity to get another foot into action. In the 40th minute, Elise Wyatt crossed a ball from the left side of the 18-yard box straight to Lachappelle’s foot, and she finished.

In the 48th minute Cordner drilled a shot from the 18-yard box and bent it directly on target. Storm goalkeeper Katie Ruff dove to save the ball, but was inches shy of getting a hand on it. Lindsey Patterson dribbled a ball to Storm territory in the 53rd minute, flicking it to the center of the 18-yard box where Cordner tucked it home to make it 6-0.

In the 75th minute, Cordner received a bouncing ball from outside of the 18-yard box and went one-on-one with Ruff, completing her hat-trick.

The Sounders Women will be back in action at 2 p.m. on June 22 against Santa Clarita Blue Heat at Starfire Stadium. For tickets and details, see SoundersWomen.com.

Orlando City SC News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Friday, June 20, 2014

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Orlando City SC earned a 0-0 draw with Brazilian super-club Sao Paulo F.C. on Friday night at ESPN Wide World of Sports. Competing against the star-studded Brazilian side, Orlando displayed its quality as it hosted its second high profile international friendly in as many months. City’s match against Sao Paulo proved to be another measuring stick for the Lions, as they aimed to display their ability to compete against premier players in world football.

“I was incredibly proud of the guys’ effort tonight,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “Obviously we rode our luck at times and Miguel made a few good, but we had three or four good efforts ourselves, so overall I’m delighted with the result.”

Orlando City’s ability to play at a high level was on full display throughout the fixture, and OCSC was able to prevent the three time FIFA Club World Cup Winners from finding the back of the net. The task of keeping a clean sheet was far from easy though, as Orlando were forced to sustain multiple threatening attacks from the Brazilian side in the opening portion of the first half. 

Despite City controlling much of the possession, Sao Paulo’s chances were created via counter-attacks through prominent attacking players such as Luis Fabiano and Paulo Henrique Ganso.

Fabiano’s chance came in the third minute when the powerful striker used his strength to create space, before he fired an effort that went just wide of the near post. The chance from the former Brazilian National Team and Sevilla striker would be his final effort, however, as he was brought off in the 18th minute after picking up injury.

In light of Fabiano’s early attempt, Orlando responded with vigor when midfielder Adama Mbengue produced a strong strike from just outside the penalty area that forced veteran goalkeeper Rogerio Ceni to make a difficult save. Mbengue, along with Kevin Molino and the City attacking players, looked threatening on multiple occasions throughout the match, maintaining the excellent form that has been on display throughout 2014.

Towards the end of the half, Corey Hertzog had a legitimate opportunity to put the Lions ahead, but the striker took a bit longer than was needed, giving the Brazilians time to close him down.

Sao Paulo came close to firing back moments before the halftime whistle, but a well-timed sliding challenge from Aodhan Quinn kept the score level heading into the break.

Similar to the first 45, the opening portion of the second half featured another strong effort from SPFC, including a close-range miss by former AC Milan Striker Alexandre Pato, and a curling left-footed effort from Ganso that rattled off the crossbar.

Gallardo and the defense’s ability to weather the storm allowed Orlando to begin controlling possession and, as a result, valid chances were created. The Lions began combining in promising areas of the pitch and a sense of confidence began settling in with the home side.

In the 64th minute, after lovely combination play in the middle of the park, midfielder Brian Span managed to create additional space from himself and blast the ball at the target, forcing Ceni to nervously parry it away. Dennis Chin, who was brought on at halftime, ran on to the follow up but the SPFC defense did well to clear it away first.

Six minutes later, Molino played a crafty one-two in the box with a trialist and attempted to pull it back across the six, but Caio intercepted the Trinidadian’s pass to Chin and cleared it wide for another corner.

With a league match against the Dayton Dutch Lions set for Sunday afternoon, Heath brought off several key players throughout the remaining 15 minutes. SPFC had one final attempt to try and steal a victory in the 89th minute from Pato in the six-yard-box, but another great save from Gallardo would keep the clean sheet intact.

The draw moves Orlando’s all-time international friendly record 1-6-1 in three years, with City’s only victory coming in the form of a 1-0 victory over Newcastle United in 2011.

OCSC’s next match will take place in USL PRO league play at 3 p.m. ET on Sunday afternoon against the Dayton Dutch Lions.

For more information, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com.

PDL Game Report

Friday, June 20, 2014

READING, Pa. – In a match that appeared to be headed toward a dour, scoreless draw, one moment of brilliance earned Reading United a crucial victory over their rivals, the Ocean City Nor’easters. Darius Madison’s 73rd-minute wonder strike electrified the United faithful at Gurski Stadium and allow the home team to bank three big points in the race for the PDL’s Mid Atlantic Division.

From the opening whistle, Ocean City’s strategy for dealing with United’s high tempo, possession based attack was to sit back and absorb pressure. The tactic was largely successful, though United had chances to get on the scoreboard early. In the 14th minute, United suffered a big scare as Madison collided with Nor’easters goalkeeper Eric Klenofsky and crumpled to the turf. The Reading talisman shook off the knock after receiving treatment on the field for few moments.

Though thoroughly dominating possession, United were unable to unlock the Ocean City defense and the sides entered halftime deadlocked at 0-0.

Reading Head Coach David Castellanos made a tactical adjustment to start the second half, inserting Quincy Thomas into the match at left back. The rivals showed more intensity and both sides had chances to get on the scoreboard early in the second half.

Ocean City nearly stole a goal in the 48th minute when a breakdown along United’s back line gifted Nor’easters midfielder Jason Plumhoff an open look at goal. The former Reading man drove his shot wide of Reading goalkeeper Alex Bono’s net. At the other end of the field, Reading right back Wes Charpie hit a low drive into the Ocean City penalty area, where the ball took a wicked deflection that looked destined for the back of the net. Klenofsky, beaten by the deflection and flat on his back, barely managed to corral the ball before it crossed the goal line.

The stalemate was finally broken in the 73rd minute. Second-half substitute Max Touloute picked out Madison’s run with a lovely through-ball. The United hitman struck the ball on a bouce and looped his effort over Klenofsky and into the side netting to hand the home side the lead. Madison reflected on his fifth goal of the season saying, “Max played me through, the ball was bouncing inside the corner of the eighteen and I decided to have a rip and it went in upper 90.”

The goal brought new life to the match as Ocean City went in search of the tying goal. The defending Mid Atlantic Division champions had their best chance of the night clang off the right post of Reading’s goal. Nor’easters captain Shawn McLaws burst into the Reading penalty area, hitting an off balance shot that beat Bono but rattled the post and fell short of the goal line.

United seized control of the match, closing out the match by maintaining possession in the Ocean City end of the field. The referee’s final time whistle signaled United’s 1-0 victory over the Nor’easters. It was United’s fourth clean sheet of the season and with the club holding league opposition scoreless for 393 consecutive minutes.

“We have a really solid back four, no matter who we put in there. We’ve gelled together really nicely, so there doesn’t feel like there’s a gap when a new guy comes in,” Bono said of his defense following his third shutout of the season.

Castellanos commended his defense’s effort. "I think we’re all dedicated to keeping clean sheets, starting from Bono making huge saves and being vocal back there. It’s a tight group and those shutouts are like goals for them and they love it and are working their tails off in practice and it shows out here in the game.”

Reading has a quick turn around and will be back in action at Wilson High School’s Gurski Stadium on Sunday afternoon for an important league match against the visiting Long Island Rough Riders. Kickoff has been moved to 3 p.m. United will be hosting their 3rd Annual In Ian’s Boots Day, with fans asked to bring gently used shoes to the game to help this tremendous non-profit organization help those less fortunate. Tickets are available at www.readingunitedac.com. Reading United offer 2014 Game Day Youth Packages, Group Discount Packages, Birthday Parties and Fundraising Ticket Packages. Contact our ticket sales team at sales@readingunitedac.com for all your group needs.

USL PRO Game Report

Friday, June 20, 2014

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Sacramento Republic FC scored four times en route to a 4-3 victory against the Colorado Rapids Reserves in their first match at the club's new stadium, Bonney Field on Friday night. In front of another sellout crowd of 8,000 fans, the victory was in the highest-scoring affair of Republic FC’s inaugural USL PRO season. 

The scoring started in the 14th minute when Colorado's Danny Mwanga single-handedly broke through Republic FC’s defense, first using his body to shield Harrison Delbridge from the ball as he made the turn towards goal. He was off to the races down the middle of the pitch and slotted a left-footed bullet past diving Republic FC goalkeeper Jake Gleeson for the opening goal.

Republic FC equalized in the 20th minute as Justin Braun headed a Rodrigo Lopez cross past the Rapids Reserve’s keeper Joe Nasco. Lopez would then score twice before the end of the first half, as his first arrived in the 39th minute. Nemanja Vuković sent a through ball towards Lopez, who dummied the ball to Braun in open space. Braun dribbled into the box and had the ball knocked away from him by Nasco, but Lopez found the rebound, faked a shot, pulled the ball back and sent a low finish toward goal, which was deflected into the back of the net by the Rapids Reserves defender Gale Agbossoumonde. 

Lopez scored again for Republic FC three minutes later as Vuković sent a pass to him just outside the penalty area, and he curled a right-footed shot up and over Nasco for his second goal of the half.

The Rapids Reserves climbed back into the match in the 50th minute as Gabriel Torres trapped a Marlon Hairston cross and sent a ball on the ground past a diving save attempt from Gleeson. Colorado then equalized in the 54th minute when Kortne Ford sent the ball to Charles Eloundo, who sent a bullet shot to Gleeson’s right. The on-loan Timbers FC goalkeeper got his fingertips on the shot, but it still ended up in the back of the net.

Sacramento's game-winner came in the 84th minute in the form of Mike Fucito, on loan from the San Jose Earthquakes, who manufactured a chance when he had his initial shot blocked off a short back-pass to Rapids goalkeeper John Berner, but chased after the rebound and acrobatically slid the ball into the back of the net.

“From a fan’s perspective, it was a great evening”, said Republic FC Head Coach Preki after the match.  “Seven goals scored and we came out on top.  It was great we found a way to get three points, an important three points.”

With the win, Republic FC moves to 7-4-2 in USL PRO play.  Republic FC will play again at Bonney Field on Thursday night against Arizona United SC. The match is scheduled for kickoff at 7:30 pm PT.

Arizona United SC News Release -- www.arizonaunited.com

Friday, June 20, 2014

PEORIA, Ariz. – Arizona United Soccer Club wraps up its four-match homestand this Saturday against the LA Galaxy II at the Peoria Sports Complex at 7 p.m. PST. The USL PRO match will be streamed live at arizonaunited.com.

WATCH LIVE | TICKETS

Before the match, as part of Arizona United SC’s World Cup Road Show, a viewing party will be held at the Draft House in Peoria for the 12 p.m. PT encounter involving Germany and Ghana and the 3 p.m. match between Nigeria and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Arizona United SC snapped a five-match winless streak last Saturday on a Jonathan Top penalty kick in the 75th minute that propelled the side to a 1-0 win against the Rochester Rhinos. It was Arizona United SC’s second clean sheet of the season and first league victory in more than a month.

Brandon Swartzendruber and Top lead Arizona United SC with two goals apiece, and fellow forwards Bradlee Baladez and Kadeem Dacres each have three points. Arizona United SC is tied for ninth place in the USL PRO standings with 14 points.

Saturday’s meeting with LA Galaxy II is the second between the sides this year. On April 25, a second-half equalizer from Paolo DelPiccolo earned Arizona United SC a 1-1 draw.

Los Dos enters play on a two-match losing streak, having fallen to the Rochester Rhinos 2-1 on June 11, and the Charleston Battery 3-0 on June 14. LA Galaxy II is tied for second in the USL PRO standings with 27 points.

LA Galaxy II is led by forward Chandler Hoffman, who is tied for second in the league with eight goals. Forward Charles Rugg is second on the team with 10 points (four goals, two assists).

For more information regarding Arizona United SC or to purchase tickets go online at arizonaunited.com/tickets. Like the team on Facebook facebook.com/ArizonaUnitedSoccer, and follow on Twitter @AZUnitedSC.

Des Moines Menace News Release -- www.menacesoccer.com

Friday, June 20, 2014

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa – On June 8, 2013, the Des Moines Menace lost its perfect 8-0-0 home record against the Springfield Demize, as the Demize won, 1-0, for the first time on the Menace’s home field. Des Moines’ loss meant the franchise’s first winless year against Springfield.

In 2014, Des Moines has the opportunity to flip the script, while winning some hardware in the process.

The Kum & Go Kup, a regular-season series between Des Moines and Springfield, will find its first home Saturday night. The Kum & Go Kup, new to the 2014 season, is a celebration of Kum & Go’s growth and success in its two largest markets. Kum & Go is the fifth-largest privately held convenience-store chain in the United States and has more than 420 locations in 11 states.

Des Moines leads the season series, with a 2-0 win in Springfield on May 17 in the teams’ season-opener. A win, draw, or one-goal loss for Des Moines ensures the trophy stays with the Menace for the first year.

The Menace will make a quick turnaround, as the team leaves Monday for a Tuesday-night match against the Chicago Inferno. Des Moines will go for the regular-season sweep of the Inferno with Tuesday’s 7:30 game at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Ill. The Menace beat Chicago, 3-0, on June 7.

ABOUT THE MENACE
- Tied for the PDL Heartland Division lead (St. Louis, 3-1-3) with 12 points and a 4-1-0 record.
- Leading scorer Chris Hellmann, an honorable mention selection for the current PDL Team of the Week, has tallied a goal in each of the last three games.
- Held the PDL’s only unbeaten and untied record before losing last Friday in Thunder Bay; bounced back with a 3-2 win the next night.
- Are guided by second-year head coach Mike Jeffries.

ABOUT THE DEMIZE
- Fourth in the Heartland Division with a record of 2-3-3 (nine points).
- Led by first-year head coach Ian Henry.
- Coming off a 2-0 win at Chicago on Tuesday.
- Are undefeated in four of their last five outings.
- Best finish came in 2012 (5-7-4).

ALL-TIME SERIES
- Des Moines leads the all-time series 14-2-1.
- The Menace took the first 2014 regular-season match, 2-0, on May 17 at Cooper Complex in Springfield, Mo.
- Des Moines leads on aggregate score, 48-6.

KUM & GO KUP
- This rivalry trophy debuts in 2014.
- Des Moines leads the cup standings with a win and two away goals.
- The winner is determined by points earned in the regular-season games between the Menace and the Demize. Tie-breakers: 1. Aggregate goals scored; 2. Away goals scored; 3. Previous year’s series winner (Springfield in 2013).
- Trophy will be presented at the conclusion of the season’s last meeting between the teams (June 21 at Valley Stadium).
- The trophy will be on display in the plaza until 6:45 p.m. to take pictures with the fans.
- The perennial trophy was generously provided by Custom Awards and Embroidery, a locally owned company based in Urbandale.

USL PRO Game Report

Saturday, June 21, 2014

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Charlotte Eagles claimed a 3-1 victory against long-time rivals the Charleston Battery on Saturday night at the Queens Sports Complex to break the side's six-game USL PRO losing streak. Juan Guzman, Fred Sekyere and Jorge Herrera all found the net for the Eagles, who grabbed an early lead and held on for the club's first league victory since May 8.

The game started off in favor of the Eagles when Guzman intercepted a pass that Charleston goalkeeper Odisnel Cooper had intended for one of his defenders. The Colombian corralled the loose pass and put it in the back of the net to open the scoring in just the second minute.

The Eagles kept the momentum going as they struck again in the 28th minute as Charleston gave away a free kick near its penalty area. The delivery from Jorge Herrera was flicked on goal by Sekyere, as the midfielder scored his first professional goal.

The Battery appeared to have pulled a goal back shortly after Sekyere's goal, but the goal was disallowed after an offside call. The assistant referee's flag would again be raised before the break as Charlotte's Drew Yates found the back of the net, but the Eagles maintainted a two-goal lead at the halftime break.

Charleston made a pair of substitutions to start the second half, and one paid off quickly when Mikael Chang scored in the opening minute of the half as he took a good cross and slipped it past Eagles goalkeeper Alec Kann to cut the Eagles' lead in half.

The Eagles restored their two-goal advantage in the 65th minute when Sekyere played in Herrera. The Eagles veteran slotted his shot past Cooper who got tripped up on the play. Charlotte maintained the energy and with good defense and big saves from Kann they were able to keep the gap at two to take victory.

Charlotte takes to the road to battle the Harrisburg City Islanders on Friday, June 27th before traveling to Rochester and taking on the Rhinos on Saturday, June 28th. Make sure to follow the action on twitter with hashtags #CE93 and watch the games LIVE on youtube.com/charlotteeaglessc.

USL PRO Game Report

Saturday, June 21, 2014

WILMINGTON, N.C. -- Wilmington Hammerheads FC extended their unbeaten streak as a late goal by Will Heaney earned a 2-2 draw against the Chicago Fire Reserves at Legion Stadium on Saturday night. The Hammerheads are now undefeated in eight consecutive games in USL PRO as Heaney's spectacular finish claimed his side a point in stoppage time. 

Wilmington put pressure on Chicago at the beginning of the match as forward Jordan Hamilton had the first shot of the night with a low shot across the front of the goal. The Hammerheads followed with a few more attempts, but it was Chicago's Dilly Duka that put the first goal on the board in the 27th minute.

Hammerheads forward Sammy Ochoa was offered an opportunity to tie the game just before the halftime break as Wilmington was awarded a penalty kick after Mickael Oliveira was taken down in the penalty area. Ochoa's  effort was denied by a diving save by goalkeeper Kyle Reynish which kept the Fire Reserves on top.

Hamilton would get the Hammerheads back on even terms as he scored his fourth goal of the season in the 50th minute off a cross by Ochoa. Hamilton's matched Ochoa for the team-lead as he flicked home a finish into the right corner of the net after a good low cross. Wilmington's lead would be short-lived, however, as Chicago's Juan Luis Anangono put the ball into the back of the net in the 58th minute to give the Fire Reserves a 2-1 lead. 

Heaney would grab an equalizer in stoppage time, however, as he struck a first-time volley off a half-cleared corner kick into the back of the net. The strike moved the Hammerheads within three points of both the Rochester Rhinos and Sacramento Republic FC for fourth place in the USL PRO standings.

The Wilmington Hammerheads are scheduled to play their next match at Legion Stadium on Saturday, June 28 at 7:30 p.m. ET for the second match of their three-game series against the Richmond Kickers this regular season. The Hammerheads will host the Kickers again on Friday, August 1 for their final match of the series.

For more information regarding Wilmington Hammerheads FC, please contact (910) 777-2111 or visit online at www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com.

USL PRO Game Report

Saturday, June 21, 2014

PEORIA, Ariz. -- Arizona United Soccer Club drew the LA Galaxy II, 1-1, at the Peoria Sports Complex on a second-half equalizer from defender Scott Morrison. After trailing for the majority of the first half on a goal from the LA Galaxy II’s Travis Bowen in the 17th minute, Arizona United SC emerged from halftime and attacked the Galaxy II backline with urgency and pace.

In the 54th minute, Morrison played a diagonal ball to forward Jon Okafor who was then fouled on the edge of the box. Morrison lined up for the shot, curled the ball around the Galaxy II wall, and into the far post for the equalizer and his first goal of the season.

“It was nice to get one in,” said Morrison. “I’ve been close this season so it was nice to see one hit the back of the net.”

The draw wrapped up an Arizona United SC three-match USL PRO homestand, in which they went 1-1-1. The draw also moved Arizona United SC up the USL PRO standings, and into sole possession of ninth place.

LA Galaxy II scored the opening goal when captain Rafael Garcia lofted a ball into the penalty area from the right wing. Jack McBean jumped in the air and back-heeled the ball into empty space near the top of the box. Bowen ran up and rifled the ball into the back of the net.

Arizona United SC and the LA Galaxy II exchanged opportunities for the remainder of the first half with neither side able to take advantage. After the equalizer from Arizona United SC in the second half, both sides fought a tough battle in the midfield. As the match approached its conclusion, LA Galaxy II started to create more chances in the final third, and a massive save by Evan Newton in the 77th minute prevented Los Dos from pulling ahead.

Arizona had one final chance in the second minute of stoppage time, but a timely clearance by the LA Galaxy II defense prevented United from taking all three points.

Up next for Arizona United SC is a road match against Sacramento Republic FC on Thursday, June 26, before returning home to host the Orange County Blues FC on Saturday, June 28 at 7 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at arizonaunited.com/tickets or by calling (623) 594-9606.

PDL Game Report

Saturday, June 21, 2014

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. — The Seacoast United Phantoms' Anthony Grant continued on his scorching pace as he netted another hat trick in a 4-0 victory against Westchester Flames on Saturday at Portsmouth Stadium in the PDL’s Northeast Division.

Grant scored all three of his goals in the first half as he struck in the 15th, 39th, and 43rd minutes. Striker Terrence Carter added to his statistics as well by scoring in the 31st minute, giving him a total of two goals and three assists on the season. Goalkeeper Dominic DiMaggio finished his day with three saves in earning the shutout, his second on the year.  

"Strikers who score goals are worth their weight in gold," Phantoms coach Iain Scott said of Grant. "Ben Brewster also played really well on defense and has done an amazing job leading the team.”

Seacoast pressured the Flames early on, and created several chances in the opening minutes. The duo of Carter and Grant produced five shots inside 11 minutes before the Phantoms broke through in the 15th minute with Grant’s first goal of the afternoon as he curled a shot into the upper right corner.

In the 31st minute, Carter streaked down the left side, drawing Westchester goalkeeper Thomas Spenser off his line. Carter dribbled past the goalkeeper, and then a Flames defender before tucking the ball into the back of the net for the 2-0 lead. Grant then took over for two goals in a span of four minutes to give the home team a 4-0 advantage at the half.

The Flames looked to open the second half with a goal quick but DiMaggio scooped up the ball to halt the charging attack. In the 50th minute, the Phantoms looked to extend the lead even further when Abel Perez forced Spenser to commit too early, and passed back to midfielder Ben Havey whose shot hit the crossbar facing a wide open net.

With the victory, the Phantoms improved their record to 5-1-2 to move to 17 points in the PDL’s Northeast Division standings and second place in the division.  They are unbeaten in their last six games. Scott attributes some of the success to many players being present at training prior to matches as well as the ability to share minutes and stay fresh throughout the match.  He is equally impressed with quality on both sides of the ball.

“Offense wins games but defense wins championships, we have both,” Scott said.

The Phantoms now have a 10-day break and will return to action on Tuesday, July 1st to take on division leader the Western Mass Pioneers and the league’s leading scorer in Alencar Junior. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. at Portsmouth Stadium.

Braddock Road News Release – www.bryc95elite.com                            

Friday, June 20, 2014

FAIRFAX, Va. –  The Braddock Road Stars Elite (0-4-1) will host the New York Magic (2-3-1) Sunday in a key Northeastern Conference rematch.  In their first meeting last Saturday, the Magic defeated the Stars Elite 3-1. Serina Kashimoto put the Magic up early off a free kick while Sara Sanau Ruiz netted the final two.  Kristen Meier scored the only goal for the Stars Elite.  

Braddock Road currently sits at the bottom of the Northeastern Conference table with one point.  The Stars Elite earned their lone point of the season in a 1-1 tie on the road against the Long Island Rough Riders.  Marisa Park leads the team with two goals. 

With seven points, New York is currently fourth in the conference.  Kashimoto has played every minute thus far and is leading the team with four points. 

Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. Sunday at Samuel J. Coffey Stadium at Robinson Secondary School in Fairfax, Virginia.  Admission into the game is free. 

Fans can also follow the official Braddock Road Stars Elite twitter (@BRStarselite) for live game updates. 

USL PRO Game Report

Saturday, June 21, 2014

IRVINE, Calif. -- The Orange County Blues withstood a second half onslaught to take a 2-1 victory against the Chivas USA Reserves at Anteater Stadium on Saturday night. First-half goals by Chris Cortez and Allan Russell proved enough for the Blues as they took their fourth win in their last five games.

On a very emotional night for retiring Blues goalkeeper Mohammad Mohammadi, he watched from his goal line as the Blues raced  out to a 1-0 lead after just five minutes. Jimmy Turner sent a long diagonal ball for Russell, and the Blues’ captain flicked the ball back across goal where Cortez was on hand to stab it into an empty net.

Chivas USA looked for a response, but an inspired Mohammadi -- playing his final 45 minutes of a 19-year-career -- made three sensational saves. The former Iranian international’s stellar goalkeeping allowed the Blues to extend their lead in the 31st minute. Goats’ center-back Michael Nwiloh passed the ball back to his keeper, Tim Melia, only for Russell to charge down his clearance straight into the far post.

Mohammadi ended his career with a clean sheet as he departed at halftime where he was honored with a special ceremony.

Chivas USA pressed hard in the second half, but Patrick McLain picked up where Mohammadi left off as he made a flying save on a shot from distance and another solid save on a well taken free kick by Mauro Rosales. Earlier, the Blues had escaped as Marco Delgado smashed one off the near post with McLain beaten.

The former Chivas USA goalkeeper could do nothing about Ryan Finley’s powerful curling effort from 22-yards out, however, as Chivas USA halved the deficit in the 68th minute.

The Goats pressed for the equalizer, but the Blues were able to see out the match, giving Mohammadi the perfect send off, while leap-frogging the Wilmington Hammerheads into sixth place in the process.

The Blues improved to 7-8-0 on the season and will look to get to .500 when they travel to Peoria to face Arizona United next Saturday. You may watch the game against Arizona United SC through the club's youtube channel (youtube.com/ArizonaUnitedSoccer).

Orange County’s next home match is set for July 12, and is also against Arizona United SC. We will celebrate “Give Back Night”. If you know someone who has been involved in your community you may nominate them by emailing their story to herceny@bluessoccerclub.com.

For the best ticket pricing from single tickets to group tickets call (714) 738-8011 or email seats@bluessoccerclub.com.

PDL Game Report

Saturday, June 21, 2014

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa – The Kum & Go Kup belongs to the Des Moines Menace. 

A convincing 4-0 victory against the Springfield Demize on Saturday night at Valley Stadium sealed the trophy for this annual rivalry prize. Immediately after the game, the Menace players rushed to the near sideline to receive the cup from Menace owner and Kum & Go President and CEO Kyle Krause.

Nico Wright and Mueng Sunday led the Menace (5-1-0) in this second and final leg of the season series. Wright scored a goal and assisted two more, and Sunday tallied his first two PDL goals, as Des Moines cruised past a 10-man Springfield (2-4-3).

“This game was important to us,” Sunday said. “We knew we were playing for the cup tonight in front of the home fans. As a player, that’s what you want, to lift the cup with your teammates.”

Menace points leader Ralphie Lundy (eight) opened the scoring in the 42nd minute, five minutes after Springfield captain Andrew Turner was ejected for a clattering slide tackle on Lundy. With a cross, Wright set up Lundy’s score, and he doubled the lead in the 57th minute, when he sent a screamer into the roof of the goal. Springfield goalkeeper Yuma Nomura could do nothing except stand and watch as it blasted the net right behind his head.

Wright was not done. Ten minutes later, he assisted Sunday’s first score. Wright headed the ball across the box to Sunday, who controlled it with a couple touches before volleying a strike through traffic.

“It felt great,” Sunday said of the goal. “Nico could’ve easily taken the shot, but he gave it to me.”

Sunday closed the scoring in the 80th minute as he drove in a shot from 25 yards out, off Nomura’s fingertips.

The Menace repeatedly pelted Nomura, who rose to the occasion with seven saves. Des Moines piled on a 25-4 shot advantage.

In the teams’ first meeting, the Menace opened the season with a 2-0 win in Missouri on May 17.

Des Moines shares the Heartland Division lead with Thunder Bay (5-3-0), which comes to town next weekend for a Saturday-Sunday double dip. The Menace first travels to Wheaton, Ill., for a Tuesday-night clash with the Chicago Inferno.

“We knew we had business to take care of tonight,” Sunday said. “We’re trying to get sharper now, and get sharper with every game.”

MAN of the MATCH: Nico Wright, for the third time this season. Wright, a Jamaican who attends Fairleigh Dickinson (N.J.), is second on the team with seven points in PDL play (tied with Chris Hellmann and one behind Ralphie Lundy). A year ago, he led the Menace with three goals.

USL PRO Game Report

Sunday, June 22, 2014

OKLAHOMA CITY – OKC Energy FC and the Rochester Rhinos played to a 0-0 draw on Sunday night at Pribil Stadium in front of 3,405 fans. Both sides came close to breaking the deadlock, but settled for a point as Energy FC extended its undefeated streak to five games.

Rochester came close to grabbing an early advantage as Johnny Mendoza was first denied by Energy FC goalkeeper Jon Kempin and then the crossbar in the third minute after a fine cross by Alex Dixon found the attacking midfielder arriving late in the penalty area. OKC's Kyle Miller would also go close in the 12th minute as his shot from 20 yards went just wide of the right post.

The game settled down after the initial flurry off chances, but Kempin again had to be sharp in the 41st minute to deny Rochester's Josimar Sanchez the opening goal to keep the game scoreless at the break. Rochester then appeared to have taken the lead in the opening minute of the second half, only for a foul to be called as the ball was sent into the back of the net.

Energy FC’s best chance of the second half came late in the match, when Nate Shiffman found a wide open Steven Perry with a clear lane to the Rochester net from about 20 yards out in the 89th minute. As Perry moved into the penalty box looking to shoot, Rhinos keeper John McCarthy made a diving save attempt that upended Perry and kept the match scoreless.

Rochester also had a big chance late on, as JC Banks almost grabbed a winner in stoppage time only for his header to go just over the crossbar. The game would end scoreless, however, as McCarthy claimed his league-leading sixth shutout of the season.

Energy FC is back in action Saturday, June 28, when it takes on Sacramento Republic FC in a 7 p.m. CT start at Pribil Stadium.

Atlanta Silverbacks News Release - www.atlantasilverbacksfc.com

Saturday, June 21, 2014

ATLANTA, Ga. – The Atlanta Silverbacks signed Erin Holt to a one-day contract for their game against the Charlotte Eagles Saturday, honoring her as the 12th starter during pregame festivities. 

On November 1, 2013, Holt was critically injured after being run over by a truck driven by a drunk driver. She spent several weeks in a coma after being diagnosed with severe brain trauma. She was first brought to Memorial Hospital in Savannah before being transferred to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta. She was released from the center in mid February and is still undergoing extensive physical therapy on the road to complete recovery.

“[Holt] is an inspiration to us all, from the management all the way down to the players,” General Manager and Head Coach Chris Adams said. “Hosting Erin and her family is the least we can do to show how much we appreciate her continuing passion for soccer and her fight to recover completely.”

The Silverbacks held a signing ceremony at midfield before pregame warm-ups Saturday night. During the ceremony, Holt and her parents sat with the entire Silverbacks team and received Silverbacks apparel and accessories, including her game jersey with the number 25 and her last name on the back.

Holt also received a Nike game ball, a white training top, a Silverbacks rain jacket and a Silverbacks backpack.

During the pregame festivities, Silverbacks forward and one of Holt’s former teammates at Armstrong Atlantic State University, Morgan Mitchell, rolled Holt out with the starters to midfield as the honorary 12th starter. Holt was greeted with a huge standing ovation from the more than  1,000 fans in attendance.

“We are extremely grateful to have been able to have [Holt] as our guest tonight,” said Adams.

For more information on Holt and updates on her recovery, fans can visit pushforward25.com.

Charlotte Lady Eagels 2, Silverbacks 0

The Silverbacks struggled offensively and fell 2-0 against the Lady Eagles Saturday night.

The Silverbacks were outshot by the Lady Eagles 24-10 overall on the night as Atlanta had trouble possessing the ball in the attacking half. Charlotte picked up three points in the win, putting them in first place in the W-League's Southeastern Conference,  ahead of Carolina Elite and Gulf Coast.

In the 29th minute of play, Charlotte forward Jade Montgomery took a pass from forward Summer Lanter and drove it hard off the crossbar with the ball bouncing down and across the goal line for the first goal of the match.

Charlotte midfielder Leah Fortune scored the second goal for the Lady Eagles off a long pass from Montgomery in the 65th minute. The one-touch volley into the back of the net gave Charlotte an insurance goal.

Atlanta had two corners in stoppage time, both of which came dangerously close to the Silverbacks getting on the scoreboard, but Charlotte’s defense held strong to preserve the shutout.

Prior to the match the Silverbacks signed Erin Holt, a former standout soccer player at Armstrong Atlantic who was in a car accident in November 2013, to a one-day contract, and she was named the honorary 12th starter for the Silverbacks.

The Silverbacks will finish the season with three road matches, starting at Gulf Coast on Saturday, June 28. Kickoff is slated for 8:30 p.m. ET.

USL PRO Game Report

Sunday, June 22, 2014

PITTSBURGH -- The Richmond Kickers scored twice in the opening 15 minutes to go onto a 3-1 victory against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Sunday afternoon at Highmark Stadium. Shay Spitz opened the scoring for the Kickers, while Matt Delicate scored his 10th goal of the season in the second half to put the game away and move Richmond into sole possession of second place in the league standings.

The Kickers didn't waste any time taking the lead as they scored goals in the fourth and 11th minutes to take command early.

Shay Spitz drilled home a rebound to give Richmond the lead. The play started at midfield when Rob Vincent turned to play a ball back, but he slipped and lost possession of the ball. Delicate took the ball for a run deep into the left side, then took a hard shot right at Riverhounds goalkeeper Hunter Gilstrap, who knocked the ball away, but the rebound bounced toward the center of the box and Spitz came through unmarked to blast the ball into the open net.

Things only got worse for the Riverhounds in the 11th minute. Richmond's Sascha Goerres sent a long pass toward the box from behind the halfway line. As the ball was lined in toward the right side of the penalty area, it appeared Riverhounds defender Brian Fekete was running to cover his mark on the outside, but the ball deflected off the back of his head and toward the goal. Gilstrap came out of the goal to play the ball, and was caught out of position, and the ball bounced in, crossing the goal line.  

"I called for the ball, and maybe it appeared that Brian thought it meant to head it back to me," said Gilstrap. "I was expecting him to leave it, let it bounce on through. I'll take some blame on that. That's something to be shared all around. I'm the one that makes the calls back there, so that's on me."   

Trailing 2-0 early, the Riverhounds struggled to generate any formidable scoring opportunities for the remainder of the first half. A shot by Kevin Kerr from 25 yards in the 19th minute was right at Richmond's goalkeeper, Joe Willis. Jose Angulo tried to look to cut the lead, and made a nice run down the left side, but his cross was deflected away.

"I felt like we did something really positive in Harrisburg with that nil-nil draw (last Saturday), but today was tough," said Gilstrap. "Not sure the reason why we didn't come to play today, but we definitely didn't put forth our best effort. The fans don't deserve that -- and that's not good enough of an effort from us. Hopefully we can go back to the drawing board, and make some positive changes going forward."

With his team trailing 2-0, interim head coach, Niko Katic, in a rare move, brought four substitutes into the match at the beginning of the second half. It seemed to give the home side a lift they needed.   

After a few previous close chances, Angulo took advantage of some space, took a few touches to his left, and drilled a shot from 27 yards in the 54th minute to cut the Kickers' lead to 2-1.

The Riverhounds continued to bring more pressure, outshooting Richmond 9-1 in the second half, but it wouldn't be enough as the Kickers only needed one more quality shot on goal to secure the victory.

Richmond responded in the 68th minute, as Delicate used every inch of his 6-foot-3 frame to get up and knock a header in from cross served by Henry Kalungi past Gilstrap, that gave Richmond a 3-1 lead that would hold up.

The Riverhounds return to action at Highmark Stadium on Saturday, June 28 for their first meeting with the Dayton Dutch Lions.  For tickets and the latest up-to-date information on the Riverhounds, visit www.riverhounds.com.

Braddock Road Stars Elite News Release – www.bryc95elite.com       

Sunday, June 22, 2014

FAIRFAX, Va – The Braddock Road Stars Elite earned their first W-League victory with a 2-1 win against the New York Magic Sunday afternoon as Allie Wisneer broke a second-half deadlock at Samuel J. Coffey Stadium.  With the win, Braddock Road improves to 1-4-1.

Braddock Road jumped out to an early lead in the fourth minute as Marisa Park beat her defender down the line and found Kristen Meier, who was able to finish the well-timed cross.   

The remainder of the half remained level with both teams creating opportunities, and Braddock Road took the 1-0 lead into halftime. 

The Magic evened the score at 1-1 with a goal in the 47th minute as Sara Sanau Ruiz was able to chip goalkeeper Jessie Ferrari from distance.  The goal was the third for Sanau Ruiz in two games against Braddock Road. 

The Stars Elite found the eventual game-winner in the 63rd minute thanks to Wisner.  Park earned her second assist of the game on a beautiful through ball to Wisner, who calmly finished. 

The Magic had a good opportunity in the 67th minute to draw level off a corner but could not convert.   The Stars Elite had several chances to expand the lead, but Samantha Depken made key saves for the Magic.   

Braddock Road will be back in action at home on Wednesday against the Washington Spirit Reserves at 7 p.m. at Samuel J. Coffey Stadium.  The Reserves are currently in first place in the Northeastern Conference.  Live updates will be available via twitter (@BRStarselite). 

Sacramento Republic FC News Release -- www.sacrepublicfc.com

Monday, June 23, 2014

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Sacramento Republic FC will host the Barclays Premier League’s West Bromwich Albion FC on July 21 and July 25 in friendly matches at Bonney Field in Sacramento, Calif. Kickoff time for both matches is 7:30 p.m. PT. The matches will be presented by Bonney Plumbing, Heating, Air and Rooter Service.

Tickets will go on-sale to the general public on Tuesday, July 1 via Ticketmaster.com. Republic FC Season Ticket Holders will receive tickets to the match on July 21 through their season ticket package. Pricing and additional details on the match to be released later this week. The match will be broadcast live via YouTube.com and SacRepublicFC.com.

The matches are part of an 11-day training trip to U.S. for the Baggies from Thursday, July 17 to Sunday, July 27. It is the second time in four years the Baggies have headed stateside during pre-season, after a successful trip to California and Oregon ahead of the 2011/12 Barclays Premier League campaign.

The matches versus West Bromwich Albion FC will be one of at least four friendlies hosted by Republic FC during the 2014 season. Other dates include Atlas FC on July 6 and Rangers Football Club on July 19. Future friendlies to be announced in the coming weeks. For a full schedule and tickets visit SacRepublicFC.com.