Quantcast
Channel: USL
Viewing all 4700 articles
Browse latest View live

Riverhounds Down Galaxy II at Highmark

0
0

USL PRO Match Report

Saturday, August 2, 2014

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - After conceding an early goal the Pittsburgh Riverhounds responded with a commanding performance, defeating the LA Galaxy II 3-1 at Highmark Stadium on Saturday night to remain in the hunt for a USL PRO playoff berth.  

Trailing 1-0, and with their leading scorer, Jose Angulo, out of the lineup nursing a high ankle sprain, Joseph Ngwenya, Danny Earls and Kevin Kerr tallied goals to help the Riverhounds earn their fifth win in their past seven matches.  

"Everyone knows how good Jose is.  We can't replace him with any one player," Kerr said. "Each one of us knew we had to step up a little bit.  And tonight, three goals, three different scorers.  It was a great result for us."

The Riverhounds found themselves in hole early in a match that saw both sides trading attacking chances.    

In the 18th minute, Riverhounds goalkeeper Mike Lisch came out of the goal as Galaxy's Jose Villarreal was streaking down the right side.  Villarreal swiftly sent a left-footed chip over Lisch, and despite defender Andrew Marshall's best last-ditch clearance effort, the ball bounced across the goal line to give the Galaxy a 1-0 lead.  

Like much of the season, the Riverhounds backs were against the wall.  

"It's that part of the season where everything's make or break.  We know that if we don't put forth the effort, it could be the end.  We had to keep coming at them," Kerr said.    

The Riverhounds responded in the 30th minute as Kerr delivered a cross from the deep on the right corner, connecting with Jason Johnson by the near post. Johnson, who started in place of Angulo at forward, sent a shot that was knocked away by Galaxy II's Laurendi, but as it bounced out, Ngwenya was right there for the equalizer.    

With the momentum on their side, the Riverhounds continued to push forward.  In the 39th minute, Kerr drew a foul about 30 yards from the right side of the goal, setting up a free kick opportunity. Earls sent a low, bending left-footed ball that sailed untouched toward the far post, curling into the goal to pull the Hounds into the lead.  

Pittsburgh continued to control possession into the second half of a match filled with a lot of physical play, as the teams combined for 31 total fouls (LA had the edge 16-15).  

Kerr had a hand in the match's final goal in the 77th minute.  He found a wide open Matt Dallman on the right side.  Dallman, last season's USL PRO assist leader, sent a well-placed ball toward the near post for Kerr who gave the Hounds a 3-1 lead.  

"Everyone knows how good his [Dallman's] delivery is, I wanted to make sure I was there," Kerr said.  

LA dropped both games this week by a count of 3-1, to Harrisburg on Wednesday, and tonight, to drop to a 11-7-4 record overall.

With a 6-11-5 record, the Hounds have inched closer to the final remaining USL PRO playoff spot with six games remaining.

"After the start we had to the season, we want to make amends, and hope it's not too late," Kerr said. "If we can keep these points coming in, and keep in form, we still believe we can make the playoffs." 

 


 


Leichty's Goal Lifts Energy FC

0
0

USL PRO Match Report

Saturday, August 2, 2014

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. - David Leichty netted his first professional goal as OKC Energy FC defeated Orange County Blues FC 1-0 in front of 3,351 fans Saturday night at Pribil Stadium.

After more than 88 minutes of scoreless play, Leichty gave Energy FC a decisive 1-0 lead when he corralled a failed clearing attempt by the Blues off a corner kick by OKC’s Abraham Villon and sent a shot to the low right corner of the Orange County net that skidded past diving Blues keeper Aaron Perez.

Moments before Leichty’s goal, Energy FC’s Steven Perry had the match’s best scoring chance when he fielded a pass from Nate Shiffman that got behind the Orange County defense for a breakaway opportunity, but his shot was knocked just wide of the Blues net with a sliding save by Perez. Leichty’s goal was the result of the corner kick that ensued after Perry’s chance.

OKC keeper Samir Badr earned a second consecutive clean sheet.

Energy FC outshot Orange County 12-6 in the match and held a 4-0 lead in shots on goal. Perry, Jimmy Medranda and Michael Thomas led OKC in shots with two apiece.

With the win, Energy FC improved its record to 8-8-5, while Orange County fell to 8-13-0.
 

 

Orlando City Clinches Playoff Spot

0
0

USL PRO Match Report

Saturday, August 2, 2014

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Orlando City SC clinched a playoff berth for the fourth consecutive year Saturday evening, defeating the Charlotte Eagles 4-1 at ESPN Wide World of Sports.  The win extended City’s home unbeaten streak in USL PRO play to 16 while maintaining OCSC’s lead at four points in league standings.

“We expected to make the playoffs, but it’s still nice to do it,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath after the 4-1 win. “I thought the performance tonight was a lot better than it has been in the past. We have to continue to play at our maximum because we can’t afford to play 75-80 percent and expect to win.”

After a relatively slow start to the match, Oviedo, Fla. native Dennis Chin provided the first goal in the 45th minute, scoring his sixth of the 2014 campaign. Chin’s goal ended a 266-minute goal-scoring drought for Orlando.

The finish stemmed from good build-up play by City’s front three, consisting of Adama Mbengue, Chin and Kevin Molino. Chin drifted inside and found the Trinidadian, who released Mbengue in the box for a clear chance on goal. Charlotte Goalkeeper Alec Kahn’s save on the Senegalese midfielder’s ensuing strike landed in Chin’s path, setting up a clinical finish from 12 yards away.

Tyler Turner and Molino added the final goals for Orlando in the opening portion of the second half. Turner’s header in the 48th minute marked the 18-year-old’s first professional goal, while Molino boosted his league tally to 13 with a brace in the span of ten minutes.  He is in second place for most goals in the USL PRO behind Richmond Kicker’s striker Matthew Delicate.

Turner jumped on the score sheet when the right back got on the end of Darwin Ceren’s free kick, nodding the ball home from the back post. City was awarded the set piece when Mbengue was brought down just outside the area by the Charlotte defense.

“I’ve been aching to score a goal,” said Turner. “It’s always been my dream to score at the professional level and everything is finally starting to fall in place. It’s been an unreal experience.”

Molino followed up on Turner’s header shortly afterward, calmly slotting away a penalty for his first goal before coordinating a moment of brilliance for his brace. The referee pointed to the spot for the penalty in the 49th minute when Brian Span was hacked down in the box, resulting in Juan Guzman being shown a red card.

Molino’s second goal of the game was a special finish, displaying the confidence the 24-year-old carries in his game. After making a piercing run in behind the Eagles’ defense, City’s first Major League Soccer (MLS) signee effortlessly chipped the ball over Charlotte’s keeper Alec Kahn who was charging off his line.

Charlotte pulled one back in the 75th minute when Striker Wells Thompson scored a cracking effort off the crossbar.

 

Grinwis Shines As Bucks Take Title

0
0

PDL Championship Feature

Sunday, August 3, 2014

PONTIAC, Mich. – In 2012, the Michigan Bucks Adam Grinwis had a standout season. The young goalkeeper posted a 0.444 goals against-average, and had shutouts in more than half his starts as the club claimed the PDL’s regular-season championship, and he was named Goalkeeper of the Year.

Then, after another shutout to open the playoffs, the Bucks hopes of earning a second PDL Championship were dashed as an upstart FC London defeated their division rivals in the conference championship game.

After that disappointment, to walk off the field after what was likely his final game in a Bucks uniform on Sunday as the 2014 PDL Championship Game MVP provided a perfect ending, and in a way some redemption from two years before.

“It’s been an unforgettable year,” Grinwis said. “I’ve got to give a lot of thanks to the Bucks’ organization for giving me a chance the last four or five years that I’ve been here, it’s great to cap a very fun and eventful career with a championship.”

Grinwis again had an outstanding regular season for the Bucks this summer, posting a 0.700 goals against-average in his 10 appearances, which tied him for second in the league. It was in the postseason when his presence was at its height, however, as he recorded a four-save shutout against 2014 regular season champion Des Moines in the Central Conference Championship, and a six-save shutout against Kitsap on Sunday.

What stood out in addition to Grinwis’ shot-stopping ability was his assuredness as he came off his line to claim crosses or punch clear in both Friday’s semifinal and Sunday’s championship game. According to teammate Tom Owens, who had the game-winning goal in Sunday’s 1-0 victory, that presence is something Grinwis has provided all season.

“He’s not bad, is he?” said Owens. “When we need him, he’s there. For the most-part defensively we haven’t given up many goals, and we’d like to think he hasn’t got much to do, but the times like today in the last 10 minutes when you need someone to take a little bit of composure and kill the game, he comes up big for us every time. He’s probably the best goalkeeper I’ve played with in my career.”

The confidence Grinwis exhibited this weekend was helped this summer by the opportunity to train with MLS sides in addition to competing for the Bucks. A likely candidate for the MLS Combine early next year, Grinwis said the time he spent learning from MLS goalkeepers and coaching staffs has given his game a boost that translated onto the field for the Bucks.

“I’ve been super-blessed,” he said. “I’ve been able to go and train with some of the top organizations and top clubs in the country, and every time I come back I pick up little things from their coaches and their ‘keepers. By the time the weekend comes, I have a week of training with some of the top clubs, and I’m buzzing, I’m ready for a game, so everything I take in there from making saves and picking their brains on managing the game, it helped us here and it helped me throughout the season.”

And as Grinwis provided a foundation at the back, the close-knit Bucks side achieved its goal of a second championship in club history.

“I think throughout the summer this club has become very close,” Grinwis said. “A lot of guys sacrificed their summer and they live on Oakland’s campus, and they become a kind of family. We all did it together, we were all connected, we stayed together for 90 minutes and we saw that one out, and we’re happy to be champions.”

Bucks Claim 2014 PDL Championship

0
0

PDL Championship Game Report

Sunday, August 3, 2014

PONTIAC, Mich. – The Michigan Bucks claimed their second PDL Championship as a second-half goal by Tom Owens earned his side a 1-0 victory against the Kitsap Pumas in the 2014 PDL Championship Game presented by Nike at Ultimate Soccer Arenas on Sunday afternoon.

Owens’ goal arrived just before the hour mark as he picked up a short clearance by the Pumas defense on the left side 20 yards from goal. Owens drove freely into the penalty area and fired a low shot into the right corner of the net that capped a good spell of pressure and proved to be the game-winner.

“Usually I’m someone who would try to take a touch, or pass it,” Owens said. “I took a touch, and no-one closed me down, and I took another one and before I know it I’m 12 yards out, so I thought why not take a shot, and lucky enough for me it went in the bottom corner. Unbelievable feeling.”

Both teams had chances following Owens’ goal, as Michigan’s Gerald Ben went close to adding a second only for his shot to be turned aside by Kitsap goalkeeper Matt Grosey in the 64th minute. Michigan goalkeeper Adam Grinwis had to be sharp two minutes later as he saved a near-post deflection off his own defender as Jesus Sanchez applied pressure.

Kitsap pushed strongly for the equalizer in the final 20 minutes, and almost found it with 15 minutes to go as a Miguel Gonzalez’s close-range header was tipped over the crossbar by Grinwis. Named the championship game MVP, Grinwis made another crucial save from Septi Danciu two minutes later.

“It got a little crazy toward the end. They were throwing everything they had, and I think it took a slight deflection about six yards out,” Grinwis said of Gonzalez’s chance. “I think instinct just kicked in; I got a hand to it and got super-lucky to see it go over the bar.”

The Pumas’ best opportunity to find an equalizer arrived with three minutes to go as a good corner kick from the left found Rene Dezorzi open 10 yards from goal, only for his header to go wide of the right post. Justin Ortinau also hit the side-netting in the final minute for the Pumas, who were also looking to claim their second championship.

 

Kitsap’s efforts to find an equalizer resulted in stoppage-time chances for the Bucks to add to their lead. Gerald Ben was denied by a brilliant challenge by Brodie Steigerwald, and Brad Vanino saw his late effort saved by Grosey, but the squandered opportunities wouldn’t come back to haunt Michigan as they claimed the championship.

“It’s fantastic,” Grinwis said. “The last four or five years with the Bucks have been fantastic. I can’t thank Dan Duggan and the Bucks’ organization enough. Walking out of Ultimate Soccer Arenas is going to be bittersweet, but I’ve had a fantastic career here and I’ll treasure it forever.”

The game remained scoreless at halftime despite chances for both to break the deadlock. The Bucks had the first clear chance of the game in the fifth minute when Dzenan Catic shot over from 16 yards, and Kitsap answered almost immediately, only for Tommy Catalano’s shot to go high.

The Bucks’ best chance of the half arrived in the 17th minute as a free kick from the right was flicked onto an open Catic on the left side 10 yards out, but his volleyed finish found the side-netting. Michigan had a chance on the counter-attack a few minutes later, only for Catic to get caught offside as Zach Steinberger tried to spring him behind the Pumas back line, and the Pumas had to defend well when David Goldsmith almost got onto the end of a long ball over the top in the 28th minute.

Kitsap turned up the pressure late in the half, and Miguel Gonzalez had a pair of good opportunities a minute apart. In the 39th minute the forward turned and fired a low shot for the right corner that Adam Grinwis did well to parry to the corner. Then, as the Pumas continued to press, Gonzalez fired a shot from 25 yards out on the right side that was headed for the left corner, only for Bucks defender Mo Kaba to head to safety.

In the end, however, it was Owens’ goal that proved decisive. Having won the 2012 PDL Championship with FC London, the English native made sure his only goal of the PDL season arrived at just the right moment for the Bucks.

“I think it was a great game today, it could have gone either way,” Owens said. “It was going to be the little details that would decide the game, and I’m glad that we were able to see it out at the end. It’s a very hard-working group, and a great day for the Michigan Bucks.”

FIFA U20 World Cup Kicks Off Tuesday

0
0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

W-League Feature

Monday, August 4, 2014

The 2014 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup kicks off on Tuesday with both the host Canada and the United States in action on the tournament’s opening day. Current and former W-League standouts will feature for both nations as they aim to get their tournaments off to a strong start.

The United States faces a massive clash with Germany in Edmonton (7 p.m. ET, ESPNU) to open play in Group C. The game is a rematch of the 2012 championship game that saw the United States take a 1-0 victory, and the U.S. will be hopeful of replicating their win with the dynamic attacking partnership of Lindsay Horan and Savannah Jordan leading the way.

Horan, a 2011 All-League selection for the Colorado Rush, has gone from strength to strength since turning professional out of high school. The Paris St. Germain standout has featured in the past year for the full U.S. National Team, and had four goals in the CONCACAF qualifying tournament earlier this year. Jordan, meanwhile, had five goals in qualifying after a year ago being named the W-League Rookie of the Year for the Atlanta Silverbacks.

Another player to watch in Tuesday night’s game will be the Dayton Dutch Lions’ Rose Lavalle, an All-Southeastern Conference selection this summer who also earned the Golden Ball at CONCACAF qualifying. The Washington Spirit Reserves duo of Andi Sullivan and Brittany Basinger could also play key roles as they bring excellent experience to the defensive group.

Canada, meanwhile, kicks off its tournament with a clash against Ghana in Toronto (8 p.m. ET,  ESPN3.com) looking to excite its home fans with an exciting array of talent that could replicate the country’s run to the final at the inaugural U20 Women’s World Cup in 2002.

A key figure for Canada will be current Ottawa Fury and former Toronto Lady Lynx defender Kadeisha Buchanan, who recently made the step up to the full Canadian National Team. She is joined by captain and fellow former Fury and Lady Lynx player Kinley McNicoll in a formidable defense that is set to be backed by former Lady Lynx goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan.

Toronto forward Nichelle Prince is set to lead the Canadian attack, having also made the step up to the full national team this past year, as has the Fury’s Ashley Lawrence, who will likely be pivotal as a two-way midfielder who can add some attacking punch when she gets into the penalty area.

Select games from the 2014 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup can be seen on ESPNU and ESPN3.com, with more information on the tournament available via www.fifa.com/u20womensworldcup.

PDL Alumni Set For Homegrown Game

0
0

PDL Feature

Monday, August 4, 2014

PORTLAND, Ore. – Some of the top PDL players from recent seasons will be on show on Monday night as they participate in the inaugural Chipotle MLS Homegrown Game at Providence Park. Current MLS Rookie of the Year frontrunner Harry Shipp of the Chicago Fire leads a contingent of six league alumni against the Portland Timbers U-23s (10 p.m. ET, ESPN3.com).

A former Fire U-23 player, Shipp signed as a Homegrown Player with the club this past winter and has established himself as a key figure in the Fire’s attacking third. His six goals are tied for the team high, and Shipp also leads the Fire with five assists as his ability to find space and deliver accurate set pieces has been a key weapon in Chicago’s attacking arsenal this season.

Shipp’s teammate with the Fire, Chris Ritter, was also named to the team after quietly establishing himself in the first team during the past two months. After signing along with Shipp this offseason, the holding midfielder has made seven starts in 10 games since June 1 for the Fire, performing solidly as he makes the jump to the professional level.

The game will be a homecoming of sorts for the Portland Timbers’ Steven Evans, who will go up against his former side at Providence Park. A member of the Timbers U-23s during his college career, Evans is now in his second professional season and has seen action both at the MLS level and also this season for Sacramento Republic FC in USL PRO as he continues to gain professional experience.

LA Galaxy striker Gyasi Zardes, a PDL All-Western Conference selection in 2012, was also named to the squad after showing a big jump forward in his sophomore season. With eight goals, good for second on the Galaxy, Zardes has developed an excellent partnership with Robbie Keane in LA’s attack and is well on course to reach double-digit goals in his second professional season.

Also named to the squad are the Vancouver Whitecaps FC’s Russell Teibert, who spent a number of seasons with the club’s U-23 side in the PDL before making the step up to MLS in 2011. Teibert set a club record with nine assists in 2013, and recently signed a new contract as he continues to be a key part of the club’s success.

Seattle Sounders rookie Sean Okoli rounds out the PDL alumni after joining the MLS Supporter’s Shield leaders this offseason having scored six goals in 14 games for Sounders FC U-23 in the past two seasons. 

USL PRO Executives Headed to Portland

0
0

USL PRO News Release

Monday, August 4, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – USL PRO is welcoming owners and executives from its 14 current and five announced 2015 expansion teams to Portland, Oregon this week for its midseason Board of Governors meetings in conjunction with the 2014 MLS All-Star Game.

USL PRO league executives and clubs will meet Tuesday and Wednesday to discuss long-term strategic planning focused on operations, growth and expansion. In addition to the meetings, attendees will enjoy a tour of USL PRO partner Nike’s World Headquarters, MLS All-Star hospitality events, and the 2014 MLS All-Star Game Wednesday night at Providence Park, as the MLS stars meet FC Bayern Munich.

“The MLS All-Star Game is one of the preeminent soccer events in North America and we are delighted that USL PRO’s owners and executives will take part in the festivities and have the opportunity to network with the North American and global soccer elite,” USL PRO Vice President Jake Edwards said.

Another highlight of the week’s events will be the MLS Homegrown Game on Monday at Providence Park, featuring several players who have played in USL PRO in 2014 thanks to the league’s development partnership with MLS. Among those set to face the PDL’s Portland Timbers U-23s are LA Galaxy II standout Bradford Jamieson, who recorded five goals and an assist for Los Dos before recording an assist in his MLS debut two weeks ago.

Also set to feature in Monday’s contest is OKC Energy FC goalkeeper Jon Kempin, who starred for the expansion side on loan from its MLS partner Sporting Kansas City, and the Sacramento Republic FC duo of Tommy Thompson and Steven Evans, on loan from the San Jose Earthquakes and Portland Timbers, respectively.

The week’s festivities will be capped by the 2014 MLS All-Star Game, which will feature a former USL PRO standout in Sporting Kansas City’s Dom Dwyer. The 2013 All-League selection and Championship Game MVP during his stint on loan with Orlando City SC, Dwyer was named to the All-Star Team on Sunday as his success in USL PRO last season was translated to MLS this year as the young English standout sits tied for second in the league with 14 goals.


Aztex Announce Dalglish As Head Coach

0
0

Austin Aztex News Release

Monday, August 4, 2014

AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Aztex announced today they have come to an agreement with Paul Dalglish as head coach and technical director of the team. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not announced.

Dalglish, age 37, served as assistant coach under Jeff Cassar at Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake during their 2014 campaign and will begin his role with the Aztex starting mid-August.

Dalglish is a familiar coach for Aztex fans. Previously, Dalglish took the reins as head coach of the Austin Aztex for their inaugural 2012 season and compiled 26-8-4 record as head coach in two seasons across all competitions. Dalglish was named 2013 USL Premier Development League Coach of the Year when he helped the Aztex finish the season with one of the top records in the league and a goal differential of +30 during their championship run. Dalglish also identified talented players during his first two seasons with the Aztex, as eight squad players were drafted in the two previous MLS SuperDrafts.

“We are thrilled about Paul’s return to Austin,” said Aztex owner, Rene van de Zande. “He is very familiar with the Austin soccer landscape and we see in Paul a very talented and energetic coach with strong leadership capabilities. This made him the perfect fit for a franchise that has high ambitions in a fast growing market. Paul has soccer in his DNA and an ability to identify and work with young talent, another quality we were looking for in our coach. It is for these reasons we offered Paul a long term contract to give him the time to help us build the franchise and reach our short and long term goals.”

The Scottish-born Dalglish brings extensive experience as a professional player in Europe and the United States, having started his youth career with clubs Celtic FC in Scotland and Liverpool FC in England, continuing as a professional player in England, Scotland and the United States. In the US, Dalglish played for the Houston Dynamo of Major League Soccer and helped the club capture two consecutive MLS Cup victories in 2006 and 2007.

“My family and I are extremely excited to be coming back to Austin,” Dalglish said. “The challenge of leading the Aztex in their inaugural year in the professional ranks was one I couldn’t refuse. I will work tirelessly to help build a team that our supporters including Eberly’s Army and the City of Austin will be proud of, a team that will be willing to fight for their lives to defend the Aztex jersey whilst also playing the beautiful game in an attractive, exciting manner. I will be sad to leave the fantastic players and staff that have become friends behind in Salt Lake City. They have made me a better coach and a better person. Finally, I’d like to thank the ownership group at the Austin Aztex for putting their trust in me to lead the team and for providing me with the tools necessary to be successful.”

Manuel Buentello, who served as head coach for the Aztex in 2014, will resume his position as an assistant coach and scout for the Aztex, a role he served under Dalglish from 2012 to 2014.

In June, the Austin Aztex were introduced as USL PRO’s most recent expansion team, growing the league to 18 members. USL PRO is the strongest U.S. men’s professional soccer league on and off the field below and in support of Major League Soccer (MLS). Focused on league stability and franchise performance longevity, USL PRO features 14 teams in 2014, including expansion teams in Los Angeles, Oklahoma City and Sacramento. In January 2013 USL PRO entered into a groundbreaking, multi-year partnership with MLS that features individual team affiliations, inter-league play, and the opportunity for MLS clubs to field a second team in USL PRO.

The Austin Aztex currently play at House Park, a 5,500 seat stadium located near downtown Austin. The Aztex enjoy a strong home field advantage at House Park, where a record 4,750 fans attended the USL PDL Southern Conference Semifinal in July 2014. Tryout dates for the 2015 Austin Aztex squad will be announced at a later date.

PDL Alumni Named In TDS Best XI's

0
0

PDL Feature

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – TopDrawerSoccer.com unveiled its preseason NCAA Division I Best XI teams on Monday, with PDL alumni making up two-thirds of the players selected to the three teams. Seven members of the TDS First Team previously competed in the PDL, including U.S. U23 international Jordan Morris of the Sounders FC U-23.

Photo courtesy Chris Coulter/SoundersPhotos.comMorris made four appearances for the Sounders U-23’s this summer, scoring once, in addition to his national team duties. He is joined on the first team by a pair of standout defenders from the Mid Atlantic Division, with Reading United’s Oumar Ballo (UMBC) and the Baltimore Bohemians’ Joshua Yaro (Georgetown) both selected.

All four members of the first team midfield are also PDL alumni, led by the Washington Crossfire’s Christian Roldan, who on Monday night featured for the Portland Timbers U-23s in the Chipotle MLS Homegrown Game as part of the All-Star Game festivities. The Carolina Dynamo’s Dean Davis (Duke) and OC Pateadores Blues’ Leo Stolz (UCLA) were also named, as was Ventura County Fusion standout Laurie Bell (Wisconsin-Milwaukee) after he recorded two goals and six assists for the Southwest Division champion this summer.

2013 PDL All-League selection Axel Sjoberg (Marquette) leads the players on the second team, where he is joined in defense by the OC Pateadores Blues’ Michael Amick (UCLA) and Carolina Dynamo’s Boyd Okwuonu (North Carolina). Goalkeeper Spencer Richey, who competed this summer for the Puget Sound Gunners after previously playing for the Washington Crossfire and Portland Timbers U-23s, was also selected as he returns to play alongside Roldan at the University of Washington.

Another standout in the Northwest Division, Darwin Jones of the Sounders FC U-23, was the third Huskies player selected, and he was joined by Baltimore Bohemians forward Brandon Allen and K-W United midfielder Jay Chapman, who had three goals and three assists to help lead the side to its first postseason appearance before returning to Michigan State this fall.

2014 PDL Champion the Michigan Bucks had Francis de Vries (St. Francis, Pa.) named to the third team, where he was joined by fellow Great Lakes Division standout Tyler Miller of the Chicago Fire U-23 and Northwestern. The Long Island Rough Riders’ Tim Parker (St. John’s) and Ventura County Fusion’s Brandon Vincent (Stanford) were also selected to the third team defense.

Parker’s Rough Riders teammate Tyler Arnone (Michigan) earned selection in the third midfield, where he was joined by former Austin Aztex player Dan Metzger (Maryland) and St. Louis Scott Gallagher Super-20 standout Faik Hajderovic (Evansville). Reading United AC forward Darius Madison, who had six goals this summer for the Philadelphia Union’s PDL partner, rounds out the group as he returns to Virginia for his sophomore season.

One member of the TDS Freshman Best XI, UCLA’s Abu Danladi, will also bring PDL experience with him as he starts his first season in NCAA soccer after competing this summer for the Ventura County Fusion. With just more than three weeks until the fall season kicks off, PDL alumni will look to hit the ground running for their college sides as they begin the pursuit of a place at the 2014 College Cup.

Spitz Named Player of the Week

0
0

USL PRO News Release

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – USL PRO named its Team of the Week for Week 20 of the 2014 season on Tuesday as Richmond Kickers midfielder Shay Spitz was named Player of the Week. Spitz had a goal and two assists to help lead the Kickers past Wilmington Hammerheads FC on Friday night at Legion Stadium.

Spitz came close to opening the scoring himself against the Hammerheads in the 19th minute when his fierce volley from the left side went off the underside of the crossbar and right post before the rebound was tapped in by Matt Delicâte. He was then on hand to flick home a header just before the halftime break from Sascha Görres’ free kick to make it 2-0 before he played provider at the hour mark with a perfect low cross that was finished by Samuel Asante.

Spitz now leads the Kickers with five assists this season, two behind fellow Team of the Week midfield selection Kevin Molino of Orlando City SC, who scored twice as the Lions clinched a playoff berth with a 4-1 win against the Charlotte Eagles on Saturday. Harrisburg’s Yann Ekra also earned selection after two standout performances as the City Islanders took a pair of victories to move up to seventh in the league standings, while OKC Energy FC’s David Leichty was also named as his first professional goal gave his side a dramatic late victory against Orange County.

Leichty’s Energy FC teammate Max Gunderson was part of a four-man defensive contingent as he helped limit the Blues to six shots in a 1-0 win, and he was joined by the Charleston Battery’s Colin Falvey, who had the only goal in a 1-0 win against the Montreal Impact Reserves. Orlando’s Tyler Turner was also selected as he scored his first professional goal against Charlotte, while Rochester’s Babacar Diallo was solid defensively and a threat from set pieces in the Rhinos’ 0-0 draw with Charleston.

Harrisburg’s Nick Noble earned the goalkeeper position as he conceded one goal in two games and posted a seven-save shutout in the City Islanders’ 1-0 win on the road against Dayton on Saturday. In attack, Sacramento's Justin Braun was selected after his 78th-minute goal lifted Republic FC to a 2-1 victory against Arizona United SC, while Pittsburgh’s Joseph Ngwenya sparked the Riverhounds’ comeback in a 3-1 victory against the LA Galaxy II to earn the final spot on the team.

The USL PRO season continues on Wednesday night as the Harrisburg City Islanders welcome the New York Red Bulls Reserves to Skyline Sports Complex for a 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff. The City Islanders are also part of this weekend’s key action as they host Orlando City on Saturday night, while the Richmond Kickers can clinch a berth in the USL PRO Playoffs should they take victory against Charlotte.

Every game of the 2014 USL PRO season can be seen live on YouTube, with live updates also available via Twitter (@USLPRO), Facebook and Google+. Stay up to date with news, previews and match reports from throughout the league via USLPROSoccer.com.

USL PRO Team of the Week

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention – Arizona: Jon Okafor, Jonathan Top; Charleston: Odisnel Cooper, Dane Kelly; Charlotte: Wells Thompson; Dayton: Sebastian Thuriere, Jesjua Cruyff; Harrisburg: Jimmy McLaughlin, Garret Pettis; LA Galaxy II: Jose Villarreal; Oklahoma City: Abraham Villon, Gareth Evans; Orange County: Seth Moses; Orlando: Dennis Chin, Darwin Ceren; Pittsburgh: Danny Earls, Kevin Kerr; Richmond: William Yomby, Ryan Taylor; Rochester: John McCarthy, Onua Thomas Obasi; Sacramento: Rodrigo Lopez, Michael Daly; Wilmington: Jeremy Hall, Samuel Ochoa.

U.S., Canada Fall In U20 Openers

0
0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

W-League Feature

Wednesday, August 6, 2014

The United States and Canada U20 Women’s National Teams both got off to disappointing starts at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup on Tuesday, as both suffered defeats in their opening games of group play. A pair of second-half goals sent Germany to a 2-0 victory against the U.S. in a rematch of the 2012 championship game, while host Canada was unable to rebound from an early goal by Ghana in a 1-0 defeat.

The U.S. had a pair of chances to take the lead in Edmonton through former W-League All-League selection Lindsay Horan (Colorado Rush) in the opening 20 minutes. Horan, now with Paris Saint-Germain, forced a pair of saves from German goalkeeper Meike Kaemper, including a crucial stop in the 11th minute to deny the U.S. an early lead.

Germany had chances to take the lead late in the first half, and an excellent goal-line clearance by Katie Naughton in the 38th minute kept the game scoreless, but Central Florida’s Lena Petermann struck 20 minutes into the second half to put Germany ahead.

The U.S. had a pair of late chances that fell to Mallory Pugh, but Kaemper was able to turn both away in the 81st minute, and Germany then put the game away nine minutes later when Theresa Panfil sent home a finish from just outside the penalty area.

Canada got out to a slow start in Toronto against Ghana, and fell behind in the 22nd minute when Sherifatu Sumaila put home a rebound as Toronto Lady Lynx goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan was unable to corral a cross by Edem Atovor.

Canada almost equalized just before the halftime break, only for Emma Fletcher’s fierce shot to come back off the post, but the introduction of Lady Lynx forward Nichelle Prince in the second half that sparked the hosts to life. Prince came close to finding an equalizer with 20 minutes to go when she controlled a cross from the right and fired on goal, only for the shot to be turned away for a corner.

The Colorado Rush’s Janine Beckie also had a late opportunity to earn a point for Canada, but her shot deflected off Ghana goalkeeper Victoria Agyea’s left knee and away to safety.

Canada will try to rebound on Friday night as it faces Finland at 8 p.m. ET (ESPN3) after the Finns fell 2-1 to North Korea in their opening contest. The United States also returns to action on Friday at 10 p.m. ET (ESPNU) as it faces a Brazil side that drew 1-1 in its opening game against China.

W-Leaguers Prominent in TDS Best XIs

0
0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

W-League Feature

Wednesday, August 6, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – W-League talent is front and center on the TopDrawerSoccer.com preseason NCAA Division I Best XI teams that were announced this week, as nine of the 11 first-team selections and 16 of 33 total honorees are W-League alums. 

Included on the first team are a pair of 2013 NCAA champions from UCLA – defender Abby Dahlkemper and midfielder Sarah Killion – who also captured the 2014 W-League title with the LA Blues July 27.  Their Blues teammate, Rachel Daly of St. John’s, was also included in the first team as a forward after helping anchor LA’s defense.

Also on the first team are forwards Savannah Jordan of Florida and Makenzy Doniak of Virginia, who are currently in Canada playing for the U.S. U20 Women’s National Team in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup. Jordan was an All-League selection with the Atlanta Silverbacks in 2013, while Doniak helped the Blues capture the 2013 W-League title.

Three other U.S. U20 teammates were selected, as Rose Lavelle (Dayton Dutch Lions/Wisconsin) was named to the TDS third team, while Andi Sullivan (Washington Spirit Reserves/Stanford) and Carlyn Baldwin (Braddock Road Stars Elite/Tennessee) were selected for the freshman team. First-team defender Kadeisha Buchanan, a member of the Ottawa Fury this season, is also competing in the U20 World Cup with Canada.

Rounding out the first team selections with W-League experience are Toronto Lady Lynx goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo (South Carolina), 2013 Seattle Sounders Women defender Jaelene Hinkle (Texas Tech), and 2013 LA Blues midfielder Daphne Corboz (Georgetown).

Yet another 2013 LA Blues standout – UCLA midfielder Sam Mewis – was chosen for the second team along with a pair of Ottawa Fury veterans – Havana Solaun of Florida and Kentucky’s Arin Gilliland, a 2014 All-Central Conference selection at forward.

2014 Colorado Pride midfielder Jessie Ayers (Colorado College), 2014 Spirit Reserves defender Emily Sonnett (Virginia) and former Cleveland Internationals defender Taylor Leach (South Carolina) were also selected to the third team.

Ribeiro Leads City Islanders To Victory

0
0

USL PRO Game Report

Wednesday, August 6, 2014

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Pedro Ribeiro had a pair of goals as the Harrisburg City Islanders took a 3-1 victory against the New York Red Bulls Reserves in an interleague contest at Skyline Sports Complex on Wednesday night. The victory was the City Islanders third in a row, and moved them ahead of OKC Energy FC into sixth place in the USL PRO standings.

Both teams had chances early on to open the scoring. City Islanders midfielder Jamiel Hardware recorded the first shot in the sixth minute as he shot over the crossbar, and the Red Bulls Reserves looked strong when they went on the offensive, taking five shots during the half. Midfielder Michael Bustamante led the charge with a pair of shots in the 19th and 23rd minute, and both forced good saves from City Islanders goalkeeper Nick Noble.

Momentum would swing toward the City Islanders in the 33rd minute when Ribeiro scored an outstanding goal after he received a throw-in by Matt Bahner. The Philadelphia Union loanee controlled 16 yards from goal on the right side of the penalty area, and drove a turning finish into the left corner of the net to give Harrisburg a lead it would hold until the halftime break.

Seven minutes into the second half, Ribeiro picked up his second off a well-timed pass from Antoine Hoppenot. The City Islanders added a third in the 56th minute when Hardware made 3-0. After the Red Bulls conceded a foul just to the right of center on the edge of the penalty area, Hardware sent his dipping shot over the defensive wall and into the top-right corer of the net past the outstretched hand of Red Bulls Reserves goalkeeper Ryan Meara. 

Bustamante answered for the Red Bulls Reserves in the 65th minute from just outside the penalty area after a corner kick from Marius Obekop was only partially cleared by the City Islanders' defense. Although the Red Bulls Reserves narrowly avoided the shutout, Harrisburg was able to comfortably see out the remainder of the contest as the City Islanders scored three goals at home for the third consecutive contest.

Harrisburg will return to action at Skyline Sports Complex on Saturday night as they host the league leaders Orlando City SC at 6 p.m. ET. For tickets and more information, visit www.cityislanders.com.

Dutch Lions Appoint Weston As Coach

0
0

Dayton Dutch Lions FC News Release -- www.ddlfc.com

Thursday, August 7, 2014

DAYTON, Ohio -- Dayton Dutch Lions FC is happy to announce Matthew Weston as the new Head Coach for the organization's USL PRO side. Weston led his first session on Wednesday, and will be on the bench for the first time this weekend when the team travels to face the Charleston Battery and Wilmington Hammerheads.

“I am excited with the challenge of being offered the head coaching position with the Dayton Dutch Lions,” Weston said. “With seven games to go and lots to play for, this gives us all an opportunity to put pride in the shirt, play attractive soccer and finish the season on a high. After speaking with Sid van Druenen, I felt that this was a great opportunity to come in and work with a great group of players & staff and will begin work right away.”

Weston arrives from PDL side the Ocala Stampede, where he was the club's technical director. The Stampede claimed the Southern Conference Championship for the first time this season, before falling in the PDL Championship semifinals to the Kitsap Pumas this past weekend.

“We are happy and excited to welcome Matt to the club,” said Dayton’s Technical Manager Sid van Druenen. “He brings a wealth of experience, not only as a coach but also as a player. I have spoken to Matt often in the last couple of days and am sure he is the right fit for our club. We appreciate The Ocala Stampede organization for understanding the importance of getting Matt on the field right away.”

The Dayton Dutch Lions travel to Charleston to face the Battery on Friday night at 7:30 p.m. ET, and will then continue on the road to face Wilmington on Saturday night. Both games can be seen live on the club's YouTube page.

Be sure to come out and show your support at Coach Weston’s first home game on Saturday, August 23rd as the Dutch Lions host the Colorado Rapids Reserves. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET at DOC Stadium.


USL PRO -- Goals of the Month, July

0
0

USL PRO Goals of the Month

Thursday, August 7, 2014

The best 10 goals from the month of July have been selected, watch the video and vote on your favorite. Polls close Monday, August 10 at 1 p.m. ET.

 

 

 

PDL Standouts On Hermann Watch List

0
0

PDL Feature

Thursday, August 7, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – The 2014 MAC Hermann Trophy watch list was announced on Wednesday as 22 current and former PDL standouts were named as preseason contenders for the most prestigious award in NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer.

Leading the way are a pair of last year’s semifinalists in the Ventura County Fusion’s Laurie Bell (Wisconsin-Milwaukee) and OC Pateadores Blues’ Leo Stolz (UCLA), both of who return to try and add to stellar 2013 college seasons. Bell had a strong summer to build toward that with the Fusion, as he helped the side to a division title with two goals and a team-best six assists, which tied for fourth in the league.

A pair of players currently with the U.S. U-23 National Team were also selected, with Sounders FC U-23s forward Jordan Morris (Stanford) and Austin Aztex midfielder Dan Metzger (Maryland) both named to the list. They are joined by another pair of Northwest Division standouts, with the Washington Crossfire’s Spencer Richey and Christian Roldan both set to star for the University of Washington this fall.

The Baltimore Bohemians duo of Brandon Allen and Joshua Yaro both return to Georgetown looking to have another successful season, while fellow Mid Atlantic Division rivals Oumar Ballo (Reading United/UMBC), Kevin Correa (Ocean City Nor’easters/St. Francis, N.Y.) and Tim Parker (Long Island Rough Riders/St. John’s) also earned nomination as they return for the fall.

Central Florida’s Romario Williams, who led Orlando City U-23 with seven goals this summer, leads a talented contingent of standouts from this past season named to the list, which also includes K-W United’s Ricky Garbanzo (Coastal Carolina), who made 12 appearances for K-W United as it claimed its first postseason berth in club history.

Other players to watch include former Carolina Dynamo defender Boyd Okwuonu (North Carolina), Chicago Fire U-23 goalkeeper Tyler Miller (Northwestern), and Super-20 League standout Faik Hajderovic of St. Louis Scott Gallagher, who returns to Evansville aiming to build on his NSCAA All-Region First Team selection a year ago.

Hammerheads Add Tomaselli To Squad

0
0

Wilmington Hammerheads FC News Release -- www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com

Thursday, August 7, 2014

WILMINGTON, N.C. – Wilmington Hammerheads FC announced today the addition of midfielder Ross Tomaselli to the squad for the remainder of the 2014 USL PRO regular season.

Tomaselli found minutes with the Hammerheads as he took the field during a friendly match against Major League Soccer’s Toronto FC earlier in the season.

“After training with the team the past couple of months, I am really excited to get on board,” said Tomaselli. “They are a great group of guys and I am excited about what we can accomplish the rest of this season.”

Tomaselli begins his professional debut with the Hammerheads following a four-year collegiate career at Wake Forest University. The midfielder served as team captain leading his team to the third round of the 2013 NCAA Tournament, tallying five goals and eight assists.

“Ross is a committed player who cares deeply for the club and wants to be a part of its success,” said Hammerheads Technical Director Carson Porter. “He is a quality technical player who understands the game and can play a number of different spots. We welcome Ross and look forward to his contributions."

A native of Wilmington, Tomaselli attended New Hanover High School and will now return to Legion Stadium once again, but this time to take the pitch with the Hammerheads.

“It is extra special for me because I am a local guy,” said Tomaselli. “I really look forward to being back out at Legion Stadium again.”

Tomaselli worked his way through the local youth system with the former Cape Fear Soccer Club and Capital Area Soccer League. He was a member of the North Carolina 1992 ODP Team, the 1992 Region III ODP Team and the U14, U15, and U17 U.S. Youth National pools.

For further information regarding Wilmington Hammerheads FC, call (910) 777-2111 or visit www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com. 

W-Leaguers On Hermann Watch List

0
0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

W-League Feature

Thursday, August 7, 2014

TAMPA, Fla. – The watch list for the 2014 MAC Hermann Trophy was unveiled on Wednesday afternoon, with a large contingent of W-League standouts named as a potential winner of the most prestigious award in NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer.

The LA Blues’ Abby Dahlkemper, a finalists for the award in 2013, led the selections as she returned to UCLA as a back-to-back W-League champion after the Blues’ victory last month in the W-League Championship Game against the Washington Spirit Reserves. A number of Dahlkemper’s teammates with the Blues were also named, with U.S. international Sarah Killion (UCLA) and Rachel Daly (St. John’s) among the more prominent names that will try to unseat reigning award-winner Morgan Brian this fall.

A pair of 2013 semifinalists also return to school looking for another standout season this fall are former LA Blues standout Makenzy Doniak (Virginia) and Toronto Lady Lynx goalkeeper Sabrina D’Angelo (South Carolina).

Doniak is one of five W-League players selected that are currently competing in the 2014 FIFA U20 World Cup in Canada, with 2013 W-League Rookie of the Year Savannah Jordan (Florida) also representing the United States this summer. Canada has a trio of players named, with the Ottawa Fury’s Kadeisha Buchanan (West Virginia) and Arin Gilliland (Kentucky) being joined by the Colorado Rush’s Janine Beckie for the tournament’s host nation.

Other players to watch this fall include former LA Blues midfielder Daphne Corboz, who earned NSCAA All-American Second Team honors for Georgetown last season, former Seattle Sounders Women defender Jaelene Hinkle, a standout for Texas Tech a season ago, and the Colorado Pride’s Jessie Ayers, who claimed All-Western Conference honors after a standout season this summer before returning to Colorado College.

Orlando Signs Two From Benfica U19s

0
0

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysc.com

Thursday, August 7, 2014

ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando City Soccer Club announced today that the club has signed 19-year-old Rafael Ramos and 18-year-old Valdomiro Lameira to multi-year deals. Ramos and Lameira, better known as “Estrela,” will join City for the remainder of the 2014 USL PRO season before transitioning with the club to Major League Soccer. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not announced.

“The goal of our partnership with SL Benfica is to learn from the storied club and explore cross promotional opportunities but most importantly, identify talent that could play integral roles in our team’s development,” said President Phil Rawlins.

“We just think both players will bring something to our group,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “They’re both young and hungry players, who want to do well, and I just think that they offer us something that we don’t have at this moment in time. Moving forward into MLS, they’ll both be two big pieces for us, so we’re pleased to have them here.”

Hailing from Benfica’s U19 team, Ramos, a right back, and Estrela, a defensive midfielder, complement Orlando City’s desire to comprise a young and talented squad heading into their MLS debut in 2015. Earlier this year, Ramos and Estrela participated in the inaugural UEFA Youth League tournament with Benfica, competing against premier U19 teams in Europe.

After finishing first in its group, Benfica, went on to claim a 2-1 win against Manchester City’ U19s before thrashing Real Madrid’s U19s 4-0 to advance to the final. Benfica finished the 32 team tournament in second place after falling to the FC Barcelona U19s 3-0 in the championship game.

The signing marks the first in the partnership between City and the reigning Portuguese champion. Orlando City and Benfica agreed to an innovative strategic partnership in June, yielding the opportunity for both clubs to share evaluations regarding professional and youth players, arrange friendlies, and provide opportunities for each clubs’ players to train with the other team.

Boasting one of the largest fan bases in the world, SL Benfica has won more than 70 championships in its history. It is also the only club to have won every Portuguese competition, including a record 33 Primeira Liga Championship titles.

For more information on Orlando City SC, 2015 MLS Season Tickets or tickets to the Club’s remaining USL PRO home games, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.  Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. 

Viewing all 4700 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images