Charlotte Eagles News Release -- www.charlotteeagles.com

Friday, May 20, 2011

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Charlotte Eagles were able to continue their winning streak in USL PRO by earning a 2-0 victory against Antigua Barracuda FC at Charlotte Christian Stadium on Friday night. The Eagles struck quickly when Diego Martins crossed the ball into the penalty area finding Darren Toby who headed it home in the 17th minute. The second goal was a strike by Allan Sanchez from 25 yards out in the 67th minute.

Friday's game was the first meeting between Antigua and Charlotte. With an 8 p.m. start and 936 in attendance the setting was perfect for a USL PRO soccer match.

The Eagles amost struck first in the sixth minute as a great cross from Jorge Herrera Led to a hard shot by Miguel Ferrer, only to be denied by Antigua goalkeeper Keita De Castro who made a great diving save. The Eagles continued to pressure as Herrera curled a free kick around the defensive wall, just missing the corner of the net.

The Eagles pressure finally told in the 17th minute when Martins found Toby in the penalty area with a perfect cross. Toby was able to place the ball into the far side of the net for the first goal of the match. Antigua tried to find an equalizer quickly, and Charlotte goalkeeper Eric Reed was tested when the Barracuda surged forward on a counter-attack in the 27th minute. Reed, making a huge dive, was able to push the ball wide.

The Eagles were able to get into a rhythm controlling the tempo of the first half, and weren't overly troubled either for the remained of the first half, or the start of the second.  Coach Mark Steffens then made his first substitution of the second half, bringing on Sanchez for Diego Martins and in the 67th minute, Sanchez made his presence felt as he drove home a spectacular finish from 25 yards that earned him the Player of the Game honors.

The Eagles will try to extend their winning streak to three games next Saturday as they travel to face the Dayton Dutch Lions.

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

Friday, May 20, 2011

OLEY, Pa. – Reading United's Will Bates and Brian Ownby orchestrated a three-goal outburst in 17 minutes in the second half as Reading ran past the Ocean City Nor’easters 4-1 at Oley Valley High School on Friday night.

Emotions were high before the game after a stirring ceremony to honor Mark McKently, a former Oley Valley High School student and soccer player who lost his life in a fatal car accident earlier this year. Using pre-sold tickets and part of the walk-up sales, Reading United established a scholarship fund in Mark’s honor. In addition, Oley Valley awarded Mark’s parents with their Senior Athlete Award, which is given to the top athlete in their graduating class.

After a first half where Ocean City frustrated the United with their physical brand of soccer, Will Bates and Brian Ownby used their chemistry to give Reading a spark. In the 47th minute, a deflection off of Ownby from 18 yards out was curved sharply by Bates past a helpless Pat Hannigan, the Nor’easters goalkeeper. Ownby then struck in the 60th minute, punching in a point-blank range cross into the penalty area from Shane Malcolm. Bates then added his second in the 64th minute, rising above the Nor’easter defense to head in a Christian Barreiro corner for his fourth goal in two games.

“We’re fortunate to have such chemistry with our forwards," United head coach Brendan Burke said. "These players (Bates, Ownby, and teammate Brian “Cobi” Span) were the top three scorers for a team that started the 2010 season ranked No.2 in the nation at Virginia. You add that kind of talent to the relationship these three bring, and you’re going to have success.”

Ocean City finally got on the board in the 69th minute, hoping to recapture some of their magic when they overcame a two-goal deficit in last year’s matchup. But the United defense clamped down, and midfielder Stephen Okai put the nail in the coffin in the 80th minute with a beautiful one-on-one chance against Hannigan that Okai ripped into the upper right corner.

With the win, Reading took one step closer towards securing a U.S. Open Cup berth, a competition between the top levels of the U.S. Soccer Pyramid. The victory also officially eliminated both Ocean City and the Central Jersey Spartans, leaving only the Jersey Express with a chance to topple the United from their third consecutive Open Cup appearance. The Express continue their qualifying schedule on Saturday against the Long Island Rough Riders.

It was the most goals allowed by Ocean City since July 9, 2008 in a 4-1 loss to the Brooklyn Knights. It was also the most goals scored by Reading against Ocean City since July 20, 2007, when both teams went by different names (Reading Rage, Ocean City Barons) and Reading defeated Ocean City 5-4, finally overcoming three separate deficits with goals in the 84th and 90th minutes. Former Rage defender Kevin Strunk and long-time Ocean City midfielder Byron Carmichael played in both games from the current Ocean City team.

The United now travel for a friendly match against the United States U17 Men’s National Team. Kickoff is at 3 p.m. at Chester Park in Wallingford, Pa. They then return home to Exeter’s Don Thomas Stadium for another friendly against USL PRO's Harrisburg City Islanders on Tuesday, May 24th at 7 p.m. $10 general admission tickets for the City Islanders friendly can be purchased from readingunitedac.com, or you can skip the lines with ShowClix print-at-home tickets that can be purchased from showclix.com/event/readingunitedac.

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

Saturday, May 21, 2011

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Harrisburg City Islanders will host Orlando City on Sunday at 3 p.m. The City Islanders will be looking to extend their unbeaten streak to four, coming off a 1-1 tie with the top team in USL PRO, the Richmond Kickers. This will be the first ever meeting between the two teams.

Harrisburg City Islanders (1-1-2)

The City Islanders are currently in third place of the USL PRO National Division, nine points behind the first-placed Los Angeles Blues and five points behind the second-placed Rochester Rhinos.The Islanders’ defense, led by goalkeeper Chase Harrison and defender Dustin Bixler has allowed the least amount of goals in the USL PRO so far this season with three. Forward Jose Angulo and midfielder Nelson Becerra have led the Islanders’ offense so far, combining for three goals and one assist. The Islanders expect a highly competitive and exciting game this Sunday against Orlando City.

This past Saturday, the City Islanders hosted USL PRO’s top club, the Richmond Kickers and the game ended in a 1-1 tie. Nelson Becerra scored his first goal of the season on a penalty kick in the 56th minute. Richmond denied the City Islanders from taking the full three points when substitute Shaka Bangura scored the game-tying goal in the 82nd minute off a header assisted by Matthew Delicâte.

The City Islanders have suffered some early season injuries and will be without Nelson Becerra (knee), Drew Yates (knee), Andrew Marshall (broken foot), and Jason Herrick (concussion) for Sunday’s game.

"We suffered some injuries early on, but we feel we have a deep roster, and other players will step up and perform well," said City Islanders coach Bill Becher.

Harrisburg Players to Watch

Jose Angulo

Angulo has two of the City Islanders’ three goals this season. He is also tied for eighth in shots of the USL PRO with 12. Angulo will be without his top offensive partner Nelson Becerra this week but he’ll still have a strong midfield to provide him with deliveries.

Jeritt Thayer

The midfielder from Corona del Mar, Calif. has highly contributed to the City Islanders’ offense success this season, even though not scoring any points. The New York University alumni scored 35 career goals for the Violets and earned a second team Division III All-American. With fellow midfielder Nelson Becerra being out this week, look for Thayer to earn more chances to score.

Orlando City (5-1-1)

Orlando City is currently in third place of the newly designed American Division. The Lions will be looking to extend their seven-game undefeated streak after a 0-0 draw against Rochester on Friday night. Their first and only loss of the season came in their season opener against the Richmond Kickers, losing 2-0. In their eight games, Orlando City has scored 10 goals and allowed five goals. Orlando City has proven the ability to ignore being away from home, recording a record of 3-1-0, scoring four goals and allowing three.

This past Saturday, Orlando City hosted the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, winning 1-0. Kevin Molino of Orlando City scored in the third minute from a Yordany Alvarez delivery. The goal would be good enough to give Orlando City their fifth win of the season.

"Orlando is a very strong team that is in good form right now. They are on a six game unbeaten streak, and we expect a tough game on Sunday," said Becher.

Orlando Players to Watch

Maxwell Griffin

The UCLA alumni is currently tied for first place in the USL PRO for goals scored (5), second in points (10), and tied for sixth in shots (14). Griffin is known as a scoring threat, scoring ten goals last year for the Austin Aztex of the USSF Division 2-Pro League. He graduated from UCLA sixth in their all-time scoring record.

Lewis Neal

Neal is a dangerous player, but even more dangerous when it comes to free kicks. The Englishman so far this season has converted one goal, two assists and league leading 18 shots. His goal came from a game-winning free kick against F.C. New York.

Sunday afternoon’s kick-off is scheduled for 3 p.m. at Skyline Sports Complex on City Island. The gates will open at 1:30 p.m. During halftime, the City Islanders will be hosting a Zumba party sponsored by Gold’s Gym. The game will also be streamed at usllive.com, brought to you by Invica Sports. For more information on the City Islanders, or to order tickets, contact the team at 717-441-GOAL, or visit www.cityislanders.com. See you on the Island!

Colorado Force News Release -- www.forcesoccer.org

Friday, May 20, 2011

GREELEY, Colo. -- With two matches already to chalk up to experience, the visiting Los Angeles Strikers showed their seasoning Friday night with a 1-0 victory against the Colorado Force in the Force’s 2011 debut.

The Force, making one of two appearances this season at Jackson Field in Greeley, were stung in the first half when Los Angeles forward Cherelle Khassal registered the game’s only goal. Khassal, a recent member of Ireland’s U-19 national side, struck for the winner in the 31st minute of play. She found herself with a one-on-one opportunity against Force keeper Kirstin Salminen after a teammate delivered a well-placed pass through the middle of the defense.

Colorado (0-1), which features just two members back from last season’s side, will have two weeks to regroup for its next match. The Force will return to its regular home pitch at Loveland Sports Park when it hosts the Victoria Highlanders at 1 p.m. on June 5, the first of five consecutive home matches in June.

While Los Angeles (2-1) won the statistical battle, recording 11 shots to just four for the Force, the match was largely played in the midfield.

The Force then raised the pressure late, creating scoring opportunities in the 75th minute and the 83rd minute. In the 75th minute, midfield Erin Gunther sent a crossing ball into the box. Two Force players lunged to head the ball, but it was pushed away by L.A. keeper Erin Frushon. And Frushon made a stout save in the 83rd minute when Lisa Kosena Forbes fired a left footed shot from just outside the penalty area.

Wilmington Hammerheads News Release -- www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com

Saturday, May 21, 2011

WILMINGTON, N.C. – The Wilmington Hammerheads notched their fourth consecutive win at Legion Stadium in USL PRO with a 3-0 victory against the Charleston Battery in front of a crowd of 4,732 on Saturday night.

The Hammerheads improved their record to 4-1-0, while the Battery dropped to 3-4-2.

The Hammerheads pressured Charleston early in the first half with three corner kicks and two shots on goal in the opening 15 minutes. In the 27th minute, Hammerheads midfielder Luke Mulholland gave his side the lead as he fired a shot into the far corner of the net off a short pass from forward Andriy Budnyy.

The Battery pushed for an equalizer before the break and came close in the 44th minute as J.C. Mack fired a fierce shot from just outside the penalty area that sailed just wide of the far post, allowing the Hammerheads to maintain their advantage at halftime.

The Battery continued to press at the start of the second half and outshot the Hammerheads, 3-1 in the opening twenty minutes of the half. Charleston’s pressure appeared to have paid off in the 71st minute, but they were denied a goal due to the assistant referee’s offside flag.

Minutes later, Battery defender and captain John Wilson received a straight red card reducing his side to 10 men, and the Hammerheads took advantage of their man-advantage as Mulholland grabbed his second in the 85th minute, bringing the crowd to its feet. Hakop Aveysan added a third goal in the 90th minute to complete the scoring.

The Hammerheads will travel for a doubleheader next weekend as they face the Rochester Rhinos on Friday night at the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday night. The Battery will return home to host the Richmond Kickers on Tuesday night at 7:30 p.m. 

Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Saturday, May 21, 2011

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – On a beautiful night the Pittsburgh Riverhounds remained unbeaten at Chartiers Valley Stadium as they shut out F.C. New York for a 2-0 victory on Saturday night.

2010 USL-2 Rookie of the Year Jeremy Deighton headed home the game-winner in the third minute before an individual effort from Matt Fondy provided the Riverhounds with an insurance goal in the 48th minute.

A piercing diagonal ball from Matt Tuttle proved to be the game’s key moment. Tuttle received a pass from center back Louie Rolko on the left flank and played a well-driven ball to the right corner behind New York’s defense. Fellow midfielder Tommy Gray tracked down the ball just before the goal line, took a touch inside and delivered a quality cross over the retreating defenders. Deighton slashed through the penalty area to head home Gray’s service to put the Hounds up for good.

The Riverhounds controlled the tempo of the match for the remainder of the first half and continued to pressure New York’s end. Deighton, Fondy and Tuttle had opportunities to convert, but F.C. New York’s goalkeeper Derby Carrillo was in good position to keep the score 1-0 at the break.

But the Riverhounds (2-3-2) wasted little time to add their second goal on the night in the second half. An attempted clearance by F.C. New York (1-4-2) landed at the feet of Fondy thirty yards from goal, and after collecting the bouncing ball with ease, Fondy faked a shot and cut back to his left. Gracefully stepping up to the ball Fondy struck a low left-footed shot across his body, tucking his shot just inside the upright to bring the crowd of 1,421 to their feet.

The Riverhounds return to Chartiers Valley Stadium on Sunday evening to host the Los Angeles Blues (4-2-2). The game is scheduled for 5 p.m.

F.C. New York will travel to take on the Richmond Kickers (6-0-1) next Saturday at City Stadium.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

WINTER PARK, Fla. -- In an early season matchup of unbeatens, Mississippi Brilla and the Central Florida Kraze played to a 1-1 draw at Showalter Stadium on Saturday night to keep both teams without a defeat in the 2011 USL Premier Development League season.

The Kraze came into the matchup with a 3-0-0 record after two wins over Ft. Lauderdale Schulz Academy and another over the IMG Bradenton Academics. This match was the second of a two-match road trip for Mississippi who knocked off the FC Jax Destroyers 5-0 on Thursday to improve their record to 2-0-0.

While Brilla controlled the ball for large portions of the opening half, they were unable to convert possession into goals as the Kraze used the tight confines of Showalter Field to their advantage, opting to counter-attack when they won possession. Each team had close chances, but neither could convert in the first half and the teams went into the interval scoreless.

As the second half started, the Kraze struck quickly when they earned a corner kick in the 47th minute. Johnny Mendoza's driven corner was well-finished by Ryan Maloney at the near post.

The goal woke Brilla up and they began to create chance after chance. The pressure paid off in the 58th minute when David Palmer smashed a shot into the top corner of the Kraze net after being set up from a long run by Moses Aduny.

Despite excellent chances both ways, neither team could find the back of the net for the rest of the game, mainly due to stellar goalkeeper play from Mississippi's Brendan Moore and the Kraze's Keneil Baker.

"It is a point earned on the road, which is a must to succeed in this league, but you hate to not get a win that you think was there for the taking," said Brilla coach David Dixon.

Brilla's next match will be Thursday as as they travel to face the Nashville Metros for a 7 p.m. kickoff at Ezell Park Stadium, which will also be a U.S. Open Cup qualifying match for both teams. The Brilla and Kraze are locked in competition for the berth in the tournament from the Southeast Division.

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

Saturday, May 21, 2011

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa – For a while, it looked like only lightning could stop the Des Moines Menace from scoring tonight at Valley Stadium. With thunderstorms threatening, the Menace bolted to a five-goal lead against USL Premier Development League rival St. Louis en route to a 5-2 weather-shortened victory.

The win put the Menace in first place for the Heartland Division’s berth in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Des Moines has the slightest edge over Real Colorado, which shares a 3-0-0 mark in qualifying action after defeating Springfield 3-1 on Saturday night. Center-midfielder John Sosa set a Des Moines franchise record collecting four assists, including three in a span of about 10 minutes.

“I feel blessed to be a part of this squad,” Sosa said. “It makes my job easier when I have such quality players around me. It makes me look good.”

Diego Marroquin started the scoring in the 15th minute, heading in a corner kick from Sosa. The Menace kept on the attack, as Sosa set up Deshorn Brown for his third and fourth goals of the season that came just two minutes apart in the 23rd and 25th minutes. Uriah Polley scored unassisted in the final minute of the first half, and the Menace made it a five-goal lead in the 51st minute, when Lebogang Moloto went “upper 90” after receiving a one-touch give-and-go from Sosa.

St. Louis cut into the lead with goals in the 68th and 71st minutes. When lightning moved in, the officials cleared the field in the 79th minute. The game was called after a 40-minute lightning delay.

The Lions, who have lost back-to-back Saturday matches here at Valley Stadium to open the season, turn around to host Real Colorado on Sunday at 5 p.m. This is the fourth and final Open Cup qualifier for the Foxes, who will be looking to make up ground on the goal-differential tie-breaker.

The Menace has outscored foes 10-3, while Real Colorado holds a 10-4 advantage. These teams won’t face each other during the regular season, one year after tying three times in an eight-day span. Laurie Calloway’s team will be keeping tabs on Sunday’s result in St. Louis, while preparing for its final Open Cup qualifier on Wednesday at Kansas City.

“It feels good to be in the first spot,” said Sosa. “We know Real Colorado and St. Louis are both good teams. We’ll see what happens tomorrow. We need to make sure we do our thing. That way, we don’t have to worry as much about what the other guys are doing.

“We have to stay humble, work hard. A lot of room for improvement and some time to improve. We move on and think about our next game.”

The Menace’s scoring outburst marks the first time in the history of the Des Moines-St. Louis rivalry that either side scored more than three goals. Des Moines is undefeated in its last 10 meetings with St. Louis, and leads the highly contested series, 5-3-8.

MR. B MAN of the MATCH: John Sosa, who distributed a club-record four assists. As a senior at Missouri-Kansas City last fall, Sosa was named the Summit League Offensive Player of the Year. He was born in Colombia and calls St. Cloud, Fla., his home.

UP NEXT: Des Moines travels to face the Kansas City Brass each of the next two Wednesdays, before playing a home exhibition in two weeks. The Menace and Brass play at William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo., on May 25 and compete on the other side of the Missouri River at Overland Park Soccer Complex on June 1.

The Menace return to Valley Stadium on Saturday, June 4, hosting Des Moines International on Youth Soccer Night, presented by Powerade and Vitamin Water. All youth-soccer players and coaches receive free admission (when they wear their team jerseys or show their coaches’ passes); teams are invited to be part of a pre-game parade.

USL News Release

Sunday, May 22, 2011

TAMPA, Fla. – Reading United AC and the Chivas El Paso Patriots became the first two USL Premier Development League teams to book their places in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, signaling a return to the tournament for both teams.

Reading completed a perfect 4-0 run through its qualifying matches, concluding with a 4-1 win against the Westchester Flames on Thursday night that saw Will Bates score twice for United. The side’s place in the draw for the first round was assured when the Jersey Express, the only side that could catch United in the Mid Atlantic Division, was defeated 2-1 by the Long Island Rough Riders on Saturday night. Long Island could still match Reading’s 4-0 record in qualifying with one game remaining, but with the maximum amount of goal-difference that can be included in the standings being capped at +3 goals for, Long Island would fall short of United no matter the score against Ocean City on May 29.

The Open Cup appearance is Reading’s third in a row, and with a strong squad led by Bates and his University of Virginia teammates Brian Ownby and Brian Span, United is likely to be a challenge for any side that encounters it in the first round.

Chivas El Paso will return to the Open Cup for the ninth time in the club’s history after its completed a perfect run through qualifying with a 1-0 victory against the Baton Rouge Capitals on Saturday night. Rodrigo Morin scored his fourth goal of the PDL season to assure his side’s progression into the tournament.

With all of the other teams in the Mid South Division having suffered at least one defeat, Chivas El Paso continued its streak of qualifying for the Open Cup every other year since 2001.

Other qualifying races will likely come down to the final weekend of qualifying next weekend, with the MPS Portland Phoenix and Western Mass Pioneers likely facing a winner-take-all contest on Friday night should the Pioneers maintain their perfect record against the Vermont Voltage on Wednesday.

Other races may be decided by goal difference, with the Ventura County Fusion needing to defeat the Southern California Seahorses by more than two goals to complete a perfect qualifying record and edge out the Fresno Fuego in the Southwest Division. Fresno also finished 4-0 after a 4-1 win against the Ogden Outlaws on Saturday night.

The same may also apply in the Northwest Division after the Portland Timbers U23s and Kitsap Pumas played to a 0-0 draw last night to remain tied at the top of the standings with four points apiece. Both teams have games remaining against North Sound and Tacoma, who are also still alive and could jump up the standings with positive results. 

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

Sunday, May 22, 2011

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Harrisburg City Islanders lost for the first time at home in USL PRO this season as a pair of late goals by Max Griffin and Lewis Neal gave Orlando City a 3-1 victory at the Skyline Sports Complex on Sunday afternoon.

The City Islanders appeared to have a chance to earn a point when Stephen Basso tied the game in the 80th minute with a left-footed shot into the right corner of the net. But that wouldn’t stop Orlando City’s desire of taking all three points and in the 90th minute midfielder Lawrence Olum looped a left-footed cross that found Griffin, who headed home at the back post.

The Lions’ goal spree wasn’t over there as in stoppage time City Islanders’ defender Dustin Bixler fouled Griffin in the penalty area, allowing Neal to step up and fire home into the right corner of the net from the penalty spot for his second goal of the season.

Orlando City had opened the scoring in the second minute after City Islanders’ forward Brian Ombiji committed a foul just outside his own penalty area. The Lions would take advantage of their first goal-scoring opportunity of the game as Jack Traynor’s free kick found Demar Stewart to head home.

Minutes later, the City Islanders tried to answer back as midfielder David Schofield lofted the ball to J.T. Noone for a volley but it went straight to Orlando City’s goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo. In the 16th minute, City Islanders’ forward Jose Angulo fired from 35 yards out but the shot was just high over the top-left corner of the goal.

Orlando City had a dangerous chance in the 27th minute as Olum served a ball into the City Islanders’ box that came to Devorn Jorsling, but he popped up his shot. Olum also went close to adding a second goal for the Lions in the second half, only for Harrisburg goalkeeper Chase Harrison to save his header.  

The City Islanders’ next home game of the season is scheduled for 7 p.m. next Tuesday, May, 31 at the Skyline Sports Complex on City Island against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. For more information on the City Islanders, or to order tickets, contact the team at 717-441-GOAL, or visit www.cityislanders.com.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Sunday, May 22, 2011

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – The Pittsburgh Riverhounds (2-4-2) fell 3-0 to the Los Angeles Blues (5-2-2) as Chukwudi Chijindu scored in either half to end the Riverhounds’ undefeated streak at Chartiers Valley Stadium on Sunday evening. In the second game of a weekend doubleheader, tired legs were evident for the Hounds as they could not crack the Blues defense.

The Blues jumped on top in the 17th minute through a brilliant strike by Edwin Miranda. After Chijindu collected the ball at the top of the Riverhounds’ penalty area and laid the ball back for Miranda, he rifled a shot into the top right corner of the goal to put the Blues ahead.

Chijindu then scored his first 11 minutes later, a quality move up the left flank by the Blues finding the forward all alone with Riverhounds goalkeeper Hunter Gilstrap. Outside defender Mike Randolph began the build-up by overlapping Josh Tudela. Randolph played Walter Gaitan at the penalty spot, and the Argentinean flicked the pass over the defense and in stride for the slashing Chijindu, who tucked the ball into the back of the net.

The Riverhounds nearly cut the deficit in half in the second half as Stefan Lundberg’s individual effort was stifled by Blues’ goalkeeper Oscar Duatt. Lundberg received a pass at midfield and ran straight at the Blues defense. Outpacing four defenders, Lundberg found himself inside the penalty area and one-on-one with Duatt. Trying to gain his composure, Lundberg struck a low shot towards the right corner, but Duatt was in good position to make the save.

The Blues added a third goal in stoppage time to secure three points on the road as Chijindu received a pass from Gerardo Bravo behind the Riverhounds defense and slid a left-footed shot past Gilstrap for his second of the night.

The Riverhounds will host the Wilmington Hammerhead (4-1-0) next Saturday. The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. kickoff at Chartiers Valley Stadium.

The Blues take a month off in USL PRO action. Their next scheduled match is against the Harrisburg City Islanders (1-2-2) on June 24th.
 

Vancouver Whitecaps Women News Release -- www.whitecapsfc.com

Sunday, May 22, 2011

COQUITLAM, British Columbia -- Vancouver Whitecaps FC women raised their record to a perfect 2-0-0 Sunday afternoon in Coquitlam, winning their home opener 1-0 against rivals the Seattle Sounders in front of 1,555 enthusiastic fans at a sold-out Percy Perry Stadium. Striker Sydney Leroux scored on her homecoming late in the first half to give Whitecaps FC the victory.

Coach Hubert Busby Jr. made two changes form the squad that defeated Victoria Highlanders 2-0 in the season opener last Sunday. U.S. U-23 international midfielder Amber Brooks made her debut, prompting captain Kelsey Hood to shift to central defence. Up front, the crowd gave a big cheer to welcome back Vancouver-born U.S. international striker Sydney Leroux, who last played for Whitecaps FC as a 15-year-old in 2005.

The Whitecaps had the better of the play for most of the first half, out-shooting the visitors 9-3. Leroux came close just past the half-hour mark as she stole the ball from a defender at the edge of the box, but her shot was well saved by Sounders goalkeeper Elizabeth Ruiz.

Seattle’s best chance of the first half came from an in-swinging corner on the right by veteran Justi Baumgardt on 35 minutes, that had to be cleared off the line by Whitecaps midfielder Ranee Premji.

The Whitecaps netted the game’s only goal in first-half stoppage time as Tiffany Weimer sent Carrie Patterson breaking into the box on the right, and she centered for Leroux to first-time from five yards. It was Leroux’s first ever goal for the club.

Seattle had their chances in the second half, but couldn’t beat goalkeeper Kristen Funk, who recorded her second straight shutout. Funk turned back a good shot from Kara Kuttler inside the box in the 50th minute, then nine minutes later watched as new Seattle signing Lindsay Elston thudded a 20-yard effort off the crossbar.

The home side came close on 64 minutes as substitute Tina Romagnuolo fed a bouncing ball ahead to Leroux who chipped the onrushing keeper, but sent it just wide.

The Whitecaps were reduced to ten players in the 77th minute as midfielder Amber Brooks was shown a straight red card by referee Sasa Jecanski for foul language. Vancouver’s defence held firm though, as the Whitecaps picked up a big three points against their rivals, extending their regular season undefeated streak to 12 games over two seasons. Meanwhile it was the first time since 2009 that Seattle has lost on the road.

Coach Busby praised his defence after the match.

"That’s two wins and keeping a clean sheet, which I think is very important," he said. "You always give yourself an opportunity when you’re not leaking goals, and they were very solid at the back again today."

Making her debut as a defender was captain Kelsey Hood, who believes the team can only get better as the new arrivals start to gel.

"I think we’re going to get there," Hood said, "we keep having people come in, and we’re trying to feel each other out. It’s going to come."

The goal-scoring hero Leroux meanwhile was delighted to be playing in front of the enthusiastic home crowd.

"Canada and Vancouver will always be my home, so it was awesome to come back and it was an awesome crowd, and a really great atmosphere," Leroux said.

Much of the credit for the successful home-opener goes to Coquitlam Metro-Ford Soccer Club, who hosted the match.

The next chance for Whitecaps FC fans to see their team is on Friday at home to Colorado Rush in a 7 p.m. kickoff at Chilliwack’s Exhibition Stadium. The match is part of the Whitecaps Women’s Soccer Series presented by Kia - in partnership with the Girls Metro Soccer League, and is being hosted by Chilliwack FC. Tickets for all home games are available online for just $12 at www.whitecapsfc.com.

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Monday, May 23, 2011

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery welcomes the Richmond Kickers to Blackbaud Stadium on Tuesday night for an American Division USL PRO fixture. The game is a rematch of the 2010 USL-2 championship match that saw the Battery defeat Richmond 2-1. Tuesday’s game is the 43rd all-time meeting between the two sides in the rivalry’s nineteen-year history with the series deadlocked at 19-19-4.

The Battery (3-4-2) enters the game on the back of a 3-0 away loss against the Wilmington Hammerheads in a game played on Saturday night.

Richmond have got off to a great start to the USL PRO season and are unbeaten through seven games with six wins and one tie. One of those wins came at the expense of the Battery as Richmond came from behind to earn a 2-1 home victory back on April 23.

Levi Coleman opened the scoring in that match with a 16th-minute headed finish but second-half goals from David Bulow and Shaka Bangura lifted the Kickers to victory.

The Battery played Richmond five times in 2010 winning three games and losing twice. All three Battery wins came in the games played at Blackbaud Stadium; this season Charleston plays Richmond just twice in the USL PRO regular season.

Richmond’s roster includes two ex-Charleston Battery players; forward Mike Burke played for Charleston in 1998 & 1999 scoring nine goals and adding 10 assists in 37 games played. Midfielder Luke Vercollone played 66 games for the Battery in 2006 and 2007 scoring three goals with six assists.

Richmond head coach Leigh Cowlishaw has been with the Kickers since 1993 and was a member of the Kicker’s 1995 U.S. Open Cup winning side.

Two for Tuesday presented by the Sheraton North Charleston

It’s Two for Tuesday presented by the Sheraton North Charleston on Tuesday night at Blackbaud Stadium and fans can purchase two for one tickets plus $2 drafts all evening. For directions, more information or to purchase tickets please call (843) 971-GOAL (4625) or visit www.charlestonbattery.com.

Mississippi Brilla FC News Release -- www.brillasoccer.org

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

JACKSON, Miss. -- Mississippi Brilla FC players know that being a part of the fifth-year USL Premier Development League team for the summer is about more than just soccer. The PDL team is owned and operated by the staff of Brilla Soccer Ministries, an organization founded in 1996 that uses the sport of soccer to share the message of hope through Jesus with people around the world. Brilla uses the summer PDL season as an opportunity to expose its players to helping and serving other people.

"Each player that is on our team for the summer is able to experience a part of life that is so much greater than soccer," said President Rusty Bryant. "Through our summer church camps, our Urban Soccer Project, and community service projects, we are able to share with these young men the importance of giving back and serving other people."

The first service project of the young season took place on Tuesday afternoon at the Stewpot Community Services in Jackson, Miss. Every year, Stewpot Community Services provides thousands of men, women, and children with hot meals, groceries, clothing, shelter, childcare, mentoring and other programs to nurture them and help them get back on their feet. Members of the Brilla team assisted in the lunch serving line, and also served the people by delivering meals and drinks to the tables.

"Every player on our team participated," said Head Coach Dave Dixon. "From talking to some of the guys, I know that they got more out of it than the people they were serving."

The next community project for Mississippi Brilla is scheduled for Wednesday, June 1 when the team will assist with a Habitat For Humanity build.

USL News Release

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

TAMPA, Fla. – United Soccer Leagues announced today the W-League Team of the Week for the second week of play, naming L.A. Strikers forward Cherelle Khassal Player of the Week. Khassal netted two goals in three games, both of which were game-winners.

Partnering with Khassal at the offensive end are Rochester Ravens striker Chelsea Kuss and Colorado Rush striker Lindsay Horan. Both Kuss and Horan opened their goal-scoring accounts this past week, with each scoring twice in their teams’ opening wins of the 2011 season.

The Atlanta Silverbacks continued the season unbeaten thanks to midfielder Jamie Pollack, who scored the game-winning goal against the Charlotte Lady Eagles to ensure the Silverbacks sit atop the Atlantic Division with six points. Ashley Reinecke contributed 90 minutes in midfield and tallied a goal for the New Jersey Wildcats in an impressive victory against the New York Magic.

The Dayton Dutch Lions put their opening loss behind them, defeating the Virginia Beach Piranhas, 2-1, with midfielder Mandi Back adding an assist in the Lions’ win.

Nicol Choffel linked the Long Island Rough Riders defense to attack on Saturday with great distribution out of midfield. Choffel will be essential to the success of the Rough Riders this season and started out holding great possession for her team.

Pali’s defender Sasha Andrews held the Victoria Highlanders to two shots on target, and the 2-1 result meant the Blues kept pace with the L.A. Strikers and Vancouver in the Western Conference. Tori Allen anchored the Fredericksburg Impact defense against the Northern Virginia Majestics, earning her team’s first win of 2011.

Defender Christina Murillo also put in a stellar effort in the L.A. Strikers’ win against the Colorado Force. In goal, Kristen Funk had four saves and a shutout against Vancouver’s bitter rival, Seattle.

Portland Timbers U-23s News Release - www.portlandtimbers.com

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

PORTLAND, Ore. – Midfielder Bim Ogunyemi and forward Miles Byass each found the back of the net as the Portland Timbers U-23s topped the North Sound SeaWolves 2-0 in front of 2,762 at JELD-WEN Field on Wednesday afternoon.

Thousands of Portland-area kids descended on JELD-WEN Field for the first of two Health and Fitness School Days, presented by Providence Health & Services, for the Timbers U-23s in 2011. Portland dictated the tempo of the match, which led to a first-half goal by Ogunyemi and an early second-half tally for Byass. The Timbers U-23s out-shot North Sound 22-2 in the contest.

Ogunyemi scored his second goal of the season, Byass recorded a game-high seven shots and his first goal, while midfielder Tracy Hasson and forward Travis Bowen each logged assists to help the Timbers U-23s (2-1-1, 7pts) extend their unbeaten streak to three games.

Timbers U-23s goalkeeper Garrett Staples made two saves to pick up his first shutout of the season, helping the team to its third straight clean sheet and extending its stretch of consecutive minutes played without conceding a goal to 305 minutes.

Goalkeeper Claudio Lazar made eight saves, including five in the second half, in the first loss of the season for the SeaWolves (0-1-2, 2pts), ending a two-game unbeaten run to start the campaign.

Wednesday’s match doubled as one of four qualifiers for the Timbers U-23s for the 2011 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. With the win, the Timbers U-23s improve to 2-0-1 in qualifying games and will play their last qualifier Sunday in their regular-season meeting against the Tacoma Tide.

In the 22nd minute, the Timbers U-23s cracked the deadlock with a goal from a free kick by Ogunyemi. Defender Jesus Gonzalez was fouled on the fringe of the area. On the ensuring re-start, Ogunyemi received a short pass from Bowen before he blasted a low drive through the box and by Lazar for a 1-0 Timbers U-23s lead.

After taking five shots in the first half, Byass’ persistence paid off in the 49th minute, with this first goal as a member of the Timbers U-23s. Hasson worked the ball down the right side and deep in the corner, drawing out his defender and Lazar off his line. He crossed the ball in and Byass was able to finish into an open net to double the lead for Portland 2-0.

The Timbers U-23s pressured from the opening whistle and forced the SeaWolves to defend much of the first half; Portland held a 13-1 shot advantage in the opening half. Byass had a point-blank attempt in the 17th minute turned away on a diving stop by Lazar. Before the break, midfielder Nick Palodichuk’s follow-up shot off a corner kick hit off the right post.

Portland’s attack continued to pressure over the last half hour, leading to a series of close chances by Byass, Bowen, Palodichuk and midfielder Steven Evans. Evans nearly capitalized on a misplay by North Sound in the 73rd minute, intercepting the ball along the top of the box before firing a shot just wide.

Lazar made several key stops for the SeaWolves the second half. He punched away a dangerous chance by Byass in the 52nd minute and denied an open look by Palodichuk on a scramble off corner kick late in the match.

The Timbers U-23s return to action Sunday as they play host to the Tide at Clackamas High School in Clackamas, Ore., at 5 p.m. Tickets will be available for purchase at the gate on match day.

Notes: Timbers U-23s’ Evans and Byass made their first starts of the season … Evans had a goal waived off minutes after Byass’ strike in the second half; he was called offside on the play … Wednesday’s meeting was the first all-time between Portland and North Sound … Bowen’s assist was his first of the season … Ogunyemi also scored last season in the Timbers U-23s’ first Health and Fitness School Day, presented by Providence Health & Services, leading the team to a 1-0 win over Tacoma.

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Kevin Molino had a goal and an assist as Orlando City extended its undefeated streak to nine games with a 2-0 victory against the Richmond Kickers in front of a crowd of 4,517 fans at the Florida Citrus Bowl on Wednesday night.

Orlando City and Richmond came out aggressively in the first half, but it was the Lions who capitalized early to take the lead with a goal in the fourth minute from Lewis Neal.  Molino provided the assist, making a crisp pass to Neal through the defense to give the Englishman enough time to take a touch before shooting. Richmond goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale got a hand on the ball but it still found its way into the back of the net.

Orlando kept its momentum following the goal, and Molino was not finished making an appearance when he scored the second goal in the 13th minute. After midfielder Luke Boden fed the ball through to Molino, he fired a strong shot from just outside the penalty area that flew past Pascale into the net.

Richmond proved their abilities in the second half with more possession and assertively controlling their passes. Both Stanley Nyazamba and Shaka Bangura had opportunities to pull a goal back, but Orlando City goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo was able to record his sixth shutout of the season.

There was also some physicality in the second half that saw three yellow cards produced, one to Richmond forward David Rosenbaum and the other two to Orlando City's Boden and Max Griffin.

Coach Adrian Heath recognized that his players let themselves down in the opening game of the season against Richmond but the victory of this game was able to make amends for that loss.

“I think the most important thing here is the performance of the first half. The ball movement and ball retention was good,” said Heath. “I’m really pleased with the first half performance, we looked a little bit tired in the second and a little bit jaded, but overall it really was a good performance.”

The Lions remain at home for their next game, which is next Thursday as they host the Charlotte Eagles at 7:30 p.m.

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

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

LIBERTY, Mo.  – Entering tonight’s Premier Development League match against Kansas City, the Des Moines Menace harbored hopes of sending two teams to the 2011 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

The Brass put the kibosh on these plans, winning 2-1 at William Jewell College and forcing the Menace to settle for one team in the Open Cup. Des Moines (3-1-0) needed a victory in its final qualifying match to clinch the PDL Heartland Division’s berth, which instead goes to Real Colorado (4-0-0).

“It’s disappointing,” said Menace head coach Laurie Calloway. “I think our guys were a little complacent. They’ve had three good wins and played pretty well. Tonight, though, there wasn’t the sharpness we’ve seen in the first three games.”

Still, the Menace organization sends one squad to the 2011 Open Cup. The Iowa Menace secured a spot on April 30, with a 7-1 win over Kansas to secure one of the United States Adult Soccer Association’s (USASA) eight bids. This marks the third time the organization has made back-to-back appearances (2002-2003 and 2005-2006) in the United States Soccer Federation’s prestigious national tournament.

“To be in the Open Cup is a big honor,” Calloway said. “It’s obviously an achievement to have one team in the Open Cup; we were just hoping to have two teams in it.”

Kansas City took the Menace out of its rhythm, playing physically and overcoming a halftime deficit – the product of Luis Piffer’s successful penalty kick in the 29th minute, set up when teammate Lebogang Moloto was taken down in the box.

Despite playing a man down after a red card in the 45th minute, the Brass tied things on a corner kick in the 56th minute.
Des Moines lost the one-man advantage, and ultimately the match, in the 70th minute, when captain Coady Andrews, playing against his former team, received a red card that set up the winning penalty kick.

“A frustrating way to lose this one,” Calloway said. “We gave the game to them. We’re the better team but we didn’t show them.”

The Menace won’t have to wait long for a rematch, as these teams face off next Wednesday at Overland Park Soccer Complex.

This was only the second loss in the Menace’s last 24 road matches, and the first time since July 2004 that the team lost after leading at the half.

After snapping a nine-game winless streak against Des Moines, the Brass (2-2-0) has already won more games than it did a year ago (1-12-3).

Kansas City helped the Menace clinch the division’s Open Cup spot in 2010, by tying front-runner Rochester in its final qualifier. This time around, the Brass foiled the Menace’s plans and gave a hand to Real Colorado, helping the Foxes make their first visit to the Open Cup.

MR. B MAN of the MATCH: Luis Piffer, who scored the Menace’s lone goal, and his first of the season. The Brazilian guided Grand View to the Elite Eight of the 2010 NAIA National Tournament and earned all-America status and Midwest Collegiate Conference Player of the Year honors.

UP NEXT: Des Moines is idle over the Memorial Day Weekend. The Menace and the Brass meet at Overland Park Soccer Complex next Wednesday.

The Menace are back at Valley Stadium on Saturday, June 4, hosting Des Moines International on Youth Soccer Night, presented by Powerade and Vitamin Water. All youth-soccer players and coaches receive free admission when they wear their team jerseys or show their coaches’ passes.

Rochestet Rhinos News Release -- www.rhinossoccer.com

Thursday, May 26, 2011

ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- The Rochester Rhinos will close out a stretch of three straight home matches when they host the Wilmington Hammerheads at Sahlen’s Stadium this Friday night at 7:30 p.m. The club will then take to the road to face F.C. New York on Monday at 3 p.m.

Wilmington enters the match with a 4-1 record which includes a 1-0 win against Rochester back on April 17. Luke Mulholland, who tallied the game-winner against Rochester, leads the Hammerheads with three goals and seven points in 2011. They have won two consecutive games and reside in fifth place in the American Division with 12 points.

“Wilmington played us tough down there the last time we played and in the preseason,” said Rhinos Head Coach Bob Lilley. “Both teams know each other well so I anticipate a good match.”

Rochester meanwhile enters the match in second place (3-3-1, 10 points) in the National Division, currently trailing the Los Angeles Blues by seven points. Rookie JC Banks continues to lead the Rhinos with four points in 2011. The Rhinos have not surrendered a goal at home in three matches this season and goalkeeper Neal Kitson has not allowed a goal in 272 consecutive minutes.

Following Friday’s match the Rhinos will take the field for a Memorial Day matinee when they face F.C. New York at 3 p.m. from Belson Stadium on the campus of St. John’s University. Graciano Brito has tallied half of New York’s 2011 goal total with two. They reside just five points behind the Rhinos despite struggling early on this season. New York has managed one win in seven tries going 1-4-2 during that span.

“I expect New York to present us with a real challenge” said Lilley. “Earlier this month went to Charleston and got a result there so they are a team that has been improving.”

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

Thursday, May 26, 2011

DAYTON, Ohio — The Dayton Dragons and the Dayton Dutch Lions announced today that Saturday’s scheduled USL matches between the Dutch Lions and the Charlotte Eagles have been relocated due to safety concerns. The Miami Valley has received a substantial amount of rain over the last several months and because of that, the field conditions are not suitable for the soccer matches to take place this coming weekend.

Due to several consecutive days of heavy rainfall and inclement weather, the playing surface at Fifth Third Field will not have sufficient time to drain and dry in order for soccer to be played on Saturday.

The great potential for field damage and concerns for the safety of both the Dutch Lions and Eagles players, in addition to the Dragons and Beloit Snappers, who are scheduled to play in Dayton on Tuesday, forced the relocation of the event.

“We are very disappointed we will not have the opportunity to play at Fifth Third Field for this Saturday’s match, but unfortunately weather is something we cannot control and the safety of the players must come first," said Dutch Lions owner Mike Mossel. "The Dragons have been an extremely professional organization to work with and we are very appreciative for the hard work they have put into setting up the match; hopefully we will be able to reschedule for a future date. Although we are unable to play at Fifth Third Field we still hope to see our fans this Saturday at Miami Valley South Stadium to support the men’s and women’s teams.”

The doubleheader is now scheduled to take place at the Dutch Lions home stadium at Bellbrook High School  with the women’s W-League match between the Dayton Dutch Lions and Charlotte Lady Eagles starting at 5.30 p.m. and the men’s USL PRO match starting between the Dayton Dutch Lions and Charlotte Eagles at 8 p.m.

Those fans that have tickets to the game at Fifth Third Field will be able to use those tickets for the game at Bellbrook; if you cannot make it to the game at Bellbrook, your tickets are good for any future Dutch Lions home game.

For more information please contact the Dragons by calling at (937) 228-2287, emailing at dragons@daytondragons.com, or find us on the web at daytondragons.com.