Rochester Rhinos News Release -- www.rhinossoccer.com

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- The U.S. Open Cup tournament began across the country on Tuesday night and included for the 16th consecutive season was the Rochester Rhinos. Rochester welcomed Phoenix SC of Pennsylvania to Sahlen’s Stadium for their first round clash. Goals by JC Banks and Anthony Hamilton were enough to power the Rhinos to a 2-1 victory against the Majors and into the second round.

Rochester held the majority of possession during the first half and nearly struck first when Tyler Rosenlund drove the ball into the box as Tyler Bellamy moved in to get a head on the ball. The ball appeared as if it might find the net however Phoenix SC defender Jack Pocorobba cleared the ball off the line keeping the match scoreless.

The 27th minute saw the Rhinos open the scoring as Max Ferdinand sent Rosenlund wide. The Vancouver native dribbled around a defender to find rookie JC Banks in front of the net. Banks redirected the shot past a diving Tony Praticio for a 1-0 Rochester lead. Banks nearly doubled the Rhino's lead to begin the second half when Ferdinand carried the ball down low into the box, sending a cross to the rookie forward. Banks’ right-footed volley toward the far post was swallowed up by Praticio.

In the 54th minute the Rhinos were awarded a penalty kick after Ferdinand was fouled in the box by goalkeeper Practicio while on a breakaway. Anthony Hamilton converted the penalty shot low and to the right giving the Rhinos a 2-0 advantage. Practicio was given a yellow card for the challenge.

The right foot of Ferdinand set up Rich Costanzo on a similar play but the defender’s header caromed off the crossbar in the 50th minute. Rochester’s Michael Tanke had an opportunity to make the score 3-0 in the 62nd. Tanke took a through-ball, eluding a defender on the run, firing a low hard shot wide of the net.

After a battle for possession in the Rhino defensive box during the 71st minute, Scott Rowling of Phoenix found the ball at his feet and fired a low liner past the diving save attempt of Rhino keeper Ryan Kenny cutting the deficit to a score of 2-1. Just minutes later the visitors threatened to tie the score, but Kenny came off his line, cutting off the Phoenix attack as he cleared the ball out of the box with a sliding tackle. That was the last significant threat of the game and the Rhinos eliminated Phoenix from the tournament.

In the game’s waning moments Rochester almost added an insurance goal as Hamilton fired a left-footer that Praticio was sharp to stop and then watched as they rebound deflected off the crossbar.

"We learned some things today and overall it was OK. I think at 2-0 we need to manage that better and not let them back in it, but there were some positives for some guys that needed minutes today and I am happy that we got the result."

The Rhinos held off Phoenix in the final minutes to advance to the second round of U.S. Open Cup play. Rochester will take on Harrisburg on Tuesday, June 21 at 7:30 from Skyline Sports Complex in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Wilmington Hammerheads News Release -- www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

WILMINGTON, N.C. – Wilmington Hammerheads forward Andryi Budnny scored two goals in the second half to lead Wilmington to a solid 4-0 victory over the Central Florida Kraze in a first round game of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday night at Legion Stadium.

The Hammerheads will take on the Charlotte Eagles in the second round on Tuesday, June 21, at Legion Stadium in a 7:30 p.m. match.

Both teams struggled offensively in the opening 30 minutes with only two shots on goal, both by Budnyy.  But then a fancy-footed Jyler Noviello dribbled past the Kraze goalkeeper and several defenders and found the back of an open net for a 1-0 lead in the 33rd minute.

Wilmington continued to control the play offensively when midfielder Luke Mulholland tucked his shot inside the far post off an assist from Noviello in the 42nd minute to increase the margin to 2-0, which remained the score at halftime.

The Hammerheads continued to manufacture scoring opportunities after the break, outshooting the Kraze, 13-5, and in the 70th minute Budnyy’s third attempt on goal would not be denied as he fired a shot by the goalkeeper for his first goal of the match and a 3-0 Wilmington advantage.

Just minutes later, Budnyy fought his way to the front of the goal and capped the scoring with his second goal of the evening in the 73rd minute. Mulholland was credited with an assist on the play.

This Saturday, June 18, the Hammerheads will travel to Orlando, Fla., to take on league-leading Orlando City Lions in a 7:30 p.m. match that can be seen live on Fox Soccer as the USL PRO Game of the Week.

The Kraze will play away from home again on Thursday, June 16, in a 5:30 p.m. match against Bradenton at IMG Soccer Academy.

Orlando City News Release -- www.orlandocitysoccer.com

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando City kicked off their first match in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup against the ASC New Stars. Weather was a challenge for this game but it did not stop the 1,139 enthusiastic fans from packing the UCF Soccer Stadium. The Lions outlasted the weather and the New Stars for a dominating 4-0 victory.

Justin Fojo, Dennis Chin, Charlie Campbell and even goalkeeper Sean Kelley gave Orlando a fresh new energy to begin its first U.S. Open Cup match. Orlando established themselves in the first minutes of the game with passionate play from Jamie Watson and Kevin Molino assisting in the midfield to help the attack. The rhythm of the game weakened in the middle of the first half as both teams struggled to get the final ball necessary for a goal. The ASC defense packed the 18-yard box and shut down Orlando’s opportunities for goals.

Orlando City’s energy reignited when Devorn Jorsling finally secured his first goal of the season. Dennis Chin crossed the ball and Jorsling laid out for an diving header in the 28th minute to take the Lions to a 1-0 lead.

Shortly following the goal, Dennis Chin made a threatening run and beat multiple ASC defenders. Chin was fouled hard inside the box and gave Orlando City another great opportunity to score from the penalty spot. Jamie Watson took the penalty kick, but his shot struck the lower right post and rebounded away from the goal.  

The first half ended successfully for Orlando City when Kevin Molino blasted the ball into the net in the 42nd minute, giving the Lions an 2-0 lead. Chin recorded his second assist of the game with a cross that gave Molino his opportunity to score.

The Lions began the second half energetically and eager to score. Chin and Watson worked well together to get shots on goal that were just barely deflected by ASC’s keeper. Orlando’s energy and the entire game unfortunately came to a stop in the 58th minute due to severe weather. Lightning delayed the game for one hour, 24 minutes as teams and fans were forced to wait out the storm.

Orlando came back from the long break ready to attack and in the 60th minute with an immediate goal from Dennis Chin, who put the ball in the back of the net after battling hard against an ASC defender, pounding the ball low into far post. The keeper had no chance to stop the shot and Chin proved that he was more than capable of being a game-changer.

The Lions were still not finished. Devorn Jorsling capped off the night in the 77th minute with his second goal of the game officially giving Orlando a definitive 4-0 lead. Charlie Campbell assisted the goal by giving a solid cross on the ground.

The game finally concluded with a 4-0 victory for Orlando City in the first match of the 2011 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Despite the weather, Orlando did not let go of their energy and passion to score goals and to prevent anything less than a shutout.

“It felt great. I’ve been working hard this whole time being a rookie,” said Dennis Chin. “Adrian and all the coaches have been helping me out a lot to transition and it felt good to finally score my first goal.”

“I’ve been dying to be out there lately and it was a really good chance to get out there and have fun,” said Sean Kelley. “It was great to get a good win and a clean sheet.” 

Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

PITTSBURGH, Pa. -- The Pittsburgh Riverhounds needed overtime to defeat Chattanooga FC in the first round of the U.S. Open Cup. Jason Yeisley and Stefan Lundberg scored second-half goals for the Riverhounds, who had trailed 2-0 midway through the second half, to force an additional 30 minutes of play, and then second-year Riverhound Jeremy Deighton delivered the game-winner off a rebound in the 99th minute to provide the home side with a 3-2 advantage.

A physical challenge in the middle third gave Chattanooga the lead in the 14th minute of play. Chattanooga midfielder Ivan Heredia received the bouncing ball nearly 40 yards from goal and struck a looping shot over Hunter Gilstrap for the game’s first goal.

Following the break, Chattanooga would press forward down the right side and add to their lead. A strong possession by Chattanooga forward Chris Ochieng deep inside the Riverhounds defensive third landed him an opportunity to slot a pass back for Mark Beattie. Slashing through the penalty area, Beattie needed one touch to find the back of the net in the 55th minute.

A corner kick awarded to the Riverhounds in the 79th minute resulted in Yeisley heading home a service from Tommy Gray. A well driven ball to the back post by Gray was redirected by Yeisley to cut the Chattanooga lead in half.

With one minute remaining in regulation the Riverhounds would find the equalizer and force overtime. A diagonal pass from midfield was picked up by Gilstrap. Cleanly striking a drop kick, Gilstrap caught Chattanooga in transition providing Lundberg the space needed to bury a shot past Thomas Hunter.

The Riverhounds would then take the lead nine minutes into the first half of overtime when a hand ball by a Chattanooga defender gave the Riverhounds a set piece twenty five yards from goal. Gray rifled a bending right-footed shot around the wall forcing Hunter to dive to his right and parry the ball away from goal. Crashing the net with speed, Deighton slid the rebound past Hunter to score what would prove to be the decisive goal.

The Riverhounds will travel to face the Richmond Kickers next Tuesday for the second round of the U.S. Open Cup, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. at City Stadium.

Kitsap Pumas News release -- www.kitsapsoccerclub.com

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

EL PASO, Texas - A dream 2011 soccer season almost turned nightmarish for the Kitsap Pumas on Tuesday evening. But despite failing to capitalize on several key scoring opportunities early and finding themselves down two shootout goals after a scoreless regulation and overtime session - 120 minutes of continuous play - the Pumas chose not to go gently into that good night. By the decisive fifth shooter, the final tiebreaking segment was knotted at 3-3, signaling sudden death.

After Chivas El Paso’s Christian Landa missed the Kitsap net entirely, Puma rookie forward Bryan Burke - his club’s ninth shooter - closed the show with a bullet past a diving Diego Briseno and into the top-left corner of the net. That game-winner kept Kitsap unbeaten on the season in all competitions - and made a winner out of first-time starting goalie Zac Lubin as the Pumas advanced out of the first round of the 2011 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Tournament. It is the second consecutive year the club has accomplished this feat.

With the 0-0 (6-5) victory, Kitsap (7-0-1 record in league play; 1-0-0 in Cup play) will host Real Colorado (5-0 winners over the DV8 Defenders) Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. at home in second round action. El Paso (5-4) will return to its United Soccer League Player Development League Mid South Division play.

"I just picked a spot to go to and if he saves it, he saves it," said Burke, who still officially has no goals on the season despite netting one of Kitsap’s biggest goals of this season. "Everyone was going to the right [side] and the goalie was making some saves."

Lubin made a couple of those big saves himself, stretching out his 6-foot-6 frame as far as he could to his own left, as the Puma’s crawled back from an early deficit.

"I knew that if I made some saves, [my teammates] would put some balls past ‘em and come back."

Lubin was called into action after starting goalie Bryan Meredith (4 shutouts) went down with an ankle strain during last week’s league action.

"When I saw Bryan in a boot Saturday, I kind of had an idea [the start in El Paso woud be his]," the 21-year-old former St. Martin’s keeper said. "And he came up to me and said, ‘You’re our guy and I believe in you.’ "

Kitsap head coach Peter Fewing said Meredith could be out for a couple of weeks, which makes makes him a likely no-go for Friday’s home match with Abbotsford and at least questionable for Round 2 Tuesday versus Colorado.

"I was proud of the guys. We flew out of Seattle this morning at six a.m.," said Pumas head coach Pete Fewing, who saw his team continue a storybook season which includes his Pumas avenging their lone hiccup—a 0-0 tie versus reigning PDL champ Portland — with a momentous 3-2 victory just under two weeks ago. "The wake-up call was at 4 a.m. That’s pretty early."

Lubin might have received his wake-up call a little later, laying out to his left for a fingertip save of El Paso’s Rodrigo Morin late in the second overtime to officially let his team know he was putting up a wall in front of the posts.

"I’m young, but I’ve been around these guys who have a lot of experience," said the first-year PDL player Lubin. "I think it’s helped that I’ve been able to watch and see how fast this game moves."

The Pumas pounced on El Paso from the night’s opening kickoff, amassing nine corner kicks in the game’s first six minutes to dominate both time of possession and field position, yet not the scoreboard, in a 0-0 first half. Kitsap scoring leader Matt Friessen (five goals) came the closest to getting his club on the books, ringing a penalty kick off the right post in the 23rd minute before getting stoned by a diving Chivas El Paso goalie Diego Briseno on a 20-yard rip some 20 minutes later.

"The way we started," Fewing said. "We just needed to get one. We had our chances."

Burke got hauled down from behind by a red-carded and ejected Hugo Samano Contreras on the final play in the second overtime. David Gray’s subsequent free kick from just a foot outside the goalie’s box sailed well high as the whistle sounded to send the scoreless contest to shootout.

Once there, Nik Besagno, Elliott Fauske, Mark Lee, Dave Gray, and Steve Mohn all netted shootout goals to set the stage for Burke.

"I’m glad it was Bryan Burke taking that," Fewing said. "He’s a great finisher."

The 40-team U.S. Open Cup field, with nine representatives from the PDL, 11 from the third-division USL PRO, eight from the United States Adult Soccer Association and four other clubs from the National Premier Soccer League, was whittled by 16 squads after Tuesday’s first-round match-ups. Eight second-round games are scheduled for Tuesday, June 21 with those winners to pair off versus eight Major League Soccer clubs June 28 in Round of 16 action.

Those MLS teams, which receive byes through the first two rounds, include two-time defending Open Cup champion Seattle, runner-up Columbus, the 2010 league champ Los Angeles Galaxy, second-place Real Salt Lake, FC Dallas and New York along with qualifiers Chicago and Sporting Kansas City.

Quarterfinals are set for July 12 with the semis seven weeks later on Aug. 30.

The title match will be played Oct. 4.

Tickets for Friday's home match are on sale now. Tickets for Tuesday's Cup match will go on sale at 2 p.m. tomorrow.

All tickets are available online at www.brownpapertickets.com.

USL News Release - www.uslsoccer.com

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

TAMPA, Fla. – United Soccer Leagues announced the W-League Team of the Week today, with Virginia Beach’s Steffi Goddard named Player of the Week for the second consecutive week. After scoring a hat trick last week including a stoppage-time winner, Goddard put three past Dayton this week, once again including a stoppage-time game-winning goal.

Following Virginia Beach’s first win last week, the Piranhas headed to Dayton, home of the Atlantic Division leading Dutch Lions. Goddard started the match off with a goal in the seventh minute and struck again in the 56th to give the Piranhas a 3-2 lead. Dayton thought it had sewn up a draw with a game-tying strike in the 85th minute, but Goddard came to the rescue once more with another stoppage-time winner.

“Steffi’s performance this weekend shows just how much she understands the game of soccer,” Piranhas coach Wendy Waddell said. “Her positioning on the field and pure athletic ability allows her to create scoring opportunities.”

The hat trick put Goddard second in the W-League scoring charts with six goals. Tied with Goddard is fellow Team of the Week selection Edite Fernandes of Santa Clarita, who scored twice last week. Both women are chasing Tiffany Weimer of Vancouver, whose game winner against LA put her atop the scoring charts.

Defenders got in the act as well, with Elizabeth Eddy and Laura Novikoff each netting game-winners for their respective sides.

U.S. Open Cup Round-Up

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

USL PRO’s Pittsburgh Riverhounds made a dramatic comeback to advance into the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday night as goals by Jason Yeisley and Stefan Lundberg sent the game to overtime before Jeremy Deighton bagged an overtime game-winner in a 3-2 win against the NPSL’s Chattanooga FC.

Chattanooga had taken a halftime lead through Ivan Heredia in the 14th minute and then doubled its advantage 10 minutes after the break through Mark Beattie. But Yeisley got the comeback underway with 11 minutes to go, heading in Tommy Gray’s corner, before Lundberg latched onto a long pass by Hunter Gilstrap to find the equalizer in the 89th minute.

Deighton then capitalized on a rebound from Gray’s free kick that allowed him to fire home in the 99th minute for what proved to be the game-winner.

KITSAP PUMAS 0, CHIVAS EL PASO PATRIOTS 0: The Kitsap Pumas took a 6-5 victory in a penalty shootout with Bryan Burke ending up the hero in the ninth round as his finish ended the match at Patriot Field.

Kitsap had the opportunity to take the lead from the penalty spot in the first half, only for Matt Friesen to hit the post. The Pumas had other opportunities to take the lead, as did the Patriots, but in the end it came down to a shootout. After the two teams finished tied 3-3 through five shots, they matched each other goal for goal and miss for miss for three rounds. Following Christian Landa’s miss for El Paso to open the ninth round, Burke stepped up and fired home to send his side through.

RICHMOND KICKERS 4, DAYTON DUTCH LIONS 1: David Bulow led the Kickers to victory at City Stadium with a hat trick, giving the forward 11 goals for his career in the Open Cup.

Bulow scored twice before the break, both assisted by Shaka Bangura, but the Dutch Lions threatened to get back into the game when Marvin van der Pluijm converted a penalty in the 60th minute. The Kickers got a penalty of their own five minutes later though, which allowed Bulow to compete his hat trick.

HARRISBURG CITY ISLANDERS 2, READING UNITED 1: The City Islanders left it late to grab victory against Reading, but goals by J.T. Noone in the 86th minute and Sainey Touray in second-half stoppage time allowed Harrisburg to down 10-man United at the Skyline Sports Complex.

Reading had given themselves a chance to spring the upset of their fellow Philadelphia Union affiliate when David Rodriguez headed home Christian Barreiro’s free kick in the first half, but eight minutes after the break they were reduced to 10 men when Stephen Okai was sent off.

The City Islanders couldn’t find a way through the United defense until there were four minutes to go, though, as Noone capitalized on Jason Hotchkin’s knock-down for the equalizer. Touray then continued his recent late-game heroics, finishing after Jordan Seabrook’s pass set up his opportunity.

F.C. NEW YORK 3, WESTERN MASS PIONEERS 0: Jhonny Arteaga had his first hat trick as a professional as New York earned victory against the Pioneers at the Met Oval.

Arteaga opened the scoring five minutes before halftime and added a second just three minutes after the break. While the Pioneers were able to create chances, outshooting New York 8-6, they were unable to properly test goalkeeper Steve Ruiz in the New York goal.

CHARLOTTE EAGLES 3, CAROLINA DYNAMO 1: The Eagles got second-half goals by Diego Martinez and Alan Sanchez to advance past the PDL’s Dynamo at Macpherson Stadium.

The Eagles had taken the lead through Darren Toby, and were poised to add to that when they were awarded a penalty in the 26th minute. Carolina’s standout goalkeeper Scott Goodwin made the save from Jorge Herrera, though, and the Dynamo then found an equalizer six minutes before halftime as Robbie Lovejoy finished nicely into the right corner of the net.

The Eagles retook the lead early in the second half, though, as Martinez struck four minutes in. Sanchez, who assisted on Martinez’s goal, then added an insurance tally five minutes from the end.

CHICAGO FIRE PREMIER 1, IOWA MENACE 0: Chris Estridge scored with three minutes to go to lift the Fire Premier into the second round after a back-and-forth contest at Valley Stadium.

Both teams had chances to take the lead, the Fire favoring a more patient build-up while the Menace looked to strike quickly on the counter-attack. The Menace almost took the lead late in the game through Deshorn Brown, but it wasn’t until Estridge’s solo run and low shot that the deadlock was broken.

ROCHESTER RHINOS 2, PHOENIX SC 1: The Rhinos got goals either side of halftime by JC Banks and Anthony Hamilton, although they had to hold on late to earn victory against Phoenix SC at Sahlen’s Stadium.

Banks gave the Rhinos the lead in the 27th minute before Hamilton slotted home a penalty kick nine minutes after the break. But just as the Rhinos appeared to be cruising into the next round, Philadelphia-base Phoenix struck back with 18 minutes to go through Scott Rowling. The Rhinos were able to hold on for victory, though, extending their perfect record in the Open Cup against teams from lower divisions.

LOS ANGELES BLUES 3, HOLLYWOOD UNITED 1: A pair of goals on his debut from Mehrshad Momeni allowed the Blues to overcome finishing the game with nine men at Riverside Community College.

The Blues were reduced to 10 men in the 19th minute as Leo Griffin was sent off, but Momeni gave his side the lead in the 37th minute when he fired home from long range for a halftime lead. Momeni, who was making his first appearance for the Blues, then added his second in the 56th minute with a shot from 25 yards.

Hollywood pulled a goal back as Arturo Albarran found the back of the net in the 67th minute, but after both teams saw a player sent off with five minutes to go, Gerardo Bravo put the game away for the Blues in the final minute as he caught Hollywood goalkeeper Raul Calderon off his line and looped a shot from over 40 yards into the back of the net.

CHARLESTON BATTERY 2, REGALS FC 0: The Battery got a pair of second-half goals, one from Nicki Paterson from the penalty spot and the other late on from Dane Kelly, to move past the USASA qualifier at Blackbaud Stadium.

After an uneventful first half, the Battery earned a penalty three minutes into the second half when Levi Coleman was brought down in the penalty area. Paterson stepped up and scored his fifth goal of the season in all competitions. Kelly then fired home in the 85th minute to seal the victory from close range after good work by Jason Massie and Seedy Bah created the opportunity.

ORLANDO CITY 4, ASC STARS 0: Orlando saw its game get delayed by an 84-minute weather stoppage early in the second half, but it barely affected the Lions’ performance at the UCF Soccer and Track Complex.

Devorn Jorsling scored his first two goals for the club, one either side of halftime, while Dennis Chin also had a goal and two assists as the Lions swept to victory.

WILMINGTON HAMMERHEADS 4, CENTRAL FLORIDA KRAZE 0: Goals before the break by Jyler Noviello and Luke Mulholland and a brace after it by Andriy Budnyy allowed the Hammerheads to cruise to victory against their PDL opponent.

It took over half-an-hour for the Hammerheads to make their initial breakthrough, but Noviello did well to hold off his defender and shoot low into the net in the 33rd minute. Mulholland then finished crisply after a turnover by the Kraze led to a well-worked opportunity that ended when the rookie bent a shot from the edge of the penalty area into the top-right corner of the net. Budnyy then added a pair of goals in the second half as the Hammerheads continued their strong home form this season.

REAL COLORADO FOXES 5, DV8 DEFENDERS: The Foxes had little difficulty in earning their first Open Cup victory in their first foray into the tournament as five different players found the back of the net against the Defenders.

Taylor Kemp opened the scoring for the Foxes before Isaias Schafer and Kyle Christensen, who recently played for the Colorado Rapids Reserves, also added goals before halftime. Sterling Copeland and Craig Thompson then found the net after the break to complete the rout.

VENTURA COUNTY FUSION 3, DOXA ITALIA 1: The Fusion advanced to the second round despite falling behind early to Doxa as goals by Andy Rose, Mark Magee and Reed Williams sent them through.

Doxa struck after just five minutes through Bryan Byrne, but the Fusion countered with a pair of goals 10 minutes apart to take the lead at the break. Rose first converted from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute before Magee fired home just before halftime. Williams then added an insurance goal in the 78th minute.

U.S. OPEN CUP SECOND ROUND

All games Tuesday, June 21, 2011

All times Eastern

F.C. New York at N.Y. Pancyprian Freedoms, 7 p.m., Belson Stadium, Queens, N.Y.

Rochester Rhinos at Harrisburg City Islanders, 7 p.m., Skyline Sports Complex, Harrisburg, Pa.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds at Richmond Kickers, 7 p.m., City Stadium, Richmond, Va.

Charlotte Eagles at Wilmington Hammerheads, 7:30 p.m., Legion Stadium, Wilmington, N.C.

Orlando City at Charleston Battery, 7:30 p.m., Blackbaud Stadium, Charleston, S.C.

Chicago Fire Premier at Madison 56ers, 8 p.m., Breese Stevens Field, Madison, Wisc.

Real Colorado Foxes at Kitsap Pumas, 10 p.m., Bremerton Memorial Stadium, Bremerton, Wash.

Los Angeles Blues at Ventura County Fusion, 10 p.m., Ventura College, Ventura, Calif.
 

U.S. Soccer News Release

Wednesday, June 2011

CHICAGO – U.S. Soccer has announced the possible home teams for the third round of the 2011 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Results from the second round of play on June 21 will determine the match-ups for the third round to take place one week later on Tuesday, June 28, with one game to possibly be played on Wednesday, June 29.

The first round concluded on Tuesday with 16 lower division teams advancing to the second round. The winners of the second round will advance to the third round to face one of the eight qualified Major League Soccer teams. The quarterfinals will be played July 12, followed by the semifinals on Tuesday, Aug. 30 and the 2011 U.S. Open Cup final on Tuesday, Oct. 4.

2011 LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP THIRD ROUND POSSIBLE PAIRINGS

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Thursday, June 16, 2011

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery will play England’s Portsmouth F.C. in an international exhibition match on Wednesday, July 27 at Blackbaud Stadium; Daniel Island, SC; gates will open at 6 p.m. with kick off set for 7:45 p.m. This marks the second consecutive year that the Battery have hosted an English side; last July the Battery played Bolton Wanderers in front of a sold out crowd of 5,249.

Tickets for this special exhibition match will go on sale at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, June 21. Tickets are priced starting at just $20 with discounts available for groups of 10 or more. To purchase tickets or for more information please call (843) 971-GOAL (4625) or visit www.charlestonbattery.com.

This special exhibition match is presented by the Angie Gainey Bailey Real Estate Team.

Portsmouth F.C. competes in the English Championship and are managed by Steve Cotterill, who took the helm in June 2010.

Pompey boss Steve Cotterill said: “We’re really looking forward to meeting the people of Charleston and know that their hospitality will be top class, while I’m told the training facilities and pitch are magnificent.

“We’re looking forward to getting out there and building a relationship with the guys at Charleston during our time there.”

Formed in 1898 Portsmouth have been champions of England twice, in 1949 and 1950, and have won the FA Cup twice, most recently in 2008 when they beat Welsh side Cardiff 1–0 in the final with Nwankwo Kanu scoring the only goal. Portsmouth also made it to the FA Cup final in 2010 losing 1-0 to Chelsea.

The Portsmouth roster includes several notable players including Republic of Ireland international Liam Lawrence and team captain Aaron Mokoena who also the captain of the South African national team.

Nigerian forward Nwankwo Kanu joined Portsmouth in 2006 after spells with Ajax, Inter Milan and Arsenal in a career that has seen him win the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Cup, as well as an Olympic gold medal in 1996.

Charleston Battery vs. international opposition

Charleston has a long tradition of hosting foreign clubs starting back in 1993 when the Battery played Jamaican Premier League side Constant Springs FC and Latvian team, FK-RAF Riga.

The Battery defeated then English Championship side Sunderland A.F.C by a score of two goals to one in 2004 and has twice hosted Mexican Primera opposition defeating Puebla F.C. and then losing a match versus Atlante FC.

In recent years the Battery has hosted Jamaican Premier League side Village United and last July lost 2-0 in an international exhibition with English side Bolton Wanderers.

Group Ticket Discounts

Groups of 10 or more can purchase discounted tickets for this match. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call (843) 971-GOAL (4625) or visit www.charlestonbattery.com.

Richmond Kickers News Release -- www.richmondkickers.com

Thursday, June 16, 2011

RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers return to USL PRO regular season action this Friday as the club hosts Kick for the Cure Night, presented by HCA Virginia, as the Kickers face the Harrisburg City Islanders at City Stadium at 7 p.m. Kickers Pink Packs are on sale at RichmondKickers.com for just $40 and include four general admission tickets and four limited edition pink Kickers t-shirts. The Kickers will donate $10 from each Pink Pack directly to Susan G. Komen for the Cure of Central Virginia.

"We are looking forward to the Harrisburg game,” said Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Head Coach and Director of Soccer. “At this point in the season, the games come thick and fast and we will need to be at our very best to earn the three points we need to stay in contention for a playoff berth.”

Holding a narrow edge over Antigua Barracuda FC for second place in the USL PRO American Division standings, the Kickers (7-2-2, 23 points) returned to winning ways with a 2-0 win over F.C. New York last weekend. A pair of first-half goals by forwards Edson Elcock and Matthew Delicâte gave the Kickers their first win since May 7th. Kickers goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale posted four saves to earn his fourth shutout of the season and was named to the USL PRO Team of the Week honors for his efforts.

Harrisburg (4-4-2, 14 points) resides in third place in the National Division, just four points behind division leaders the Rochester Rhinos, who recently defeated the City Islanders 1-0 last weekend. Harrisburg was coming off a 4-1 midweek victory against the Dayton Dutch Lions, during which Jose Angulo and Brian Ombiji each recorded a pair of first half tallies.

Over the past five seasons, the Kickers hold a 9-2-5 record over the City Islanders. The two clubs last met in Harrisburg on May 14 when they battled to a 1-1 draw. City Islanders midfielder Nelson Becerra converted a penalty kick to give the home side the lead early in the second half. The Kickers were reduced to 10 men shortly after, when Elcock was ejected in the 66th minute. The City Islanders stalwart defense held onto the advantage until Kickers midfielder Shaka Bangura broke through with the equalizer in the 82nd minute.

The heated rivalry continues as Richmond has not forgotten the 2007 USL-2 Championship match when Harrisburg stripped the defending champions of the title after nine rounds of penalty kicks. The two clubs met four times during the regular season last year, with the Kickers coming away with 3-0-1 record over their rivals. Opening the 2010 campaign with a 2-2 stalemate in Richmond, the Kickers served the City Islanders a trio of shutouts later that season with Delicâte tallying four of the Kickers' six goals.

Players to Watch

Kickers: Midfielder David Bulow burst onto the scoring scene Tuesday night, recording a hat trick in the Kickers 4-1 U.S. Open Cup first round win against the Dayton Dutch Lions. The Kickers fan favorite has also added three goals during the regular season, good for fourth place on the team in scoring with 12 points.

Midfielder Michael Callahan returned to the lineup this week after being sidelined through injury since April. Anchoring the midfield, he earned the inaugural USL PRO Player of the Week honors following his solid performance in the 2-0 season opening win over Orlando City on April 2.

In his 12th season with the Kickers, goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale earned USL PRO Team of the Week honors this week for the first time during the 2011 campaign after posting four heroic saves in his fourth clean sheet of the season. Pascale’s acrobatics also smothered Dayton’s attack during last night’s US Open Cup victory.

City Islanders: Newcomer Sainey Touray notched the game-winning goal during stoppage time during last night’s 2-1 win over Reading United AC. The former New York Red Bulls midfielder’s last-gasp tally boosted the City Islanders to a second round match-up against the Rochester Rhinos on June 21.

In his fourth season with Harrisburg, midfielder Brian Ombiji is second on the team in scoring with two goals and two assists for six points, most recently recording a pair of goals in a two-minute span against Dayton earlier this month.

The 2009 USL-2 GAA Champion and All-League Second Team Goalkeeper Chase Harrison returned to Harrisburg this season after spending the 2010 campaign in Richmond, making two appearances with the Kickers.

U.S. Open Cup Update

Kickers midfielder David Bulow recorded his second career hat trick Tuesday night to propel the Kickers to a 4-1 victory over the Dayton Dutch Lions in the First Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Midfielder Shaka Bangura contributed a pair of assists before adding a tally of his own in the 89th minute. The Kickers will host the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the Second Round next Tuesday, June 21 at 7 p.m. at City Stadium and are just one win away from a third round match-up against Major League Soccer's Columbus Crew on Tuesday, June 28. Visit RichmondKickers.com for more information.

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Thursday, June 16, 2011

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- The Charleston Battery take on the Dayton Dutch Lions on Friday night at Blackbaud Stadium; gates open at 6 p.m. with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ($10 - $18, (843) 971-GOAL (4625) / www.charlestonbattery.com). This will be the second meeting for the teams this season; the Battery defeated Dayton 2-1 back on April 16 in game played in Dayton, Ohio.

Charleston (5-5-3) has not played a USL PRO match since June 4, a 1-0 loss to the Harrisburg City Islanders. The Battery defeated Regals FC 2-0 on Tuesday night in the first round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

Charleston Battery head coach Mike Anhaeuser should have the majority of his squad to select from with Cole Peverley returning to training this week after recovering from an ankle sprain. Graham Dugoni and JC Mack are the only other injury doubts ahead of Friday’s match.

Dayton (1-6-2) enters the match on the back of three straight losses against Richmond, New York and Harrisburg. The Dutch Lions lone win so far was on June 4 with a 2-1 victory against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.

The Dayton Dutch Lions moved up to USL PRO for the 2011 season after one year in the USL Premier Development League that saw them earn a third-place finish.

Dayton is coached by Ivar van Dinteren, who played for the Dutch Lions in 2010. A native of the Netherlands van Dinteren played over 300 games in the Premier League and First Division in Holland. He also played for the Dutch National Youth teams up to the U23 level.

T-Shirt Night presented by avVenta

It's T-Shirt giveaway night on Friday presented by avVenta and the first 1,000 fans through the turnstiles will receive a free Charleston Battery t-shirt. Tickets are available starting at just $10; to purchase tickets or for more information please call (843) 971-GOAL (4625) or visit www.charlestonbattery.com.

Battery to battle Orlando City in U.S. Open Cup second round

The Charleston Battery will host fellow USL PRO side Orlando City in the second round of the U.S. Open Cup at Blackbaud Stadium next Tuesday (June 21); gates will open at 6 p.m. with kick off set for 7:30 p.m. The Battery advanced to the second round with a 2-0 victory over Regals FC behind goals from Nicki Paterson and Dane Kelly.

Orlando defeated the ASC New Stars 4-0 in their first round match. The winner of the Battery vs. Orlando match will advance to the third round to face Major League Soccer's FC Dallas at Pizza Hut Park on Tuesday, June 28.

Tickets for Tuesday's match against Orlando are on sale now starting at just $10 with discounts available for 2011 Season Ticket holders and groups of 10 or more; Three Lions Club members receive complimentary tickets to all USOC matches. To purchase tickets or for more information please call (843) 971-GOAL (4625) or visit www.charlestonbattery.com.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Thursday, June 16, 2011

PITTSBURGH, Pa. -- The Pittsburgh Riverhounds (2-7-3) will face the Rochester Rhinos (5-4-3) for a National Division contest Friday night at Sox Harrison Stadium on the campus of Edinboro University. The two clubs are playing a showcase match to kick off the PA West Open Tournament.

The Riverhounds and Rhinos met for an exhibition game in Rochester in early April. The preseason friendly ended in a 1-1 draw at Sahlen’s Stadium in Rochester. The Riverhounds recorded the game’s first goal off a corner kick in the 12th minute of play. Matt Tuttle delivered a cross to the penalty stripe and connected with Jason Yeisley rising above the crowd and heading the ball into the right corner of the goal. 

The Rhinos wasted little time to draw even. Following an attempted clearance by the Riverhounds defense, Tony Donatelli collected the bouncing ball at the top of the penalty area and confidently slid a right-footed shot into the back of the net in the 15th minute.

Game Outlook

The history between the Riverhounds and Rhinos on the field has been a physical and intense environment since the days of the A-League, in 1999. The Rhinos eliminated the Riverhounds from the postseason in 1999 and 2001 and from the U.S. Open Cup the last three years.

The two clubs know each other well and are in the same division for the first time since 2003. At the midway point of the season, the Rhinos are sitting atop of the National Division while the Riverhounds are in fifth place. With playoffs on the mind, the teams are focused on playing their best soccer in the second half of the season.

The game is scheduled for an 8 p.m. start at Sox Harrison Stadium.

Tickets can be purchased by calling into the Riverhounds Office at 412.539.1191 or at the ticket booth on game day.

Youth General Admission--$6 Adult General Admissions--$9

Group Tickets (10-19)--$5 each Group Tickets (20 or more)--$4 each
 

USL News Release

Thursday, June 16, 2011

TAMPA, Fla. – United Soccer Leagues today announced the USL Premier Development League Team of the Week for Week 7 of the season, honoring Orange County Blue Star midfielder Chandler Hoffman after his five goals in three games helped his side complete a perfect three-game road trip and move back into the playoff race in the Western Conference’s Southwest Division.

Hoffman opened the week with a hat trick in a 5-2 win against the LA Blues 23 and then added a goal apiece in Blue Star’s victories against the Ogden Outlaws and BYU Cougars.

The Thunder Bay Chill’s Brandon Swartzendruber also had a big week, scoring three goals in two games against the Des Moines Menace. He was joined in the Team of the Week’s attack by the Carolina Dynamo’s Robbie Lovejoy, who scored twice as his side rallied for a 3-2 victory on the road against the West Virginia Chaos, and New Orleans’ Patrick Mullins, who had both goals in the Jesters’ 2-1 win against the Mississippi Brilla.

Chivas El Paso’s Jorge Muniz was named as the Team of the Week’s goalkeeper, beating out strong competition as he saved two penalty kicks in the Patriots’ 1-0 victory against West Texas United, while a pair of midfielders who struck game-winning goals were also selected as Brandon Chagnard gave his side a 1-0 victory in Laredo and 16-year-old Nicolas Russo scored the only goal in the Central Florida Kraze’s 1-0 win against FC Jax.

USL Premier Development League Team of the Week

Honorable Mention: Abbotsford – Danfi Parker; BYU – James Bindrup; Central Florida – Keneil Baker; El Paso – Omar Tena; FC London – Carl Haworth; Jersey – Ryan Meara, Pila Legobang; LA Blues 23 – Tony Sandoval; Laredo – Greg Mulamba; Long Island – Keith Detelj; Michigan – Kenny Uzoigwe; Mississippi – Moses Aduby; New Orleans – Paris Simmons; Northern Virginia – Robert Burke, Ahmed Sheta; Orange County – Fernando Monge, Sam Chappell; Portland U23s – Miles Byass, Brent Richards; Real Maryland – Travis Pittman; Schulz Academy – William Suedois; Southern California – Ryan Shaw; Vancouver – Long Tan; Virginia Beach – Thiago Silva; Westchester – Greg Cumpstone, Jake Keegan, Dan Panchano; West Virginia – Richard Isberner.
 

Richmond Kickers News Release -- www.richmondkickers.com

Friday, June 17, 2011

RICHMOND, Va. – Despite facing a formidable opponent in the Harrisburg City Islanders, the Richmond Kickers had to deal with an even greater enemy in their 1-0 loss Friday night — the goal frame. 

The Kickers were denied by the woodwork on three occasions in an enthralling match that could have seen either team earn the three points. The first half was played at break-neck pace, with both sides creating numerous scoring opportunities. But it was Harrisburg's Jason Hotchkin that had the only goal of the game in first-half stoppage time to give the City Islanders their first road victory of the USL PRO season.

Richmond’s best scoring opportunity came in the 21st minute, when Nozomi Hiroyama collected a through ball just inside the Harrisburg penalty area, rounded goalkeeper Chase Harrison and set himself to shoot on the empty net. Harrisburg’s defense was alert to the danger though, and put just enough pressure on the midfielder to force his shot onto the post and out to safety.

Kickers defender Sascha Görres nearly broke the deadlock three minutes later following a set piece, but his shot cannoned off the crossbar and into touch for a Harrisburg goal kick. Veteran goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale was called on to make a point-blank save to deny the City Islanders an opener following a corner kick in the 28th minute. Harrison denied Edson Elcock a potential goal-of-the-season effort in the 31st minute after the Richmond striker juggled over an Islanders defender and turned to shoot.

Possession switched between the two teams as attack after attack developed and fizzled out, but Harrisburg finally made the breakthrough in first half stoppage time when Jose Angulo launched a cross-field ball to Hotchkin, who just beat the offside trap. Hotchkin closed in on Pascale one-on-one and poked a shot beyond the keeper and into the side netting in the final act of the half.

Richmond introduced Tuesday’s U.S. Open Cup heroes David Bulow, Stanley Nyazamba and Shaka Bangura in the second half as they pressed for an equalizer. The trio nearly combined for a late equalizer after Bangura was fouled just outside the box in the 90th minute, but Bulow’s header from Nyazamba’s cross found the crossbar yet again.

“We need to make sure we’re getting points on the road," Harrisburg coach Bill Becher said. "We’ve done well at home, but we hadn’t been able to win on the road yet, so this was huge for us.”

The Kickers will return to action at City Stadium on Tuesday at 7 p.m., as they face the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the second round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. For more information, visit www.richmondkickers.com.

Charleston Battery News Release -- www.charlestonbattery.com

Friday, June 17, 2011

CHARLESTON, S.C. – Levi Coleman slotted home from close range in the 77th minute to lift Charleston to victory against the Dayton Dutch Lions on Friday night at Blackbaud Stadium. Dayton finished the game with nine players after Marvin van der Pluijm and Evan Schwarz both received red cards.

With the win the Battery (6-5-3) move within a point of third place Antigua Barracuda FC in the USL PRO National Division.

“We had a great ball into Evan Taylor, opened the field up finally and had a great square ball for the tap in by Levi Coleman,” said Battery coach Mike Anhaeuser. “You’ve gotta take the three points, re-group, and get ready for the huge Open Cup game on Tuesday.”

The Battery’s first major chance of the game came in the 18th minute. Midfielder Stephen Armstrong received the ball in the air for a volley across the field to Forward Dane Kelly. Armstrong’s efforts proved a touch too far for Kelly to have a quality strike on the ball.

Charleston was at it again in the 23rd minute with Kelly beating Dayton defense with a string of cutback moves. Kelly’s fancy footwork gave him space for a solid shot causing Dayton’s goalkeeper Jesper Leerdam to tip the shot over the net.

Moments later the Battery created a major opportunity after earning a free kick wide on the far side. Midfielder Evan Taylor’s free kick met the head of Kelly for a header just wide of the goal.

Dayton responded and managed a nice worked move as forward Lucien Seymour held the ball while teammate Evan Schwartz overlapped him on the outside. Schwartz received the pass and turned for the cross, which just barely missed the diving header attempt of Julius Willie.

Charleston scored the game-winner in the 77th minute after defender Colin Falvey played a perfectly weighted pass to the on-running Evan Taylor. Taylor took the ball in stride and drew the goalkeeper before he crossed to Coleman, who had time to take a touch before slotting home into the open net.

The Battery returns to Blackbaud Stadium on Tuesday for a second round U.S. Open Cup fixture against Orlando City; gates open at 6 p.m. with kick off set for 7:30 p.m. 

Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com

Friday, June 17, 2011

EDINBORO, Pa. -- The Pittsburgh Riverhounds (2-8-3) fell to the Rochester Rhinos (6-4-3) on Friday night at Sox Harrison Stadium as Richie Costanzo, Andrew Hoxie and Drew Cost all scored in the first half to lift the Rhinos past the Riverhounds and extend their lead at the top of the USL PRO National Division.

The first scoring opportunity of the game came to the Riverhounds in the third minute of play off a long throw from midfielder Mike Seth which traveled over the Rhinos defense and found the head of Jason Yeisley at the six-yard box. Yeisley rose above his mark and headed the ball on frame, but Rhinos goalkeeper Neel Kitson was in good position to make the save.

The Rhinos then took the lead in the ninth minute after a spell of good possession and pressure in the Riverhounds half. Costanzo was able to collect an attempted clearance by the Riverhounds at the corner of the penalty area and cut the ball inside, giving himself time to strike a right-footed shot to the near post past Hunter Gilstrap.

The Rhinos would record their second goal just eight minutes later from Hoxie. Sitting in the pocket between the midfield and defense, Hoxie turned and blistered a shot from 35 yards into the top right corner of the goal.

Cost would provide the Rhinos with their third goal just before the break. A pinball-like possession inside the Riverhounds penalty area ended with the ball landing at Cost’s feet at the top of the box and the midfielder picked out his corner and confidently bent a shot into the top left corner of the goal.

The Riverhounds will now travel to play in the second round of the U.S. Open Cup on Tuesday night as they face the Richmond Kickers at City Stadium. The Rhinos will also try to advance into the Open Cup third round as they travel to meet the Harrisburg City Islanders on Tuesday night at the Skyline Sports Complex on City Island.

Kitsap Pumas News Release -- www.kitsapsoccerclub.com

Friday, June 17, 2011

BREMERTON, Wash. -- The Kitsap Pumas certainly know how to keep things interesting these days.

After a dour first half during Friday's match against the Abbotsford Mariners at Bremerton Memorial Stadium, the sparks flew in the second as three cards were shown, including a red card to goalkeeper Zac Lubin. But Kitsap prevailed as Bryan Burke, Nik Besagno and Matt Friesen all scored to help put Kitsap over Abbotsford 3-1.

The win keeps the Pumas undefeated at 8-0-1 and puts them 11 points clear of the Vancouver Whitecaps Residency at the top of the USL Premier Development League's Northwest Division.

There wasn't much action in the first half. Abbotsford thought it has taken the lead when a shot snuck past the near post off a corner kick but the flag was up for offside well before the shot was taken. Robby Christner came the closest for the Pumas when his shot went over the crossbar by inches just a few minutes before halftime.

Friesen said it took them some time to get going after coming back from their dramatic U.S. Open Cup win over the El Paso Patriots in Texas Tuesday night.

“It took a little bit of getting the legs going,” he said. “We haven't played on our home field in over a month.”

Head coach Peter Fewing said that fatigue wasn't a factor – but getting used to their grass field did take some time.

“We recovered pretty well,” he said. “The field looks fantastic – [Bremerton School District groundskeeper] Lance [McCoy] has done a great job getting the field ready after a cold winter – but it was a bit sticky. The ball was getting stuck to our feet.

“So I said for the second half, [let's keep it at] one, two touches,” Fewing continued. “And they did just that. They adjusted really well.”

Kitsap got on the board in the 57th minute when Friesen headed a ball to Burke, who put his head on the ball to get it past Abbotsford goalkeeper Andrew Kowan. It was Burke's first goal in a Puma uniform.

But the Mariners got the equalizer in the 72nd minute off a controversial call. Dan Scott didn't get enough on his header back to Lubin and Sasa Plavsic tried to take advantage of the mistake. Lubin made a tackle in the box to get the ball away, but Plavsic went down. The referee felt Lubin got the ball before the man and sent Lubin off, much to his, the players and the fans' dismay.

“I didn't agree with the penalty call but it happens,” Fewing said. “It's tough because he makes a good save, he does what he's supposed to do – the guy falls over him because that's what he's supposed to do – but the referee didn't do what he was supposed to do.”

Casey Collins, who had been signed just a few days earlier, came on for Lubin, but Plavsic easily converted the attempt. 

Kitsap took the lead for good 38 seconds later when Elliot Fauske made a good hustle play in Abbotsford's defensive third to take the ball and make a quick pass to fellow sub Warlen Silva. Silva then found Besagno wide open in the goal box to send the ball past Kowan for the lead.

“The guys were great to counter,” Fewing said. “Those shots are easier to miss than to make, so that was great.”

Friesen sealed full points for Kitsap when a handball was called on an Abbotsford player in the box in the 88th minute. The Oregon native beat Kowan for his team leading sixth goal of the year. Kitsap now turns its focus to the second round of the U.S. Open Cup. They host the Real Colorado Foxes, who are also undefeated and at the top of the Central Conference Heartland Division table, at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Bremerton Memorial Stadium. The winner will face the two-time defending Cup winners in the Seattle Sounders at a date to be determined.

Tickets are $5 and are available exclusively through Brown Paper Tickets at brownpapertickets.com until game day.

BYU Cougars News Release -- www.byusoccer.com

Friday, June 17, 2011

LOS ANGELES -- In the first ever meeting between the LA Blues 23 and the BYU Cougars, the Blues (3-5-2) rallied to beat the Cougars (1-5-2) 3-2 on Friday night. BYU now prepares for the Southern California Seahorses on Saturday night in La Mirada, California.

"We felt really good about the way we attacked at the start of the game," said BYU coach Chris Watkins. "Getting a couple of goals was good for us."

The Cougars jumped out to to a 2-0 lead after just 25 minutes. The quickest goal of the 2011 season came in the first minute when Toni Niccoli dribbled down to the end line, sent in a cross inside the box and BJ Pugmire scored his team-leading third goal of the year for a 1-0 lead. In the 25th minute Pugmire assisted Garrett Losee for his first ever PDL goal as a Cougar. However that lead wouldn't last.

The Blues scored three unanswered goals, Rodolfo Sandoval bringing his side even with a pair of strikes in the 31st and 49th minutes before Federico Cino gave his side the lead in the 69th minute off scrambles following free kicks from outside the penalty area. It was the third win of the season and second in a row for LA.

"We were disappointed and frustrated to work so hard and not get a result," said Watkins.

BYU will play the Southern California Seahorses tomorrow night which is the second meeting in eight days. Last Saturday in Provo, Southern California won 3-1.

POSTGAME NOTES

MULTIPLES OF TWO: Two goals in one game is the first time the Cougars have scored multiple goals in a game this season

"GO"AL AWAY: BYU gave up a total of seven goals in the first three games, recorded two consecutive shutouts, and has given up eight goals in the last three games.

THREE IS THE LEAD: Senior, BJ Pugmire now has three goals this season, which is the most on the team. The first two came on penalty kicks.

PART TWO: BYU and the LA Blues 23 will meet in Provo on July 21 in the PDL season finale and final home game for the Cougars. LA Blues 23 competes as a professional team for the first time this year, operating as a reserve squad for the Los Angeles Blues of USL PRO.

HALFWAY THERE: Friday night's game was the eighth game of the season. That is exactly the halfway point of the 16-game, 2011 Premier Development League season. Tomorrow night BYU begins the second half of the season against Southern California.

Follow the Cougars on byusoccer.com and on Twitter (@byusoccer)  

USL Feature

Friday, June 17, 2011

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - On a beautiful morning in Daytona Beach, teams of all ages and sizes took to the sand to kick off the 21st season of Major Beach Soccer. On compact fields laid out on Daytona’s pristine sands, men’s and women’s open teams began the fight to compete in this year’s MBS National Championship, which will be held at Clearwater, Fla. on December 17-18.

On a day that saw skills, volleys, and overhead kicks from almost all divisions, teams fought hard to top their division and get a positive start to the tournament. There is a sense of competitiveness this weekend, with multiple teams entering various MBS tournaments around Florida for the opportunity to book their ticket to the MBS National Championship.

However, others are out to enjoy their stay at Daytona and have a great weekend.

“The expectation is to just have fun and enjoy our summer!” Todd Massie said.

Coaching the Beach Warriors 15-18 boys this weekend, Massie plans to coach against teams from north and central Florida for his tenth year at Daytona. Massie is competitive and wants to win, but he is also here to relax in the sunshine. Massie is drawing up a simple game plan for the Beach Warriors’ upcoming games against Sandcastle United and Los Mojados.

“Our strategy is to move the ball as quickly as we can,” Massie said.

Moving the ball as quickly as possible and keeping possession will not come easy on such an uneven surface. Plenty of scoring chances and end-to-end action are guaranteed on the 40 x 30 yard fields. The surface is tricky for defenders and often causes moments of panic and chaos for the back line. It will be interesting to see how Massie’s players deal with those elements against some tough squads. Regardless of the results, Massie and his team are here to enjoy their time at Daytona and plan to have an eventful weekend.

“The best thing about this weekend is that I see the teams that win and the teams that lose are just enjoying the experience, smiling and having fun,” Massie said.

The Daytona Beach MBS Tournament continues through Sunday, June 19 at which time the Open Division champions will book their place to compete for a national championship in Clearwater. MBS Daytona Beach is supported by Umbro, Orlando City Soccer Club, ChillZone LLC of Daytona, TGI Signage Systems, Farpost Soccer Company, the Daytona Beach Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, and Volusia County.

Charlotte Eagles News Release -- www.charlotteeagles.com

Saturday, June 18, 2011

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Charlotte Eagles extended their unbeaten streak to seven games on Saturday night, six in USL PRO, as they downe the Dayton Dutch Lions in a 2-0 victory. Darren Toby scored the first goal in the 12th minute off a beautiful pass by Cheyne Roberts before Dayton was reduced to 10 men in the second half due to a red card incurred by Mettin Copier. Sallieu Bundu scored the second goal in the 80th minute off a cross from Brady Bryant.

After a late start due to rain, the game got underway at 8:25 p.m. The game was wide open for the first 10 minutes with Dayton causing the first scare just three minutes into the match. Eric Reed made a diving save breaking up a cluster of players just outside the goal mouth. The Eagles were able to find the net first in the ninth minute. Roberts created a great give-and-go to make his way past the Dayton defense, and he then sent a cross through to Toby who placed the ball just right of Dutch Lions goalkeeper Jesper Leerdam, putting the Eagles up 1-0.

The Eagles next chance came in the 12th minute from a set piece as Toby creatively chipped the ball over Dayton’s wall to Jorge Herrera who placed the ball just wide of the net. In the 27th minute Mettin Copier pulled down Allan Sanchez to receive the first caution of the game.

George Davis sent a rocket towards the Eagles’ net in the 29th minute creating the best chance of the first half for Dayton. Eric Reed made it just in time to punch the ball, keeping it out of the net.

Copier went after Sanchez again in the 42nd minute, which saw him sent off. At the half Dayton found themselves down by a goal and a man short.

The pace of the second half was much slower. The Eagles found themselves with the majority of the possession due to Dayton playing with only 10 men. In the 80th minute Bryant created the Eagles' second, dribbling through the Dayton defense before his cross found Bundu perfectly as he touched it in for a 2-0 advantage.

The Dutch Lions fought strongly, creating a few chances, but with only 10 men they fell to their fourth consecutive road loss in the league.

The Eagles will next travel to Wilmington on Tuesday night for the second round of the U.S. Open Cup. The game against the Hammerheads kicks off at 7:30 p.m. with the winner heading to face 2009 Major League Soccer champion Real Salt Lake in the third round.