Wilmington Hammerheads News Release -- www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com
Friday, May 13, 2011
WILMINGTON, N.C. -- After a weekend on the road, the Wilmington Hammerheads are back at their home field of Legion Stadium hosting F.C. New York of the USL PRO National Division. The two teams meet for the first time on Saturday, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
The Hammerheads have had a strong start to their season, winning their opening two games of the season at home. The team suffered their first loss this past weekend against the Richmond Kickers at City Stadium. While the Kickers claimed victory, the Hammerheads had a strong showing against the undefeated team, scoring the first goal of the game just three minutes into the first half before Richmond rallied for a 2-1 victory.
With F.C. New York being a new franchise, Hammerheads head coach David Irving is aware that his team must be on their toes for this match.
“Saturday’s opponent will be a tough competitor since we do not know much about them," Irving said. "I had the opportunity to watch them play against Charlotte and they seemed to be a very solid squad…we will certainly have our hands full. It is very important for us to earn all three points and get back on the winning trail to keep up in our tough division.”
The Hammerheads have several players to watch in the upcoming games. Team captain central defender Ivan Becerra has had a constant presence in the back for the Hammerheads, and is now showing his flexibility and capability on the field by his goal against the Kickers.
Forward Chris Banks’ attacks up top caused the Kickers’ defense some problems, and Paul Nicholson’s tireless energy in the midfield kept the Hammerheads in the game. Both players have proven to be key figures in the team and are sure to stand out on Saturday.
With a slow start to their debut season in USL PRO, F.C. New York will be traveling to Wilmington with the hopes of clinching their first win. Last weekend the new franchise hosted Harrisburg, earning a point after a 1-1 draw.
F.C. New York started quickly against Harrisburg, taking an early lead in the 10th minute. Defender Kyle Hoffer, forward Graciano Brito, and midfielder Owen Morrison all had a hand, in New York’s only goal of the game, showing the team’s depth.
With the Hammerheads coming off a loss against Richmond and F.C. New York still striving to add a win to their record, Saturday night’s game should be an exciting match up.
Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors 65+, and $5 for kids ages 4-12 (Saturday night’s game is “Kid’s Night at Legion- kid’s receive $1 off the original ticket price of $6). Kick off is at 7:30pm and gates open at 6:00pm.