Connect

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC has signed forward Greg Hurst to its USL League One team. The Stirling, Scotland native will join the club from Stenhousemuir FC and is eligible to play beginning this Saturday against South Georgia Tormenta FC. 

“We are pleased to welcome another quality player to our roster for the remainder of the season,” said Chattanooga Red Wolves SC President and General Manager Sean McDaniel. “Greg provides us with key depth offensively, and we are glad to have him with us for these crucial next eight weeks.” 

At just 18 years old, Hurst went on trial with English Premier League’s Everton FC before signing with Scottish Premiership’s St. Johnstone FC. During his four years at St. Johnstone, Hurst made three first team appearances against Rangers FC, Hearts FC and Aberdeen FC and was a member of the Europa League qualifying squad in 2017. 

In addition, while with St. Johnstone, Hurst was loaned to Berwick Rangers, East Fife and Forfar Athletic, making nearly 50 appearances and notching 11 goals during his loan experiences. 

Most recently, Hurst signed with Scottish League Two’s Stenhousemuir FC for the second half of the club’s season. While there, the 22-year-old made 15 appearances, recording two goals and five assists. 

“I’m delighted to be joining Chattanooga Red Wolves SC for the remainder of the club’s inaugural season,” said Hurst. “The team has displayed strong form thus far, and I can’t wait to hit the ground running and join the fight for the League One Championship.”

The Red Wolves (7-5-7) are set to face South Georgia Tormenta FC (8-4-6) on Saturday, Aug. 10 at Erk Russell Park. The match kicks off at 8 p.m. ET and will be available to view live on ESPN+. The team returns home to host North Texas SC (10-4-4) on Saturday, Aug. 17 at David Stanton Field. For tickets, visit chattredwolves.com/tickets. 

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC defender Nicholas Amponsah has been named to the USL League One Team of the Week for Week 19 of the league’s inaugural 2019 season.

Amponsah recorded five interceptions, won 10 of 14 duels and 6 of 8 aerial duels across two outings, including a shutout victory against North Texas SC on Saturday night.

The 6’2 defender has appeared in 11 matches for the Red Wolves this season and continues to remain as a top three team leader in blocks, clearances and interceptions. Amponsah recorded his first goal of the season against Forward Madison FC on July 13, netting the equalizer in the 77th minute of the match. 

Week 19 marks Amponsah’s second appearance on League One’s Team of the Week. 

Amponsah will be back in action with the team on Saturday, Aug. 10 as they travel to Statesboro, Georgia to face South Georgia Tormenta FC at Erk Russell Park. The match kicks off at 8 p.m. ET and will be available to stream live on ESPN+.

The Red Wolves return home the following Saturday to host North Texas SC at David Stanton Field on Aug. 17 at 7 p.m. ET. For tickets, visit chattredwolves.com/tickets. 

USL League One Team of the Week

GK – Stefan Cleveland, Lansing Ignite FC: Cleveland recorded five saves across two shutouts to help Lansing move into second place in the League One standings with wins against Chattanooga and Orlando.

D – Wyatt Omsberg, Forward Madison FC: Omsberg made 13 recoveries, 11 clearances – including a crucial goal line denial against FC Tucson – and completed 97 of 114 passes over two wins on the week for the Flamingos.

D – Nicholas Amponsah, Chattanooga Red Wolves SC: Amponsah recorded five interceptions, won 10 of 14 duels and 6 of 8 aerial duels across two outings, including a shutout victory against North Texas SC on Saturday night.

D – Christian Diaz, Forward Madison FC: Diaz completed 58 of 71 passes, recorded nine recoveries and three interceptions and eight clearances in helping Madison claim back-to-back victories over the week.

M – Rafael Mentzingen, Lansing Ignite FC: Mentzingen recorded one goal and one assist, completed eight dribbles and made nine recoveries across two victories for Ignite FC.

M – Aaron Walker, Greeenville Triumph SC: Walker completed 30 of 38 passes, won 7 of 11 duels and made six recoveries as Triumph SC took a big home win against South Georgia Tormenta FC.

M – Tumi Moshobane, Lansing Ignite FC: Moshobane recorded two goals and one assist, had eight key passes and completed 52 of 61 passes overall across Lansing’s victories against Chattanooga and Orlando.

M – Paulo Jr., Forward Madison FC: Paulo Jr. scored a pair of goals to lead the Flamingos to a midweek victory on the road against Toronto FC II and made 14 recoveries across the club’s two victories on the week.

F – Don Smart, Forward Madison FC: Smart had a goal and assist over the week – including the game-winning finish in Saturday’s game against FC Tucson – while also completing 50 of 64 passes and making 10 recoveries.

F – Jake Keegan, Greenville Triumph SC: Keegan scored the only goal as Triumph SC defeated South Georgia Tormenta FC while completing 15 of 17 passes.

F – Elma N’For, Lansing Ignite FC: N’For had one goal and one assist across two victories for Ignite FC while notching three key passes, nine recoveries and completing 41 of 55 passes overall.

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC (7-5-7) defeated league-leaders North Texas SC (10-4-4) 1-0 at David Stanton Field Saturday night. The win preserves Chattanooga’s unbeaten home record.

The match remained scoreless until the 54th minute, when Red Wolves captain Steven Beattie put away a penalty kick after forward Juan Mare was brought down by North Texas’ Bicou Bissainthe in the penalty area. The goal marked Beattie’s eighth of the season, bringing him within one of North Texas SC’s Ronaldo Damus for the league lead. 

The match proved to be a defensive battle, with the Red Wolves posting just two shots on frame and North Texas unable to hit one on target the entire 90 minutes.  

After Bissainthe was shown his second yellow card in the 70th minute, North Texas was reduced to 10 men. Down a man and down a goal, the visitors were ultimately unable to level the match.

The win marked Chattanooga’s first in six matches after four consecutive draws and a midweek road loss to Lansing Ignite FC.

Alex Mangels earned his sixth clean sheet despite not having to make a save. The goalkeeper posted four crosses claimed and one punch. Midfielder Ualefi showed a strong midfield display, recording 86.2% passing accuracy and three tackles.       

The three points earned place the Red Wolves even on points with fourth-place Forward Madison FC (8-7-4).

The Red Wolves head to Statesboro, Georgia to face South Georgia Tormenta FC on Saturday, Aug. 10 at Erk Russell Park. The match marks the second of four regular season meetings between the two clubs and kicks off at 8 p.m. ET. Fans can tune into the action live on ESPN+.

GAME SUMMARY 

First Half:  

• 11’ – Attempt blocked. Steven Beattie (Chattanooga Red Wolves) right footed shot from more than 40 yards on the left wing is saved.
• 14’ – Attempt missed. Ricardo Pepi (North Texas) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left. Assisted by David Rodriguez.
• 21’ – Attempt missed. Sito Seoane (Chattanooga Red Wolves) left footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the left.
• 23’ – Attempt saved. Vangjel Zguro (Chattanooga Red Wolves) left footed shot from outside the box is saved in the bottom left corner. Assisted by Sito Seoane.
• 33’ – Attempt blocked. Richard Danso (North Texas) right footed shot from the left side of the box is blocked. Assisted by David Rodriguez.
• 41’ – Attempt missed. Vangjel Zguro (Chattanooga Red Wolves) left footed shot from outside the box is high and wide to the right from a direct free kick.
• 43’ – Attempt missed. Jorge Almaguer (North Texas) right footed shot from outside the box.
• 45’ – Attempt missed. David Rodriguez (North Texas) left footed shot from outside the box.

Second Half: 

• 51’ – Attempt missed. Sito Seoane (Chattanooga Red Wolves) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the left. Assisted by Tony Walls following a set piece situation.

• 53’ –  Penalty. Chattanooga Red Wolves. Juan Ignacio Mare draws a foul in the penalty area.
• 54’ – GOAL! Steven Beattie (Chattanooga Red Wolves) converts the penalty with a right footed shot to the bottom right corner. Chattanooga Red Wolves 1, North Texas 0.
• 59’ – Attempt blocked. Sito Seoane (Chattanooga Red Wolves) left footed shot from outside the box is blocked.
• 65’ – Attempt missed. Ricardo Pepi (North Texas) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the right from a direct free kick.
• 82’ – Attempt missed. Tony Walls (Chattanooga Red Wolves) header from the center of the box is close but misses to the left. Assisted by Conor Doyle with a headed pass following a set piece situation.
• 85’ – Attempt missed. Tony Walls (Chattanooga Red Wolves) header from the center of the box is too high. Assisted by Sito Seoane with a cross following a corner.
• 88’ – Attempt missed. David Rodriguez (North Texas) left footed shot from the center of the box misses to the right following a set piece situation.
• 90’+1 – Attempt missed. Ricardo Pepi (North Texas) right footed shot from the center of the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Alfusainey Jatta with a headed pass.
• 90’+2 – Attempt missed. Alfusainey Jatta (North Texas) right footed shot from the center of the box misses to the right. Assisted by David Rodriguez following a set piece situation.

LINEUPS: 

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC — Alex Mangels; Tony Walls, Leo Folla, Nicholas Ampansah, Vangjel Zguro (Josue Soto – 83’), Ualefi, Jonathan Caparelli, Conor Doyle, Juan Mare (Yaya Cisse – 80’), Steven Beattie (C), Sito Seoane

Substitutes not used — Will Dieterich, Alex Jaimes, Eamon Zayed, Amirgy Pineda, Andrew Moullin

North Texas SC – Carlos Avilez; Imanol Almaguer, Bico Bassainthe, Richard Danso (Arturo Rodriguez – 58’), Brecc Evans (C) (Oscar Romero – 80’), Alfusainey Jatta, Callum Montgomery, Cesar Murillo, Ricardo Pepi, Daivd Rodriguez, Dante Sealy (Gibran Rayo – 74’)

Substitutes not used – Eduardo Cortes, Hector Montalvo

Scoring Summary: 

CHT: Steven Beattie – 54′

Misconduct Summary: 

NTX: Bico Bassainthe (cautioned – 40’)

CHT: Leo Folla (cautioned – 57’)

NTX: Bico Bassainthe (cautioned – 70’)

CHT: Conor Doyle (cautioned – 73’)

NTX: Jorge Almaguer (cautioned – 82’)

CHT: Ualefi (cautioned – 91’)

Ejection Summary:  

NTX: Bico Bassainthe – 70’

MATCH INFORMATION: 

Head Official: Jasmine Peralta
Assistant Referee: Brian Marshall
Assistant Referee: Tarik Veledar
4th Official: Todd Gould

TAMPA, Fla. – Following the announcement of the inaugural USL Academy Cup in May, the United Soccer League today unveiled a model for future USL Academies and their participation in the USL Academy League, a first-of-its-kind competition designed to create the clearest path possible to professional soccer.

“We’re incredibly excited to announce the structure with which USL clubs will construct their USL Academy programs moving forward,” said USL CEO, Alec Papadakis. “We formally presented this model to the Championship and League One Board of Governors this past week and have already begun the implementation process with our clubs. As we move closer to launching the USL Academy League – the country’s first pre-professional youth league – we look forward to helping more players than ever pursue their dream of playing professionally for their local club.”

The new USL Academy League model will see participating clubs field a single elite youth team, geared towards top local players primarily within the U15 to U19 age range, and built with a direct connection to the club’s senior team. In an effort for professional player development to remain the priority over short-term results, the USL will mandate caps on the number of players at each age who comprise the team. 

This will ensure players with true professional potential have an opportunity to be identified and integrated into a pre-professional environment at an even earlier age, while accelerating their development and giving them the best shot of reaching their local club’s first team and beyond.

“As the USL continues to expand and reach communities that have never had direct access to pro soccer, these programs can help bridge a gap that exists between the professional and youth game,” said Liam O’Connell, USL Senior Director of Youth Development. “In building the foundation of these USL Academies, we will be guiding our clubs to work with their local youth counterparts through affiliate programs. Our hope is that doing so will not only raise the overall standard in these markets, but also help our country provide more opportunities than ever for young players aspiring to reach the professional ranks.”

This model will be supplemented by creating affiliate programs with local clubs that are already producing high-level players, in turn directly incentivizing and involving a broader group of organizations in the process of identifying and developing the top local players to their full potential. These affiliate partnerships are designed to encourage and incentivize youth clubs to promote top talent on to USL Academy programs, placing them in highly competitive pre-professional environments close to their hometowns. In return, USL will develop minimum standards and provide best practices with which these affiliations will be established – including coaching education, professional development opportunities, access to shared resources within the club, exclusive experiences tied to the professional game, and more.

“As the youth development landscape continues to evolve in this country, it makes sense for the USL to explore new innovative ideas,” said Louisville City FC Head Coach John Hackworth, formerly Head Coach of the United States U-17 National Team. “The idea of combining the top talent at the U15-U19 age groups into one team for USL markets would help create a challenging environment and a pathway for youth players who are interested in pursuing a professional soccer career.”

As the USL Academy League takes shape, an application window will soon open for clubs looking to participate in the full year-round league structure. At that time, the USL will release a set of established developmental standards and expectations for interested applicants. A formal selection committee will then make final decisions on entry into the league, based on numerous factors including, but not limited to the level of the current player pool, history of player development success, population density, strength of affiliate programs, and other key factors. In some instances, youth affiliates of USL professional clubs may also have an opportunity to field a team in the USL Academy League, provided all standards are met.

As part of this announcement, a new USL Academy website dedicated to the Academy Cup and Academy League has launched. For more information, visit USL-Academy.com or search #USLAcademy on social media. 

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC (6-5-7) fell to Lansing Ignite FC (7-5-9) 0-2 at Cooley Law School Stadium Wednesday night. The loss marks the end of Chattanooga’s nine-game unbeaten streak.

Lansing came out hot in the opening minutes of the match, nearly finishing two chances in the first three minutes. Robinson Moshobane opened scoring for Lansing in the 32nd minute with a left-footed shot outside of the Red Wolves’ 18-yard box. Running down the right flank, Rafael Mentzingen slotted a pass into Moshobane who let the ball run across his body before striking it into the back of the net, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead. Despite Lansing outshooting Chattanooga seven to three and displaying strong possession in the first half, the Red Wolves defense would hold solid, leaving the 1-0 score to stick going into halftime.  

After a couple substitution changes, the second half showed promise for the Red Wolves, with chances created for Steven Beattie, Tony Walls and Eamon Zayed, but Lansing’s Pato Botello Faz sealed the match with a goal in the 84th minute, giving Lansing the final 2-0 lead.

Despite the two goals conceded, goalkeeper Alex Mangels recorded two key saves, five crosses claimed and one punch. Forward Steven Beattie had four of Chattanooga’s eight shots on the night, and defender Vangjel Zguro recorded seven tackles and created three chances for the Red Wolves.

Up next, the Red Wolves host North Texas SC for Paws on the Pitch at David Stanton Field on Saturday, Aug. 3. Fans can bring their leashed dogs to the dog-friendly match, in partnership with Humane Educational Society of Chattanooga. Dog entry is $3 at the gate, and net proceeds benefit HES. Gates open at 6 p.m. ET. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. 

GAME SUMMARY 

First Half:  

• 2’ – Rafael Mentzingen (Lansing Ignite) hits the left post with a right footed shot from outside the box.
• 3’ – Attempt missed. Rafael Mentzingen (Lansing Ignite) right footed shot from the center of the box is close, but misses to the right.
• 8’ – Attempt blocked. Vangjel Zguro (Chattanooga Red Wolves) left footed shot from a difficult angle and long range on the right is blocked.
• 12’ – Attempt missed. Rafael Mentzingen (Lansing Ignite) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the left following a corner.
• 13’ – Attempt blocked. Steven Beattie (Chattanooga Red Wolves) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked.
• 15’ – Attempt missed. Steven Beattie (Chattanooga Red Wolves) right footed shot from outside the box misses to the left.
• 18’ – Save! Rafael Mentzingen (Lansing Ignite) right footed shot from outside the box is saved by Alex Mangels.
• 22’ – Attempt blocked. Rafael Mentzingen (Lansing Ignite) right footed shot from the center of the box is blocked. Assisted by Elma N’For.
• 32’ – Goal. Robinson Moshobane (Lansing Ignite) left footed shot from outside the box to the top right corner. Assisted by Rafael Mentzingen. Lansing Ignite 1, Chattanooga Red Wolves 0.
• 35’ – Save! Rafael Mentzingen (Lansing Ignite) right footed shot from the center of the box is saved by Alex Mangels.

Second Half: 

• 51’ – Attempt missed. Sito Seoane (Chattanooga Red Wolves) left footed shot from outside the box misses to the right following a set piece situation.
• 51’ – Attempt blocked. Robinson Moshobane (Lansing Ignite) left footed shot from the center of the box is blocked. Assisted by Nick Moon.
• 54’ – Attempt saved. Tony Walls (Chattanooga Red Wolves) header from the right side of the box is saved in the bottom right corner. Assisted by Steven Beattie.
• 57’ – Attempt blocked. Robinson Moshobane (Lansing Ignite) left footed shot from the center of the box is blocked.
• 63’ – Attempt missed. Steven Beattie (Chattanooga Red Wolves) header from the center of the box is too high. Assisted by Vangjel Zguro with a cross.
• 71’ – Attempt saved. Steven Beattie (Chattanooga Red Wolves) header from the center of the box is saved in the top right corner. Assisted by Vangjel Zguro with a cross.
• 79’ – Attempt missed. Éamon Zayed (Chattanooga Red Wolves) header from the right side of the box misses to the right. Assisted by Vangjel Zguro with a cross following a set piece situation.
• 84’ – Goal. Pato Botello Faz (Lansing Ignite) right footed shot from the center of the box to the bottom right corner. Assisted by Elma N’For following a fast break.  Lansing Ignite 2, Chattanooga Red Wolves 0.

LINEUPS: 

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC — Alex Mangels; Tony Walls, Andrew Moullin (Yaya Cisse – 74’), Nicholas Ampansah, Vangjel Zguro, Ualefi, Amirgy Pineda (Josue Soto – 58’), Conor Doyle, Alex Jaimes (Eamon Zayed – 37’), Steven Beattie (C), Sito Seoane

Substitutes not used — Will Dieterich, Jonathan Caparelli

Lansing Ignite — Stefan Cleveland; Grant Stoneman, Brandon Fricke (C), Kevin Coiffic, Nick Moon, Ivo Cerda, Xavier Gomez, Tumi Moshobane (Kyle Carr – 75’), Rafael Mentzingen (Rhys Williams – 87’), Elma N’for, Alex Bruce (Pato Botello Faz – 66’)

Substitutes not used — Mike Kirk, Lewis Jones, Christian Silva, Steeve Saint-Duc

Scoring Summary:

LAN: Tumi Moshobane – 32’

LAN: Pato Botello Faz – 84’

Misconduct Summary: 

CHT: Andrew Moullin (cautioned – 11’)

CHT: Amirgy Pineda (cautioned – 45’+1) 

LAN: Rafael Mentzingen (cautioned – 50’)

Ejection Summary:  

N/A

MATCH INFORMATION: 

Head Official: Jose Lara
Assistant Referee: Joe Suchoski
Assistant Referee: Jake Brochu
4th Official: Nicole Green

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC forward Éamon Zayed has been named to the USL League One Team of the Week for Week 18 of the league’s inaugural 2019 season.

Zayed netted the equalizing goal for the Red Wolves against Tucson Saturday night. Seconds after being subbed on in the 69th minutes, he headed one home on his first touch of the match. Vangjel Zguro sent in an out swinging corner into the box that found Steven Beattie’s head. Beattie then nodded the ball on to Zayed who fired it into the top left corner of the net.

The goal marked Zayed’s fifth of the season and helped Chatttanooga secure one point and hold on to fourth place in league standings. His goal also helped the Red Wolves extend the team’s unbeaten stretch to nine matches. 

The veteran striker has appeared in 15 matches this season and is second on the team in goals with five. 

Zayed will be back in action with the team on Wednesday, July 31 they travel to Lansing, Michigan for a midweek matchup against Lansing Ignite FC. The match kicks off at 7 p.m. ET and can be streamed live on ESPN+.

The team returns home the follow Saturday to host North Texas SC for Paws on the Pitch at David Stanton Field. Fans can bring their leashed dogs to the dog-friendly match. Dog entry is $3 at the gate, and net proceeds benefit Humane Educational Society of Chattanooga. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET. For tickets, visit chattredwolves.com/tickets.    

USL League One Team of the Week

GK – Pablo Jara, South Georgia Tormenta FC: Jara recorded six saves across two contests, including a stoppage-time penalty kick save against Lansing Ignite FC on Saturday that preserved a draw for his side.

D – Conner Antley, South Georgia Tormenta FC: Antley recorded one goal, two assists and had five key passes over two games while recording 10 recoveries and completing 57 of 75 passes overall.

D – Kyle Venter, FC Tucson: Venter found the net early and then put in a strong shift defensively on the road in Chattanooga as Tucson ran its undefeated streak to four consecutive games.

D – Tyler Polak, Greenville Triumph SC: Polak recorded two assists, had four key passes, completed 31 of 37 passes overall and made four interceptions in Greenville’s big road victory against North Texas.

M – Aaron Walker, Greenville Triumph SC: Walker had one goal and took five shots overall while completing 53 of 61 passes and recording six recoveries in Triumph SC’s 4-0 win against North Texas.

M – Nick Moon, Lansing Ignite FC: Moon was active down the flank throughout, recording one assist, two key passes and completing 38 of 48 passes as Ignite FC finished level with Tormenta FC on the road.

M – Josh Hughes, Richmond Kickers: Hughes completed 33 of 38 passes, recorded 11 interceptions and 10 recoveries and scored the game-winning goal as Richmond defeated Toronto FC II on the road.

M – Marco Micaletto, South Georgia Tormenta FC: Micaletto scored a pair of goals across two contests, recorded four key passes, completed 70 of 85 passes overall and made nine recoveries as Tormenta FC took four points from two games.

M – JC Banks, Forward Madison FC: Banks scored the only goal of the game, and completed 16 of 18 passes overall, as Madison took a 1-0 victory against Orlando City B on Saturday night.

F – Jake Keegan, Greenville Triumph SC: Keegan scored two goals on three shots, made three recoveries and completed 8 of 13 passes to help lead Greenville to victory against North Texas.

F – Eamon Zayed, Chattanooga Red Wolves SC: Zayed scored with his first touch after coming on as a second-half substitute to earn the Red Wolves a 1-1 draw with FC Tucson that extended the club’s undefeated streak to nine games.

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC forward Éamon Zayed has been named to the USL League One Team of the Week for Week 18 of the league’s inaugural 2019 season.

Zayed netted the equalizing goal for the Red Wolves against Tucson Saturday night. Seconds after being subbed on in the 69th minutes, he headed one home on his first touch of the match. Vangjel Zguro sent in an out swinging corner into the box that found Steven Beattie’s head. Beattie then nodded the ball on to Zayed who fired it into the top left corner of the net.

The goal marked Zayed’s fifth of the season and helped Chatttanooga secure one point and hold on to fourth place in league standings. His goal also helped the Red Wolves extend the team’s unbeaten stretch to nine matches. 

The veteran striker has appeared in 15 matches this season and is second on the team in goals with five. 

Zayed will be back in action with the team on Wednesday, July 31 they travel to Lansing, Michigan for a midweek matchup against Lansing Ignite FC. The match kicks off at 7 p.m. ET and can be streamed live on ESPN+.

The team returns home the follow Saturday to host North Texas SC for Paws on the Pitch at David Stanton Field. Fans can bring their leashed dogs to the dog-friendly match. Dog entry is $3 at the gate, and net proceeds benefit Humane Educational Society of Chattanooga. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET. For tickets, visit chattredwolves.com/tickets.    

USL League One Team of the Week

GK – Pablo Jara, South Georgia Tormenta FC: Jara recorded six saves across two contests, including a stoppage-time penalty kick save against Lansing Ignite FC on Saturday that preserved a draw for his side.

D – Conner Antley, South Georgia Tormenta FC: Antley recorded one goal, two assists and had five key passes over two games while recording 10 recoveries and completing 57 of 75 passes overall.

D – Kyle Venter, FC Tucson: Venter found the net early and then put in a strong shift defensively on the road in Chattanooga as Tucson ran its undefeated streak to four consecutive games.

D – Tyler Polak, Greenville Triumph SC: Polak recorded two assists, had four key passes, completed 31 of 37 passes overall and made four interceptions in Greenville’s big road victory against North Texas.

M – Aaron Walker, Greenville Triumph SC: Walker had one goal and took five shots overall while completing 53 of 61 passes and recording six recoveries in Triumph SC’s 4-0 win against North Texas.

M – Nick Moon, Lansing Ignite FC: Moon was active down the flank throughout, recording one assist, two key passes and completing 38 of 48 passes as Ignite FC finished level with Tormenta FC on the road.

M – Josh Hughes, Richmond Kickers: Hughes completed 33 of 38 passes, recorded 11 interceptions and 10 recoveries and scored the game-winning goal as Richmond defeated Toronto FC II on the road.

M – Marco Micaletto, South Georgia Tormenta FC: Micaletto scored a pair of goals across two contests, recorded four key passes, completed 70 of 85 passes overall and made nine recoveries as Tormenta FC took four points from two games.

M – JC Banks, Forward Madison FC: Banks scored the only goal of the game, and completed 16 of 18 passes overall, as Madison took a 1-0 victory against Orlando City B on Saturday night.

F – Jake Keegan, Greenville Triumph SC: Keegan scored two goals on three shots, made three recoveries and completed 8 of 13 passes to help lead Greenville to victory against North Texas.

F – Eamon Zayed, Chattanooga Red Wolves SC: Zayed scored with his first touch after coming on as a second-half substitute to earn the Red Wolves a 1-1 draw with FC Tucson that extended the club’s undefeated streak to nine games.

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC is partnering with Humane Educational Society of Chattanooga and hosting a dog-friendly match this Saturday, Aug. 3 at David Stanton Field. You and your leashed pup are invited to come cheer on the Red Wolves as they host North Texas SC.

Here’s everything you need to know –>

Gates open at 6 p.m. and kickoff is set for 7 p.m. All dogs and their humans will be seated in the dog-friendly visitor’s side of David Stanton Field. The home side of the stadium is designated for humans only. 

Dog tickets are $3 each (cash and card accepted) and can be bought inside the gate before security check. Net proceeds from dog entries will benefit our friends at the Humane Educational Society of Chattanooga. 

The Ark Pet Spa & Hotel is providing a cooling station found at the grassy area next to the dog-friendly section. A designated clean-up area will also be available for pets to ensure a mess-free and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Additional vendors:

• Love on a Leash
• Chattaneuter
• Petsense
• Cansler Photography
• Happy Hemp Pharmacy
• Veterinary Care and Specialty Group

The HES team will be onsite with dogs and kittens available for adoption, so if you’re in the market for a furever friend, this is the match for you! If you fall in love with one and decide to bring him/her home, HES will have everything onsite to complete the adoption process. You can even schedule to pick him/her up at a later date to allow preparation ahead of time. 

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC drew FC Tucson 1-1 at David Stanton Field Saturday night. Veteran forward Eamon Zayed leveled the match in the 69th minute, mere seconds after being subbed onto the pitch.

Tucson’s Kyle Venter opened scoring in the first minute, finishing a right-footed shot from the center of the box following a corner kick. Both teams would create chances throughout the first half, but the score would remain 1-0 going into halftime.

It wasn’t until the 69th minute that the Red Wolves finally struck. Seconds after being subbed on, Eamon Zayed headed one home to put the Red Wolves on the board. Vangjel Zguro sent in an out swinging corner into the box that found Steven Beattie’s head. Beattie then nodded the ball on to Zayed who fired it into the top left corner of the net. The goal is Zayed’s fifth of the season.

The Week 18 result marks Chattanooga’s third consecutive draw and extends the team’s unbeaten run to nine matches.

The Red Wolves travel to Lansing, Michigan for a midweek matchup against Lansing Ignite FC on Wednesday, July 31. The match kicks off at 7 p.m. ET and can be streamed live on ESPN+. The team returns home the follow Saturday to host North Texas SC for Paws on the Pitch at David Stanton Field. Fans can bring their leashed dogs to the dog-friendly match. Dog entry is $3 at the gate, and net proceeds benefit Humane Educational Society of Chattanooga. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET. For tickets, visit chattredwolves.com/tickets.    

GAME SUMMARY 

First Half:  

• 1’ – Goal. Kyle Venter (FC Tucson) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the top left corner following a corner. Chattanooga Red Wolves SC 0, FC Tucson 1
• 4’ – Attempt missed. Steven Beattie (Chattanooga Red Wolves) right footed shot from outside the box is close but misses to the left. Assisted by Amirgy Pineda.
• 5’ – Attempt missed. Alexi Jaimes (Chattanooga Red Wolves) header from the centre of the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Conor Doyle.
• 6’ – Attempt missed. Devin Vega (FC Tucson) right footed shot from outside the box is close, but misses to the left.
• 8’ – Attempt blocked. Jordan Jones (FC Tucson) right footed shot from the centre of the box is blocked. Assisted by Devin Vega with a cross.
• 8’ – Attempt missed. Ramone Howell (FC Tucson) left footed shot from a difficult angle on the left is high and wide to the left. Assisted by Devyn Jambga.
• 16’ – Attempt saved. Alexi Jaimes (Chattanooga Red Wolves) left footed shot from the right side of the box is saved in the bottom left corner.
• 28’ – Attempt missed. Alexi Jaimes (Chattanooga Red Wolves) left footed shot from the centre of the box is too high. Assisted by Vangjel Zguro with a cross.
• 42’ – Attempt missed. Nicholas Amponsah (Chattanooga Red Wolves) header from the centre of the box is high and wide to the right. Assisted by Vangjel Zguro with a cross following a corner.
• 45’+4 – Attempt missed. Jordan Jones (FC Tucson) right footed shot from the centre of the box is too high.

Second Half: 

• 69’ – GOAL! Eamon Zayed (Chattanooga Red Wolves) heads one into the top left corner of the net. Assisted by Vangjel Zguro on a corner. Chattanooga Red Wolves SC 1, FC Tucson 1

LINEUPS:  

Chattanooga Red Wolves SC — Alex Mangels; Vangjel Zguro, Andrew Moullin, Nicholas Ampansah, Jonathan Caparelli, Ualefi, Amirgy Pineda (Juan Mare –57’), Conor Doyle, Steven Beattie (C), Alex Jaimes (Yaya Cisse – 57’), Sito Seoane (Eamon Zayed – 69’)

Substitutes not used — Will Dieterich, Jamie Dell, Josue Soto

FC Tucson – Phillip Ejimadu; Jose Terron, Jamael Cox (Zach Wright – 70’), Kyle Venter (C), Luke Hauswirth, Devyn Jambga (Eti Tavares – 87’), Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Jordan Jones, Lamar Batista, Ramone Howell, Devin Vega (Kody Wakasa – 90’+1)

Substitutes not used – Colin Stripling, Carlos Merancio, Erik Virgen

Scoring Summary: 

TUC: Kyle Venter – 1’

CHT: Eamon Zayed – 69’

Misconduct Summary: 

CHT: Vangjel Zguro (cautioned – 20’)

TUC: Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu (cautioned – 36’)

CHT: Steven Beattie (cautioned – 38’)

TUC: Ramone Howell (cautioned – 45’+5)

TUC: Luke Hauswirth (cautioned – 74’)

CHT: Jonathan Caparelli (cautioned – 86’)

Ejection Summary:  

N/A 

MATCH INFORMATION: 

Head Official: Ekaterina Koroleva
Assistant Referee: Rebecca Luther
Assistant Referee: Jessica Beaty
4th Official: Jonathan Fogo

Sitting at a table in a coffee shop in Chattanooga, Tennessee with a pen in one hand and a cup of decaf in the other, Alex Jaimes’ life changed forever.

The 21-year-old forward from Anaheim, California had spent the weeks prior in Park City, Utah signed with USL League Two side Park City Red Wolves SC with the hope of earning a call up to the professional team in Chattanooga.

Jaimes had just wrapped up day two of a three-day trial with the first team when Red Wolves President and General Manager Sean McDaniel asked to meet with him. 

He thought he was being sent home. Little did he know, he’d spent the last 11 years preparing for what was about to occur. 

“The first words out of Sean’s mouth were ‘If you accept this offer your life will change forever,’” Jaimes said.

It was official: Jaimes had been offered his very first professional soccer contract with Chattanooga Red Wolves SC. 

“I can’t put into words how much this opportunity means to me,” Jaimes said.

And, in a sense, that’s what the Chattanooga Red Wolves are—an opportunity. An opportunity for players to foster their dreams, an opportunity for coaches to teach and develop the next generation of soccer stars and an opportunity for soccer fans in the Chattanooga community to come together and enjoy the beautiful game.

Within the Red Wolves organization, the Chattanooga team is the final step on the club’s path to professional soccer.

According to Red Wolves Head Coach Tim Hankinson, the connection between the professional team and the developmental teams and academies is critical to the long-term success of the organization.

“All of the top clubs all over the world have a developmental pyramid as we do now,” Hankinson said. “The fact that we have these teams and an academy gives those players the opportunity to learn from and train with the professional team.”

Forward Yaya Cisse is an example of another player who came up through the developmental teams and found a home in Chattanooga and a professional contract with the Red Wolves.

The Ivory Coast international joined the first team after an impressive preseason camp with Dalton Red Wolves SC earned him a call up to train, and eventually roster, with the first team.

“It’s always been a big dream of mine and for my family to become a pro,” Cisse said. “There were tears but it’s alright.”

He admits that it has been a challenge adjusting to the sharp level of play, but he said it’s a blessing to get to play alongside his talented and experienced teammates.

“To play with the quality players we have is a challenge in the best way,” Cisse said. “I get better every single day.”

Unlike the Dalton and Park City Red Wolves developmental teams, the Chattanooga Red Wolves’ first and foremost goal is to challenge for the inaugural USL League One Championship. But team president and general manager Sean McDaniel says the first team also prioritizes making a big impact on the Chattanooga community.

“Beyond the pitch, we want to extend our network in the community,” McDaniel said. “It’s a big draw to come see professional soccer in this city and that’s something that can only have a positive impact on Chattanooga.”

So far, he’s been right. 

The Red Wolves recently broke ground on a new soccer-specific stadium in East Ridge that will seat 5,500 Red Wolves faithful. As for now, the team is enjoying a great start to its inaugural season and remains undefeated in front of the home fans at David Stanton Field.

Jaimes, Cisse and the rest of the Chattanooga Red Wolves Squad now turn their attention to their next match against FC Tucson on Saturday, July 27 as they continue the pursuit of a league championship title in their inaugural season. But win or lose, these players are grateful for the club and the chance to do what they love.

“This is professional soccer,” Jaimes said. “It’s the dream.”