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As Forward Madison FC prepares to play its inaugural home opener Saturday night (April 27, 7:00 p.m. at Breese Stevens Field; tickets here), we're taking a first look at our opponent for the historic game. Greenville Triumph SC has started off the season with two wins and two defeats; we dove into the USL League One Match Center from their previous game, a 0-1 loss to Richmond, to find three things to watch for.

As Forward Madison FC prepares to play its inaugural home opener Saturday night (April 27, 7:00 p.m. at Breese Stevens Field; tickets here), we’re taking a first look at our opponent for the historic game. Greenville Triumph SC has started off the season with two wins and two defeats; we dove into the USL League One Match Center from their previous game, a 0-1 loss to Richmond, to find three things to watch for.

Like most other teams in USL League One, Greenville (the light blue circles in this "Average Position" map) operates on a system with wingers. That means there are essentially three forwards up top, with one center striker ahead of everyone else. In this case, the system is defined by its playmaker, #10 Carlos Gómez, who occupies his own space on the pitch linking the midfield and forwards. Gómez will be tasked with making key passes in the final third of the field that lead to goals, and it's imperative for FMFC to shut him down.

Like most other teams in USL League One, Greenville (the light blue circles in this “Average Position” map) operates on a system with wingers. That means there are essentially three forwards up top, with one center striker ahead of everyone else. In this case, the system is defined by its playmaker, #10 Carlos Gómez, who occupies his own space on the pitch linking the midfield and forwards. Gómez will be tasked with making key passes in the final third of the field that lead to goals, and it’s imperative for FMFC to shut him down.

In its game against Richmond, the Triumph's attacking plan centered around crossing the ball into the penalty area. A lot. This map of the team's crosses shows that Greenville attempted 28 of them (compared to just four from Richmond), yet only three (the green arrows) hit their intended targets. If Greenville attacks in the same way against Madison, the Flamingos will have to be prepared to close down the wingers and clear a lot of crosses.

In its game against Richmond, the Triumph’s attacking plan centered around crossing the ball into the penalty area. A lot. This map of the team’s crosses shows that Greenville attempted 28 of them (compared to just four from Richmond), yet only three (the green arrows) hit their intended targets. If Greenville attacks in the same way against Madison, the Flamingos will have to be prepared to close down the wingers and clear a lot of crosses.

Greenville's star player so far this season has probably been its central striker, Jake Keegan. Keegan has scored two goals in four games, although he's only put five shots on target. Keegan made a name for himself in Ireland, bagging nearly a goal every two games with Galway United, but came back to North America to play with FC Edmonton in 2016. At 28 years old, he's one of the veteran leaders on the Triumph's roster

Greenville’s star player so far this season has probably been its central striker, Jake Keegan. Keegan has scored two goals in four games, although he’s only put five shots on target. Keegan made a name for himself in Ireland, bagging nearly a goal every two games with Galway United, but came back to North America to play with FC Edmonton in 2016. At 28 years old, he’s one of the veteran leaders on the Triumph’s roster

As of now, Saturday's weather forecast shows that Forward Madison's inaugural home opener could be mired in snow. It might not be ideal weather for soccer, but at the least, it's classically Wisconsin – and something that Greenville's players won't be used to. If nothing else, it'll be another home-field advantage for the Flamingos.

As of now, Saturday’s weather forecast shows that Forward Madison’s inaugural home opener could be mired in snow. It might not be ideal weather for soccer, but at the least, it’s classically Wisconsin – and something that Greenville’s players won’t be used to. If nothing else, it’ll be another home-field advantage for the Flamingos.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Fans can get tickets for all matches this season by visiting https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Fans can get tickets for all matches this season by visiting https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Forward Madison FC is ramping up the build-up to its home opener by introducing #ForwardWeek, a weeklong celebration of the club and Madison. FMFC has planned a number of activities throughout the next few days as part of its social media campaign to promote the club’s inaugural home opener on Saturday, April 27th at 7 p.m. at Breese Stevens Field.

TUESDAY: ​Scarf Madison day – fans are sharing photos of themselves on social media wearing Forward Madison scarves at work, school and around town.

WEDNESDAY: ​At 2:30 PM, several FMFC players and coaches will visit the Henry Vilas Zoo to take photos with flamingos as the club works to help promote conservation efforts with the zoo. In the evening, the club will announce the winner of its “Flamingos For A Year” promotion – its giveaway of a year’s supply of plastic pink flamingos – in a Facebook Live video stream.

THURSDAY: ​Pink Out Madison! Fans are encouraged to wear pink or gear sporting the Forward Madison FC logo and share their photos on social media. The club will select the best ones to award prizes to. The team will also unveil the club’s official beer, brewed by local One Barrel Brewing Company, at their ​2001 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI location at 6:30 pm.

FRIDAY: ​Kicking off Madison Craft Beer Week with Madison's Best Friends!
The Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co. (Hilldale Location), Forward Madison FC, Wollersheim Distillery, and Wollersheim Winery are hosting a tap takeover from 4 PM – 8 PM.

SATURDAY: ​MATCHDAY! Fans are encouraged to arrive early to Breese Stevens Field to get to their seats and not miss any of the pregame ceremonies. All fans in attendance will receive a serialized, custom poster created by local artist Brian Kehoe. Kick-off is at 7 pm against the Greenville Triumph.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Fans can get tickets for all matches this season by visiting https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.​

Forward Madison FC is ramping up the build-up to its home opener by introducing #ForwardWeek, a weeklong celebration of the club and Madison. FMFC has planned a number of activities throughout the next few days as part of its social media campaign to promote the club’s inaugural home opener on Saturday, April 27th at 7 p.m. at Breese Stevens Field.

TUESDAY: ​Scarf Madison day – fans are sharing photos of themselves on social media wearing Forward Madison scarves at work, school and around town.

WEDNESDAY: ​At 2:30 PM, several FMFC players and coaches will visit the Henry Vilas Zoo to take photos with flamingos as the club works to help promote conservation efforts with the zoo. In the evening, the club will announce the winner of its “Flamingos For A Year” promotion – its giveaway of a year’s supply of plastic pink flamingos – in a Facebook Live video stream.

THURSDAY: ​Pink Out Madison! Fans are encouraged to wear pink or gear sporting the Forward Madison FC logo and share their photos on social media. The club will select the best ones to award prizes to. The team will also unveil the club’s official beer, brewed by local One Barrel Brewing Company, at their ​2001 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI location at 6:30 pm.

FRIDAY: ​Kicking off Madison Craft Beer Week with Madison’s Best Friends!
The Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co. (Hilldale Location), Forward Madison FC, Wollersheim Distillery, and Wollersheim Winery are hosting a tap takeover from 4 PM – 8 PM.

SATURDAY: ​MATCHDAY! Fans are encouraged to arrive early to Breese Stevens Field to get to their seats and not miss any of the pregame ceremonies. All fans in attendance will receive a serialized, custom poster created by local artist Brian Kehoe. Kick-off is at 7 pm against the Greenville Triumph.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Fans can get tickets for all matches this season by visiting https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.​

Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor  Mandela Barnes will help kick off professional soccer in Madison at Forward Madison FC’s inaugural home opener on Saturday, April 27 at 7 p.m. Lt. Governor Barnes will be in attendance the club’s historic first game at Breese Stevens Field and will perform the ceremonial “first kick” before the match begins.

Barnes’ appearance comes as part of FMFC’s nonprofit spotlight during the game with the Wisconsin Community Action Program Association (WISCAP), an organization that works to eliminate poverty in the state of Wisconsin. According to Barnes, the partnership gives an opportunity for the Madison community to come together for a common goal – in two senses of the word.

“Bringing awareness to poverty, something that affects so many families and communities in our state, is a great way for Forward Madison FC to make their debut,” Barnes said. “By joining WISCAP to bring light to the issue, Forward Madison FC are already winners, whatever the scoreboard shows after their first home match. ”

For Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, the home opener is a perfect occasion to demonstrate the club's commitment to engaging with Madison both on and off the field.

“We are honored to have Lieutenant Governor Barnes help launch our inaugural season and shine a light on the fight against poverty in Wisconsin,” Wilt said.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Fans can get tickets for all matches this season by visiting https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor  Mandela Barnes will help kick off professional soccer in Madison at Forward Madison FC’s inaugural home opener on Saturday, April 27 at 7 p.m. Lt. Governor Barnes will be in attendance the club’s historic first game at Breese Stevens Field and will perform the ceremonial “first kick” before the match begins.

Barnes’ appearance comes as part of FMFC’s nonprofit spotlight during the game with the Wisconsin Community Action Program Association (WISCAP), an organization that works to eliminate poverty in the state of Wisconsin. According to Barnes, the partnership gives an opportunity for the Madison community to come together for a common goal – in two senses of the word.

“Bringing awareness to poverty, something that affects so many families and communities in our state, is a great way for Forward Madison FC to make their debut,” Barnes said. “By joining WISCAP to bring light to the issue, Forward Madison FC are already winners, whatever the scoreboard shows after their first home match. ”

For Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, the home opener is a perfect occasion to demonstrate the club’s commitment to engaging with Madison both on and off the field.

“We are honored to have Lieutenant Governor Barnes help launch our inaugural season and shine a light on the fight against poverty in Wisconsin,” Wilt said.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Fans can get tickets for all matches this season by visiting https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt will host an "Ask Me Anything" session on reddit Tuesday, April 23 in the buildup to FMFC's inaugural home opener on April 27. Wilt will go online at mls.reddit.com at noon CT, taking questions from soccer fans both local to Madison and from across the country.

Wilt is a familiar figure to soccer supporters online, having established a reputation as a fan-friendly general manager while interacting with users on BigSoccer during his reign at the Chicago Fire. Wilt has hosted previous AMAs in 2013 (twice), 2014 and 2016. As Managing Director of Forward Madison since May 2018, he has helped establish the club as it begins its first-ever season. 

Wilt will post the AMA thread in the morning, leaving time for questions to roll in before he begins responding at noon.

Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt will host an “Ask Me Anything” session on reddit Tuesday, April 23 in the buildup to FMFC’s inaugural home opener on April 27. Wilt will go online at mls.reddit.com at noon CT, taking questions from soccer fans both local to Madison and from across the country.

Wilt is a familiar figure to soccer supporters online, having established a reputation as a fan-friendly general manager while interacting with users on BigSoccer during his reign at the Chicago Fire. Wilt has hosted previous AMAs in 2013 (twice), 2014 and 2016. As Managing Director of Forward Madison since May 2018, he has helped establish the club as it begins its first-ever season. 

Wilt will post the AMA thread in the morning, leaving time for questions to roll in before he begins responding at noon.

MONTVERDE, FL – Forward Madison FC came back from a goal down to win 2-1 over Orlando City B and secure the team’s first win in club history Friday night. The Flamingos had conceded from a penalty kick in the first half, but came out of the break firing, as midfielder Josiel Núñez scored a curling effort to mark the first goal in club history, and then defender Shaun Russell poked home the rebound from a Núñez free kick with 20 minutes to go, which gave FMFC a lead it did not relinquish.

It was a historic result for FMFC, which had narrowly lost each of its previous two games, and sets the stage for an electric home opener next week on April 27 at Breese Stevens Field.

 The Flamingos went on the attack early, launching several quick counter attacks that ended with shots on goal by forward Don Smart. Núñez came perhaps closest to opening the scoring in the 16th minute, escaping from a jersey tug to fire just wide of the near post.

 Eventually, though, FMFC went down a goal. Orlando striker Luc Granitur and FMFC defender Connor Tobin both fell down in the Forward Madison 18-yard box, prompting referee Natalie Simon to point to the spot for a penalty kick. Orlando’s Koby Osei-Wusu converted, FMFC’s second penalty kick goal allowed in two games.

Coming out of the halftime interval, Orlando had the first opportunity to score. Granitur stole the ball off FMFC defender Shaun Russell in the 52nd, leaving him one-on-one with Forward Madison goalkeeper Ryan Coulter. With the situation looking desperate, Coulter sprinted off his line and closed down the angle, pouncing on Granitur’s shot and keeping the Flamingos within one. 

Then, in the 58th minute, it happened. FMFC winger Paulo Júnior side-footed a pass to Núñez at the top of the box. With defenders closing in on him and no one to pass to, Núñez took his chance at goal, striking the ball with the inside of his right foot. His shot curled away and back toward Orlando’s goalkeeper, who reached out an arm but could only just touch the ball as it settled into the back of the net. Núñez had scored the first goal in Forward Madison history, and the score was tied at 1-1.

MONTVERDE, FL – Forward Madison FC came back from a goal down to win 2-1 over Orlando City B and secure the team’s first win in club history Friday night. The Flamingos had conceded from a penalty kick in the first half, but came out of the break firing, as midfielder Josiel Núñez scored a curling effort to mark the first goal in club history, and then defender Shaun Russell poked home the rebound from a Núñez free kick with 20 minutes to go, which gave FMFC a lead it did not relinquish.

It was a historic result for FMFC, which had narrowly lost each of its previous two games, and sets the stage for an electric home opener next week on April 27 at Breese Stevens Field.

 The Flamingos went on the attack early, launching several quick counter attacks that ended with shots on goal by forward Don Smart. Núñez came perhaps closest to opening the scoring in the 16th minute, escaping from a jersey tug to fire just wide of the near post.

 Eventually, though, FMFC went down a goal. Orlando striker Luc Granitur and FMFC defender Connor Tobin both fell down in the Forward Madison 18-yard box, prompting referee Natalie Simon to point to the spot for a penalty kick. Orlando’s Koby Osei-Wusu converted, FMFC’s second penalty kick goal allowed in two games.

Coming out of the halftime interval, Orlando had the first opportunity to score. Granitur stole the ball off FMFC defender Shaun Russell in the 52nd, leaving him one-on-one with Forward Madison goalkeeper Ryan Coulter. With the situation looking desperate, Coulter sprinted off his line and closed down the angle, pouncing on Granitur’s shot and keeping the Flamingos within one. 

Then, in the 58th minute, it happened. FMFC winger Paulo Júnior side-footed a pass to Núñez at the top of the box. With defenders closing in on him and no one to pass to, Núñez took his chance at goal, striking the ball with the inside of his right foot. His shot curled away and back toward Orlando’s goalkeeper, who reached out an arm but could only just touch the ball as it settled into the back of the net. Núñez had scored the first goal in Forward Madison history, and the score was tied at 1-1.

In the 70th minute, the second goal came. Orlando had been penalized for a handball just outside its penalty area, and Núñez stepped up to take the free kick. He managed to ping the ball off the crossbar, and Russell stuck out a foot and knocked home the rebound.

In the 70th minute, the second goal came. Orlando had been penalized for a handball just outside its penalty area, and Núñez stepped up to take the free kick. He managed to ping the ball off the crossbar, and Russell stuck out a foot and knocked home the rebound.

In true Forward fashion, though, the final minutes didn’t come easy. Smart received two yellow cards in the 81st minute, thus earning a red card and a sending-off. Down to ten men, the Flamingos had to persevere, holding off Orlando’s attacks throughout the rest of regulation and five minutes of stoppage time.  

In the end, though, Simon blew the final whistle, and the celebrations ensued. Hundreds of miles away in Madison, supporters who had gathered together at bars and homes posted videos of their delirious reactions. 

With its first win now achieved, Forward Madison will now return to Wisconsin next Saturday for its inaugural home opener at Breese Stevens Field. A limited number of tickets are still available for the game, but most have already been sold.

In true Forward fashion, though, the final minutes didn’t come easy. Smart received two yellow cards in the 81st minute, thus earning a red card and a sending-off. Down to ten men, the Flamingos had to persevere, holding off Orlando’s attacks throughout the rest of regulation and five minutes of stoppage time.  

In the end, though, Simon blew the final whistle, and the celebrations ensued. Hundreds of miles away in Madison, supporters who had gathered together at bars and homes posted videos of their delirious reactions. 

With its first win now achieved, Forward Madison will now return to Wisconsin next Saturday for its inaugural home opener at Breese Stevens Field. A limited number of tickets are still available for the game, but most have already been sold.

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS: http://bit.ly/2IKq1S6

SCORING SUMMARY:
36’: Orlando City B – Koby Osei-Wusu (penalty kick)
58’: Forward Madison FC – Josiel Núñez (assist Paulo Júnior)
70’: Forward Madison FC – Shaun Russell

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY
25’: Orlando City B – Luc Granitur, yellow card
55’: Orlando City B – Serginho, yellow card
67’: Orlando City B – Nathan Simeon, yellow card
72’: Forward Madison FC – Mason Toye, yellow card
81’: Forward Madison FC – Don Smart, yellow card
81’: Forward Madison FC – Don Smart, red card (via second yellow)
85’: Forward Madison FC – Jeff Michaud, yellow card

Forward Madison FC: Ryan Coulter; Christian “Pato” Díaz, Shaun Russell, Connor Tobin, Carter Manley; Eric Leonard, J.C. Banks (Jeff Michaud 73’), Josiel Núñez (Jiro Barriga Toyama, 89’); Paulo Júnior, Don Smart, Mason Toye (Brian Bement 84’)

Unused substitutes: Brian Sylvestre, Carl Schneider, Zaire Bartley, Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi

Orlando City B: Juliano Chade; Randy Mendoza, Matheus Silva, Nathan Simeon, Leonardo Simas; Alasanne Ates Diouf (Austin Amer 37’), Serginho, Koby Osei-Wusu; Steven Hernández (Sebastian Joffre Soliz 73’), Thiago Souza (Tresor Mbuyu 61’), Luc Granitur

Unused substitutes: Christian Herrera, Jordan Hill, Tanner Hummel, Jordan Bender

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on Saturday, April 27 at 7:00 PM vs Greenville Triumph SC. Fans can get tickets for all matches this season by visiting https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS: http://bit.ly/2IKq1S6

SCORING SUMMARY:
36’: Orlando City B – Koby Osei-Wusu (penalty kick)
58’: Forward Madison FC – Josiel Núñez (assist Paulo Júnior)
70’: Forward Madison FC – Shaun Russell

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY
25’: Orlando City B – Luc Granitur, yellow card
55’: Orlando City B – Serginho, yellow card
67’: Orlando City B – Nathan Simeon, yellow card
72’: Forward Madison FC – Mason Toye, yellow card
81’: Forward Madison FC – Don Smart, yellow card
81’: Forward Madison FC – Don Smart, red card (via second yellow)
85’: Forward Madison FC – Jeff Michaud, yellow card

Forward Madison FC: Ryan Coulter; Christian “Pato” Díaz, Shaun Russell, Connor Tobin, Carter Manley; Eric Leonard, J.C. Banks (Jeff Michaud 73’), Josiel Núñez (Jiro Barriga Toyama, 89’); Paulo Júnior, Don Smart, Mason Toye (Brian Bement 84’)

Unused substitutes: Brian Sylvestre, Carl Schneider, Zaire Bartley, Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi

Orlando City B: Juliano Chade; Randy Mendoza, Matheus Silva, Nathan Simeon, Leonardo Simas; Alasanne Ates Diouf (Austin Amer 37’), Serginho, Koby Osei-Wusu; Steven Hernández (Sebastian Joffre Soliz 73’), Thiago Souza (Tresor Mbuyu 61’), Luc Granitur

Unused substitutes: Christian Herrera, Jordan Hill, Tanner Hummel, Jordan Bender

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on Saturday, April 27 at 7:00 PM vs Greenville Triumph SC. Fans can get tickets for all matches this season by visiting https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

USL League One – Game 3
Forward Madison FC at Orlando City B
Friday, April 19, 2019; 6:30 p.m. CT
Montverde Academy – Montverde, FL

Where to Watch
ESPN+
Follow @ForwardMSNFC on Twitter for live updates
Keep track of official stats on the USL League One match center

With just one match to play until its home opener on April 27, Forward Madison FC has one more chance to get its first result. Coming up against a winless Orlando City B this Friday (6:30 p.m. on ESPN+), the Flamingos may feel they have their best opportunity yet.

Life has been hard for the Flamingos in its first two games, having lost each one by a 1-0 margin. After falling to defeat last week to North Texas SC in the final seconds of stoppage time, Head Coach Daryl Shore said his team is ready to finish a game on a positive note.

"We are creating chances, we are getting shots on goal," Shore said on this Wednesday's episode of 'Let Me Be Forward.' "We've just got to do a better job with our final product and our finishing."

FMFC won't quite be at full strength for the match Friday, as center back Wyatt Omsberg has been recalled by Minnesota United due to the injury of Ike Opara. That being said, Forward Madison will be bolstered by the re-additions of three other Loon loanees (Carter Manley, Dayne St. Clair and Mason Toye), who missed the game against North Texas SC to attend the grand opening of Minnesota's Allianz Field.

In Orlando City B, the Flamingos will come up against a team that has not won a game in three attempts thus far in USL League One play, losing two and drawing one. Orlando leads the league in both yellow and red cards, and have made constant lineup changes, using a different goalkeeper in every game and retaining five starters throughout its three matches.

According to Shore, it's imperative that FMFC take advantage of Friday night's opportunity.

"We're just as displeased as anybody else is that we haven't scored a goal yet, that we haven't got a point yet," he said. "We need points. We need to come home with some points in our pocket."

Following its game against Orlando City B, Forward Madison will host its inaugural home opener on April 27 at Breese Stevens Field against Greenville Triumph SC.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

USL League One – Game 3
Forward Madison FC at Orlando City B
Friday, April 19, 2019; 6:30 p.m. CT
Montverde Academy – Montverde, FL

Where to Watch
ESPN+
Follow @ForwardMSNFC on Twitter for live updates
Keep track of official stats on the USL League One match center

With just one match to play until its home opener on April 27, Forward Madison FC has one more chance to get its first result. Coming up against a winless Orlando City B this Friday (6:30 p.m. on ESPN+), the Flamingos may feel they have their best opportunity yet.

Life has been hard for the Flamingos in its first two games, having lost each one by a 1-0 margin. After falling to defeat last week to North Texas SC in the final seconds of stoppage time, Head Coach Daryl Shore said his team is ready to finish a game on a positive note.

“We are creating chances, we are getting shots on goal,” Shore said on this Wednesday’s episode of ‘Let Me Be Forward.’ “We’ve just got to do a better job with our final product and our finishing.”

FMFC won’t quite be at full strength for the match Friday, as center back Wyatt Omsberg has been recalled by Minnesota United due to the injury of Ike Opara. That being said, Forward Madison will be bolstered by the re-additions of three other Loon loanees (Carter Manley, Dayne St. Clair and Mason Toye), who missed the game against North Texas SC to attend the grand opening of Minnesota’s Allianz Field.

In Orlando City B, the Flamingos will come up against a team that has not won a game in three attempts thus far in USL League One play, losing two and drawing one. Orlando leads the league in both yellow and red cards, and have made constant lineup changes, using a different goalkeeper in every game and retaining five starters throughout its three matches.

According to Shore, it’s imperative that FMFC take advantage of Friday night’s opportunity.

“We’re just as displeased as anybody else is that we haven’t scored a goal yet, that we haven’t got a point yet,” he said. “We need points. We need to come home with some points in our pocket.”

Following its game against Orlando City B, Forward Madison will host its inaugural home opener on April 27 at Breese Stevens Field against Greenville Triumph SC.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

MADISON, WI – Forward Madison defender Carl Schneider, 26, has seen it all when it comes to soccer in Madison. Schneider grew up playing in Madison’s youth leagues, starred at La Follette High School, played for the Madison 56ers during summers and spent four seasons with the Wisconsin Badgers.

On Tuesday night, though, Schneider saw something new. He started in FMFC’s 2-0 exhibition win over the Wisconsin men’s soccer team, the first game the Flamingos have played a Breese Stevens Field. According to Schneider, the stadium’s atmosphere was unlike anything he had ever experienced in his home city.

“I’ve been playing at Breese my whole life and I’ve never seen it so rowdy,” Schneider said. “The Flock (FMFC’s supporter section behind the Brearly St. goal) was amazing. The songs they were singing, I had them stuck in my head at halftime.”

With the fans cheering him on, Schneider and Forward Madison cruised to victory.

FMFC nearly got on the board early on, as forward Abu Danladi (a Minnesota United player in Madison for training) struck the first shot on target, which was pushed away by Wisconsin goalkeeper Dean Cowdroy.

It didn’t take much longer to find the opening goal, which came from forward Brian Bement in the 15th minute. Bement raced down the left-hand side of the penalty area to catch up to a through ball played by winger Don Smart, then promptly smashed it past Cowdroy with his very first touch.

Danladi doubled Forward’s advantage just two minutes later, pushing a header down underneath Cowdroy from a couple of yards out.

FMFC had several more chances to score before the halftime whistle blew, coming close when defender Eric Leonard shot the ball into Cowdroy’s gloves in the 44th minute.

The Flamingos made eight substitutions at halftime, with Head Coach Daryl Shore likely looking to give players a rest ahead of his team’s Friday night USL League One game away to Orlando City B. The game slowed down in the second half, with both teams holding onto the ball for long periods of possession. In the end, the score remained the same as it had been at the break, finishing 2-0 to Forward Madison.

With its first game at Breese Stevens Field now over, FMFC will travel to Orlando in search of its first USL League One win. The club is continuing to finish renovations on Breese, which will host the Flamingos’ regular season home opener on April 27 against Greenville Triumph SC.

For Schneider and many other Madison soccer fans, though, the memories of Tuesday night won’t fade quickly.

“Playing in Madison for so long, soccer as a sport in general is always striving to get a foothold in Madison and be relevant,” Schneider said. “Playing in front of this crowd tonight, it’s really cool to see how everything’s growing and I feel like, to some extent, soccer now has a foothold and it’s established.”

MADISON, WI – Forward Madison defender Carl Schneider, 26, has seen it all when it comes to soccer in Madison. Schneider grew up playing in Madison’s youth leagues, starred at La Follette High School, played for the Madison 56ers during summers and spent four seasons with the Wisconsin Badgers.

On Tuesday night, though, Schneider saw something new. He started in FMFC’s 2-0 exhibition win over the Wisconsin men’s soccer team, the first game the Flamingos have played a Breese Stevens Field. According to Schneider, the stadium’s atmosphere was unlike anything he had ever experienced in his home city.

“I’ve been playing at Breese my whole life and I’ve never seen it so rowdy,” Schneider said. “The Flock (FMFC’s supporter section behind the Brearly St. goal) was amazing. The songs they were singing, I had them stuck in my head at halftime.”

With the fans cheering him on, Schneider and Forward Madison cruised to victory.

FMFC nearly got on the board early on, as forward Abu Danladi (a Minnesota United player in Madison for training) struck the first shot on target, which was pushed away by Wisconsin goalkeeper Dean Cowdroy.

It didn’t take much longer to find the opening goal, which came from forward Brian Bement in the 15th minute. Bement raced down the left-hand side of the penalty area to catch up to a through ball played by winger Don Smart, then promptly smashed it past Cowdroy with his very first touch.

Danladi doubled Forward’s advantage just two minutes later, pushing a header down underneath Cowdroy from a couple of yards out.

FMFC had several more chances to score before the halftime whistle blew, coming close when defender Eric Leonard shot the ball into Cowdroy’s gloves in the 44th minute.

The Flamingos made eight substitutions at halftime, with Head Coach Daryl Shore likely looking to give players a rest ahead of his team’s Friday night USL League One game away to Orlando City B. The game slowed down in the second half, with both teams holding onto the ball for long periods of possession. In the end, the score remained the same as it had been at the break, finishing 2-0 to Forward Madison.

With its first game at Breese Stevens Field now over, FMFC will travel to Orlando in search of its first USL League One win. The club is continuing to finish renovations on Breese, which will host the Flamingos’ regular season home opener on April 27 against Greenville Triumph SC.

For Schneider and many other Madison soccer fans, though, the memories of Tuesday night won’t fade quickly.

“Playing in Madison for so long, soccer as a sport in general is always striving to get a foothold in Madison and be relevant,” Schneider said. “Playing in front of this crowd tonight, it’s really cool to see how everything’s growing and I feel like, to some extent, soccer now has a foothold and it’s established.”

Lineups
(Subs with minute)
Goal : ⚽ Penalty Kick: PK ⚽ Cards: Yellow- YC Red- RC

Forward Madison FC
Brian Sylvestre; Christian “Pato” Diaz(C) (Jiro Barrigo Toyama 45’), Wyatt Omsberg , Eric Leonard (Shaun Russell 45’), Carl Schneider (Carter Manley 45’); Hassani Dotson, Brandon Eaton(Vital Nizigiyimana 45’), Josiel Núñez (Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi 45’); Don Smart ⚽ (Zaire Bartley 45’), Brian Bement (Paulo Junior), Abu Danladi ⚽ (Mason Toye 45’)

FMFC Bench:

1 Ryan Coulter, 33 Brandon Barnes, 97 Dayne St. Clair; 2 Carter Manley, 13 Connor Tobin, 15 Shaun Russell, 77 Jiro Barriga Toyama; 3 Eric Leonard, 10 Danny Tenorio, 19 Vital Nizigiyimana, 8 Jeff Michaud, 12 Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi

University of Wisconsin-Madison
8 Andrew Akindele, 12 Zach Klancnik, 14 Olafur Olafsson (13 Bobby Harris 29’), 15 Noah Leibold, 16 Patrick Yim, 20 Noah Melick, 22 Duncan Storey (23 Michael Russell II 29’), 24 Michael Hong, 25 Ben Leas, 28 Michael Comiskey, 30 Dean Cowdroy

UW-Madison Bench:

2 Elan Koenig, 13 Bobby Harris, 17 Andrew Estrelles Hernanz, 18 Grant Tostenrud, 21 Jack Shaw, 23 Michael Russell II, 32 Ben Krongard

Goals:
FMFC:
Brian Bement 15’, assisted by Don Smart
Abu Danladi 17’, assisted by Josiel Núñez

Discipline:
FMFC:
88’ Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi Yellow Card

Lineups
(Subs with minute)
Goal : ⚽ Penalty Kick: PK ⚽ Cards: Yellow- YC Red- RC

Forward Madison FC
Brian Sylvestre; Christian “Pato” Diaz(C) (Jiro Barrigo Toyama 45’), Wyatt Omsberg , Eric Leonard (Shaun Russell 45’), Carl Schneider (Carter Manley 45’); Hassani Dotson, Brandon Eaton(Vital Nizigiyimana 45’), Josiel Núñez (Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi 45’); Don Smart ⚽ (Zaire Bartley 45’), Brian Bement (Paulo Junior), Abu Danladi ⚽ (Mason Toye 45’)

FMFC Bench:

1 Ryan Coulter, 33 Brandon Barnes, 97 Dayne St. Clair; 2 Carter Manley, 13 Connor Tobin, 15 Shaun Russell, 77 Jiro Barriga Toyama; 3 Eric Leonard, 10 Danny Tenorio, 19 Vital Nizigiyimana, 8 Jeff Michaud, 12 Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi

University of Wisconsin-Madison
8 Andrew Akindele, 12 Zach Klancnik, 14 Olafur Olafsson (13 Bobby Harris 29’), 15 Noah Leibold, 16 Patrick Yim, 20 Noah Melick, 22 Duncan Storey (23 Michael Russell II 29’), 24 Michael Hong, 25 Ben Leas, 28 Michael Comiskey, 30 Dean Cowdroy

UW-Madison Bench:

2 Elan Koenig, 13 Bobby Harris, 17 Andrew Estrelles Hernanz, 18 Grant Tostenrud, 21 Jack Shaw, 23 Michael Russell II, 32 Ben Krongard

Goals:
FMFC:
Brian Bement 15’, assisted by Don Smart
Abu Danladi 17’, assisted by Josiel Núñez

Discipline:
FMFC:
88’ Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi Yellow Card

Exhibition Match

Forward Madison FC vs UW-Madison Men’s Soccer
Tuesday, April 16, 2019; 7:00 p.m. CT
Breese Stevens Field – Madison, WI

Where to Watch

Single game tickets available here!
Show a student ID at the door to get $5 off
Season ticket holders get a free ticket (check your email for details)

Forward Madison FC will play its first-ever game at historic Breese Stevens Field on Tuesday evening, hosting an exhibition match against the UW-Madison men’s soccer team. The game is intended to serve as a test run for Breese Stevens Field as FMFC continues to complete renovations on the stadium ahead of its regular season home opener on April 27.

Fans can purchase tickets to the game for 15 dollars on Forward Madison’s website; students can get five dollars off by buying tickets at the gate and showing a student ID; season ticket holders receive a complimentary ticket for the game. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. and kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. All tickets are general admission, with seating available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Exhibition Match

Forward Madison FC vs UW-Madison Men’s Soccer
Tuesday, April 16, 2019; 7:00 p.m. CT
Breese Stevens Field – Madison, WI

Where to Watch

Single game tickets available here!
Show a student ID at the door to get $5 off
Season ticket holders get a free ticket (check your email for details)

Forward Madison FC will play its first-ever game at historic Breese Stevens Field on Tuesday evening, hosting an exhibition match against the UW-Madison men’s soccer team. The game is intended to serve as a test run for Breese Stevens Field as FMFC continues to complete renovations on the stadium ahead of its regular season home opener on April 27.

Fans can purchase tickets to the game for 15 dollars on Forward Madison’s website; students can get five dollars off by buying tickets at the gate and showing a student ID; season ticket holders receive a complimentary ticket for the game. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. and kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. All tickets are general admission, with seating available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

According to Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, the exhibition match will give the team and fans an opportunity to familiarize itself with their home surroundings.

“This will be a good opportunity for Forward fans to see the team in game action for the first time,” Wilt said. “[Wisconsin] Coach [John] Trask always has a competitive, hard-working team, which will make a good test for our team before our home opener April 27th.”

Forward Madison already shares a number of connections with UW-Madison. Along with having its own ex-Badger, Carl Schneider, on the roster, FMFC’s pink flamingo shares a link with a 1979 prank at the university, and Breese Stevens Field hosted Wisconsin’s men’s and women’s soccer teams before they moved to an on-campus facility in 1993.

Trask, head coach of the Wisconsin men’s soccer team, said he was grateful to Wilt and FMFC Head Coach Daryl Shore for working to arrange the match.

“We are very excited for the opportunity to play Forward Madison,” Trask said. “This match will provide us the opportunity to expose our current student-athletes to another level of soccer. We look forward to an entertaining and challenging game, and will be thrilled to see UW alumnus Carl Schneider potentially representing Forward Madison.”

Following its game against UW-Madison, Forward Madison will travel to Florida to face off against winless Orlando City B in USL League One play on Friday. The following Saturday, FMFC will host its inaugural home opener against Greenville Triumph SC.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets

According to Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, the exhibition match will give the team and fans an opportunity to familiarize itself with their home surroundings.

“This will be a good opportunity for Forward fans to see the team in game action for the first time,” Wilt said. “[Wisconsin] Coach [John] Trask always has a competitive, hard-working team, which will make a good test for our team before our home opener April 27th.”

Forward Madison already shares a number of connections with UW-Madison. Along with having its own ex-Badger, Carl Schneider, on the roster, FMFC’s pink flamingo shares a link with a 1979 prank at the university, and Breese Stevens Field hosted Wisconsin’s men’s and women’s soccer teams before they moved to an on-campus facility in 1993.

Trask, head coach of the Wisconsin men’s soccer team, said he was grateful to Wilt and FMFC Head Coach Daryl Shore for working to arrange the match.

“We are very excited for the opportunity to play Forward Madison,” Trask said. “This match will provide us the opportunity to expose our current student-athletes to another level of soccer. We look forward to an entertaining and challenging game, and will be thrilled to see UW alumnus Carl Schneider potentially representing Forward Madison.”

Following its game against UW-Madison, Forward Madison will travel to Florida to face off against winless Orlando City B in USL League One play on Friday. The following Saturday, FMFC will host its inaugural home opener against Greenville Triumph SC.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets

FRISCO, TX – Entering the 90th minute, Forward Madison FC looked as if it would surely secure its first point in club history Saturday night during a rain-soaked match away to North Texas SC. If there are soccer gods that exist, though, they apparently decided not to allow it. In the third minute of stoppage time, the referee awarded North Texas a penalty kick, and striker Ricardo Pepi slotted home from the spot to hand the Flamingos a 0-1 defeat.

It was a tough result to take in particular for FMFC goalkeeper Ryan Coulter, who – making his first start of the season – produced five saves. On the other end of the pitch, the Flamingos had plenty of chances to score, registering six shots in total and three on target, but could never quite find the finishing touch.

FMFC had to deal with a lineup shuffle before the match started, as Head Coach Daryl Shore allowed four Minnesota United loan players – Carter Manley, Wyatt Omsberg, Dayne St. Clair and Mason Toye – to temporarily rejoin their parent club for the opening of Minnesota’s 250-million dollar Allianz Field.

“This [was] a one-off thing,” Shore said. “We felt like this [was] a special moment for that organization and we have to be supportive of them.”

The match was a late one, kicking off at 9:20 p.m. CT as the nightcap of a double-header with FC Dallas, North Texas SC’s affiliate team in Major League Soccer. Soon after the match was underway, Coulter found a way to put his stamp on the game. In the 10th minute, he jumped off his line to cover a bouncing ball off a corner kick; in the 29th minute, he went full-extension to punch away a half-volley shot from the top of the penalty area.

The Flamingos’ first real chance came in the 32nd minute, as midfielder Jeff Michaud caught North Texas goalkeeper Carlos Avilez off guard with a shot from distance, forcing Avilez to parry the ball over his crossbar. Forward Madison had another big opportunity in the 36th minute as attackers streamed up the field on a well-worked counter-attack, but midfielder Josiel Núñez fired his shot high. For the second straight Forward Madison game, neither team had scored at the halftime break.

Coulter came out strong again in the second half, sticking out his left hand to paw away another North Texas shot, then getting down well again to deny a long-range effort in the 71st minute.

FRISCO, TX – Entering the 90th minute, Forward Madison FC looked as if it would surely secure its first point in club history Saturday night during a rain-soaked match away to North Texas SC. If there are soccer gods that exist, though, they apparently decided not to allow it. In the third minute of stoppage time, the referee awarded North Texas a penalty kick, and striker Ricardo Pepi slotted home from the spot to hand the Flamingos a 0-1 defeat.

It was a tough result to take in particular for FMFC goalkeeper Ryan Coulter, who – making his first start of the season – produced five saves. On the other end of the pitch, the Flamingos had plenty of chances to score, registering six shots in total and three on target, but could never quite find the finishing touch.

FMFC had to deal with a lineup shuffle before the match started, as Head Coach Daryl Shore allowed four Minnesota United loan players – Carter Manley, Wyatt Omsberg, Dayne St. Clair and Mason Toye – to temporarily rejoin their parent club for the opening of Minnesota’s 250-million dollar Allianz Field.

“This [was] a one-off thing,” Shore said. “We felt like this [was] a special moment for that organization and we have to be supportive of them.”

The match was a late one, kicking off at 9:20 p.m. CT as the nightcap of a double-header with FC Dallas, North Texas SC’s affiliate team in Major League Soccer. Soon after the match was underway, Coulter found a way to put his stamp on the game. In the 10th minute, he jumped off his line to cover a bouncing ball off a corner kick; in the 29th minute, he went full-extension to punch away a half-volley shot from the top of the penalty area.

The Flamingos’ first real chance came in the 32nd minute, as midfielder Jeff Michaud caught North Texas goalkeeper Carlos Avilez off guard with a shot from distance, forcing Avilez to parry the ball over his crossbar. Forward Madison had another big opportunity in the 36th minute as attackers streamed up the field on a well-worked counter-attack, but midfielder Josiel Núñez fired his shot high. For the second straight Forward Madison game, neither team had scored at the halftime break.

Coulter came out strong again in the second half, sticking out his left hand to paw away another North Texas shot, then getting down well again to deny a long-range effort in the 71st minute.

FMFC had a golden opportunity to finally take the lead in the 77th minute, as Michaud dished a short pass to Núñez right on the top of the penalty spot. Núñez took the shot with his first touch, trying to curl the ball with the inside of his right foot. However, he didn’t get enough power behind it, and Avilez was able to collect easily.

Forward Madison continued to press on until the final moments of the match, when referee Chris Ruska signalled for two minutes of stoppage time. But the game carried on into a third extra minute, and when North Texas midfielder Brandon Servania went to ground after a challenge from FMFC captain Connor Tobin in the penalty area, Ruska pointed to the spot. Sixteen-year-old striker Ricardo Pepi stepped up to take the penalty kick and managed to push it just past Coulter’s left side.

Down but not out, FMFC will return to Madison to open up a newly-renovated Breese Stevens Field for an exhibition match against the UW-Madison men’s soccer team on Tuesday, April 16. Following the game, the Flamingos will hit the road again for a Friday night clash with Orlando City B on April 19.

Forward Madison FC: Ryan Coulter (yellow card 90+5’); Christian “Pato” Díaz, Shaun Russell, Connor Tobin, Carl Schneider (Jiro Barriga Toyama 68’); J.C. Banks, Jeff Michaud, Josiel Núñez (Eric Leonard 81’); Paulo Júnior, Don Smart, Brian Bement (yellow card 19’; Zaire Bartley 64’)

Unused substitutes: Brian Sylvestre, Vital Nizigiyimana, Brandon Eaton, Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi

North Texas SC: Carlos Avilez; John Nelson, Callum Montgomery, Brecc Evans, Bryan Reynolds; Alfusainey Jatta (Bicou Bissainthe 87’), Brandon Servania, Arturo Rodriguez; Ronaldo Damus (Dante Sealy 66’), Oscar Romero (yellow card 7’; Gibran Rayo 45’), Ricardo Pepi (goal 90+5’)

Unused substitutes: Zachary Schawl, Héctor Montalvo, Cesar Murillo

FMFC had a golden opportunity to finally take the lead in the 77th minute, as Michaud dished a short pass to Núñez right on the top of the penalty spot. Núñez took the shot with his first touch, trying to curl the ball with the inside of his right foot. However, he didn’t get enough power behind it, and Avilez was able to collect easily.

Forward Madison continued to press on until the final moments of the match, when referee Chris Ruska signalled for two minutes of stoppage time. But the game carried on into a third extra minute, and when North Texas midfielder Brandon Servania went to ground after a challenge from FMFC captain Connor Tobin in the penalty area, Ruska pointed to the spot. Sixteen-year-old striker Ricardo Pepi stepped up to take the penalty kick and managed to push it just past Coulter’s left side.

Down but not out, FMFC will return to Madison to open up a newly-renovated Breese Stevens Field for an exhibition match against the UW-Madison men’s soccer team on Tuesday, April 16. Following the game, the Flamingos will hit the road again for a Friday night clash with Orlando City B on April 19.

Forward Madison FC: Ryan Coulter (yellow card 90+5’); Christian “Pato” Díaz, Shaun Russell, Connor Tobin, Carl Schneider (Jiro Barriga Toyama 68’); J.C. Banks, Jeff Michaud, Josiel Núñez (Eric Leonard 81’); Paulo Júnior, Don Smart, Brian Bement (yellow card 19’; Zaire Bartley 64’)

Unused substitutes: Brian Sylvestre, Vital Nizigiyimana, Brandon Eaton, Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi

North Texas SC: Carlos Avilez; John Nelson, Callum Montgomery, Brecc Evans, Bryan Reynolds; Alfusainey Jatta (Bicou Bissainthe 87’), Brandon Servania, Arturo Rodriguez; Ronaldo Damus (Dante Sealy 66’), Oscar Romero (yellow card 7’; Gibran Rayo 45’), Ricardo Pepi (goal 90+5’)

Unused substitutes: Zachary Schawl, Héctor Montalvo, Cesar Murillo

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/forwardmadisonfc/tickets.