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Akeem Ward Earns Spot on USL Team of the Week After Scoring First Professional Goal

Tampa, FL (August 11, 2020)- North Carolina FC defender Akeem Ward makes his first-ever USL Team of the Week appearance after scoring his first professional goal against Memphis 901 FC. The defender’s goal was the only of the match and helped NCFC secure a second-consecutive victory.

Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis was named to the Team of the Week Bench after five saves against Memphis and a second-consecutive shutout. NCFC defender DJ Taylor was named to the USL Team of the Week in Week 6.

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 7

GK – Eric De La Cerda, Reno 1868 FC: The 19-year-old recorded seven saves, including six on shots inside the penalty area and a crucial second-half penalty kick denial, to help Reno earn a 2-1 victory against Tacoma Defiance. 

D – Ish Jome, Austin Bold FC: Jome recorded two goals and one assist, completed 52 of 65 passes and made six recoveries to lead Austin to its first victory since the season resumption with a 4-1 win against Rio Grande Valley FC.

D – Akeem Ward, North Carolina FC: Ward scored the only goal of the game, made four interceptions and nine recoveries and completed 19 of 28 passes in NCFC’s 1-0 road victory against Memphis 901 FC.

D – Jonathan Dean, Birmingham Legion FC: Dean recorded a goal and assist, had three chances created and completed 51 of 56 passes overall while also winning 5 of 7 duels in Birmingham’s 4-1 victory against the Charlotte Independence.

M – Robbie Mertz, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: Mertz had two goals, recorded two chances created among 31 of 39 passes completed overall and won 8 of 12 duels in the Hounds’ 4-1 victory against the New York Red Bulls II.

M – Cristian Parano, San Antonio FC: Parano had one goal and one assist, recorded two chances created and six shots, and completed 12 of 12 passes overall in San Antonio’s 3-0 road victory against OKC Energy FC.

M – Jack McGlynn, Philadelphia Union II: McGlynn led the Union II to their first win of the season, recording one goal and one assist, four chances created, four interceptions and six recoveries while winning 4 of 4 duels.

M – Chapa Herrera, El Paso Locomotive FC: The local standout scored a pair of second-half goals and completed 35 of 37 passes as Locomotive FC got back on track with a 4-2 victory against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.

F – Junior Flemmings, Phoenix Rising FC: Flemmings recorded his first hat trick in the Championship in Phoenix’s 5-2 victory against New Mexico United, while also completing 12 of 15 passes overall.

F – Neco Brett, Birmingham Legion FC: Brett scored his first two goals for Legion FC, recorded four chances created and completed 29 of 39 passes overall as Legion FC swept to a 4-1 victory against the Charlotte Independence.

F – Alec Diaz, Tacoma Defiance: Diaz recorded two goals and one assist, had four shots on goal, complete 2 of 2 dribbles and had three chances created overall in Tacoma’s 4-0 victory against the Portland Timbers 2.

Bench: Alex Tambakis (NC), AJ Cochran (PHX), Hayden Sargis (SAC), Lewis Hilton (TBR) Uvaldo Luna (COS), Solomon Asante (PHX), Ropapa Mensah (PIT)

Tampa, FL (August 11, 2020)- North Carolina FC defender Akeem Ward makes his first-ever USL Team of the Week appearance after scoring his first professional goal against Memphis 901 FC. The defender’s goal was the only of the match and helped NCFC secure a second-consecutive victory.

Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis was named to the Team of the Week Bench after five saves against Memphis and a second-consecutive shutout. NCFC defender DJ Taylor was named to the USL Team of the Week in Week 6.

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 7

GK – Eric De La Cerda, Reno 1868 FC: The 19-year-old recorded seven saves, including six on shots inside the penalty area and a crucial second-half penalty kick denial, to help Reno earn a 2-1 victory against Tacoma Defiance. 

D – Ish Jome, Austin Bold FC: Jome recorded two goals and one assist, completed 52 of 65 passes and made six recoveries to lead Austin to its first victory since the season resumption with a 4-1 win against Rio Grande Valley FC.

D – Akeem Ward, North Carolina FC: Ward scored the only goal of the game, made four interceptions and nine recoveries and completed 19 of 28 passes in NCFC’s 1-0 road victory against Memphis 901 FC.

D – Jonathan Dean, Birmingham Legion FC: Dean recorded a goal and assist, had three chances created and completed 51 of 56 passes overall while also winning 5 of 7 duels in Birmingham’s 4-1 victory against the Charlotte Independence.

M – Robbie Mertz, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: Mertz had two goals, recorded two chances created among 31 of 39 passes completed overall and won 8 of 12 duels in the Hounds’ 4-1 victory against the New York Red Bulls II.

M – Cristian Parano, San Antonio FC: Parano had one goal and one assist, recorded two chances created and six shots, and completed 12 of 12 passes overall in San Antonio’s 3-0 road victory against OKC Energy FC.

M – Jack McGlynn, Philadelphia Union II: McGlynn led the Union II to their first win of the season, recording one goal and one assist, four chances created, four interceptions and six recoveries while winning 4 of 4 duels.

M – Chapa Herrera, El Paso Locomotive FC: The local standout scored a pair of second-half goals and completed 35 of 37 passes as Locomotive FC got back on track with a 4-2 victory against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.

F – Junior Flemmings, Phoenix Rising FC: Flemmings recorded his first hat trick in the Championship in Phoenix’s 5-2 victory against New Mexico United, while also completing 12 of 15 passes overall.

F – Neco Brett, Birmingham Legion FC: Brett scored his first two goals for Legion FC, recorded four chances created and completed 29 of 39 passes overall as Legion FC swept to a 4-1 victory against the Charlotte Independence.

F – Alec Diaz, Tacoma Defiance: Diaz recorded two goals and one assist, had four shots on goal, complete 2 of 2 dribbles and had three chances created overall in Tacoma’s 4-0 victory against the Portland Timbers 2.

Bench: Alex Tambakis (NC), AJ Cochran (PHX), Hayden Sargis (SAC), Lewis Hilton (TBR) Uvaldo Luna (COS), Solomon Asante (PHX), Ropapa Mensah (PIT)

North Carolina FC Moves into Second Place in Group G with Win Over Memphis 901 FC

Memphis, TN (August 8, 2020) – North Carolina FC defeated Memphis 901 FC by a score of 1-0 on Saturday night at Autozone Park in Memphis, earning their second win of the season. NCFC relied on a goal by Akeem Ward and a stellar performance from goalkeeper Alex Tambakis to secure the win, improving their record to 2-1-1. Ward’s goal was the first of his professional career. 

Ward scored the lone goal of the match for NCFC in the 38th minute, receiving a sliding pass from Pecka just outside the eighteen. Redirecting his touch towards the net, Ward curved a shot past Memphis goalkeeper Jimmy Hague and into the upper ninety to notch the first goal of his professional career, putting NCFC up 1-0 late into the first half. Several passes were linked together leading up to the goal, making it a true team effort with an excellent finish. Ward’s performance in tonight’s game earned him the honor of Coastal Credit Union’s Man of the Match. 

NCFC entered the second half hungry to create scoring opportunities. In the 53rd minute, DJ Taylor threaded a pass into the box and to the feet of Robert Kristo. Kristo attempted to redirect the ball into the left corner of the net, only for the redirection to fall just wide of the goal and out of bounds. 

Tambakis kept NCFC in the match, recording the clean sheet with a total of five saves. The clean sheet was Tambakis’ second consecutive, as he also kept Birmingham Legion FC scoreless on August 1. The goalkeeper has only allowed three goals on the season. 

Tonight’s win over Memphis 901 FC moves North Carolina FC into second place in Group G of the USL Championship League with 7 points. NCFC remains unbeaten since returning to play on July 17. 

Looking Ahead: North Carolina FC will return to WakeMed Soccer Park to face Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday, August 15 at 7:00 p.m. ET. 

Notes:

  • Akeem Ward scored his first professional goal in the match. 

  • Ward’s goal in the 38th minute marks the first time NCFC has scored in the first half this season. 

  • Former NCFC Youth Academy players DJ Taylor, Dre Fortune, Conor Donovan, and Manny Perez were all starters in tonight’s match. 

  • Marios Lomis made his season debut with NCFC after transferring from El Paso. 

Box Score:

MEM (4-3-3): Jimmy Hague; Rece Buckmaster, Mark Segbers, Tristan Hodge (Liam Doyle, 62’), Zach Carroll; Jean-Christophe Koffi (Michael Reed, 59’), Leston Paul ©, Duane Muckette (Cal Jennings, 79’); Keanu Marsh-Brown (Marc Burch, 80’), Brandon Allen, Rafael Mantzingen (Matthew Hundley, 45’)

Subs Not Used: Dan Metzger, Tim Howard

NC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Akeem Ward, Conor Donovan, Sam Brotherton, D.J. Taylor; Pecka (Ben Speas, 88’), Steven Miller © (Alex Comsia, 90+4), Dre Fortune (Graham Smith, 45’), Hadji Barry, Manny Perez (Daniele Proch, 45’); Robert Kristo (Marios Lomis, 84’)

Subs Not Used: Malick Mbaye, Paolo Pita

Score:

MEM: 0

NC: 1

Goals:

MEM: —

NC: Akeem Ward (Pecka, 38’)

Cautions:

MEM: Leston Paul (65’)

NC: Akeem Ward (15’), Dre Fortune (21’)

Ejections:

MEM: —

NC: —

Memphis, TN (August 8, 2020) – North Carolina FC defeated Memphis 901 FC by a score of 1-0 on Saturday night at Autozone Park in Memphis, earning their second win of the season. NCFC relied on a goal by Akeem Ward and a stellar performance from goalkeeper Alex Tambakis to secure the win, improving their record to 2-1-1. Ward’s goal was the first of his professional career. 

Ward scored the lone goal of the match for NCFC in the 38th minute, receiving a sliding pass from Pecka just outside the eighteen. Redirecting his touch towards the net, Ward curved a shot past Memphis goalkeeper Jimmy Hague and into the upper ninety to notch the first goal of his professional career, putting NCFC up 1-0 late into the first half. Several passes were linked together leading up to the goal, making it a true team effort with an excellent finish. Ward’s performance in tonight’s game earned him the honor of Coastal Credit Union’s Man of the Match. 

NCFC entered the second half hungry to create scoring opportunities. In the 53rd minute, DJ Taylor threaded a pass into the box and to the feet of Robert Kristo. Kristo attempted to redirect the ball into the left corner of the net, only for the redirection to fall just wide of the goal and out of bounds. 

Tambakis kept NCFC in the match, recording the clean sheet with a total of five saves. The clean sheet was Tambakis’ second consecutive, as he also kept Birmingham Legion FC scoreless on August 1. The goalkeeper has only allowed three goals on the season. 

Tonight’s win over Memphis 901 FC moves North Carolina FC into second place in Group G of the USL Championship League with 7 points. NCFC remains unbeaten since returning to play on July 17. 

Looking Ahead: North Carolina FC will return to WakeMed Soccer Park to face Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday, August 15 at 7:00 p.m. ET. 

Notes:

  • Akeem Ward scored his first professional goal in the match. 

  • Ward’s goal in the 38th minute marks the first time NCFC has scored in the first half this season. 

  • Former NCFC Youth Academy players DJ Taylor, Dre Fortune, Conor Donovan, and Manny Perez were all starters in tonight’s match. 

  • Marios Lomis made his season debut with NCFC after transferring from El Paso. 

Box Score:

MEM (4-3-3): Jimmy Hague; Rece Buckmaster, Mark Segbers, Tristan Hodge (Liam Doyle, 62’), Zach Carroll; Jean-Christophe Koffi (Michael Reed, 59’), Leston Paul ©, Duane Muckette (Cal Jennings, 79’); Keanu Marsh-Brown (Marc Burch, 80’), Brandon Allen, Rafael Mantzingen (Matthew Hundley, 45’)

Subs Not Used: Dan Metzger, Tim Howard

NC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Akeem Ward, Conor Donovan, Sam Brotherton, D.J. Taylor; Pecka (Ben Speas, 88’), Steven Miller © (Alex Comsia, 90+4), Dre Fortune (Graham Smith, 45’), Hadji Barry, Manny Perez (Daniele Proch, 45’); Robert Kristo (Marios Lomis, 84’)

Subs Not Used: Malick Mbaye, Paolo Pita

Score:

MEM: 0

NC: 1

Goals:

MEM: —

NC: Akeem Ward (Pecka, 38’)

Cautions:

MEM: Leston Paul (65’)

NC: Akeem Ward (15’), Dre Fortune (21’)

Ejections:

MEM: —

NC: —

Marios Lomis Returns to North Carolina FC

Cary, NC (August 7, 2020)- North Carolina FC announced today that Marios Lomis has transferred from El Paso Locomotive FC back to NCFC. The 25-year-old striker spent the 2018 and 2019 seasons with NCFC before signing with El Paso at the beginning of 2020. Per club policy, no further details were disclosed.

“It feels good to be back in a familiar environment,” Lomis said. “I know a lot of my teammates and coaching staff. It’s like having fresh air in my lungs.”

Lomis has played 1,861 minutes in 37 games in a North Carolina FC jersey. In 2019, he started 12 games scored six times. He took 29 shots in total, spending a great deal of time around the net. He was named NCFC’s Comeback Player of the Year after overcoming an injury early in the season.

In 2018, the Dutch forward scored five times and had two assists. His first goal for NCFC came against the Charlotte Independence. He also scored three goals in the 2018 US Open Cup.

So far in 2020, Lomis played in five games for El Paso for 267 minutes. He will once again play aside his 2019 teammate Robert Kristo and will also have a chance to play with first-year NCFC forward Hadji Barry.

“We were really pleased to be able to bring Marios back,” said North Carolina FC head coach Dave Sarachan. “He is a professional that understands the mentality and culture we have here. It’ll be a seamless transition for him to jump in almost where he left off.”

Cary, NC (August 7, 2020)- North Carolina FC announced today that Marios Lomis has transferred from El Paso Locomotive FC back to NCFC. The 25-year-old striker spent the 2018 and 2019 seasons with NCFC before signing with El Paso at the beginning of 2020. Per club policy, no further details were disclosed.

“It feels good to be back in a familiar environment,” Lomis said. “I know a lot of my teammates and coaching staff. It’s like having fresh air in my lungs.”

Lomis has played 1,861 minutes in 37 games in a North Carolina FC jersey. In 2019, he started 12 games scored six times. He took 29 shots in total, spending a great deal of time around the net. He was named NCFC’s Comeback Player of the Year after overcoming an injury early in the season.

In 2018, the Dutch forward scored five times and had two assists. His first goal for NCFC came against the Charlotte Independence. He also scored three goals in the 2018 US Open Cup.

So far in 2020, Lomis played in five games for El Paso for 267 minutes. He will once again play aside his 2019 teammate Robert Kristo and will also have a chance to play with first-year NCFC forward Hadji Barry.

“We were really pleased to be able to bring Marios back,” said North Carolina FC head coach Dave Sarachan. “He is a professional that understands the mentality and culture we have here. It’ll be a seamless transition for him to jump in almost where he left off.”

North Carolina FC to Face Memphis 901 FC in ESPN Game of the Week on Saturday

Match Info:

North Carolina FC vs. Memphis 901 FC

Saturday, August 8 – 5:00 p.m. ET

Autozone Park

Watch: ESPN Deportes, ESPN+

 

Cary, NC (August 6, 2020) – North Carolina FC will travel to face Memphis 901 FC this Saturday, August 8 at 5 p.m. ET at Autozone Park in Memphis, Tennessee. NCFC will look to improve their standing in Group G with a win in Saturday’s game.

North Carolina FC’s last match saw the team earning their first victory of the 2020 season over Birmingham Legion FC, bringing their record to 1-1-1. Early in the second half, DJ Taylor received a past just inside the eighteen. Turning on the ball, Taylor was able to thread a cross back towards the penalty spot and to the feet of Dre Fortune, meeting him in stride. Fortune tore a shot past Birmingham goalkeeper Matt Van Oekel, putting NCFC up 1-0 and securing the win for NCFC.

Memphis 901 FC topped Saint Louis FC 1-0 last Saturday, also logging their first win of the 2020 season and bringing their record to 1-2-2.  Forward Keanu Marsh-Brown scored the goal for Memphis, with Mark Segbres recording the assist.

"The conditions will be challenging but I think we've had a good week of training and we are prepared to face Memphis in a positive way," said NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan. 

North Carolina FC and Memphis 901 FC are both a part of Group G in the USL, with Memphis sitting in second place with five points and NCFC just behind with four points. A win over Memphis on Saturday night could move NCFC into second place within Group G.

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna:

North Carolina FC – #27 DJ Taylor

DJ Taylor has earned two assists in NCFC’s last two games, making him a dangerous asset both offensively and defensively. Fans can expect Taylor to create several scoring opportunities against former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard, utilizing his quick footwork and accurate passing abilities to his advantage.

Memphis 901 FC – #1 Tim Howard

Recording four saves and a clean sheet in his last match against Saint Louis FC, USMNT legend Tim Howard will look to shut down any scoring attempt by NCFC in Saturday’s match, providing a difficult challenge to NCFC’s offense.

Match Info:

North Carolina FC vs. Memphis 901 FC

Saturday, August 8 – 5:00 p.m. ET

Autozone Park

Watch: ESPN Deportes, ESPN+

 

Cary, NC (August 6, 2020) – North Carolina FC will travel to face Memphis 901 FC this Saturday, August 8 at 5 p.m. ET at Autozone Park in Memphis, Tennessee. NCFC will look to improve their standing in Group G with a win in Saturday’s game.

North Carolina FC’s last match saw the team earning their first victory of the 2020 season over Birmingham Legion FC, bringing their record to 1-1-1. Early in the second half, DJ Taylor received a past just inside the eighteen. Turning on the ball, Taylor was able to thread a cross back towards the penalty spot and to the feet of Dre Fortune, meeting him in stride. Fortune tore a shot past Birmingham goalkeeper Matt Van Oekel, putting NCFC up 1-0 and securing the win for NCFC.

Memphis 901 FC topped Saint Louis FC 1-0 last Saturday, also logging their first win of the 2020 season and bringing their record to 1-2-2.  Forward Keanu Marsh-Brown scored the goal for Memphis, with Mark Segbres recording the assist.

“The conditions will be challenging but I think we’ve had a good week of training and we are prepared to face Memphis in a positive way,” said NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan. 

North Carolina FC and Memphis 901 FC are both a part of Group G in the USL, with Memphis sitting in second place with five points and NCFC just behind with four points. A win over Memphis on Saturday night could move NCFC into second place within Group G.

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna:

North Carolina FC – #27 DJ Taylor

DJ Taylor has earned two assists in NCFC’s last two games, making him a dangerous asset both offensively and defensively. Fans can expect Taylor to create several scoring opportunities against former USMNT goalkeeper Tim Howard, utilizing his quick footwork and accurate passing abilities to his advantage.

Memphis 901 FC – #1 Tim Howard

Recording four saves and a clean sheet in his last match against Saint Louis FC, USMNT legend Tim Howard will look to shut down any scoring attempt by NCFC in Saturday’s match, providing a difficult challenge to NCFC’s offense.

DJ Taylor Named to USL Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio

Cary, NC (August 4, 2020)- North Carolina FC defender DJ Taylor earned a spot on the USL Team of the Week for Week 6 after a stellar performance against Birmingham Legion FC. The NCFC Youth Academy product had the game’s only assist and completed 87% of his passes. Taylor has both of NCFC’s assist so far this season.

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 6

GK – Brooks Thompson, Sporting Kansas City II: The 18-year-old Indiana native recorded his first professional shutout as SKC II ended Indy Eleven’s 28-game regular season home undefeated streak at Lucas Oil Stadium.

D – D.J. Taylor, North Carolina FC: Taylor provided the assist on NCFC’s game-winning goal, completed 47 of 54 passes overall and won 3 of 4 duels defensively as North Carolina claimed its first win of 2020 against Birmingham Legion FC.

D – Karl Ouimette, Indy Eleven: Ouimette recorded a pair of assists and completed 54 of 63 passes overall in the Eleven’s 4-1 win against Hartford Athletic, while also recording five clearances and winning 3 of 3 tackles.

D – Taylor Peay, Real Monarchs SLC: Peay scored the stoppage-time winner for the Monarchs against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, capping a game that saw him record five clearances, two interceptions and five recoveries at Weidner Field.

M – Chris Wehan, New Mexico United: Wehan scored in his fourth consecutive game since the season resumed, and also recorded an assist as New Mexico took a 3-0 victory on the road against OKC Energy FC.

M – Danny Barrera, Hartford Athletic: Barrera reached 30 regular season assists for his career as he led the Athletic to a 4-1 victory against Loudoun United FC on Sunday night with a goal and two assists at Dillon Stadium.

M – Kenardo Forbes, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: Forbes notched his sixth and seventh assists of the season to become the Championship’s all-time regular season leader with 38 for his career in the Hounds’ 4-0 victory against the Philadelphia Union II.

M – Christiano Francois, Reno 1868 FC: Francois notched a pair of goals in a standout display against the Portland Timbers 2, and then provided the assist on Brent Richards’ game-winner against Las Vegas Lights FC in a two-win week for Reno.

F – Luis Solignac, San Antonio FC: Solignac notched a pair of goals to help SAFC continue its undefeated start to the season with a 4-2 victory against Austin Bold FC on Saturday night.

F – Amadou Macky Diop, Atlanta United 2: Diop scored a pair of goals to lift Atlanta to its first victory of the season as it defeated Miami FC 4-3 at Fifth Third Bank Stadium.

F – Rufat Dadashov, Phoenix Rising FC: The Azerbaijani international notched a goal and assist and recorded three key passes as Rising FC returned to the win column in a 3-1 victory against El Paso Locomotive FC.

Bench: Eric Dick (PHX), Harrison Heath (MIA), Jordan Doherty (TBR), Noah Powder (SLC), Keanu Marsh-Brown (MEM), Ariel Martinez (TUL), Sebastian Guenzatti (TBR)

Cary, NC (August 4, 2020)- North Carolina FC defender DJ Taylor earned a spot on the USL Team of the Week for Week 6 after a stellar performance against Birmingham Legion FC. The NCFC Youth Academy product had the game’s only assist and completed 87% of his passes. Taylor has both of NCFC’s assist so far this season.

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 6

GK – Brooks Thompson, Sporting Kansas City II: The 18-year-old Indiana native recorded his first professional shutout as SKC II ended Indy Eleven’s 28-game regular season home undefeated streak at Lucas Oil Stadium.

D – D.J. Taylor, North Carolina FC: Taylor provided the assist on NCFC’s game-winning goal, completed 47 of 54 passes overall and won 3 of 4 duels defensively as North Carolina claimed its first win of 2020 against Birmingham Legion FC.

D – Karl Ouimette, Indy Eleven: Ouimette recorded a pair of assists and completed 54 of 63 passes overall in the Eleven’s 4-1 win against Hartford Athletic, while also recording five clearances and winning 3 of 3 tackles.

D – Taylor Peay, Real Monarchs SLC: Peay scored the stoppage-time winner for the Monarchs against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, capping a game that saw him record five clearances, two interceptions and five recoveries at Weidner Field.

M – Chris Wehan, New Mexico United: Wehan scored in his fourth consecutive game since the season resumed, and also recorded an assist as New Mexico took a 3-0 victory on the road against OKC Energy FC.

M – Danny Barrera, Hartford Athletic: Barrera reached 30 regular season assists for his career as he led the Athletic to a 4-1 victory against Loudoun United FC on Sunday night with a goal and two assists at Dillon Stadium.

M – Kenardo Forbes, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: Forbes notched his sixth and seventh assists of the season to become the Championship’s all-time regular season leader with 38 for his career in the Hounds’ 4-0 victory against the Philadelphia Union II.

M – Christiano Francois, Reno 1868 FC: Francois notched a pair of goals in a standout display against the Portland Timbers 2, and then provided the assist on Brent Richards’ game-winner against Las Vegas Lights FC in a two-win week for Reno.

F – Luis Solignac, San Antonio FC: Solignac notched a pair of goals to help SAFC continue its undefeated start to the season with a 4-2 victory against Austin Bold FC on Saturday night.

F – Amadou Macky Diop, Atlanta United 2: Diop scored a pair of goals to lift Atlanta to its first victory of the season as it defeated Miami FC 4-3 at Fifth Third Bank Stadium.

F – Rufat Dadashov, Phoenix Rising FC: The Azerbaijani international notched a goal and assist and recorded three key passes as Rising FC returned to the win column in a 3-1 victory against El Paso Locomotive FC.

Bench: Eric Dick (PHX), Harrison Heath (MIA), Jordan Doherty (TBR), Noah Powder (SLC), Keanu Marsh-Brown (MEM), Ariel Martinez (TUL), Sebastian Guenzatti (TBR)

Hadji Barry Honors Late Father on 2020 Jersey

North Carolina FC forward Hadji Barry sported a new look on Saturday as NCFC returned to play at WakeMed Soccer Park for the first time since early March. It was hard to miss the 6-foot forward’s jersey which read “Baba” instead of “Barry” across the back.

“Baba means dad in my dialect for Guinea,” said Barry, the Conakry Guinea native. “I want to dedicate this season to him.”

Just a few weeks ago, Barry’s dad passed away back in his home country of Guinea. Unable to be there with his family or attend the funeral due to the coronavirus, Barry wanted to honor his father in a meaningful way.

“I’d love for him to be here, but deep down, I know he is always with me and watching over me,” Barry said. “I want to keep making him proud.”

Baba would have been very proud of his son’s performance on Saturday as he helped lead NCFC to their first victory of the season. Barry took a team-high five shots and had two key passes.

“My brothers and everyone back home wants the jersey now,” said Barry. “I’m like oh man, I’m going to have to buy a bunch of jerseys now. They are really proud of the decision I made to honor him.”

Another unique part of Barry’s jersey is that he wears number 92, the highest number of any NCFC player. He acquired the number when he was on the second team with Swope Park Rangers. He claims he had his best professional season that year and has kept the number since then.

So, if he has his best professional season this year with NCFC, will Barry keep “Baba” on his jersey?

“That might be a plan,” said Barry. “We will see, we will see.”

North Carolina FC forward Hadji Barry sported a new look on Saturday as NCFC returned to play at WakeMed Soccer Park for the first time since early March. It was hard to miss the 6-foot forward’s jersey which read “Baba” instead of “Barry” across the back.

“Baba means dad in my dialect for Guinea,” said Barry, the Conakry Guinea native. “I want to dedicate this season to him.”

Just a few weeks ago, Barry’s dad passed away back in his home country of Guinea. Unable to be there with his family or attend the funeral due to the coronavirus, Barry wanted to honor his father in a meaningful way.

“I’d love for him to be here, but deep down, I know he is always with me and watching over me,” Barry said. “I want to keep making him proud.”

Baba would have been very proud of his son’s performance on Saturday as he helped lead NCFC to their first victory of the season. Barry took a team-high five shots and had two key passes.

“My brothers and everyone back home wants the jersey now,” said Barry. “I’m like oh man, I’m going to have to buy a bunch of jerseys now. They are really proud of the decision I made to honor him.”

Another unique part of Barry’s jersey is that he wears number 92, the highest number of any NCFC player. He acquired the number when he was on the second team with Swope Park Rangers. He claims he had his best professional season that year and has kept the number since then.

So, if he has his best professional season this year with NCFC, will Barry keep “Baba” on his jersey?

“That might be a plan,” said Barry. “We will see, we will see.”

North Carolina FC to Play on ESPN Deportes on Saturday

TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Championship announced today the addition of three USL Championship matches to the ESPN Deportes slate, expanding the league’s unprecedented regular season coverage on the 24-hour Spanish-language sports network to nine games in total from the league’s return to play in July through the end of August.

The three matches add to an already robust lineup of USL Championship games across ESPN’s linear television networks including six matches on ESPN Deportes and eight key contests on ESPN2 – all in July.

Group G foes Memphis 901 FC and North Carolina FC square off at AutoZone Park on Saturday, August 8, before the action shifts west where Orange County SC and Las Vegas Lights FC look to improve their standings in Group B on Tuesday, August 25 ahead of a vital Group D clash between RGVFC and San Antonio FC on Friday, August 28.

USL Championship on ESPN Deportes Schedule
Saturday, August 8
Memphis 901 FC vs. North Carolina FC, 5 p.m. ET

Tuesday, August 25
Las Vegas Lights FC vs. Orange County SC, 10 p.m. ET

Friday, August 28

Rio Grande Valley FC vs. San Antonio FC, 8 p.m. ET

TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Championship announced today the addition of three USL Championship matches to the ESPN Deportes slate, expanding the league’s unprecedented regular season coverage on the 24-hour Spanish-language sports network to nine games in total from the league’s return to play in July through the end of August.

The three matches add to an already robust lineup of USL Championship games across ESPN’s linear television networks including six matches on ESPN Deportes and eight key contests on ESPN2 – all in July.

Group G foes Memphis 901 FC and North Carolina FC square off at AutoZone Park on Saturday, August 8, before the action shifts west where Orange County SC and Las Vegas Lights FC look to improve their standings in Group B on Tuesday, August 25 ahead of a vital Group D clash between RGVFC and San Antonio FC on Friday, August 28.

USL Championship on ESPN Deportes Schedule
Saturday, August 8
Memphis 901 FC vs. North Carolina FC, 5 p.m. ET

Tuesday, August 25
Las Vegas Lights FC vs. Orange County SC, 10 p.m. ET

Friday, August 28

Rio Grande Valley FC vs. San Antonio FC, 8 p.m. ET

North Carolina FC Tops Birmingham Legion FC 1-0 to Earn First Win of 2020

Cary, NC (August 1, 2020) – North Carolina FC defeated Birmingham Legion FC by a score of 1-0 at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday night, earning their first win of the 2020 season and bringing their record to 1-1-1. Dre Fortune recorded the goal for NCFC, his second this season. 

NCFC created several scoring opportunities and continually pressed Birmingham’s defense as the first half wore on. In the 23rd minute, Robert Kristo sent a through ball to DJ Taylor who was sprinting towards the box. Taylor received the ball at his feet, firing a dangerous shot just over the crossbar. 

Later, in the 33rd minute, a red card was shown to Birmingham midfielder Bolu Akinyode after tripping up Steven Miller and halting an NCFC breakaway in the process. 

After ending the first half deadlocked at 0-0, both teams entered the second half eager to get on the board. Finally, in the 51st minute, NCFC received a scoring chance when Taylor received a pass just inside the eighteen, turning on the ball to thread a cross back towards the penalty spot. Fortune received Taylor’s cross just inside the box, ripping a shot past Birmingham goalkeeper Matt Van Oekel to put NCFC up 1-0. 

“I’ve been training that finish for as long as I can remember,” Fortune said of his goal in a postgame interview. “We’re happy to come away with the three points in the end and I’m happy to help the team win.”

NCFC continued to build on their momentum in the 79th minute when defender Sam Brotherton buried a shot into the far left corner of the net. However, after a conversation amongst the referees, Brotherton was rendered offsides and the goal was called back. 

“I think the fight, determination, and competitiveness is there,” said NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan. “Overall, I’m fairly pleased. I thought the guys did a good job of supporting each other.”

Notes:

  • Between both teams, four yellow cards and one red card were administered during the match.

  • Dre Fortune scored his second goal of the season. 

  • Akeem Ward recorded his first start of the 2020 season.

  • NCFC outshot Birmingham Legion FC 20-2. 

Looking Ahead: North Carolina FC will travel to face Memphis 901 FC on Saturday, August 8 at 5 p.m. ET at Autozone Park in Memphis, Tennessee. 

Box Score:

NC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Sam Brotherton, Conor Donovan, DJ Taylor, Akeem Ward; Manny Perez (Ben Speas, 63’) , Pecka, Dre Fortune (Daniele Proch, 90’), Steven Miller © (Graham Smith, 89’), Hadji Barry; Robbert Kristo

Subs Not Used: Alex Comsia, Malik Mbaye, Paolo Pita, Luke Hille

BHM (4-4-2): Matt VanOekel ©; Mikey Lopez, Jake Rufe, Alex Crognale, Jonathan Dean; Bolu Akinyode, Anderson Asiedu, Bruno Lapa (Jaden Servania, 80’), Daigo Kobayashi (Marcos Ugarte, 63’), Brian Wright (Rudolf Mensah, 63’); Neco Brett (Eli Crognale, 45’)

Subs Not Used: Trevor Spangenberg, Braxton Najib

Score:

NC: 1

BHM: 0

Goals:

NC: Dre Fortune (DJ Taylor, 51’)

BHM: —

Cautions:

NC: Conor Donovan (29’), Robert Kristo (87’), Dre Fortune (90’)

BHM: Neco Brett (44’)

Ejections:

NC: —

BHM: Bolu Akinyode (33’)

Cary, NC (August 1, 2020) – North Carolina FC defeated Birmingham Legion FC by a score of 1-0 at WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday night, earning their first win of the 2020 season and bringing their record to 1-1-1. Dre Fortune recorded the goal for NCFC, his second this season. 

NCFC created several scoring opportunities and continually pressed Birmingham’s defense as the first half wore on. In the 23rd minute, Robert Kristo sent a through ball to DJ Taylor who was sprinting towards the box. Taylor received the ball at his feet, firing a dangerous shot just over the crossbar. 

Later, in the 33rd minute, a red card was shown to Birmingham midfielder Bolu Akinyode after tripping up Steven Miller and halting an NCFC breakaway in the process. 

After ending the first half deadlocked at 0-0, both teams entered the second half eager to get on the board. Finally, in the 51st minute, NCFC received a scoring chance when Taylor received a pass just inside the eighteen, turning on the ball to thread a cross back towards the penalty spot. Fortune received Taylor’s cross just inside the box, ripping a shot past Birmingham goalkeeper Matt Van Oekel to put NCFC up 1-0. 

“I’ve been training that finish for as long as I can remember,” Fortune said of his goal in a postgame interview. “We’re happy to come away with the three points in the end and I’m happy to help the team win.”

NCFC continued to build on their momentum in the 79th minute when defender Sam Brotherton buried a shot into the far left corner of the net. However, after a conversation amongst the referees, Brotherton was rendered offsides and the goal was called back. 

“I think the fight, determination, and competitiveness is there,” said NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan. “Overall, I’m fairly pleased. I thought the guys did a good job of supporting each other.”

Notes:

  • Between both teams, four yellow cards and one red card were administered during the match.

  • Dre Fortune scored his second goal of the season. 

  • Akeem Ward recorded his first start of the 2020 season.

  • NCFC outshot Birmingham Legion FC 20-2. 

Looking Ahead: North Carolina FC will travel to face Memphis 901 FC on Saturday, August 8 at 5 p.m. ET at Autozone Park in Memphis, Tennessee. 

Box Score:

NC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Sam Brotherton, Conor Donovan, DJ Taylor, Akeem Ward; Manny Perez (Ben Speas, 63’) , Pecka, Dre Fortune (Daniele Proch, 90’), Steven Miller © (Graham Smith, 89’), Hadji Barry; Robbert Kristo

Subs Not Used: Alex Comsia, Malik Mbaye, Paolo Pita, Luke Hille

BHM (4-4-2): Matt VanOekel ©; Mikey Lopez, Jake Rufe, Alex Crognale, Jonathan Dean; Bolu Akinyode, Anderson Asiedu, Bruno Lapa (Jaden Servania, 80’), Daigo Kobayashi (Marcos Ugarte, 63’), Brian Wright (Rudolf Mensah, 63’); Neco Brett (Eli Crognale, 45’)

Subs Not Used: Trevor Spangenberg, Braxton Najib

Score:

NC: 1

BHM: 0

Goals:

NC: Dre Fortune (DJ Taylor, 51’)

BHM: —

Cautions:

NC: Conor Donovan (29’), Robert Kristo (87’), Dre Fortune (90’)

BHM: Neco Brett (44’)

Ejections:

NC: —

BHM: Bolu Akinyode (33’)

First Team in the Triangle to Return to Play at Home, North Carolina FC Takes on Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday

Cary, NC (July 30, 2020)- North Carolina FC returns to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park this Saturday, August 1 at 7 p.m. ET against Birmingham Legion FC. NCFC’s return to their home pitch comes 164 days after the team’s home opener against Louisville City FC. The match will air on WRAL-2 and ESPN+.

On June 24, the USL announced a plan to return-to-play which allowed teams to host home games. Saturday will be North Carolina FC’s first chance to return to the pristine pitch of their home field, making them the first team in the Triangle to be able to host a home game amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We love our field,” said NCFC midfielder Dre Fortune. “We are really looking forward to getting out there and we are looking for three points.”

North Carolina FC’s last match was July 17 against the Tampa Bay Rowdies, as their July 23 match against Charlotte Independence was postponed until August. Against the Rowdies, North Carolina FC scored two goals in the second half to earn the 2-2 draw. Robert Kristo and Fortune were the goal scorers. DJ Taylor had an assist.

“We are getting sharper and getting clearer ideas of the group,” said NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan heading into the Birmingham match. “Overall a good team shape throughout the 90 minutes is going to be important on Saturday.”

Both North Carolina FC and Birmingham Legion FC are in Group G of the USL. Birmingham currently leads the group with 7 points over three games. The team is coming off a draw against the Tampa Bay Rowdies on Saturday, July 25. Defender Alex Cognale scored Birmingham’s goal, connecting on a free kick that was taken right outside the box.

 

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna:

North Carolina FC- #8 Dre Fortune

Now in his fourth season with NCFC, Fortune has been a playmaker so far in 2020. He scored the team’s first goal of 2020 against the Tampa Bay Rowdies and created several chances throughout the match. He has played 107 minutes total in the first two games of NCFC’s season.

Birmingham Legion FC- #21 Alex Crognale

Birmingham’s defender scored the team’s only goal in their last match against the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Crognale was named to the USL’s Team of the Week after scoring the goal and completing 45 of his 56 passes during the game.

Cary, NC (July 30, 2020)- North Carolina FC returns to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park this Saturday, August 1 at 7 p.m. ET against Birmingham Legion FC. NCFC’s return to their home pitch comes 164 days after the team’s home opener against Louisville City FC. The match will air on WRAL-2 and ESPN+.

On June 24, the USL announced a plan to return-to-play which allowed teams to host home games. Saturday will be North Carolina FC’s first chance to return to the pristine pitch of their home field, making them the first team in the Triangle to be able to host a home game amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We love our field,” said NCFC midfielder Dre Fortune. “We are really looking forward to getting out there and we are looking for three points.”

North Carolina FC’s last match was July 17 against the Tampa Bay Rowdies, as their July 23 match against Charlotte Independence was postponed until August. Against the Rowdies, North Carolina FC scored two goals in the second half to earn the 2-2 draw. Robert Kristo and Fortune were the goal scorers. DJ Taylor had an assist.

“We are getting sharper and getting clearer ideas of the group,” said NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan heading into the Birmingham match. “Overall a good team shape throughout the 90 minutes is going to be important on Saturday.”

Both North Carolina FC and Birmingham Legion FC are in Group G of the USL. Birmingham currently leads the group with 7 points over three games. The team is coming off a draw against the Tampa Bay Rowdies on Saturday, July 25. Defender Alex Cognale scored Birmingham’s goal, connecting on a free kick that was taken right outside the box.

 

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna:

North Carolina FC- #8 Dre Fortune

Now in his fourth season with NCFC, Fortune has been a playmaker so far in 2020. He scored the team’s first goal of 2020 against the Tampa Bay Rowdies and created several chances throughout the match. He has played 107 minutes total in the first two games of NCFC’s season.

Birmingham Legion FC- #21 Alex Crognale

Birmingham’s defender scored the team’s only goal in their last match against the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Crognale was named to the USL’s Team of the Week after scoring the goal and completing 45 of his 56 passes during the game.

Dean Linke and Austin da Luz to Host Pregame Show Presented by Aetna Before NCFC Home Matches

Cary, NC (July 28, 2020)- Long-time voice of the North Carolina Football Club, Dean Linke, and NCFC legend Austin da Luz, are set to host North Carolina FC’s official Pregame Show before each NCFC home match. The show will be presented by Aetna and broadcast live on North Carolina FC’s Twitter and Facebook accounts.

Fans can tune in to the show for exclusive interviews, highlights, and a match preview beginning at 6:25 p.m. before all 7 p.m. home matches. The Pregame Show will kick off this Saturday before NCFC takes on Birmingham Legion FC on ESPN+ and WRAL-2.

North Carolina FC is coming off a comeback 2-2 draw against the Tampa Bay Rowdies on July 17. Dre Fortune and Robert Kristo had second-half goals to earn one point.

Cary, NC (July 28, 2020)- Long-time voice of the North Carolina Football Club, Dean Linke, and NCFC legend Austin da Luz, are set to host North Carolina FC’s official Pregame Show before each NCFC home match. The show will be presented by Aetna and broadcast live on North Carolina FC’s Twitter and Facebook accounts.

Fans can tune in to the show for exclusive interviews, highlights, and a match preview beginning at 6:25 p.m. before all 7 p.m. home matches. The Pregame Show will kick off this Saturday before NCFC takes on Birmingham Legion FC on ESPN+ and WRAL-2.

North Carolina FC is coming off a comeback 2-2 draw against the Tampa Bay Rowdies on July 17. Dre Fortune and Robert Kristo had second-half goals to earn one point.