Home

CARY, NC (August 10, 2021) –  North Carolina FC fell to the Chattanooga Red Wolves, 4-1, in a high-scoring tilt on Tuesday night. Individual goals from Mark Hernandez, Jackson Dietrich, Juan Galindrez, and Jonathan Ricketts lifted the visitors to the win, with Ricky Ruiz adding three assists on the night. NCFC Academy product Cole Frame scored the lone goal for NCFC, with Nelson Flores earning the assist.

The Red Wolves opened the scoring early into tonight’s match, as Ricky Ruiz slipped a backheel pass to Mark Hernandez just outside the eighteen. Making a quick turn, Hernandez took the ball in stride, taking a single touch and finding the lower 90 to score his third goal of the season. The go-ahead goal provided Chattanooga the advantage in the 13th minute. 

Eight minutes later, Chattanooga tallied their second goal of the night. Ruiz notched his second assist of the match on the scoring play, sending a lofted ball into the box from the left flank and finding midfielder Jackson Dietrich. Executing a sliding finish, Dietrich doubled the Red Wolves’ lead, the score holding at 2-0 until the half expired. 

Entering the match as a second-half substitute, Chattanooga forward Juan Galindrez added a goal of his own on a corner kick, putting the Red Wolves up by three in the 70th minute. Later, in the 76th minute, Jonathan Ricketts buried the Red Wolves’ fourth and final goal of the match to extend the lead to 4-0, with Ruiz recording a hat trick of assists. 

Cole Frame put North Carolina FC on the board in stoppage time, adding his third goal of the season to cut into Chattanooga’s lead and rendering the score 4-1 in favor of the visitors. Unfortunately for the home squad, Frame’s goal was too little, too late as time expired and the Red Wolves came away with three points. 

“It’s pretty straightforward: when we all compete, move the ball, and work together, that’s when we are successful. Obviously we were up against a really good team in terms of production and goal scoring, but this result was disappointing,” Head Coach John Bradford said. “I think with Cole we have a player that we're excited about, he’s somebody that can really change the game from the moment that he comes on. He's got some other things he's got to get better with but he’s certainly exciting for us right now.”

Match Notes:

– North Carolina FC totaled 19 crosses during the contest.

– Cole Frame scored his third goal of the season in tonight’s match.

– North Carolina FC posted 84% passing accuracy and 56% possession throughout the game.

Up Next: North Carolina FC will travel to face North Texas SC on Saturday, August 14 at 9 p.m. ET at Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas. The match will air live on ESPN+.

Box Score:

NCFC (4-5-1): Jake McGuire, Nelson Flores, Shermaine Martina (Britton Fischer — 88’), Max Flick, Nelson Martinez, Peter Pearson (Malyk Hamilton — 71’), Selmir Miscic (Cole Frame — 71’), Jay Tee Kamara (Thorn Simpson — 77’), Nazmi Albadawi, Josh Coan, Robert Kristo (Malick Mbaye — 88’)

Subs Not Used: Nick Holliday, Caden Tolentino

CHA (4-5-1): Tim Trilk, Jonathan Ricketts (Cristian Zaragoza — 83’), Jason Ramos, Daniel Navarro, Sebastian Capozucchi, Ronaldo Pineda, Jose Carrera-Garcia (Ualefi — 83’), Jackson Dietrich (Jonathan Esparza — 72’), Mark Hernandez, Ricky Ruiz, Rafael Mentzingen (Juan Galindrez — 63’)

Subs Not Used: Sebastian Mora-Mora

Score:

NCFC: 1

CHA: 4

Goals:

NCFC: 

CHA: Mark Hernandez — 13’, Jackson Dietrich — 21’

Cautions:

NCFC: Peter Pearson — 20’, Jay Tee Kamara — 44’, Mark Hernandez — 85’

CHA: Ronaldo Pineda — 57’, Nazmi Albadawi — 90+6’

Ejections:

NCFC: —

CHA: —

CARY, NC (August 10, 2021) –  North Carolina FC fell to the Chattanooga Red Wolves, 4-1, in a high-scoring tilt on Tuesday night. Individual goals from Mark Hernandez, Jackson Dietrich, Juan Galindrez, and Jonathan Ricketts lifted the visitors to the win, with Ricky Ruiz adding three assists on the night. NCFC Academy product Cole Frame scored the lone goal for NCFC, with Nelson Flores earning the assist.

The Red Wolves opened the scoring early into tonight’s match, as Ricky Ruiz slipped a backheel pass to Mark Hernandez just outside the eighteen. Making a quick turn, Hernandez took the ball in stride, taking a single touch and finding the lower 90 to score his third goal of the season. The go-ahead goal provided Chattanooga the advantage in the 13th minute. 

Eight minutes later, Chattanooga tallied their second goal of the night. Ruiz notched his second assist of the match on the scoring play, sending a lofted ball into the box from the left flank and finding midfielder Jackson Dietrich. Executing a sliding finish, Dietrich doubled the Red Wolves’ lead, the score holding at 2-0 until the half expired. 

Entering the match as a second-half substitute, Chattanooga forward Juan Galindrez added a goal of his own on a corner kick, putting the Red Wolves up by three in the 70th minute. Later, in the 76th minute, Jonathan Ricketts buried the Red Wolves’ fourth and final goal of the match to extend the lead to 4-0, with Ruiz recording a hat trick of assists. 

Cole Frame put North Carolina FC on the board in stoppage time, adding his third goal of the season to cut into Chattanooga’s lead and rendering the score 4-1 in favor of the visitors. Unfortunately for the home squad, Frame’s goal was too little, too late as time expired and the Red Wolves came away with three points. 

“It’s pretty straightforward: when we all compete, move the ball, and work together, that’s when we are successful. Obviously we were up against a really good team in terms of production and goal scoring, but this result was disappointing,” Head Coach John Bradford said. “I think with Cole we have a player that we’re excited about, he’s somebody that can really change the game from the moment that he comes on. He’s got some other things he’s got to get better with but he’s certainly exciting for us right now.”

Match Notes:

– North Carolina FC totaled 19 crosses during the contest.

– Cole Frame scored his third goal of the season in tonight’s match.

– North Carolina FC posted 84% passing accuracy and 56% possession throughout the game.

Up Next: North Carolina FC will travel to face North Texas SC on Saturday, August 14 at 9 p.m. ET at Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas. The match will air live on ESPN+.

Box Score:

NCFC (4-5-1): Jake McGuire, Nelson Flores, Shermaine Martina (Britton Fischer — 88’), Max Flick, Nelson Martinez, Peter Pearson (Malyk Hamilton — 71’), Selmir Miscic (Cole Frame — 71’), Jay Tee Kamara (Thorn Simpson — 77’), Nazmi Albadawi, Josh Coan, Robert Kristo (Malick Mbaye — 88’)

Subs Not Used: Nick Holliday, Caden Tolentino

CHA (4-5-1): Tim Trilk, Jonathan Ricketts (Cristian Zaragoza — 83’), Jason Ramos, Daniel Navarro, Sebastian Capozucchi, Ronaldo Pineda, Jose Carrera-Garcia (Ualefi — 83’), Jackson Dietrich (Jonathan Esparza — 72’), Mark Hernandez, Ricky Ruiz, Rafael Mentzingen (Juan Galindrez — 63’)

Subs Not Used: Sebastian Mora-Mora

Score:

NCFC: 1

CHA: 4

Goals:

NCFC: 

CHA: Mark Hernandez — 13’, Jackson Dietrich — 21’

Cautions:

NCFC: Peter Pearson — 20’, Jay Tee Kamara — 44’, Mark Hernandez — 85’

CHA: Ronaldo Pineda — 57’, Nazmi Albadawi — 90+6’

Ejections:

NCFC: —

CHA: —

Match Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Chattanooga Red Wolves
Tuesday, August 10 at 7 p.m. ET
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
Cary, NC

CARY, NC (August 8, 2021) — North Carolina FC returns to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to face the Chattanooga Red Wolves for the second time this season on Tuesday, August 10 at 7 p.m. ET. The young squad will look to add their fourth win of the season in Tuesday’s match, with several veteran players returning from injury since the last meeting between these two teams. Tickets are available here. 

Last Time Out

North Carolina FC’s two-game win streak was snapped last Thursday in a 3-0 loss to the New England Revolution II. The hard-fought match saw 15-year-old goalkeeper Nicholas Holliday record his second cap with the team, including four saves throughout the contest, revealing his composure in goal with each incoming challenge from the Revolution. 

“Starting Nicholas Holliday was a chance for him to take another step forward in his progress. I was proud of the way he played and thought he made several good saves, while being good in possession for us,” NCFC head coach John Bradford said of Holliday’s showing in the match. “The games are not always going to be pretty, but these environments are important in his overall development.”

“I don’t think we were good enough today overall. We have a quick turnaround before Chattanooga so we have to regroup and be prepared for a fight for a result at home,” said team captain Nazmi Albadawi following the match. “We have been on a good stretch recently and this was a small hiccup but we know we have to be better, and we will be.”

Where to Watch: ESPN+

Players to Watch

North Carolina FC – #10 Nazmi Albadawi

A leader with a wealth of playing experience, quick decision-making in the midfield and notable tactical skill, Albadawi’s return to the starting lineup has been one of the major catalysts for North Carolina FC’s recent wins. Unavailable in NCFC’s first matchup against the Red Wolves, the captain will aim to make an impression by helping the squad bounce back from last week’s tough defeat, looking to add his name to the scoresheet for the first time this season and create chances for his teammates. 

Chattanooga Red Wolves – #19 Juan Galindrez

Galindrez has tallied 632 minutes of playing time, six goals and an assist in fourteen appearances, most notably recording a brace in a meeting with North Carolina FC earlier this season to seal the 3-2 win for Chattanooga. The Red Wolves currently sit in second place in USL League One standings, and will look to make a push for three points to maintain their position in the table — and with Galindrez at the helm, North Carolina FC’s backline will shoulder a difficult task when attempting to contain Chattanooga’s offense. 

What’s Next: North Carolina FC will travel to face off against North Texas SC next Saturday, August 14 at 9 p.m. ET at Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas. 

Match Info:
North Carolina FC vs. Chattanooga Red Wolves
Tuesday, August 10 at 7 p.m. ET
Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park
Cary, NC

CARY, NC (August 8, 2021) — North Carolina FC returns to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to face the Chattanooga Red Wolves for the second time this season on Tuesday, August 10 at 7 p.m. ET. The young squad will look to add their fourth win of the season in Tuesday’s match, with several veteran players returning from injury since the last meeting between these two teams. Tickets are available here. 

Last Time Out

North Carolina FC’s two-game win streak was snapped last Thursday in a 3-0 loss to the New England Revolution II. The hard-fought match saw 15-year-old goalkeeper Nicholas Holliday record his second cap with the team, including four saves throughout the contest, revealing his composure in goal with each incoming challenge from the Revolution. 

“Starting Nicholas Holliday was a chance for him to take another step forward in his progress. I was proud of the way he played and thought he made several good saves, while being good in possession for us,” NCFC head coach John Bradford said of Holliday’s showing in the match. “The games are not always going to be pretty, but these environments are important in his overall development.”

“I don’t think we were good enough today overall. We have a quick turnaround before Chattanooga so we have to regroup and be prepared for a fight for a result at home,” said team captain Nazmi Albadawi following the match. “We have been on a good stretch recently and this was a small hiccup but we know we have to be better, and we will be.”

Where to Watch: ESPN+

Players to Watch

North Carolina FC – #10 Nazmi Albadawi

A leader with a wealth of playing experience, quick decision-making in the midfield and notable tactical skill, Albadawi’s return to the starting lineup has been one of the major catalysts for North Carolina FC’s recent wins. Unavailable in NCFC’s first matchup against the Red Wolves, the captain will aim to make an impression by helping the squad bounce back from last week’s tough defeat, looking to add his name to the scoresheet for the first time this season and create chances for his teammates. 

Chattanooga Red Wolves – #19 Juan Galindrez

Galindrez has tallied 632 minutes of playing time, six goals and an assist in fourteen appearances, most notably recording a brace in a meeting with North Carolina FC earlier this season to seal the 3-2 win for Chattanooga. The Red Wolves currently sit in second place in USL League One standings, and will look to make a push for three points to maintain their position in the table — and with Galindrez at the helm, North Carolina FC’s backline will shoulder a difficult task when attempting to contain Chattanooga’s offense. 

What’s Next: North Carolina FC will travel to face off against North Texas SC next Saturday, August 14 at 9 p.m. ET at Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas. 

FOXBOROUGH, MA (August 5, 2021) – North Carolina FC’s two-game win streak was snapped Thursday night in a 3-0 loss to the New England Revolution II. The hard-fought match saw 15-year-old goalkeeper Nicholas Holliday record his second cap with the team, including four saves throughout the contest, revealing his composure in goal with each incoming challenge from the Revolution. 

“Starting Nicholas Holliday was a chance for him to take another step forward in his progress. I was proud of the way he played and thought he made several good saves, while being good in possession for us,” NCFC head coach John Bradford said of Holliday’s showing in tonight’s match. “The games are not always going to be pretty, but these environments are important in his overall development.”

“I don’t think we were good enough today overall. We have a quick turnaround before Chattanooga so we have to regroup and be prepared for a fight for a result at home,” said team captain Nazmi Albadawi following the match. “We have been on a good stretch recently and this was a small hiccup but we know we have to be better, and we will be.”

The Revolution opened scoring late into the first half, as Sean O’Hearn played a pass up the line to teammate Damian Rivera. Taking the ball in stride, Rivera strung together a few quick touches into the eighteen before finally cutting the ball to his right foot and burying a shot into the lower ninety. Rivera’s goal, his fourth of the season, allowed New England to ease into a 1-0 lead as the half expired. 

Edward Kizza doubled the Revolution’s lead in the opening minutes of the second half, connecting with a cross sent in by Colby Quinones and scoring his first career goal with New England. Kizza added his second goal of the night in the 73rd minute, receiving a through ball from Hikaru Fujiwara and threading a shot into the far left corner of the goal, netting the brace to render New England’s lead three goals to none. 

The 3-0 score held until the full time expired, despite a handful of close chances from Robert Kristo and Josh Coan in the final minutes. North Carolina FC will look to recover the loss with a win over the Chattanooga Red Wolves next Tuesday, as the young squad returns to their home crowd in Cary. 

Up Next: North Carolina FC will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to take on the Chattanooga Red Wolves for the second time this season on Tuesday, August 10 at 7 p.m. ET. Tickets are available for purchase here. 

Box Score:

NCFC (3-4-2-1): Nick Holliday, Shermaine Martina, Malick Mbaye, Max Flick, Luis Arriaga (Peter Pearson — 84’), Pecka (Selmir Miscic — 75’), Nazmi Albadawi (Cole Frame — 46’), Jay Tee Kamara, Malyk Hamilton, Nelson Flores (Josh Coan — 61’), Thorn Simpson (Robert Kristo — 46’)

Subs Not Used: Nelson Martinez, Jake McGuire

NE (3-4-3): Joe Rice, Ryan Spaulding, Collin Verfuth, Sean O’Hearn, Colby Quinones (Connor Presley — 73’), Jake Rozhansky, Noel Buck (Hikaru Fujiwara — 65’), Michel (Dennis Ramirez — 79’), Damian Rivera, Edward Kizza, Justin Rennicks (Ryan Sierakowski — 79’)

Subs Not Used: Marzuq Puckerin, Tyler Freitas, Francois Dulysse

Score:

NCFC: 0

NE: 3

Goals:

NCFC: —

NE: Damian Rivera — 33’, Edward Kizza — 49’, 74’

Cautions:

NCFC: Nelson Flores — 53’, Max Flick — 86’

NE: —

Ejections:

NCFC: —

NE: —

FOXBOROUGH, MA (August 5, 2021) – North Carolina FC’s two-game win streak was snapped Thursday night in a 3-0 loss to the New England Revolution II. The hard-fought match saw 15-year-old goalkeeper Nicholas Holliday record his second cap with the team, including four saves throughout the contest, revealing his composure in goal with each incoming challenge from the Revolution. 

“Starting Nicholas Holliday was a chance for him to take another step forward in his progress. I was proud of the way he played and thought he made several good saves, while being good in possession for us,” NCFC head coach John Bradford said of Holliday’s showing in tonight’s match. “The games are not always going to be pretty, but these environments are important in his overall development.”

“I don’t think we were good enough today overall. We have a quick turnaround before Chattanooga so we have to regroup and be prepared for a fight for a result at home,” said team captain Nazmi Albadawi following the match. “We have been on a good stretch recently and this was a small hiccup but we know we have to be better, and we will be.”

The Revolution opened scoring late into the first half, as Sean O’Hearn played a pass up the line to teammate Damian Rivera. Taking the ball in stride, Rivera strung together a few quick touches into the eighteen before finally cutting the ball to his right foot and burying a shot into the lower ninety. Rivera’s goal, his fourth of the season, allowed New England to ease into a 1-0 lead as the half expired. 

Edward Kizza doubled the Revolution’s lead in the opening minutes of the second half, connecting with a cross sent in by Colby Quinones and scoring his first career goal with New England. Kizza added his second goal of the night in the 73rd minute, receiving a through ball from Hikaru Fujiwara and threading a shot into the far left corner of the goal, netting the brace to render New England’s lead three goals to none. 

The 3-0 score held until the full time expired, despite a handful of close chances from Robert Kristo and Josh Coan in the final minutes. North Carolina FC will look to recover the loss with a win over the Chattanooga Red Wolves next Tuesday, as the young squad returns to their home crowd in Cary. 

Up Next: North Carolina FC will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to take on the Chattanooga Red Wolves for the second time this season on Tuesday, August 10 at 7 p.m. ET. Tickets are available for purchase here. 

Box Score:

NCFC (3-4-2-1): Nick Holliday, Shermaine Martina, Malick Mbaye, Max Flick, Luis Arriaga (Peter Pearson — 84’), Pecka (Selmir Miscic — 75’), Nazmi Albadawi (Cole Frame — 46’), Jay Tee Kamara, Malyk Hamilton, Nelson Flores (Josh Coan — 61’), Thorn Simpson (Robert Kristo — 46’)

Subs Not Used: Nelson Martinez, Jake McGuire

NE (3-4-3): Joe Rice, Ryan Spaulding, Collin Verfuth, Sean O’Hearn, Colby Quinones (Connor Presley — 73’), Jake Rozhansky, Noel Buck (Hikaru Fujiwara — 65’), Michel (Dennis Ramirez — 79’), Damian Rivera, Edward Kizza, Justin Rennicks (Ryan Sierakowski — 79’)

Subs Not Used: Marzuq Puckerin, Tyler Freitas, Francois Dulysse

Score:

NCFC: 0

NE: 3

Goals:

NCFC: —

NE: Damian Rivera — 33’, Edward Kizza — 49’, 74’

Cautions:

NCFC: Nelson Flores — 53’, Max Flick — 86’

NE: —

Ejections:

NCFC: —

NE: —

CARY, NC (August 3, 2021) – North Carolina FC will travel to take on the New England Revolution II for the first time this season on Thursday, August 5 at 7 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The young squad will look to add their third consecutive win in Thursday’s contest as they continue to build team chemistry, netting seven goals in their last two matches and most recently seeing through their first road win over Fort Lauderdale CF. 

Last Time Out

North Carolina FC defeated Fort Lauderdale CF 3-2 last Sunday to secure their first win on the road, relying on an early goal from Jay Tee Kamara and a brace from Robert Kristo to bring their season point total to twelve. Two fouls in the box came at a cost to Fort Lauderdale during the match, as Kristo converted on both penalty kick attempts to win the match for the young squad. Edison Azcona and Modesto Mendez added a goal apiece for the opposing side, who would ultimately fall short as the final minutes ticked away. 

“Really proud of this group and happy for them to have truly earned their first road win of the year,” said Head Coach John Bradford following the match. “We have been on the wrong end of a lot of close games early in the season, so it’s important to see the progression and development of this group to get three points against a talented and well-coached group. Jay Tee was important for us from the start in getting the goal and being strong in our possession. Selmir [Miščić] and Cole Frame each were important in different stages of the game, and great for Robby to add two more goals. Also pleased with our team defending that helped preserve the win.”

Players to Watch

North Carolina FC – #19 Jay Tee Kamara 

Opening the scoring in North Carolina FC’s last match, Jay Tee Kamara has tallied three goals and five assists this season. With his agility on and off the ball, quick thinking in the attacking third, and ability to catalyze transitions from defense to offense, Kamara has emerged as a key player in North Carolina FC’s offense as of late. The young star will look to add to his season goal total against the New England Revolution this Thursday as North Carolina FC hunts for their third consecutive win, and a chance at climbing in the standings. 

New England Revolution II – #34 Ryan Spaulding

Adding a goal when it mattered most in New England’s most recent match, Spaulding has clocked 1,097 minutes of playing time over the course of the season. The defender’s goal lifted the Revolution to a 1-0 victory over Toronto FC II, the first game-winner of his career, and aided the defense in preserving the shutout. With North Carolina FC players Jay Tee Kamara and Robert Kristo leading the charge on offense, Spaulding will look to shut down their scoring chances as the Revolution fight to add another win under their belt. 

Next Match: North Carolina FC will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to take on the Chattanooga Red Wolves for the second time this year on Tuesday, August 10 at 7 p.m. ET. Tickets are available in limited quantities here. 

CARY, NC (August 3, 2021) – North Carolina FC will travel to take on the New England Revolution II for the first time this season on Thursday, August 5 at 7 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The young squad will look to add their third consecutive win in Thursday’s contest as they continue to build team chemistry, netting seven goals in their last two matches and most recently seeing through their first road win over Fort Lauderdale CF. 

Last Time Out

North Carolina FC defeated Fort Lauderdale CF 3-2 last Sunday to secure their first win on the road, relying on an early goal from Jay Tee Kamara and a brace from Robert Kristo to bring their season point total to twelve. Two fouls in the box came at a cost to Fort Lauderdale during the match, as Kristo converted on both penalty kick attempts to win the match for the young squad. Edison Azcona and Modesto Mendez added a goal apiece for the opposing side, who would ultimately fall short as the final minutes ticked away. 

“Really proud of this group and happy for them to have truly earned their first road win of the year,” said Head Coach John Bradford following the match. “We have been on the wrong end of a lot of close games early in the season, so it’s important to see the progression and development of this group to get three points against a talented and well-coached group. Jay Tee was important for us from the start in getting the goal and being strong in our possession. Selmir [MišÄić] and Cole Frame each were important in different stages of the game, and great for Robby to add two more goals. Also pleased with our team defending that helped preserve the win.”

Players to Watch

North Carolina FC – #19 Jay Tee Kamara 

Opening the scoring in North Carolina FC’s last match, Jay Tee Kamara has tallied three goals and five assists this season. With his agility on and off the ball, quick thinking in the attacking third, and ability to catalyze transitions from defense to offense, Kamara has emerged as a key player in North Carolina FC’s offense as of late. The young star will look to add to his season goal total against the New England Revolution this Thursday as North Carolina FC hunts for their third consecutive win, and a chance at climbing in the standings. 

New England Revolution II – #34 Ryan Spaulding

Adding a goal when it mattered most in New England’s most recent match, Spaulding has clocked 1,097 minutes of playing time over the course of the season. The defender’s goal lifted the Revolution to a 1-0 victory over Toronto FC II, the first game-winner of his career, and aided the defense in preserving the shutout. With North Carolina FC players Jay Tee Kamara and Robert Kristo leading the charge on offense, Spaulding will look to shut down their scoring chances as the Revolution fight to add another win under their belt. 

Next Match: North Carolina FC will return to Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to take on the Chattanooga Red Wolves for the second time this year on Tuesday, August 10 at 7 p.m. ET. Tickets are available in limited quantities here. 

CARY, NC (August 3, 2021) – North Carolina FC goalkeeper Damian Las has returned to Fulham FC, the club announced today. The 19-year-old joined NCFC on loan in late April after logging 16 appearances for Fulham’s U-18 squad and one appearance for the U-23s, recording two clean sheets.

“Our staff has known Damian from working with his age group in the US Youth National Team system and Coach McGinty worked with him in the 2019 U-17 World Cup,” NCFC Head Coach John Bradford said. “He represents the type and caliber of player that our club can benefit with professional matches and continued development and exposure.”

During his brief stint with North Carolina FC, Las recorded two appearances and 180 minutes of playing time, only conceding two goals and notching one clean sheet in a scoreless draw against Tormenta FC. 

“Damian was great to have with our group for the first part of the 2021 season,” Bradford added. “He was recovering from an injury when he first arrived, but quickly moved forward and was great to have fully into the environment. He is an excellent young goalkeeper with a professional approach to everyday training and match preparation. He quickly bonded with our goalkeeping group and provided a great role model for our young academy goalkeepers. I’d like to thank Huw Jennings and the staff at Fulham FC for their work with us to make this happen with Damian. We look forward to future cooperation with them on additional players.”

“We would like to thank all at North Carolina FC for the support that they have shown Damian during his brief loan experience,” Fulham Football Club Academy Director Huw Jennings said. “Damian has had a disrupted period owing to injury and his opportunity with North Carolina has been invaluable in returning to fitness and form.”

“I was very grateful to be a part of such a great club like North Carolina FC,” Damian Las said. “I have learned so much from my time there at North Carolina. I would like to thank the staff for giving me an opportunity to make my professional debut. I would like to thank the players, staff and everyone at the club for helping me both on and off the field. I have been truly blessed to have been a part of NCFC and I will never forget my time here. I wish them the best of luck for the rest of the season!”

North Carolina FC’s next match will take place on Thursday, August 5 as they take on the New England Revolution II at 7:00 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The match will air live on ESPN+.

CARY, NC (August 3, 2021) – North Carolina FC goalkeeper Damian Las has returned to Fulham FC, the club announced today. The 19-year-old joined NCFC on loan in late April after logging 16 appearances for Fulham’s U-18 squad and one appearance for the U-23s, recording two clean sheets.

“Our staff has known Damian from working with his age group in the US Youth National Team system and Coach McGinty worked with him in the 2019 U-17 World Cup,” NCFC Head Coach John Bradford said. “He represents the type and caliber of player that our club can benefit with professional matches and continued development and exposure.”

During his brief stint with North Carolina FC, Las recorded two appearances and 180 minutes of playing time, only conceding two goals and notching one clean sheet in a scoreless draw against Tormenta FC. 

“Damian was great to have with our group for the first part of the 2021 season,” Bradford added. “He was recovering from an injury when he first arrived, but quickly moved forward and was great to have fully into the environment. He is an excellent young goalkeeper with a professional approach to everyday training and match preparation. He quickly bonded with our goalkeeping group and provided a great role model for our young academy goalkeepers. I’d like to thank Huw Jennings and the staff at Fulham FC for their work with us to make this happen with Damian. We look forward to future cooperation with them on additional players.”

“We would like to thank all at North Carolina FC for the support that they have shown Damian during his brief loan experience,” Fulham Football Club Academy Director Huw Jennings said. “Damian has had a disrupted period owing to injury and his opportunity with North Carolina has been invaluable in returning to fitness and form.”

“I was very grateful to be a part of such a great club like North Carolina FC,” Damian Las said. “I have learned so much from my time there at North Carolina. I would like to thank the staff for giving me an opportunity to make my professional debut. I would like to thank the players, staff and everyone at the club for helping me both on and off the field. I have been truly blessed to have been a part of NCFC and I will never forget my time here. I wish them the best of luck for the rest of the season!”

North Carolina FC’s next match will take place on Thursday, August 5 as they take on the New England Revolution II at 7:00 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The match will air live on ESPN+.

Cary, NC (August 2, 2021) – USL League One announced on Monday the Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio for Week 17 of the 2021 regular season. North Carolina FC forward Robby Kristo was named Player of the Week for the second consecutive week after scoring two goals to propel his team to a 3-2 away win against Fort Lauderdale CF on Sunday night at DRV PNK Stadium.

After scoring a pair of goals last week in NCFC’s 4-0 win over Richmond, Kristo bagged another brace on Sunday, scoring from the penalty spot in each half. He scored the latter of his two goals in second half stoppage time to turn one point into three for his side, earning NCFC’s second consecutive win and its first of the season away from home.

Midfielder Jay Tee Kamara was also named to Team of the Week for USL League One. Kamara scored an excellent opening goal for NCFC, making a direct run at defenders before firing a precise low strike to the bottom corner. He also created two chances and won 6 of 8 duels.

North Carolina FC’s next match will take place on Thursday, August 5 as they take on the New England Revolution II at 7:00 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The match will air live on ESPN+.

Cary, NC (August 2, 2021) – USL League One announced on Monday the Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio for Week 17 of the 2021 regular season. North Carolina FC forward Robby Kristo was named Player of the Week for the second consecutive week after scoring two goals to propel his team to a 3-2 away win against Fort Lauderdale CF on Sunday night at DRV PNK Stadium.

After scoring a pair of goals last week in NCFC’s 4-0 win over Richmond, Kristo bagged another brace on Sunday, scoring from the penalty spot in each half. He scored the latter of his two goals in second half stoppage time to turn one point into three for his side, earning NCFC’s second consecutive win and its first of the season away from home.

Midfielder Jay Tee Kamara was also named to Team of the Week for USL League One. Kamara scored an excellent opening goal for NCFC, making a direct run at defenders before firing a precise low strike to the bottom corner. He also created two chances and won 6 of 8 duels.

North Carolina FC’s next match will take place on Thursday, August 5 as they take on the New England Revolution II at 7:00 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The match will air live on ESPN+.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (August 1, 2021) – North Carolina FC defeated Fort Lauderdale CF 3-2 on Sunday night to secure their first win on the road, relying on an early goal from Jay Tee Kamara and a brace from Robert Kristo to bring their season point total to twelve. Two fouls in the box came at a cost to Fort Lauderdale in tonight’s match, as Kristo converted on both penalty kick attempts to win the match for the young squad. Edison Azcona and Modesto Mendez added a goal apiece for the opposing side, who would ultimately fall short as the final minutes ticked away. 

“Really proud of this group and happy for them to have truly earned their first road win of the year,” said Head Coach John Bradford following the match. “We have been on the wrong end of a lot of close games early in the season, so it’s important to see the progression and development of this group to get three points against a talented and well-coached group. Jay Tee was important for us from the start in getting the goal and being strong in our possession. Selmir [Miščić] and Cole Frame each were important in different stages of the game, and great for Robby to add two more goals. Also pleased with our team defending that helped preserve the win.”

Scoring Summary:

5’ Jay Tee Kamara – NCFC 1, FTL 0

Opening the scoring only five minutes into the match, North Carolina FC eased into an early lead courtesy of Jay Tee Kamara’s quick transition. The attack began in the defensive third, as Nelson Martinez stripped Sami Guediri of the ball with a slide tackle, rewarding Kamara’s run in the midfield. Leaving one defender in his wake and splitting two more, the midfielder buried his third goal of the season into the far post as North Carolina FC pulled ahead of Fort Lauderdale. 

11’ Edison Azcona (Noah Allen) – NCFC 1, FTL 1

Fort Lauderdale answered six minutes later, with Edison Azcona bringing the home team level in the 11th minute. Noah Allen earned the assist, sending a pass toward the penalty spot to find Azcona in the box. Letting the pass fall to his left foot, Azcona netted his third goal of the season on his first touch to tie the game, 1-1.

29’ Robert Kristo (PK) – NCFC 2, FTL 1

North Carolina FC’s opportunity to edge back into the lead presented itself in the 29th minute as Selmir Miščić was forcibly taken down in the Fort Lauderdale box, drawing the penalty kick. Veteran Robert Kristo took the kick from the spot, keeping his composure and slipping a shot into the lower 90 to give North Carolina FC the upper hand, joining Kamara in adding his third goal of the season and needing only two matches to do so. 

79’ Modesto Mendez (Dairon Reyes) – NCFC 2, FTL 2

Equalizing for a second time, Fort Lauderdale found their second goal on a corner kick in the 79th minute. Dairon Reyes took the kick, lofting in a ball that found Modesto Mendez at the far post. Capitalizing when it mattered most, Mendez headed home his first goal of the season to deadlock the match at two goals apiece. 

90+1’ Robert Kristo (PK) – NCFC 3, FTL 2

Penalties would prove to be costly for Fort Lauderdale, as a breakaway from Cole Frame was halted abruptly with another foul in the box. The call earned North Carolina FC their second penalty kick of the night, to which Kristo would rise to the challenge. Finding the upper left corner of the net, Kristo was able to tally his second brace in as many games, sealing North Carolina FC’s first win on the road by a score of 3-2. 

Match Notes:

– Robert Kristo added his second brace in as many games.
– Jay Tee Kamara tallied his third goal of the season in tonight’s match.
– North Carolina FC maintained 83% passing accuracy and 63% shot accuracy throughout the game to see the win through. 

Up Next: North Carolina FC will travel to face the New England Revolution II for the first time this season on Thursday, August 5 at 7 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. 

Box Score:

NCFC (4-5-1): Jake McGuire, Nelson Flores, Shermaine Martina, Max Flick, Nelson Martinez, Selmir Miščić (Luis Arriaga — 60’), Peter Pearson (Pecka — 60’), Josh Coan (Malyk Hamilton — 69’), Nazmi Albadawi (Malick Mbaye — 90+2’), Jay Tee Kamara (Cole Frame — 69’), Robert Kristo

Subs Not Used: Nick Holliday, Marvin Mariche, Malick Mbaye, Thorn Simpson

FTL (4-4-2): Drake Callender, Brian Rosales, Aime Mabika, Noah Allen, Drew Hardin (George Acosta — 46’), Harvey Neville, Sami Guediri (Dairon Reyex — 61’), Venton Evans (Braxton Taghvai-Najib — 74’), Edison Azcona, Mitchell Curry (Shaan Hundal — 60’)

Subs Not Used: Luis Zamudio, Felipe Valencia, Ignacio Poplawski 

Score:

NCFC: 3

FTL: 2

Goals:

NCFC: Jay Tee Kamara — 5’, Robert Kristo — 29’, 90+1’

FTL: Edison Azcona — 11’, Modesto Mendez — 79’

Cautions:

NCFC: Malyk Hamilton — 80’

FTL: George Acosta — 56’, Aime Mabika — 64’

Ejections:

NCFC: —

FTL: —

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (August 1, 2021) – North Carolina FC defeated Fort Lauderdale CF 3-2 on Sunday night to secure their first win on the road, relying on an early goal from Jay Tee Kamara and a brace from Robert Kristo to bring their season point total to twelve. Two fouls in the box came at a cost to Fort Lauderdale in tonight’s match, as Kristo converted on both penalty kick attempts to win the match for the young squad. Edison Azcona and Modesto Mendez added a goal apiece for the opposing side, who would ultimately fall short as the final minutes ticked away. 

“Really proud of this group and happy for them to have truly earned their first road win of the year,” said Head Coach John Bradford following the match. “We have been on the wrong end of a lot of close games early in the season, so it’s important to see the progression and development of this group to get three points against a talented and well-coached group. Jay Tee was important for us from the start in getting the goal and being strong in our possession. Selmir [MišÄić] and Cole Frame each were important in different stages of the game, and great for Robby to add two more goals. Also pleased with our team defending that helped preserve the win.”

Scoring Summary:

5’ Jay Tee Kamara – NCFC 1, FTL 0

Opening the scoring only five minutes into the match, North Carolina FC eased into an early lead courtesy of Jay Tee Kamara’s quick transition. The attack began in the defensive third, as Nelson Martinez stripped Sami Guediri of the ball with a slide tackle, rewarding Kamara’s run in the midfield. Leaving one defender in his wake and splitting two more, the midfielder buried his third goal of the season into the far post as North Carolina FC pulled ahead of Fort Lauderdale. 

11’ Edison Azcona (Noah Allen) – NCFC 1, FTL 1

Fort Lauderdale answered six minutes later, with Edison Azcona bringing the home team level in the 11th minute. Noah Allen earned the assist, sending a pass toward the penalty spot to find Azcona in the box. Letting the pass fall to his left foot, Azcona netted his third goal of the season on his first touch to tie the game, 1-1.

29’ Robert Kristo (PK) – NCFC 2, FTL 1

North Carolina FC’s opportunity to edge back into the lead presented itself in the 29th minute as Selmir MišÄić was forcibly taken down in the Fort Lauderdale box, drawing the penalty kick. Veteran Robert Kristo took the kick from the spot, keeping his composure and slipping a shot into the lower 90 to give North Carolina FC the upper hand, joining Kamara in adding his third goal of the season and needing only two matches to do so. 

79’ Modesto Mendez (Dairon Reyes) – NCFC 2, FTL 2

Equalizing for a second time, Fort Lauderdale found their second goal on a corner kick in the 79th minute. Dairon Reyes took the kick, lofting in a ball that found Modesto Mendez at the far post. Capitalizing when it mattered most, Mendez headed home his first goal of the season to deadlock the match at two goals apiece. 

90+1’ Robert Kristo (PK) – NCFC 3, FTL 2

Penalties would prove to be costly for Fort Lauderdale, as a breakaway from Cole Frame was halted abruptly with another foul in the box. The call earned North Carolina FC their second penalty kick of the night, to which Kristo would rise to the challenge. Finding the upper left corner of the net, Kristo was able to tally his second brace in as many games, sealing North Carolina FC’s first win on the road by a score of 3-2. 

Match Notes:

– Robert Kristo added his second brace in as many games.
– Jay Tee Kamara tallied his third goal of the season in tonight’s match.
– North Carolina FC maintained 83% passing accuracy and 63% shot accuracy throughout the game to see the win through. 

Up Next: North Carolina FC will travel to face the New England Revolution II for the first time this season on Thursday, August 5 at 7 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. 

Box Score:

NCFC (4-5-1): Jake McGuire, Nelson Flores, Shermaine Martina, Max Flick, Nelson Martinez, Selmir MišÄić (Luis Arriaga — 60’), Peter Pearson (Pecka — 60’), Josh Coan (Malyk Hamilton — 69’), Nazmi Albadawi (Malick Mbaye — 90+2’), Jay Tee Kamara (Cole Frame — 69’), Robert Kristo

Subs Not Used: Nick Holliday, Marvin Mariche, Malick Mbaye, Thorn Simpson

FTL (4-4-2): Drake Callender, Brian Rosales, Aime Mabika, Noah Allen, Drew Hardin (George Acosta — 46’), Harvey Neville, Sami Guediri (Dairon Reyex — 61’), Venton Evans (Braxton Taghvai-Najib — 74’), Edison Azcona, Mitchell Curry (Shaan Hundal — 60’)

Subs Not Used: Luis Zamudio, Felipe Valencia, Ignacio Poplawski 

Score:

NCFC: 3

FTL: 2

Goals:

NCFC: Jay Tee Kamara — 5’, Robert Kristo — 29’, 90+1’

FTL: Edison Azcona — 11’, Modesto Mendez — 79’

Cautions:

NCFC: Malyk Hamilton — 80’

FTL: George Acosta — 56’, Aime Mabika — 64’

Ejections:

NCFC: —

FTL: —

Match Info:

North Carolina FC vs. Fort Lauderdale CF

Sunday, August 1 at 7:30 p.m. ET 

DRV PNK Stadium

Fort Lauderdale, FL

CARY, NC (July 30, 2021) – North Carolina FC will travel to take on Fort Lauderdale CF this Sunday, August 1 at 7:30 p.m. ET at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The young squad will look to add their third win of the season in Sunday’s contest, building on the momentum of their commanding 4-0 win against the Richmond Kickers last week. 

Where to Watch: ESPN+

Players to Watch

North Carolina FC – #11 Robert Kristo

Named the USL League One Player of the Week for his performance against the Kickers, Kristo tallied a brace in North Carolina FC’s 4-0 win last Wednesday. One of his goals, a volley that sailed into the net from more than 45 yards out, was deemed worthy of the SportsCenter Top 10, ranking at No. 2. Since returning from injury earlier this season, Kristo has been the missing piece that North Carolina FC’s offense so desperately needed moving forward, contributing a wealth of experience and a powerful presence up top. Kristo will look to add to the scoresheet against Fort Lauderdale this weekend, in hopes of lifting NCFC to their second consecutive win. 

Fort Lauderdale CF – #2 Brian Rosales

Also named to the USL League One Team of the Week, Rosales tallied an assist, created four scoring chances, and won four of six duels in Fort Lauderdale’s last match against Forward Madison. Through eleven matches played, Rosales has notched 749 minutes of playing time and two assists this season. The defender will look to shut down North Carolina FC’s dangerous offense, including players Robert Kristo, Jay Tee Kamara, and Josh Coan as Fort Lauderdale works to win their first match since June 26. 

Last Time Out

Courtesy of a pair of braces from Robert Kristo and Josh Coan, North Carolina FC notched a 4-0 win against the visiting Richmond Kickers last Wednesday. Kicking off the scoring in the 19th minute of the match, Kristo added a pair of goals in the first half, and Coan tallied a brace of his own in the second as John Bradford’s team dominated the competition from start to finish. Jake McGuire recorded the clean sheet, making three saves to render the Kickers scoreless throughout the contest.

“I'm extremely excited for the guys in the locker room to finally get what they deserve and they put the effort in to earn this win,” said Head Coach John Bradford. “We've had stuff not go our way, or injuries they can't control and guys not available, but for them to put together a complete performance tonight, and get three points, a shut out and multiple goals, I’m excited for them.”

“To be honest, this performance took everybody at their best,” said Peter Pearson. “We had a good feeling after our last game against Toronto, and knew we needed to come back with a strong performance.”

Up Next: North Carolina FC will continue their stint on the road to take on the New England Revolution II on Thursday, August 5 at 7 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. 

Match Info:

North Carolina FC vs. Fort Lauderdale CF

Sunday, August 1 at 7:30 p.m. ET 

DRV PNK Stadium

Fort Lauderdale, FL

CARY, NC (July 30, 2021) – North Carolina FC will travel to take on Fort Lauderdale CF this Sunday, August 1 at 7:30 p.m. ET at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The young squad will look to add their third win of the season in Sunday’s contest, building on the momentum of their commanding 4-0 win against the Richmond Kickers last week. 

Where to Watch: ESPN+

Players to Watch

North Carolina FC – #11 Robert Kristo

Named the USL League One Player of the Week for his performance against the Kickers, Kristo tallied a brace in North Carolina FC’s 4-0 win last Wednesday. One of his goals, a volley that sailed into the net from more than 45 yards out, was deemed worthy of the SportsCenter Top 10, ranking at No. 2. Since returning from injury earlier this season, Kristo has been the missing piece that North Carolina FC’s offense so desperately needed moving forward, contributing a wealth of experience and a powerful presence up top. Kristo will look to add to the scoresheet against Fort Lauderdale this weekend, in hopes of lifting NCFC to their second consecutive win. 

Fort Lauderdale CF – #2 Brian Rosales

Also named to the USL League One Team of the Week, Rosales tallied an assist, created four scoring chances, and won four of six duels in Fort Lauderdale’s last match against Forward Madison. Through eleven matches played, Rosales has notched 749 minutes of playing time and two assists this season. The defender will look to shut down North Carolina FC’s dangerous offense, including players Robert Kristo, Jay Tee Kamara, and Josh Coan as Fort Lauderdale works to win their first match since June 26. 

Last Time Out

Courtesy of a pair of braces from Robert Kristo and Josh Coan, North Carolina FC notched a 4-0 win against the visiting Richmond Kickers last Wednesday. Kicking off the scoring in the 19th minute of the match, Kristo added a pair of goals in the first half, and Coan tallied a brace of his own in the second as John Bradford’s team dominated the competition from start to finish. Jake McGuire recorded the clean sheet, making three saves to render the Kickers scoreless throughout the contest.

“I’m extremely excited for the guys in the locker room to finally get what they deserve and they put the effort in to earn this win,” said Head Coach John Bradford. “We’ve had stuff not go our way, or injuries they can’t control and guys not available, but for them to put together a complete performance tonight, and get three points, a shut out and multiple goals, I’m excited for them.”

“To be honest, this performance took everybody at their best,” said Peter Pearson. “We had a good feeling after our last game against Toronto, and knew we needed to come back with a strong performance.”

Up Next: North Carolina FC will continue their stint on the road to take on the New England Revolution II on Thursday, August 5 at 7 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. 

Cary, NC (July 26, 2021) – USL League One announced on Monday the Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio for Week 16 of the 2021 regular season, with North Carolina FC forward Robby Kristo named Player of the Week after scoring a pair of goals in NCFC’s 4-0 home win against the Richmond Kickers on Wednesday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Kristo opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a well-placed header, then doubled his tally with a world-class goal from the midfield circle four minutes before halftime. The striker did well to control the ball with his back to goal, swiveled, and hit a lob shot which caught Richmond’s goalkeeper off his line and flew spectacularly into the net. The goal landed as the No. 2 play on ESPN’s SportsCenter Top 10 the following morning.

NCFC’s lopsided home win and Union Omaha’s 2-1 win over FC Tucson on Saturday night – which sent los Búhos two points clear at the top of the table – see the two clubs lead all clubs with three players each represented in this week’s team.

GK – Jake McGuire, North Carolina FC: McGuire kept a three-save clean sheet to provide the platform for NCFC’s second home win against Richmond this season.

M – Josh Coan, North Carolina FC: Coan scored a pair of quality goals in the second half of NCFC’s 4-0 win against Richmond, notched one key pass, and won 4 of 6 duels.

F – Robby Kristo, North Carolina FC: In addition to his two excellent goals, Kristo was everywhere for NCFC against Richmond last Wednesday. He led all players in the match in dribbles completed (three), chances created (three), fouls drawn (seven) and duels won (22).

Cary, NC (July 26, 2021) – USL League One announced on Monday the Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio for Week 16 of the 2021 regular season, with North Carolina FC forward Robby Kristo named Player of the Week after scoring a pair of goals in NCFC’s 4-0 home win against the Richmond Kickers on Wednesday night at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Kristo opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a well-placed header, then doubled his tally with a world-class goal from the midfield circle four minutes before halftime. The striker did well to control the ball with his back to goal, swiveled, and hit a lob shot which caught Richmond’s goalkeeper off his line and flew spectacularly into the net. The goal landed as the No. 2 play on ESPN’s SportsCenter Top 10 the following morning.

NCFC’s lopsided home win and Union Omaha’s 2-1 win over FC Tucson on Saturday night – which sent los Búhos two points clear at the top of the table – see the two clubs lead all clubs with three players each represented in this week’s team.

GK – Jake McGuire, North Carolina FC: McGuire kept a three-save clean sheet to provide the platform for NCFC’s second home win against Richmond this season.

M – Josh Coan, North Carolina FC: Coan scored a pair of quality goals in the second half of NCFC’s 4-0 win against Richmond, notched one key pass, and won 4 of 6 duels.

F – Robby Kristo, North Carolina FC: In addition to his two excellent goals, Kristo was everywhere for NCFC against Richmond last Wednesday. He led all players in the match in dribbles completed (three), chances created (three), fouls drawn (seven) and duels won (22).

CARY, NC (July 21, 2021) – Courtesy of a pair of braces from Robert Kristo and Josh Coan, North Carolina FC notched a 4-0 win against the visiting Richmond Kickers on Wednesday night. Kicking off the scoring in the 19th minute of the match, Kristo added a pair of goals in the first half, and Coan tallied a brace of his own in the second as John Bradford’s team dominated the competition from start to finish. Jake McGuire recorded the clean sheet, making three saves to render the Kickers scoreless throughout the contest.

“I'm extremely excited for the guys in the locker room to finally get what they deserve and they put the effort in to earn this win,” said Head Coach John Bradford. “We've had stuff not go our way, or injuries they can't control and guys not available, but for them to put together a complete performance tonight, and get three points, a shut out and multiple goals, I’m excited for them.”

“To be honest, this performance took everybody at their best,” said Peter Pearson. “We had a good feeling after our last game against Toronto, and knew we needed to come back with a strong performance. Tonight was amazing.”

Scoring Recap:

19’ Robert Kristo (Nelson Flores) – NCFC 1, RIC 0

Robert Kristo netted his first goal of the season in tonight’s contest, and made his first appearance on the starting lineup since May 22. The go-ahead goal began at the hands of Nelson Flores, who played in a long ball towards the far post, intended for Kristo. Utilizing his 6’5” frame to beat his defender in an aerial duel, Kristo redirected a header into the back of the net to give North Carolina FC a 1-0 advantage in the 19th minute. 

41’ Robert Kristo – NCFC 2, RIC 0

Kristo added a second goal in the 41st minute, receiving a clearance from the NCFC defense just past the midfield line. With a defender on his back, Kristo allowed the ball to take one bounce before turning and rocketing an awe-inspiring volley over the heads of two Richmond defenders and goalkeeper Akira Fitzgerald — over 45 yards away from the goal. Kristo’s brace allowed the home team to ease into a 2-0 lead that the young squad would carry to the halftime whistle. 

Of his goal, Kristo said, “I was talking to Nazmi Albadawi earlier in the game and he’d said that the keeper was out…I’d asked for the ball so I could turn and shoot, and when I saw him out of his net I just sent it. I was shocked that it hit the goal, to be honest, but I’ll take it,” the veteran continued. “It’s about time. It’s what the fans have been waiting for, it’s what the coaching staff has been waiting for, and it’s what we’ve been waiting for.”

48’ Josh Coan (Jay Tee Kamara) – NCFC 3, RIC 0

Still feeling the momentum from an outstanding first half, North Carolina FC was not quite done adding to their lead. Just three minutes into the first half, Jay Tee Kamara threaded a ball into the path of Josh Coan, who had been left open on the right flank. Taking two quick touches and cutting the ball out towards his right foot, Coan took a chance, firing a driven shot across the box and into the lower 90 to score his first goal of the season and extend NCFC’s lead to three goals. With the assist, Kamara now boasts five assists this season. 

90+2’ Josh Coan – NCFC 4, RIC 0

Joining Kristo in scoring a brace, Coan notched his second goal of the season in stoppage time. Putting high pressure on the Kickers’ backline, the forward stripped the ball from the center back and took on Fitzgerald in a one vs. one battle. Slotting a shot into the back of the net, Coan tallied his second goal of both the match and the season to seal the commanding 4-0 win in front of NCFC’s home crowd. Despite Richmond’s best efforts to edge in NCFC’s lead, the four-goal deficit was maintained as time expired.

Match Notes:

• Robert Kristo recorded his first start since May 22 in tonight’s match, tallying two goals.

• Josh Coan scored his first and second goals of the season.

• Marvin Mariche made his First Team debut in tonight’s matchup. 

Up Next: North Carolina FC will travel to face off against Fort Lauderdale CF on Sunday, August 1st at 7:30 p.m. ET at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The match will stream live on ESPN+.

Box Score:

NCFC (4-5-1): Jake McGuire, Nelson Flores, Shermaine Martina (Malick Mbaye — 84’), Max Flick, Nelson Flores, Pecka, Nelson Martinez, Selmir Miscic (Cole Frame — 76’), Peter Pearson, Josh Coan (Marvin Mariche — 90+3’), Nazmi Albadawi, Jay Tee Kamara (Luis Arriaga — 76’), Robert Kristo

Subs Not Used: Britton Fischer, Malyk Hamilton, Nick Holliday 

RIC (4-3-3): Akira Fitzgerald, Chris Cole, Ivan Magalhaes, Zaca Moran, Matt Bolduc, Nil Vinyals (Jonathan Bolanos — 65’), Oalex Anderson, Jalen Crisler (Mumbi Kwesele — 77’), Esteban Calvo (Luke Pavone — 64’), Victor Falck (Stanley Alves — 64’), Emiliano Terzaghi (Damian Gallegos — 80’)

Subs Not Used: Austin Causey, Hernan Gonzalez

Score:

NCFC: 4

RIC: 0

Goals:

NCFC: Robert Kristo — 19’, 41’, Josh Coan — 48’, 90+2’

RIC: 

Cautions:

NCFC: —

RIC: Zaca Moran — 70’

Ejections:

NCFC: —

RIC: Ivan Magalhaes — 85’

CARY, NC (July 21, 2021) – Courtesy of a pair of braces from Robert Kristo and Josh Coan, North Carolina FC notched a 4-0 win against the visiting Richmond Kickers on Wednesday night. Kicking off the scoring in the 19th minute of the match, Kristo added a pair of goals in the first half, and Coan tallied a brace of his own in the second as John Bradford’s team dominated the competition from start to finish. Jake McGuire recorded the clean sheet, making three saves to render the Kickers scoreless throughout the contest.

“I’m extremely excited for the guys in the locker room to finally get what they deserve and they put the effort in to earn this win,” said Head Coach John Bradford. “We’ve had stuff not go our way, or injuries they can’t control and guys not available, but for them to put together a complete performance tonight, and get three points, a shut out and multiple goals, I’m excited for them.”

“To be honest, this performance took everybody at their best,” said Peter Pearson. “We had a good feeling after our last game against Toronto, and knew we needed to come back with a strong performance. Tonight was amazing.”

Scoring Recap:

19’ Robert Kristo (Nelson Flores) – NCFC 1, RIC 0

Robert Kristo netted his first goal of the season in tonight’s contest, and made his first appearance on the starting lineup since May 22. The go-ahead goal began at the hands of Nelson Flores, who played in a long ball towards the far post, intended for Kristo. Utilizing his 6’5” frame to beat his defender in an aerial duel, Kristo redirected a header into the back of the net to give North Carolina FC a 1-0 advantage in the 19th minute. 

41’ Robert Kristo – NCFC 2, RIC 0

Kristo added a second goal in the 41st minute, receiving a clearance from the NCFC defense just past the midfield line. With a defender on his back, Kristo allowed the ball to take one bounce before turning and rocketing an awe-inspiring volley over the heads of two Richmond defenders and goalkeeper Akira Fitzgerald — over 45 yards away from the goal. Kristo’s brace allowed the home team to ease into a 2-0 lead that the young squad would carry to the halftime whistle. 

Of his goal, Kristo said, “I was talking to Nazmi Albadawi earlier in the game and he’d said that the keeper was out…I’d asked for the ball so I could turn and shoot, and when I saw him out of his net I just sent it. I was shocked that it hit the goal, to be honest, but I’ll take it,” the veteran continued. “It’s about time. It’s what the fans have been waiting for, it’s what the coaching staff has been waiting for, and it’s what we’ve been waiting for.”

48’ Josh Coan (Jay Tee Kamara) – NCFC 3, RIC 0

Still feeling the momentum from an outstanding first half, North Carolina FC was not quite done adding to their lead. Just three minutes into the first half, Jay Tee Kamara threaded a ball into the path of Josh Coan, who had been left open on the right flank. Taking two quick touches and cutting the ball out towards his right foot, Coan took a chance, firing a driven shot across the box and into the lower 90 to score his first goal of the season and extend NCFC’s lead to three goals. With the assist, Kamara now boasts five assists this season. 

90+2’ Josh Coan – NCFC 4, RIC 0

Joining Kristo in scoring a brace, Coan notched his second goal of the season in stoppage time. Putting high pressure on the Kickers’ backline, the forward stripped the ball from the center back and took on Fitzgerald in a one vs. one battle. Slotting a shot into the back of the net, Coan tallied his second goal of both the match and the season to seal the commanding 4-0 win in front of NCFC’s home crowd. Despite Richmond’s best efforts to edge in NCFC’s lead, the four-goal deficit was maintained as time expired.

Match Notes:

• Robert Kristo recorded his first start since May 22 in tonight’s match, tallying two goals.

• Josh Coan scored his first and second goals of the season.

• Marvin Mariche made his First Team debut in tonight’s matchup. 

Up Next: North Carolina FC will travel to face off against Fort Lauderdale CF on Sunday, August 1st at 7:30 p.m. ET at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The match will stream live on ESPN+.

Box Score:

NCFC (4-5-1): Jake McGuire, Nelson Flores, Shermaine Martina (Malick Mbaye — 84’), Max Flick, Nelson Flores, Pecka, Nelson Martinez, Selmir Miscic (Cole Frame — 76’), Peter Pearson, Josh Coan (Marvin Mariche — 90+3’), Nazmi Albadawi, Jay Tee Kamara (Luis Arriaga — 76’), Robert Kristo

Subs Not Used: Britton Fischer, Malyk Hamilton, Nick Holliday 

RIC (4-3-3): Akira Fitzgerald, Chris Cole, Ivan Magalhaes, Zaca Moran, Matt Bolduc, Nil Vinyals (Jonathan Bolanos — 65’), Oalex Anderson, Jalen Crisler (Mumbi Kwesele — 77’), Esteban Calvo (Luke Pavone — 64’), Victor Falck (Stanley Alves — 64’), Emiliano Terzaghi (Damian Gallegos — 80’)

Subs Not Used: Austin Causey, Hernan Gonzalez

Score:

NCFC: 4

RIC: 0

Goals:

NCFC: Robert Kristo — 19’, 41’, Josh Coan — 48’, 90+2’

RIC: 

Cautions:

NCFC: —

RIC: Zaca Moran — 70’

Ejections:

NCFC: —

RIC: Ivan Magalhaes — 85’