NCFC U-23s

CARY, N.C. (May 9, 2019) – North Carolina FC U23 has announced its 2019 roster for the USL League Two season. This year’s exciting roster takes the club’s youth-to-pro values to the next level, bringing in a team full of NCFC Youth Academy products and other top talents from local universities. 
 
“The USL League Two program is an extremely important piece of the overall North Carolina FC pathway,” said NCFC U23 Technical Director John Bradford. “It represents a vital step for players, either currently in the collegiate environment or within our own Development Academy, who have the aspiration and the quality to be a professional player in the future. We have compiled a high-quality roster of players who can perform on the field and also understand our club and community. We look forward to getting started with this group this season.”
 
The roster highlights North Carolina Football Club’s connection to NCFC Youth with 17 former NCFC Youth and NCFC Youth Academy players on the roster. Jamil Gracia, David Mejia, Will Pulisic, George Marks, Jose Morales Jr. and Alex Rose are returnees to the team after playing for NCFC U-23 in the 2018 and/or 2017 seasons. Additionally, today’s announced roster will be added to throughout the season, providing other local players with opportunities to earn minutes throughout the USL League Two season. 
 
Current players from local colleges and universities make up the bulk of the NCFC U-23 roster. NC State leads the way with five selections, while Appalachian State and UNC-Chapel Hill both have four players each on the team. UNC-Wilmington, Duke, Charlotte and UNC-Asheville are also represented among North Carolina schools.
 
The exciting roster is expected to challenge for the South Atlantic Division League title. In the last two seasons, NCFC U23 finished seventh in 2017 and second in 2018, but has a storied past of winning the 2011 and 2013 USASA U-23 National Championships.
 
The team has been a longstanding launch pad for young players to make their way to the professional ranks. Former NCFC U23 players Alex Comsia and Caleb Duvernay are currently on the North Carolina FC first team and many other former U23 players including Nazmi Albadawi, Conor Donovan, Ike Opara, Akira Fitzgerald, Tyler Lassiter and Zack Schilawski have all come through the team prior to turning pro.
 
NCFC U23 will begin its USL League Two season on Friday, May 10 at 7 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park against Lionsbridge FC. Earlier this week, North Carolina Football Club announced NCFC U23’s 2019 schedule and coaching staff.
 
2019 NCFC U23 Roster:

 
* Played for NCFC Youth Academy 
^ Previously Played for NCFC U23 

###

CARY, N.C. (May 9, 2019) – North Carolina FC U23 has announced its 2019 roster for the USL League Two season. This year’s exciting roster takes the club’s youth-to-pro values to the next level, bringing in a team full of NCFC Youth Academy products and other top talents from local universities. 
 
“The USL League Two program is an extremely important piece of the overall North Carolina FC pathway,” said NCFC U23 Technical Director John Bradford. “It represents a vital step for players, either currently in the collegiate environment or within our own Development Academy, who have the aspiration and the quality to be a professional player in the future. We have compiled a high-quality roster of players who can perform on the field and also understand our club and community. We look forward to getting started with this group this season.”
 
The roster highlights North Carolina Football Club’s connection to NCFC Youth with 17 former NCFC Youth and NCFC Youth Academy players on the roster. Jamil Gracia, David Mejia, Will Pulisic, George Marks, Jose Morales Jr. and Alex Rose are returnees to the team after playing for NCFC U-23 in the 2018 and/or 2017 seasons. Additionally, today’s announced roster will be added to throughout the season, providing other local players with opportunities to earn minutes throughout the USL League Two season. 
 
Current players from local colleges and universities make up the bulk of the NCFC U-23 roster. NC State leads the way with five selections, while Appalachian State and UNC-Chapel Hill both have four players each on the team. UNC-Wilmington, Duke, Charlotte and UNC-Asheville are also represented among North Carolina schools.
 
The exciting roster is expected to challenge for the South Atlantic Division League title. In the last two seasons, NCFC U23 finished seventh in 2017 and second in 2018, but has a storied past of winning the 2011 and 2013 USASA U-23 National Championships.
 
The team has been a longstanding launch pad for young players to make their way to the professional ranks. Former NCFC U23 players Alex Comsia and Caleb Duvernay are currently on the North Carolina FC first team and many other former U23 players including Nazmi Albadawi, Conor Donovan, Ike Opara, Akira Fitzgerald, Tyler Lassiter and Zack Schilawski have all come through the team prior to turning pro.
 
NCFC U23 will begin its USL League Two season on Friday, May 10 at 7 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park against Lionsbridge FC. Earlier this week, North Carolina Football Club announced NCFC U23’s 2019 schedule and coaching staff.
 
2019 NCFC U23 Roster:

 
* Played for NCFC Youth Academy 
^ Previously Played for NCFC U23 

###

CARY, N.C. (May 3, 2019) – North Carolina FC U23 has announced its coaching staff and schedule ahead of the USL League 2 season.
 
This year’s NCFC U23 team will be more focused than ever on strengthening the club’s youth-to-pro pipeline. For the first time in club history, NCFC U23 will be run in collaboration with North Carolina Football Club and NCFC Youth.
 
“The North Carolina FC U23 program is an extremely important piece to our club’s overall player development pathway,” said North Carolina FC Assistant Coach and NCFC U23 Technical Director John Bradford. “It serves as the link between our first team in the professional environment to our region’s top collegiate players, many of which have both the aspirations and quality to become professional players. This also serves as a developmental opportunity for deserving youth development academy players, as they continue to progress towards the college or professional environments. Our immediate aim with the program is to improve the connection to the first team, by aligning the training schedule amongst the programs which will provide valuable interaction between our pro’s and our 23’s players and staffs. I’d also like to recognize the work done by Dewan Bader, and his staff, in progressing this program over the past several years.”
 
NCFC Assistant Coach and NCFC Youth Academy Director, John Bradford, will serve as the team’s Technical Director. Academy coach Tom Harris will be NCFC U23’s Head Coach and will be joined by Assistant Coaches Will Mack, David Rodriguez, Henry Gutierrez, and Goalkeeper Coach Alex McCauley – a former NCFC U23 player.
 
Representing a true connection in the pipeline, each member of the coaching staff currently works with NCFC Youth and/or NCFC Youth Academy. Additionally, North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan, Assistant Coach Clint Peay and Assistant General Manager/Goalkeeper Coach Nic Platter will work with the team throughout the season.
 
NCFC U23 has enjoyed a successful history, including winning the 2011 and 2013 USASA U-23 National Championship while featuring many future professional players. Former NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke and former NCFC U23 Head Coach Dewan Bader supported and led the team to success. The talent development has been a key feature of the team since the beginning, which includes grooming professional players: Nazmi Albadawi, Conor Donovan, Akira Fitzgerald, Tyler Lassiter, Zack Schilawski and current North Carolina FC players Caleb Duvernay and Alex Comsia to name a few. 
 
NCFC U23 will kick off its season at home at WakeMed Soccer Park on Friday, May 10 at 7 p.m. against Lionsbridge FC. The team will play in the South Atlantic Division which includes Lionsbridge FC, North Carolina Fusion U23, Tobacco Road FC, Tri City Otters, Virginia Beach United and Wake FC.
 
NCFC U23 has enjoyed in-state rivalries with Tobacco Road FC and North Carolina Fusion U23 (formerly Carolina Dynamo) for years and is excited to add a matchup against Holly Springs-based club Wake FC. NCFC will play every division foe in home and away matches, while adding an extra road game against Wake FC and a home match against Lionsbridge FC. 
 
NCFC U23 must win the South Atlantic Division to advance to the USL League Two Playoffs that begin in late July. 

2019 NCFC U23 Schedule 

 
###

CARY, N.C. (May 3, 2019) – North Carolina FC U23 has announced its coaching staff and schedule ahead of the USL League 2 season.
 
This year’s NCFC U23 team will be more focused than ever on strengthening the club’s youth-to-pro pipeline. For the first time in club history, NCFC U23 will be run in collaboration with North Carolina Football Club and NCFC Youth.
 
“The North Carolina FC U23 program is an extremely important piece to our club’s overall player development pathway,” said North Carolina FC Assistant Coach and NCFC U23 Technical Director John Bradford. “It serves as the link between our first team in the professional environment to our region’s top collegiate players, many of which have both the aspirations and quality to become professional players. This also serves as a developmental opportunity for deserving youth development academy players, as they continue to progress towards the college or professional environments. Our immediate aim with the program is to improve the connection to the first team, by aligning the training schedule amongst the programs which will provide valuable interaction between our pro’s and our 23’s players and staffs. I’d also like to recognize the work done by Dewan Bader, and his staff, in progressing this program over the past several years.”
 
NCFC Assistant Coach and NCFC Youth Academy Director, John Bradford, will serve as the team’s Technical Director. Academy coach Tom Harris will be NCFC U23’s Head Coach and will be joined by Assistant Coaches Will Mack, David Rodriguez, Henry Gutierrez, and Goalkeeper Coach Alex McCauley – a former NCFC U23 player.
 
Representing a true connection in the pipeline, each member of the coaching staff currently works with NCFC Youth and/or NCFC Youth Academy. Additionally, North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan, Assistant Coach Clint Peay and Assistant General Manager/Goalkeeper Coach Nic Platter will work with the team throughout the season.
 
NCFC U23 has enjoyed a successful history, including winning the 2011 and 2013 USASA U-23 National Championship while featuring many future professional players. Former NCFC Head Coach Colin Clarke and former NCFC U23 Head Coach Dewan Bader supported and led the team to success. The talent development has been a key feature of the team since the beginning, which includes grooming professional players: Nazmi Albadawi, Conor Donovan, Akira Fitzgerald, Tyler Lassiter, Zack Schilawski and current North Carolina FC players Caleb Duvernay and Alex Comsia to name a few. 
 
NCFC U23 will kick off its season at home at WakeMed Soccer Park on Friday, May 10 at 7 p.m. against Lionsbridge FC. The team will play in the South Atlantic Division which includes Lionsbridge FC, North Carolina Fusion U23, Tobacco Road FC, Tri City Otters, Virginia Beach United and Wake FC.
 
NCFC U23 has enjoyed in-state rivalries with Tobacco Road FC and North Carolina Fusion U23 (formerly Carolina Dynamo) for years and is excited to add a matchup against Holly Springs-based club Wake FC. NCFC will play every division foe in home and away matches, while adding an extra road game against Wake FC and a home match against Lionsbridge FC. 
 
NCFC U23 must win the South Atlantic Division to advance to the USL League Two Playoffs that begin in late July. 

2019 NCFC U23 Schedule 

 
###

CARY, N.C. (Aug. 1, 2018) – The North Carolina Football Club has announced that NCFC U-23 player Nick Retzlaff was awarded the Farouk Bseiso Award for his commitment during the team’s 2018 Premier Development League (PDL) season. Retzlaff will receive the award at halftime during North Carolina FC’s match against the Charleston Battery on Saturday, Aug. 4 with members from the Bseiso family in attendance.

The award is meant to recognize a player that has shown exemplary dedication and commitment to the success of the North Carolina FC U-23 program, while honoring the legacy of former U-23 player Farouk Bseiso, who passed away in 2014.

Bseiso played with the club’s U-23 squad for three years, including the 2011 USASA U-23 championship team. He was also a four-year letter winner with the NC State men’s soccer program from 2008-11 and served as a team captain of the Wolfpack in 2011.

“We’re extremely happy to honor the legacy of Farouk Bseiso who throughout his time with our organization represented the U-23 side with passion and commitment,” said NCFC U-23 Head Coach Dewan Bader. “He exemplified all the qualities you look for in a player and a person – hard working, respectful, encouraging and kind. He will forever be missed.”

Retzlaff played a huge role on and off the field for NCFC U-23 in 2018. He logged 1,069 minutes across 13 matches during the summer. While primarily playing as the team’s midfield tactician, the Wake Forest, N.C., native helped guide the U-23 team to its most successful season since returning to the PDL. Retzlaff is helping continue NCFC's youth-to-pro pipeline and is also a product of the NCFC Youth Academy.

“Nick’s engine in the middle of the park sets the standard for everyone else.” added Bader. “He’s always working hard, he’s always got a great mentality and he’s always pushing other people. He was a focal point of how we played this season. We played through him a lot. He’s very good on the ball and he’s very composed, for the way we want to play, it’s important to have somebody like that in the middle of the field for us.”

Retzlaff plays his college soccer with NC State and has starred with the Wolfpack in a central midfield role. He’s totaled over 800 minutes minutes in 25 contests, including helping the team earn an at-large berth to the NCAA Tournament in 2017.

###

CARY, N.C. (Aug. 1, 2018) – The North Carolina Football Club has announced that NCFC U-23 player Nick Retzlaff was awarded the Farouk Bseiso Award for his commitment during the team’s 2018 Premier Development League (PDL) season. Retzlaff will receive the award at halftime during North Carolina FC’s match against the Charleston Battery on Saturday, Aug. 4 with members from the Bseiso family in attendance.

The award is meant to recognize a player that has shown exemplary dedication and commitment to the success of the North Carolina FC U-23 program, while honoring the legacy of former U-23 player Farouk Bseiso, who passed away in 2014.

Bseiso played with the club’s U-23 squad for three years, including the 2011 USASA U-23 championship team. He was also a four-year letter winner with the NC State men’s soccer program from 2008-11 and served as a team captain of the Wolfpack in 2011.

“We’re extremely happy to honor the legacy of Farouk Bseiso who throughout his time with our organization represented the U-23 side with passion and commitment,” said NCFC U-23 Head Coach Dewan Bader. “He exemplified all the qualities you look for in a player and a person – hard working, respectful, encouraging and kind. He will forever be missed.”

Retzlaff played a huge role on and off the field for NCFC U-23 in 2018. He logged 1,069 minutes across 13 matches during the summer. While primarily playing as the team’s midfield tactician, the Wake Forest, N.C., native helped guide the U-23 team to its most successful season since returning to the PDL. Retzlaff is helping continue NCFC’s youth-to-pro pipeline and is also a product of the NCFC Youth Academy.

“Nick’s engine in the middle of the park sets the standard for everyone else.” added Bader. “He’s always working hard, he’s always got a great mentality and he’s always pushing other people. He was a focal point of how we played this season. We played through him a lot. He’s very good on the ball and he’s very composed, for the way we want to play, it’s important to have somebody like that in the middle of the field for us.”

Retzlaff plays his college soccer with NC State and has starred with the Wolfpack in a central midfield role. He’s totaled over 800 minutes minutes in 25 contests, including helping the team earn an at-large berth to the NCAA Tournament in 2017.

###

CARY, N.C. (June 26, 2018) – North Carolina FC U-23 secured a 1-0 victory on Tuesday night against the Carolina Dynamo to remain atop the PDL’s South Atlantic standings. 
 
NCFC U-23 has earned 22 points this season and is four points in front of second-place Myrtle Beach Mutiny.
 
NCFC U-23 dominated the match from the start, controlling the possession and speed of play.
 
In the 35th minute, Dynamo keeper Holden Trent dove to deflect an NCFC U-23 shot that left him out of position. The ball landed at the feet of Clayton Sparks, who fired into what appeared to be an empty net. However, his attempt was headed away at the last second by a Dynamo defender.  
 
The breakthrough finally came in the 59th minute when Alex Moztarzadeh had an impressive solo effort to score. Moztarzadeh dribbled through the Dynamo backline into a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper. He made no mistake on his finish and slotted the ball into the bottom right corner of the net.
 
NCFC stifled the Dynamo throughout the match, limiting the visitors to just two total shots, while holding on for the 1-0 victory.
 
Up Next:
NCFC U-23 will resume action against Lionsbridge FC at Pomoco Stadium in Newport News, Va., on Tuesday, July 3 at 7 p.m. ET.
 
Notes:
North Carolina Football Club’s deeply rooted youth-to-pro pipeline was once again showcased in the club’s latest match as three NCFC Youth Academy products (Caleb Duvernay, Jamil Gracia, Nick Retzlaff) and five TFCA/CASL (now NCFC Youth) products (Chase Rhode, Ian Bennet, Dean Rutherford and Clayton Sparks and Carter Boliek) all featured in the lineup.
 
Alex Moztarzadeh scored his second goal of the season for the game’s only goal.
 
Box Score:
 
Lineups:
 
NCFC U-23: William Palmquist; Jamil Gracia (Ryeong Choi, 63’), Caleb Duvernay, Chase Rhode ©, Walid Yacoubou, Nick Retzlaff (David Cuperman, 46’), David Mejia (Ian Bennet, 71’), Alex Moztarzadeh, Jelani Pieters (Baboucar Njie, 87’), Clayton Sparks, Dean Rutherford (Tressor Mbuyu, 64’)
 
Subs not used: Carter Bolieck, Miles Stray
 
CD: Holden Trent; Nick Phipps, Cole Watkins, Omar Alhamwi (Brady Gunter, 79’), Nathanael Rennhack, Hunter Delvalle, Ibrahim Zaitawi (Riley Copeland, 87’), Faisal Almubaslat ©, George Ekdahl (Nijee Cooper, 52’), Alex Hernandez (Dylan Bradley, 82’), Kyle Johnston (JT Spath, 71’)
 
Subs not used: Sam Lechuga, Samuel Orisatoki
 
Score:
NCFC U-23: 1
CD: 0
 
Goals:
NCFC U-23:  Alex Moztarzadeh (Unassisted, 59’)
CD: —
 
Cautions:
NCFC U-23: —
CD:  Fasial Almubaslat 25’
 
Ejections:
NCFC U-23: —
CD: —

###

CARY, N.C. (June 26, 2018) – North Carolina FC U-23 secured a 1-0 victory on Tuesday night against the Carolina Dynamo to remain atop the PDL’s South Atlantic standings. 
 
NCFC U-23 has earned 22 points this season and is four points in front of second-place Myrtle Beach Mutiny.
 
NCFC U-23 dominated the match from the start, controlling the possession and speed of play.
 
In the 35th minute, Dynamo keeper Holden Trent dove to deflect an NCFC U-23 shot that left him out of position. The ball landed at the feet of Clayton Sparks, who fired into what appeared to be an empty net. However, his attempt was headed away at the last second by a Dynamo defender.  
 
The breakthrough finally came in the 59th minute when Alex Moztarzadeh had an impressive solo effort to score. Moztarzadeh dribbled through the Dynamo backline into a one-on-one situation with the goalkeeper. He made no mistake on his finish and slotted the ball into the bottom right corner of the net.
 
NCFC stifled the Dynamo throughout the match, limiting the visitors to just two total shots, while holding on for the 1-0 victory.
 
Up Next:
NCFC U-23 will resume action against Lionsbridge FC at Pomoco Stadium in Newport News, Va., on Tuesday, July 3 at 7 p.m. ET.
 
Notes:
North Carolina Football Club’s deeply rooted youth-to-pro pipeline was once again showcased in the club’s latest match as three NCFC Youth Academy products (Caleb Duvernay, Jamil Gracia, Nick Retzlaff) and five TFCA/CASL (now NCFC Youth) products (Chase Rhode, Ian Bennet, Dean Rutherford and Clayton Sparks and Carter Boliek) all featured in the lineup.
 
Alex Moztarzadeh scored his second goal of the season for the game’s only goal.
 
Box Score:
 
Lineups:
 
NCFC U-23: William Palmquist; Jamil Gracia (Ryeong Choi, 63’), Caleb Duvernay, Chase Rhode ©, Walid Yacoubou, Nick Retzlaff (David Cuperman, 46’), David Mejia (Ian Bennet, 71’), Alex Moztarzadeh, Jelani Pieters (Baboucar Njie, 87’), Clayton Sparks, Dean Rutherford (Tressor Mbuyu, 64’)
 
Subs not used: Carter Bolieck, Miles Stray
 
CD: Holden Trent; Nick Phipps, Cole Watkins, Omar Alhamwi (Brady Gunter, 79’), Nathanael Rennhack, Hunter Delvalle, Ibrahim Zaitawi (Riley Copeland, 87’), Faisal Almubaslat ©, George Ekdahl (Nijee Cooper, 52’), Alex Hernandez (Dylan Bradley, 82’), Kyle Johnston (JT Spath, 71’)
 
Subs not used: Sam Lechuga, Samuel Orisatoki
 
Score:
NCFC U-23: 1
CD: 0
 
Goals:
NCFC U-23:  Alex Moztarzadeh (Unassisted, 59’)
CD: —
 
Cautions:
NCFC U-23: —
CD:  Fasial Almubaslat 25’
 
Ejections:
NCFC U-23: —
CD: —

###

CARY, N.C. (June 12, 2018) –North Carolina FC U-23 ended up on the wrong side of a 3-2 result on Tuesday night at WakeMed Soccer Park, falling to SC United Bantams in a non-conference matchup. Despite the loss, NCFC U-23 remains at the top of the PDL’s South Atlantic standings.
 
NCFC U-23 dominated the possession and chances early on, going up 2-0 after 15 minutes of play. To open the scoring, David Cuperman slipped past the Bantams’ defense and slotted a ball in the corner to give NCFC the lead in the seventh minute.
 
It didn’t take long for NCFC U-23 to double its lead as Tressor Mbuyu scored in the 15th minute. Mbuyu collected a pass from Ian Bennett and quickly fired a shot that caught the SC United Bantams' goalkeeper off guard. 
 
Down two goals early, South Carolina's leading goal scorer Marek Weber took it upon himself to bring his team back level. Weber tapped in a cross at the near post in the 23rd minute for his team's first goal. He added the equalizing tally off a penalty kick in the 45th minute.
 
With the score tied at 2-2, both teams came out of the half looking to find a game winner. NCFC U-23’s closest attempt came from a header in the box that grazed the outside of the post in the 60th minute.
 
The match looked set to end in a draw, but it would be South Carolina who walked away with the victory. In the 88th minute, Mitchell Myers’ left-footed blast ripped through a crowded NCFC U-23 box and found the back corner of the net to shock the home side and clinch the victory for SC United Bantams.
 
Up Next:
NCFC U-23 returns to action at Pomoco Stadium in Newport News, Va., to take on Lionsbridge FC on Saturday, June 16, at 7 p.m. ET. 
 
Notes:  
NCFC U-23’s Caleb Duvernay, Nick Retzlaff, and George Marks all came up through the NCFC Youth Academy. Additionally, Ian Bennet, Casey Brady, Dean Rutherford and Chase Rhode played in the youth ranks with either Triangle Futbol Club Alliance or Capital Area Soccer League, predecessors to NCFC Youth.
 
NCFC U-23 came in to today’s match having won three of the last four and riding a five-game unbeaten streak, dating back to early May.
 
Box Score:
 
Lineups:
NCFC U-23: George Marks; Caleb Duvernay, Chase Rhode ©, Walid Yacudou, Ryeong Choi, Ian Bennet, Nick Retzlaff, David Cuperman (David Mejia, 80’), Alex Moztazadeh (Sheriff Secka, 68’), Tresor Mbuyu, Jelani Pieters (Dean Rutherford, 46’)
 
Subs not used: Colton Dutches, Casey Brady, Nacho Lerech, Miles Stray 
 
SC: Ian McGrane; Swann Vincent, Mitchell Myers, Daniel Bent ©, Jack Shiels, Harrison Roberts, JB Meyniel (Salar Fayar, 70’), Cooper Nugent, Grayson Barber (Keegan Burton), Marek Weber (Ben Gilligan, 80’), Edmundo Robinson
 
Subs not used: Kyle Ferguson, Liam Ireland, Justin Sukow, Davis Bryan
 
Score:
SC: 3
NCFC U-23: 2
 
Goals:
SC: Marek Weber (unassisted, 23’), (PK, 45’), Mitchell Myers (unassisted, 88’)
NCFC U-23: David Cuperman (unassisted, 7’), Tressor Mbuyu (Ian Bennett, 15’)
 
Cautions:
SC: —
NCFC U-23: David Cuperman 77’
 
Ejections:
SC: —
NCFC U-23: —

###

CARY, N.C. (June 12, 2018) –North Carolina FC U-23 ended up on the wrong side of a 3-2 result on Tuesday night at WakeMed Soccer Park, falling to SC United Bantams in a non-conference matchup. Despite the loss, NCFC U-23 remains at the top of the PDL’s South Atlantic standings.
 
NCFC U-23 dominated the possession and chances early on, going up 2-0 after 15 minutes of play. To open the scoring, David Cuperman slipped past the Bantams’ defense and slotted a ball in the corner to give NCFC the lead in the seventh minute.
 
It didn’t take long for NCFC U-23 to double its lead as Tressor Mbuyu scored in the 15th minute. Mbuyu collected a pass from Ian Bennett and quickly fired a shot that caught the SC United Bantams’ goalkeeper off guard. 
 
Down two goals early, South Carolina’s leading goal scorer Marek Weber took it upon himself to bring his team back level. Weber tapped in a cross at the near post in the 23rd minute for his team’s first goal. He added the equalizing tally off a penalty kick in the 45th minute.
 
With the score tied at 2-2, both teams came out of the half looking to find a game winner. NCFC U-23’s closest attempt came from a header in the box that grazed the outside of the post in the 60th minute.
 
The match looked set to end in a draw, but it would be South Carolina who walked away with the victory. In the 88th minute, Mitchell Myers’ left-footed blast ripped through a crowded NCFC U-23 box and found the back corner of the net to shock the home side and clinch the victory for SC United Bantams.
 
Up Next:
NCFC U-23 returns to action at Pomoco Stadium in Newport News, Va., to take on Lionsbridge FC on Saturday, June 16, at 7 p.m. ET. 
 
Notes:  
NCFC U-23’s Caleb Duvernay, Nick Retzlaff, and George Marks all came up through the NCFC Youth Academy. Additionally, Ian Bennet, Casey Brady, Dean Rutherford and Chase Rhode played in the youth ranks with either Triangle Futbol Club Alliance or Capital Area Soccer League, predecessors to NCFC Youth.
 
NCFC U-23 came in to today’s match having won three of the last four and riding a five-game unbeaten streak, dating back to early May.
 
Box Score:
 
Lineups:
NCFC U-23: George Marks; Caleb Duvernay, Chase Rhode ©, Walid Yacudou, Ryeong Choi, Ian Bennet, Nick Retzlaff, David Cuperman (David Mejia, 80’), Alex Moztazadeh (Sheriff Secka, 68’), Tresor Mbuyu, Jelani Pieters (Dean Rutherford, 46’)
 
Subs not used: Colton Dutches, Casey Brady, Nacho Lerech, Miles Stray 
 
SC: Ian McGrane; Swann Vincent, Mitchell Myers, Daniel Bent ©, Jack Shiels, Harrison Roberts, JB Meyniel (Salar Fayar, 70’), Cooper Nugent, Grayson Barber (Keegan Burton), Marek Weber (Ben Gilligan, 80’), Edmundo Robinson
 
Subs not used: Kyle Ferguson, Liam Ireland, Justin Sukow, Davis Bryan
 
Score:
SC: 3
NCFC U-23: 2
 
Goals:
SC: Marek Weber (unassisted, 23’), (PK, 45’), Mitchell Myers (unassisted, 88’)
NCFC U-23: David Cuperman (unassisted, 7’), Tressor Mbuyu (Ian Bennett, 15’)
 
Cautions:
SC: —
NCFC U-23: David Cuperman 77’
 
Ejections:
SC: —
NCFC U-23: —

###

CARY, N.C. (June 2, 2018) – North Carolina FC U-23 won its second game in a row with a 2-1 rivalry victory over Tobacco Road FC in PDL action on Saturday night. Jelani Pieters added late-game heroics, scoring the game winner in the 89th minute. 
 
The victory was the second straight win for the team and moves NCFC U-23 to eight points and second place in the South Atlantic Standings. The match also featured a plethora of North Carolina talent on the field. In total, 10 NCFC Youth Academy products featured in the lineups for the Triangle rivals.
 
The match had two different weather delays spanning nearly two hours. Once the teams were underway following the delays, the action started quickly with Tobacco Road FC’s Delasi Batse scoring in the 15th minute. NCFC U-23 responded just 11 minutes later as Shariff Secka scored for the second match in a row to equalize off an assist from Dean Rutherford.
 
The teams played out an intense match, while trading chances on both sides. With time winding down, Jelani Pieters – making his season debut – scored the deciding goal in the 89th minute. Pieters finished off a header from Alex Moztarzadeh's cross for the win.
 
Notes:
North Carolina Football Club’s deeply rooted youth-to-pro pipeline was once again showcased in the club’s latest match as four NCFC Youth Academy products (Caleb Duvernay, Jamil Gracia, George Marks, Nick Retzlaff) and three TFCA/CASL (now NCFC Youth) products (Chase Rhode, Dean Rutherford and Clayton Sparks) all featured in the lineup.
 
TRFC also featured a roster loaded with former NCFC ties. Brad Ruhaak – a member of NCFC in 2017, started for Tobacco Road. Former NCFC U-23 players Fernando Castellanos and Alex Comsia also played. Additionally, NCFC Youth Academy products, Ryan Cretens, Dylan Chain, Kellen Foster, Delasi Batse, Ben Fisher and Huntley Munn were all in the lineup for TRFC.
 
Shariff Secka scored his second goal of the year off an assist from Dean Rutherford.
 
Jelani Pieters made his season debut and scored the game winner with a strike in the 89th minute off an assist from Alex Moztarzadeh.
 
Box Score:
 
Lineups:
NCFC U-23: George Marks; Caleb Duvernay, Walid Yacoubou, Chase Rhode ©, Ryeong Choi; David Cuperman (Alex Moztarzadeh, 46’), Nick Retzlaff, Keegan Kelly (Jamil Gracia, 90’+2), Shariff Secka (David Mejia, 61’); Clayton Sparks, Dean Rutherford (Jelani Pieters, 76’)
 
Subs not used: Colton Dutches, Miles Stray, Nacho Lerech
 
TRFC: Ryan Cretens; Dylan Chain, Brad Ruhaak, Kellen Foster, Delasi Batse (Vincente Gallardo, 72’); Mauricio Pineda (Tommaso D’agostino, 83’), Fernando Castellanos; Javier Alcarria, Ben Fisher, Oscar Moreno (Alex Comsia, 46’); Taff Wadda
 
Subs not used: Zac Scott, Joaquin Del Rosario, Huntley Munn, Marshall Hodge
 
Score:
NCFC U-23: 2
TRFC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC U-23: Shariff Secka (Dean Rutherford, 26’), Jelani Pieters (Alex Moztarzadeh, 89’)
TRFC: Delasi Batse (Unassisted, 15’)
 
Cautions:
NCFC U-23: Walid Yacoubou 74’
TRFC: —
 
Ejections:
NCFC U-23: —
TRFC: —

###

CARY, N.C. (June 2, 2018) – North Carolina FC U-23 won its second game in a row with a 2-1 rivalry victory over Tobacco Road FC in PDL action on Saturday night. Jelani Pieters added late-game heroics, scoring the game winner in the 89th minute. 
 
The victory was the second straight win for the team and moves NCFC U-23 to eight points and second place in the South Atlantic Standings. The match also featured a plethora of North Carolina talent on the field. In total, 10 NCFC Youth Academy products featured in the lineups for the Triangle rivals.
 
The match had two different weather delays spanning nearly two hours. Once the teams were underway following the delays, the action started quickly with Tobacco Road FC’s Delasi Batse scoring in the 15th minute. NCFC U-23 responded just 11 minutes later as Shariff Secka scored for the second match in a row to equalize off an assist from Dean Rutherford.
 
The teams played out an intense match, while trading chances on both sides. With time winding down, Jelani Pieters – making his season debut – scored the deciding goal in the 89th minute. Pieters finished off a header from Alex Moztarzadeh’s cross for the win.
 
Notes:
North Carolina Football Club’s deeply rooted youth-to-pro pipeline was once again showcased in the club’s latest match as four NCFC Youth Academy products (Caleb Duvernay, Jamil Gracia, George Marks, Nick Retzlaff) and three TFCA/CASL (now NCFC Youth) products (Chase Rhode, Dean Rutherford and Clayton Sparks) all featured in the lineup.
 
TRFC also featured a roster loaded with former NCFC ties. Brad Ruhaak – a member of NCFC in 2017, started for Tobacco Road. Former NCFC U-23 players Fernando Castellanos and Alex Comsia also played. Additionally, NCFC Youth Academy products, Ryan Cretens, Dylan Chain, Kellen Foster, Delasi Batse, Ben Fisher and Huntley Munn were all in the lineup for TRFC.
 
Shariff Secka scored his second goal of the year off an assist from Dean Rutherford.
 
Jelani Pieters made his season debut and scored the game winner with a strike in the 89th minute off an assist from Alex Moztarzadeh.
 
Box Score:
 
Lineups:
NCFC U-23: George Marks; Caleb Duvernay, Walid Yacoubou, Chase Rhode ©, Ryeong Choi; David Cuperman (Alex Moztarzadeh, 46’), Nick Retzlaff, Keegan Kelly (Jamil Gracia, 90’+2), Shariff Secka (David Mejia, 61’); Clayton Sparks, Dean Rutherford (Jelani Pieters, 76’)
 
Subs not used: Colton Dutches, Miles Stray, Nacho Lerech
 
TRFC: Ryan Cretens; Dylan Chain, Brad Ruhaak, Kellen Foster, Delasi Batse (Vincente Gallardo, 72’); Mauricio Pineda (Tommaso D’agostino, 83’), Fernando Castellanos; Javier Alcarria, Ben Fisher, Oscar Moreno (Alex Comsia, 46’); Taff Wadda
 
Subs not used: Zac Scott, Joaquin Del Rosario, Huntley Munn, Marshall Hodge
 
Score:
NCFC U-23: 2
TRFC: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC U-23: Shariff Secka (Dean Rutherford, 26’), Jelani Pieters (Alex Moztarzadeh, 89’)
TRFC: Delasi Batse (Unassisted, 15’)
 
Cautions:
NCFC U-23: Walid Yacoubou 74’
TRFC: —
 
Ejections:
NCFC U-23: —
TRFC: —

###

CARY, N.C. (May 29, 2018)– North Carolina FC U-23 grabbed its first win of the season against the 2017 defending PDL Champions, the Charlotte Eagles on Tuesday night at WakeMed Soccer Park. NCFC U-23 is now 1W-2D-1L (5 points) on the season after taking down the previously undefeated side from Charlotte. 
 
The match was evenly contested throughout most of the first half and the teams entered halftime tied at 1-1. Charlotte struck first after Patrick Seagrist sent a cross into Robinson Moshobane, who placed his shot in the upper left corner for the game’s first goal in the 16th minute.
 
NCFC U-23 battled back and ultimately found the equalizer in the 34th minute. A David Cuperman through ball skipped past Charlotte’s back line as Shariff Secca was able to gather it and set himself up for a one-on-one opportunity with the keeper. Secca slotted the ball just beyond the reach of the goalkeeper for his first goal of the year.  
 
Following the break, the sides traded opportunities. It was NCFC who made the most of its chance. Caleb Duvernay broke the deadlock to give NCFC U-23 the lead in the 53rd minute. After a deflected ball landed at his feet just outside the 18-yard box, Duvernay rifled a shot into the upper left corner. 
 
The goal proved to be the difference as NCFC U-23 went on to win 2-1. NCFC U-23 goalkeeper, George Marks, had a strong night between the posts, making six saves to help his side clinch the win.
 
Up Next:
NCFC U-23 will finish out its three-game homestand on Saturday, June 2 at 4:30 p.m. against Tobacco Road FC at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
Notes:
North Carolina Football Club’s deeply rooted youth-to-pro pipeline was once again showcased in the club’s latest match as four NCFC Youth Academy products (Caleb Duvernay, Jamil Gracia, George Marks, Nick Retzlaff) and three TFCA/CASL (now NCFC Youth) products (Chase Rhode, Dean Rutherford and Clayton Sparks) all featured in the lineup.
 
Shariff Secca and Caleb Duvernay scored their first goals of the season. 
 
Box Score:
 
Lineups:
 
NCFC U-23: George Marks; Caleb Duvernay, Walid Yacoubou, Chase Rhode ©, Ryeong Choi, David Cuperman, Nick Retzlaff, Ian Bennet (Dean Rutherford 46’), Keegan Kelly (Jamil Gracia 60’), Shariff Secca (Alex Moztarzadeh 72’), Clayton Sparks (Nacho Lerech, 83’)
 
Subs not used: Colton Dutches, Miles Stray, Jose Morales, Baboucar Njie
 
CLT: Wiktor Lasota; Clay Dimick, Patrick Seagrist (Santiago Agudelo 90’), Douglas Oliveira ©, Foster Appiah, Lucas Rosa (Derick Gonzalez 82’), Samuel Ruiz Plaza (Curren Page 64’), Robinson Moshobane, Christopher Brennan, Danilo da Silva (Rafael Vacas 60’), Todd Fidler (Jacob Crull 78’)
 
Subs not used: Nick Cournoyer, Langdon Roscoe
 
Score:
NCFC U-23: 2
CLT: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC U-23: Shariff Secca 34’, Caleb Duvernay 53’
CLT: Robinson Moshobane 16’
 
Cautions:
NCFC U-23: Nick Retzlaff 60’
CLT: Foster Appiah 89’
 
Ejections:
NCFC U-23: —
CLT: —

###

CARY, N.C. (May 29, 2018)– North Carolina FC U-23 grabbed its first win of the season against the 2017 defending PDL Champions, the Charlotte Eagles on Tuesday night at WakeMed Soccer Park. NCFC U-23 is now 1W-2D-1L (5 points) on the season after taking down the previously undefeated side from Charlotte. 
 
The match was evenly contested throughout most of the first half and the teams entered halftime tied at 1-1. Charlotte struck first after Patrick Seagrist sent a cross into Robinson Moshobane, who placed his shot in the upper left corner for the game’s first goal in the 16th minute.
 
NCFC U-23 battled back and ultimately found the equalizer in the 34th minute. A David Cuperman through ball skipped past Charlotte’s back line as Shariff Secca was able to gather it and set himself up for a one-on-one opportunity with the keeper. Secca slotted the ball just beyond the reach of the goalkeeper for his first goal of the year.  
 
Following the break, the sides traded opportunities. It was NCFC who made the most of its chance. Caleb Duvernay broke the deadlock to give NCFC U-23 the lead in the 53rd minute. After a deflected ball landed at his feet just outside the 18-yard box, Duvernay rifled a shot into the upper left corner. 
 
The goal proved to be the difference as NCFC U-23 went on to win 2-1. NCFC U-23 goalkeeper, George Marks, had a strong night between the posts, making six saves to help his side clinch the win.
 
Up Next:
NCFC U-23 will finish out its three-game homestand on Saturday, June 2 at 4:30 p.m. against Tobacco Road FC at WakeMed Soccer Park.
 
Notes:
North Carolina Football Club’s deeply rooted youth-to-pro pipeline was once again showcased in the club’s latest match as four NCFC Youth Academy products (Caleb Duvernay, Jamil Gracia, George Marks, Nick Retzlaff) and three TFCA/CASL (now NCFC Youth) products (Chase Rhode, Dean Rutherford and Clayton Sparks) all featured in the lineup.
 
Shariff Secca and Caleb Duvernay scored their first goals of the season. 
 
Box Score:
 
Lineups:
 
NCFC U-23: George Marks; Caleb Duvernay, Walid Yacoubou, Chase Rhode ©, Ryeong Choi, David Cuperman, Nick Retzlaff, Ian Bennet (Dean Rutherford 46’), Keegan Kelly (Jamil Gracia 60’), Shariff Secca (Alex Moztarzadeh 72’), Clayton Sparks (Nacho Lerech, 83’)
 
Subs not used: Colton Dutches, Miles Stray, Jose Morales, Baboucar Njie
 
CLT: Wiktor Lasota; Clay Dimick, Patrick Seagrist (Santiago Agudelo 90’), Douglas Oliveira ©, Foster Appiah, Lucas Rosa (Derick Gonzalez 82’), Samuel Ruiz Plaza (Curren Page 64’), Robinson Moshobane, Christopher Brennan, Danilo da Silva (Rafael Vacas 60’), Todd Fidler (Jacob Crull 78’)
 
Subs not used: Nick Cournoyer, Langdon Roscoe
 
Score:
NCFC U-23: 2
CLT: 1
 
Goals:
NCFC U-23: Shariff Secca 34’, Caleb Duvernay 53’
CLT: Robinson Moshobane 16’
 
Cautions:
NCFC U-23: Nick Retzlaff 60’
CLT: Foster Appiah 89’
 
Ejections:
NCFC U-23: —
CLT: —

###