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Cary, NC (September 9, 2020)- North Carolina FC hosts Memphis 901 FC tomorrow, September 10 at 7 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match is the second between the two teams this season, and one of two matches to be played between the Group G rivals in four days. It will air on ESPN+ and WRAL-2.

If NCFC captain Nazmi Albadawi makes an appearance in Thursday’s match, it will be his 150th appearance with the club. The local star and former North Carolina FC Youth Academy player has made his mark in the record books as he is the club’s all-time assist leader. The midfielder is fourth in games played, games started, and goals scored for North Carolina FC (formerly the Carolina RailHawks).

“It’s quite an achievement to have played 150 games for what I consider to be a young guy,” said NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan. “It is a testament to his durability and to his quality. He has a desire to make this club the best club it can be. Whether it’s on the field or off the field, he bleeds this club. Having him a part of things given his connection to the community and his vast experience with all of these games is very important within our team.”

North Carolina FC and Memphis 901 FC last played on August 8 at Autozone Park in Memphis. Akeem Ward’s 38th-minute goal was the game-winner in a very close match. The goal was Ward’s first professional goal and earned the defender a spot on the USL Team of the Week.

In the team’s most recent match, NCFC fell to the Charlotte Independence 3-1 on Saturday, September 5. Dre Fortune scored the lone goal for NCFC thanks to an assist from Manny Perez. Fortune leads North Carolina FC in scoring this season with four goals. He was named to the USL Team of the Week bench following his performance against Charlotte.

“Dre has been a guy that when he gets in positions to get chances at goal, his quality and his percentage of getting balls on goal or in the goal has been good,” said Sarachan. “He’s a guy we are asking cover not only the attacking piece of the puzzle but also the defending. It requires a lot of work in his role but clearly the moments when he is within 25 yards of the goal, he’s shown that he can be dangerous. We want to encourage him to be in those spots.”

Following Thursday night’s match, NCFC and Memphis will face each other again on Sunday, September 13 at 6 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna

North Carolina FC- #1 Alex Tambakis

Tambakis is a well-known keeper in the USL as he comes up with big saves during important moments. The Greek goalkeeper will look to add another clean sheet to his two earned this season, including one against Memphis 901 on August 8. He has 25 saves so far in 2020.

Memphis 901 FC- #9 Keanu Marsh-Brown

Marsh-Brown has scored three goals in eight games including one in Memphis 901’s most recent match against Birmingham Legion FC. All three of the midfielder’s goals have been scored with his right foot, inside the box. Tambakis will be ready to face shots from this Memphis midfielder.

Cary, NC (September 9, 2020)- North Carolina FC hosts Memphis 901 FC tomorrow, September 10 at 7 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park. The match is the second between the two teams this season, and one of two matches to be played between the Group G rivals in four days. It will air on ESPN+ and WRAL-2.

If NCFC captain Nazmi Albadawi makes an appearance in Thursday’s match, it will be his 150th appearance with the club. The local star and former North Carolina FC Youth Academy player has made his mark in the record books as he is the club’s all-time assist leader. The midfielder is fourth in games played, games started, and goals scored for North Carolina FC (formerly the Carolina RailHawks).

“It’s quite an achievement to have played 150 games for what I consider to be a young guy,” said NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan. “It is a testament to his durability and to his quality. He has a desire to make this club the best club it can be. Whether it’s on the field or off the field, he bleeds this club. Having him a part of things given his connection to the community and his vast experience with all of these games is very important within our team.”

North Carolina FC and Memphis 901 FC last played on August 8 at Autozone Park in Memphis. Akeem Ward’s 38th-minute goal was the game-winner in a very close match. The goal was Ward’s first professional goal and earned the defender a spot on the USL Team of the Week.

In the team’s most recent match, NCFC fell to the Charlotte Independence 3-1 on Saturday, September 5. Dre Fortune scored the lone goal for NCFC thanks to an assist from Manny Perez. Fortune leads North Carolina FC in scoring this season with four goals. He was named to the USL Team of the Week bench following his performance against Charlotte.

“Dre has been a guy that when he gets in positions to get chances at goal, his quality and his percentage of getting balls on goal or in the goal has been good,” said Sarachan. “He’s a guy we are asking cover not only the attacking piece of the puzzle but also the defending. It requires a lot of work in his role but clearly the moments when he is within 25 yards of the goal, he’s shown that he can be dangerous. We want to encourage him to be in those spots.”

Following Thursday night’s match, NCFC and Memphis will face each other again on Sunday, September 13 at 6 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Players to Watch Presented by Aetna

North Carolina FC- #1 Alex Tambakis

Tambakis is a well-known keeper in the USL as he comes up with big saves during important moments. The Greek goalkeeper will look to add another clean sheet to his two earned this season, including one against Memphis 901 on August 8. He has 25 saves so far in 2020.

Memphis 901 FC- #9 Keanu Marsh-Brown

Marsh-Brown has scored three goals in eight games including one in Memphis 901’s most recent match against Birmingham Legion FC. All three of the midfielder’s goals have been scored with his right foot, inside the box. Tambakis will be ready to face shots from this Memphis midfielder.

Matthews, NC (September 5, 2020) – A hat trick from Charlotte forward Dane Kelly led to North Carolina FC’s defeat against the Charlotte Independence at Matthews Sportsplex on Saturday night by a score of 3-1. Dre Fortune recorded the goal for NCFC, his fourth of the 2020 season.

Seven minutes into the match, North Carolina FC and the Charlotte Independence gathered around the center circle, pausing for a moment of silence to fight for equality, diversity, and inclusivity in the ongoing movement around social injustice.

The Charlotte Independence struck first when defender Joel Johnson played a cross into the NCFC box and to the feet of Kelly, who scored to put the Independence up 1-0. Later, in the 20th minute, Kelly notched his second goal of the night to give Charlotte a two-goal advantage.

NCFC entered the second half looking to edge into Charlotte’s lead. A yellow card administered to Charlotte forward Enzo Martinez in the 51st minute resulted in a set piece for NCFC, giving the team a chance to score early into the second half. The kick was taken by Graham Smith, who placed a nearly perfect ball just outside the six. Several NCFC players fought to get a touch, but the ball was punched out by Charlotte goalkeeper Brandon Miller.

Later, in the 59th minute, NCFC captain Nazmi Albadawi played a driven ball up the right side of the field to Robert Kristo, who was sprinting towards the net. Kristo took the ball in stride, dribbling into the eighteen and getting off a shot attempt,  only to be met with another save from Miller.

In the 79th minute, Charlotte midfielder Derek Gebhard played a through ball to Kelly, who scored to record the hat trick and extend Charlotte’s lead to 3-0.

NCFC was able to find a goal in stoppage time when Manny Perez slotted a cross towards the penalty spot. Dre Fortune ran onto the pass, scoring to notch his fourth goal of the 2020 season and rendering the score 3-1.

Looking Ahead: North Carolina FC will return to WakeMed Soccer Park to face Memphis 901 FC on Thursday, September 10th at 7 p.m. ET.

Notes:

• Malik Mbaye made his NCFC debut in the match.
• NCFC’s passing accuracy was 88.1%.
• North Carolina FC Youth products DJ Taylor, Dre Fortune, Nazmi Albadawi and Conor Donovan started the match. Manny Perez came into the game as a substitution.
• Dre Fortune scored his 4th goal of the 2020 season.

Box Score:

CLT (4-5-1): Brandon Miller; Hugh Roberts, Clay Dimick, Joel Johnson, Duke Lacroix; Luke Haakenson (Oscar Ramsay, 90’), Brunallergene Etou, Rey Ortiz (Derek Gebhard, 69’), Jake Areman (Tresor Mbuyu, 90’), Enzo Martinez ©; Dane Kelly (Christian Chaney, 90’)

Subs Not Used: Guido Vadala, Austin Pack, Shalom Dutey

NC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Alex Comsia (Manny Perez, 71’), Conor Donovan, Sam Brotherton, DJ Taylor (Malick Mbaye, 84’); Hadji Barry (Steven Miller, 77’), Nazmi Albadawi © , Graham Smith (Pecka, 84’), Dre Fortune, Ben Speas (Marios Lomis, 77’); Robert Kristo

Subs Not Used: Paulo Pita

Score:

CLT: 3

NC: 1

Goals:

CLT: Dane Kelly (Joel Johnson, 10’), Dane Kelly (Luke Haakenson, 20’), Dane Kelly (Derek Gebhard, 79’)

NC: Dre Fortune (Manny Perez, 90’)

Cautions:

CLT: Duke Lacroix (18’), Dane Kelly (43’), Enzo Martinez (51’)

NC: Graham Smith (35’), DJ Taylor (60’)

Ejections:

CLT: —

NC: —

Matthews, NC (September 5, 2020) – A hat trick from Charlotte forward Dane Kelly led to North Carolina FC’s defeat against the Charlotte Independence at Matthews Sportsplex on Saturday night by a score of 3-1. Dre Fortune recorded the goal for NCFC, his fourth of the 2020 season.

Seven minutes into the match, North Carolina FC and the Charlotte Independence gathered around the center circle, pausing for a moment of silence to fight for equality, diversity, and inclusivity in the ongoing movement around social injustice.

The Charlotte Independence struck first when defender Joel Johnson played a cross into the NCFC box and to the feet of Kelly, who scored to put the Independence up 1-0. Later, in the 20th minute, Kelly notched his second goal of the night to give Charlotte a two-goal advantage.

NCFC entered the second half looking to edge into Charlotte’s lead. A yellow card administered to Charlotte forward Enzo Martinez in the 51st minute resulted in a set piece for NCFC, giving the team a chance to score early into the second half. The kick was taken by Graham Smith, who placed a nearly perfect ball just outside the six. Several NCFC players fought to get a touch, but the ball was punched out by Charlotte goalkeeper Brandon Miller.

Later, in the 59th minute, NCFC captain Nazmi Albadawi played a driven ball up the right side of the field to Robert Kristo, who was sprinting towards the net. Kristo took the ball in stride, dribbling into the eighteen and getting off a shot attempt,  only to be met with another save from Miller.

In the 79th minute, Charlotte midfielder Derek Gebhard played a through ball to Kelly, who scored to record the hat trick and extend Charlotte’s lead to 3-0.

NCFC was able to find a goal in stoppage time when Manny Perez slotted a cross towards the penalty spot. Dre Fortune ran onto the pass, scoring to notch his fourth goal of the 2020 season and rendering the score 3-1.

Looking Ahead: North Carolina FC will return to WakeMed Soccer Park to face Memphis 901 FC on Thursday, September 10th at 7 p.m. ET.

Notes:

• Malik Mbaye made his NCFC debut in the match.
• NCFC’s passing accuracy was 88.1%.
• North Carolina FC Youth products DJ Taylor, Dre Fortune, Nazmi Albadawi and Conor Donovan started the match. Manny Perez came into the game as a substitution.
• Dre Fortune scored his 4th goal of the 2020 season.

Box Score:

CLT (4-5-1): Brandon Miller; Hugh Roberts, Clay Dimick, Joel Johnson, Duke Lacroix; Luke Haakenson (Oscar Ramsay, 90’), Brunallergene Etou, Rey Ortiz (Derek Gebhard, 69’), Jake Areman (Tresor Mbuyu, 90’), Enzo Martinez ©; Dane Kelly (Christian Chaney, 90’)

Subs Not Used: Guido Vadala, Austin Pack, Shalom Dutey

NC (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Alex Comsia (Manny Perez, 71’), Conor Donovan, Sam Brotherton, DJ Taylor (Malick Mbaye, 84’); Hadji Barry (Steven Miller, 77’), Nazmi Albadawi © , Graham Smith (Pecka, 84’), Dre Fortune, Ben Speas (Marios Lomis, 77’); Robert Kristo

Subs Not Used: Paulo Pita

Score:

CLT: 3

NC: 1

Goals:

CLT: Dane Kelly (Joel Johnson, 10’), Dane Kelly (Luke Haakenson, 20’), Dane Kelly (Derek Gebhard, 79’)

NC: Dre Fortune (Manny Perez, 90’)

Cautions:

CLT: Duke Lacroix (18’), Dane Kelly (43’), Enzo Martinez (51’)

NC: Graham Smith (35’), DJ Taylor (60’)

Ejections:

CLT: —

NC: —

Cary, NC (September 2, 2020)- North Carolina FC secured three points in the team’s third win of the season with a 2-1 victory over Birmingham Legion FC. NCFC Youth Academy products Nazmi Albadawi and Dre Fortune scored the goals in the match. Alex Tambakis saved a penalty kick in the 90th minute to secure the win.

North Carolina FC and Birmingham Legion FC came together around the center circle in the seventh minute of the match for a pause in play to fight for equality, diversity, and inclusivity in the ongoing movement around social injustice.

In the 24th minute, NCFC captain Albadawi found the back of the net and helped his team take an early lead. Hadji Barry made a run on the left side of the field before playing the ball back to the midfielder who scored from outside the box. The goal was Albadawi’s 26th all-time for the club and first of the 2020 season.

Dave Sarachan’s team went into the half with the lead for the first time in four games. A change in the NCFC formation helped the team create five offensive chances in the first 45 minutes.

Birmingham tied the match in the 59th minute when Prosper Kasim finished a cross from Razak Cromwell. Kasim opened up his body and redirected the ball into the lower right corner of the goal.

One minute later, Fortune earned a penalty kick as he was attacking in Birmingham Legion’s box. Fortune then stepped up to take the penalty kick which he placed between the goalkeeper’s legs to reclaim the lead. The goal was Fortune’s third of the season. The midfielder leads NCFC in scoring in 2020.

Tambakis came up with the save of the game in the 90th minute when he stopped a penalty kick awarded to Birmingham Legion after a handball was called in the box. The Greek goalkeeper made the diving save to his right. Daniele Proch cleared the rebound before a Legion FC player could have another chance on goal.

Up Next: North Carolina FC plays the Charlotte Independence on Saturday, September 5 at 7 p.m. at Matthews Sportsplex. The match will air on ESPN+.

Notes:

• North Carolina FC Youth Academy products Nazmi Albadawi, Conor Donovan, Dre Fortune, Manny Perez, and DJ Taylor all started the match.
• Nazmi Albadawi scored his 26th all-time goal for the club and his first of the 2020 season.
• Hadji Barry earned his first assist of the season.
• NCFC's record improves to 3W-4L-1D.

Box:

BHM (4-4-2): Ford Parker; Alex Crognale, Jonathan Dean, Mikey Lopez ©, Bolu Akinyode; Prosper Kasim (Brian Wright, 66’), Anderson Asiedu, Bruno Lapa, Daigo Kobayashi (Razak Cromwell, 55’); Jaden Servania (Braxton Najib, 88’), Neco Brett

Subs Not Used: Matt Van Oekel, Josh Bauer, Jacob Rufe, Marcos Ugarte

NC: (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Alex Comsia, Conor Donovan, Sam Brotherton, DJ Taylor; Pecka (Daniele Proch, 84’), Manny Perez (Steven Miller, 65’), Nazmi Albadawi ©, Dre Fortune (Graham Smith, 63’), Hadji Barry; Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 63’)

Subs Not Used: Paolo Pita, Malick Mbaye, Ben Speas

Score:

BHM: 1

NC: 2

Goals:

BHM: Prosper Kasim (Razak Cromwell, 59’)

NC: Nazmi Albadawi (Hadji Barry, 24’), Dre Fortune (penalty, 62’)

Cautions:

BHM: Daigo Kobayashi (45+1’)

NC: —

Ejections:

BHM: —

NC: —

Cary, NC (September 2, 2020)- North Carolina FC secured three points in the team’s third win of the season with a 2-1 victory over Birmingham Legion FC. NCFC Youth Academy products Nazmi Albadawi and Dre Fortune scored the goals in the match. Alex Tambakis saved a penalty kick in the 90th minute to secure the win.

North Carolina FC and Birmingham Legion FC came together around the center circle in the seventh minute of the match for a pause in play to fight for equality, diversity, and inclusivity in the ongoing movement around social injustice.

In the 24th minute, NCFC captain Albadawi found the back of the net and helped his team take an early lead. Hadji Barry made a run on the left side of the field before playing the ball back to the midfielder who scored from outside the box. The goal was Albadawi’s 26th all-time for the club and first of the 2020 season.

Dave Sarachan’s team went into the half with the lead for the first time in four games. A change in the NCFC formation helped the team create five offensive chances in the first 45 minutes.

Birmingham tied the match in the 59th minute when Prosper Kasim finished a cross from Razak Cromwell. Kasim opened up his body and redirected the ball into the lower right corner of the goal.

One minute later, Fortune earned a penalty kick as he was attacking in Birmingham Legion’s box. Fortune then stepped up to take the penalty kick which he placed between the goalkeeper’s legs to reclaim the lead. The goal was Fortune’s third of the season. The midfielder leads NCFC in scoring in 2020.

Tambakis came up with the save of the game in the 90th minute when he stopped a penalty kick awarded to Birmingham Legion after a handball was called in the box. The Greek goalkeeper made the diving save to his right. Daniele Proch cleared the rebound before a Legion FC player could have another chance on goal.

Up Next: North Carolina FC plays the Charlotte Independence on Saturday, September 5 at 7 p.m. at Matthews Sportsplex. The match will air on ESPN+.

Notes:

• North Carolina FC Youth Academy products Nazmi Albadawi, Conor Donovan, Dre Fortune, Manny Perez, and DJ Taylor all started the match.
• Nazmi Albadawi scored his 26th all-time goal for the club and his first of the 2020 season.
• Hadji Barry earned his first assist of the season.
• NCFC’s record improves to 3W-4L-1D.

Box:

BHM (4-4-2): Ford Parker; Alex Crognale, Jonathan Dean, Mikey Lopez ©, Bolu Akinyode; Prosper Kasim (Brian Wright, 66’), Anderson Asiedu, Bruno Lapa, Daigo Kobayashi (Razak Cromwell, 55’); Jaden Servania (Braxton Najib, 88’), Neco Brett

Subs Not Used: Matt Van Oekel, Josh Bauer, Jacob Rufe, Marcos Ugarte

NC: (4-5-1): Alex Tambakis; Alex Comsia, Conor Donovan, Sam Brotherton, DJ Taylor; Pecka (Daniele Proch, 84’), Manny Perez (Steven Miller, 65’), Nazmi Albadawi ©, Dre Fortune (Graham Smith, 63’), Hadji Barry; Marios Lomis (Robert Kristo, 63’)

Subs Not Used: Paolo Pita, Malick Mbaye, Ben Speas

Score:

BHM: 1

NC: 2

Goals:

BHM: Prosper Kasim (Razak Cromwell, 59’)

NC: Nazmi Albadawi (Hadji Barry, 24’), Dre Fortune (penalty, 62’)

Cautions:

BHM: Daigo Kobayashi (45+1’)

NC: —

Ejections:

BHM: —

NC: —

Cary, NC (September 2, 2020)- North Carolina FC will play a rescheduled match against Memphis 901 FC on Thursday, September 10 at7 p.m. ET at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park after the match originally scheduled for August 26 was postponed.

As a result of the new match date, North Carolina FC’s match against Memphis 901 FC originally scheduled for Saturday, September 12 has been moved to Sunday, September 13 at 6 p.m. ET to give teams adequate rest and recovery in between games.

Both matches between USL Group G opponents will take place at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park and air on ESPN+.

Cary, NC (September 2, 2020)- North Carolina FC will play a rescheduled match against Memphis 901 FC on Thursday, September 10 at7 p.m. ET at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park after the match originally scheduled for August 26 was postponed.

As a result of the new match date, North Carolina FC’s match against Memphis 901 FC originally scheduled for Saturday, September 12 has been moved to Sunday, September 13 at 6 p.m. ET to give teams adequate rest and recovery in between games.

Both matches between USL Group G opponents will take place at Sahlen’s Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park and air on ESPN+.

Match Info

North Carolina FC vs Birmingham Legion FC

Wednesday, September 2- 8:00 p.m. ET

Watch: ESPN+

Cary, NC (August 31, 2020)- North Carolina FC will return to the field on Wednesday, September 2 at 8 p.m. against Group G rival Birmingham Legion FC. The match will air on ESPN+ as Dave Sarachan’s team looks to bounce back from three consecutive losses.

“This group’s mentality has been one where they have had to adapt and adjust,” said NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan going into Wednesday’s game. “I called it the COVID shuffle because they have to be prepared to shuffle and be prepared for anything.”

North Carolina FC will look for an important three points following a postponed game against Memphis 901 FC on Saturday. NCFC will play eight games during the busy month, including the makeup match. The new match date will be announced in the coming days.

NCFC sits in third place in Group G while Birmingham Legion holds first place with the most points and games played in the group. Two of NCFC’s September matches are against Legion FC.

“We are taking each game as it comes,” said Sarachan. “We know we’ve been dried up in front of goal so we are doing everything we can to be a more dangerous team and find a way to get points. Rather than looking at the macro, we are looking at the micro. We know it is a big month and there are lots of points on the table but really the focus is one game at a time and that starts on Wednesday against Birmingham.”

North Carolina FC last played on Wednesday, August 26 against the Charlotte Independence. One play determined the match as the Independence’s Rey Ortiz scored the only goal of the match. Alex Tambakis made two saves in the match to bring his season total to 21.

Birmingham Legion FC also played the Charlotte Independence in their last match. Legion FC was able to pull off a 4-1 win with goals from Jaden Servania, Brian Wright, and two goals from Neco Brett.

Aetna Players to Watch

North Carolina FC- #92 Hadji Barry

Barry has had a myriad of chances on goal this season, and it is only a matter of time before he buries one in the back of the net. He has played 515 minutes in seven games, six of which he started. During a season he is dedicating to his late father, Barry will continue to incorporate himself into NCFC’s attack.

Birmingham Legion FC- #11 Neco Brett

Brett is entering Wednesday’s game hot after scoring two goals against the Charlotte Independence on Saturday. Brett leads Legion FC with six goals in 10 appearances this season. He also has two assists for his team.  

Match Info

North Carolina FC vs Birmingham Legion FC

Wednesday, September 2- 8:00 p.m. ET

Watch: ESPN+

Cary, NC (August 31, 2020)- North Carolina FC will return to the field on Wednesday, September 2 at 8 p.m. against Group G rival Birmingham Legion FC. The match will air on ESPN+ as Dave Sarachan’s team looks to bounce back from three consecutive losses.

“This group’s mentality has been one where they have had to adapt and adjust,” said NCFC head coach Dave Sarachan going into Wednesday’s game. “I called it the COVID shuffle because they have to be prepared to shuffle and be prepared for anything.”

North Carolina FC will look for an important three points following a postponed game against Memphis 901 FC on Saturday. NCFC will play eight games during the busy month, including the makeup match. The new match date will be announced in the coming days.

NCFC sits in third place in Group G while Birmingham Legion holds first place with the most points and games played in the group. Two of NCFC’s September matches are against Legion FC.

“We are taking each game as it comes,” said Sarachan. “We know we’ve been dried up in front of goal so we are doing everything we can to be a more dangerous team and find a way to get points. Rather than looking at the macro, we are looking at the micro. We know it is a big month and there are lots of points on the table but really the focus is one game at a time and that starts on Wednesday against Birmingham.”

North Carolina FC last played on Wednesday, August 26 against the Charlotte Independence. One play determined the match as the Independence’s Rey Ortiz scored the only goal of the match. Alex Tambakis made two saves in the match to bring his season total to 21.

Birmingham Legion FC also played the Charlotte Independence in their last match. Legion FC was able to pull off a 4-1 win with goals from Jaden Servania, Brian Wright, and two goals from Neco Brett.

Aetna Players to Watch

North Carolina FC- #92 Hadji Barry

Barry has had a myriad of chances on goal this season, and it is only a matter of time before he buries one in the back of the net. He has played 515 minutes in seven games, six of which he started. During a season he is dedicating to his late father, Barry will continue to incorporate himself into NCFC’s attack.

Birmingham Legion FC- #11 Neco Brett

Brett is entering Wednesday’s game hot after scoring two goals against the Charlotte Independence on Saturday. Brett leads Legion FC with six goals in 10 appearances this season. He also has two assists for his team.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cary, NC (July 24, 2020)- North Carolina FC’s away match against the Charlotte Independence scheduled for Wednesday, July 29 has been rescheduled for Wednesday, August 26. The match will be played at 7 p.m. ET at the Sportsplex at Matthews and air on ESPN+.

NCFC and the Charlotte Independence are both in Group G of the USL and will play four times throughout the 2020 season. Birmingham Legion FC and Memphis 901 FC are also members of Group G.

North Carolina FC will return to WakeMed Soccer Park for their next match against Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday, August 1 at 7 p.m. The game will be closed to fans to ensure safety amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The match will air on ESPN+.

Cary, NC (July 24, 2020)- North Carolina FC’s away match against the Charlotte Independence scheduled for Wednesday, July 29 has been rescheduled for Wednesday, August 26. The match will be played at 7 p.m. ET at the Sportsplex at Matthews and air on ESPN+.

NCFC and the Charlotte Independence are both in Group G of the USL and will play four times throughout the 2020 season. Birmingham Legion FC and Memphis 901 FC are also members of Group G.

North Carolina FC will return to WakeMed Soccer Park for their next match against Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday, August 1 at 7 p.m. The game will be closed to fans to ensure safety amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The match will air on ESPN+.

TAMPA, Fla. (April 1, 2020)– North Carolina FC and fellow clubs across the USL Championship will be doing their part to support local charities throughout the month of April, donating a percentage of merchandise proceeds to organizations in their communities to provide support during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

As always, NCFC fans can continue to make purchases from the NCFC Team Store. North Carolina FC has chosen for proceeds to go to the #HelpForHospitality initiative, helping hospitality workers in our area. 

In 35 communities across the country, clubs will be participating in the initiative, with donations to be made to local charities of the club’s choosing.

Clubs have already been using their online presence to help their local communities since the temporary suspension of the Championship season and delay to the start of the League One season were announced. Teams will also be aiding local charities during the upcoming USL eCup: Rocket League Edition that begins on Wednesday afternoon, with NCFC highlighting NCFC Youth's Financial Aid Fund. 

TAMPA, Fla. (April 1, 2020)– North Carolina FC and fellow clubs across the USL Championship will be doing their part to support local charities throughout the month of April, donating a percentage of merchandise proceeds to organizations in their communities to provide support during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

As always, NCFC fans can continue to make purchases from the NCFC Team Store. North Carolina FC has chosen for proceeds to go to the #HelpForHospitality initiative, helping hospitality workers in our area. 

In 35 communities across the country, clubs will be participating in the initiative, with donations to be made to local charities of the club’s choosing.

Clubs have already been using their online presence to help their local communities since the temporary suspension of the Championship season and delay to the start of the League One season were announced. Teams will also be aiding local charities during the upcoming USL eCup: Rocket League Edition that begins on Wednesday afternoon, with NCFC highlighting NCFC Youth’s Financial Aid Fund.