2026 US Open Cup Round 1: Orange County SC takes care of business, 3-0 vs. Laguna United

Consistency and assertiveness were the key combination for Orange County SC’s 3-0 win over Laguna United FC in the first round of the 2026 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. 

“The intention and really, the sole goal tonight was to be in the next round. So we’ve achieved that … we’re happy with the outcome,” said Orange County SC head coach Danny Stone. 

Orange County SC started the first half with immense determination to be in the lead. They held most of the possession throughout the half and allowed Lauguna United FC very few moments to create offensive advances. 

As the energy continued to amp up on the field, Laguna United FC would find themselves earning a yellow card in the 22nd minute by Carter Blondolilllo. However, that would not affect their gameplay as they quickly regrouped for the next play. 

“…you know these Cup games, they’re never as simple as people feel they should be. And credit to Laguna United, they played a good game tonight,” said Stone.

After several close attempts to take the lead, Orange County SC finally put themselves on top with a goal in the 25th minute by Stephen Kelly. A few plays later in the 28th minute, and multiple saves from the Laguna United keeper, a final rebound landed on the foot of Ryan Doghman, who secured a 2-0 lead.  

“It was nice to get my first goal of the season. Just tried to get in the box and from the back holding the ball and luckily got shot away,” said Kelly. 

Orange County SC would remain in possession of the ball for the duration of the first half. In addition, both teams would accumulate a fair share of fouls, but wouldn’t have much effect on them. 

However, no more goals would be made in the half; resulting in a score of 2-0 in favor of Orange County SC. 

As the second half commenced, Laguna United FC took the opportunity to maintain possession of the ball, but it was short-lived. The match would again fall into the hands of Orange County SC. 

Only in the 71st minute would Laguna United FC  have an attempt on goal, where the shot would skim the top of the net and out of the bounds. 

As the final minutes of the match ticked away, Orange County SC had a fourth opportunity to raise the score.

 A block, in the 86th minute, thet rebounds off Laguna United FC’s goalie rolls into position for an incoming Orange SC player. However, that play would be called offside. 

The final whistle would sound with Orange County SC advancing to the next round in this 3-0 victory.

“… the most important thing tonight was to be in the next round. But as far as how we carry through, we take the positives from it, as we always do. The clean sheet tonight is a good one. And to win a game is key. This is it,” said Stone.