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2019 US Open Cup qualifying

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 4 draw: It’s “Win & You’re In” for remaining 14 teams

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Players from International Portland Select celebrate one of their goals in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against JASA RWC. Photo: Ben McFarland
Players from International Portland Select celebrate one of their goals in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against JASA RWC. Photo: Ben McFarland

UPDATE: Check out a more in-depth preview of each game here

On Thursday morning, the United States Soccer Federation announced the draw for the fourth and final round of the Open Division Local Qualifying tournament for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. The games are expected to take place the weekend of April 6-7.

The dates, times and venues for each matchup are yet to be announced.

The matchups are created based on geography in an effort to minimize travel. Here is a brief look at all seven matches:

West Chester United (USASA/United Soccer Lg of PA)
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Safira FC (USASA/New England Over-The-Hill Soccer Lg)

Safira FC from Massachusetts is attempting to qualify for the US Open Cup for the first time, while West Chester United are trying to return to the tournament for the first time since they made their tournament debut in 2016. Safira hasn’t had to leave the state of Massachusetts during their qualifying run as they have hosted all three games against fellow Bay State clubs. They defeated Mass United (Bay State Soccer League), Boston City FC II (UPSL) and needed penalty kicks to get past GPS Omens (Bay State Soccer League) to reach Round 4. West Chester United’s three wins came against three historic clubs, Vereinigung Erzebirge (Oakford, Pa.), four-time US Open Cup champion Ukrainain Nationals, and three-time US Open Cup champion New York Pancyprian Freedoms.

World Class Premier Elite FC (USASA/Maryland Major Soccer Lg)
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Virginia United (ANFUSA/Woodbridge Soccer Lg)

Virginia United, the last remaining club from the Asociacion Nacional Fútbol en USA will get to host the last remaining Maryland-based club, World Class Premier Elite FC. Both clubs are seeking their first US Open Cup berth. United defeated fellow Woodbridge Soccer League team Centro America FC in Round 1 and then took out two of the best teams from the Maryland Major Soccer League (MMSL): Super Delegates FC and Christos FC. Now they will need to defeat a third straight MMSL power to clinch their first trip to the tournament. World Class Premier will have to win their fourth straight road game if they want to make their Open Cup debut. They knocked off fellow MMSL club Izee Auto FC, followed by a 6-0 win over Charlottesville Alliance FC Reserves (Va.), and an away win in western New York where they knocked off the Rochester Lancers 2.

America Soccer Club (USASA/UPSL)
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Florida Soccer Soldiers (USASA/UPSL)

The last two Florida-based clubs will square off with the winner earning their first trip to the US Open Cup. America Soccer Club received a first round bye and then beat two Sunshine State teams at home in Winter Garden, Fla. (Orlando area) to reach the fourth round. They beat Central Florida FC Spartans, 2-1, and then Soda City FC Sorinex by the same scoreline. The Miami-based Florida Soccer Soldiers defeated the Miami Sun FC, Open Cup regular Red Force FC and cruised to a 6-0 road win over Hurricane FC to reach the final round.

IPS/Marathon Taverna (USASA/Oregon Prem. Lg)
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Academica SC (USCS/LIGA NorCal)

Another pair of teams seeking their first US Open Cup berth will square off in Northern California. IPS/Marathon Taverna fell one game short of qualifying in 2017, and lost in the second round in 2018 before finding their way back to the final round this year. The Portland, Ore.-based club will play on the road for the first time in this qualifying cycle. They received a first round bye and defeated the Nevada Coyotes, 5-4, and then edged JASA RWC (Nor Cal), 3-2 to advance to Round 4. Academica SC won back-to-back home games in Turlock, Calif. with wins over the Davis Legacy and Contra Costa FC. The wildfires in Northern California caused their third round match to be postponed to Jan. 5 where they edged the Oakland Stompers, 1-0 to put themselves one win away from qualifying for the 106th edition of the US Open Cup.

FC Denver (USSSA/Colorado Amat. Soccer Lg)
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Southwest FC (USASA/UPSL)

Last year, FC Denver qualified for the US Open Cup for the first time and if they want to return for the second year in a row, they will have to travel south to El Paso and defeat Southwest FC. This will be the first time that FCD will leave the state of Colorado in the tournament after wins over Indios Denver FC, Harpo’s FC and Gam United FC. After receiving a first round bye, Southwest traveled to the Phoenix area to defeat Sporting AZ FC, 4-1, and then picked up a 3-0 home win over San Juan FC (Utah). Southwest FC is attempting to become the second Open Division Local club from El Paso to qualify for the Open Cup. (El Paso Indios USA qualified in 2007 as a member of the NPSL prior to the USSF recognizing the league as a national league status, thus were labeled as an “Open Division Local” club)

FC Maritsa (USASA/UPSL)
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NTX Rayados (USASA/North Texas Prem. Soccer Assoc.)

The North Texas (NTX) Rayados are on a quest to qualify for the US Open Cup for the eighth year in a row, which would extend their Modern Era record for an Open Division Local team. To do that, they will have to defeat first-time entry FC Maritsa, who are representing the city of St. Louis. The qualifying path for Rayados hasn’t been easy as they needed penalty kicks to overcome the Dallas Elite FC before earning a 2-0 win over fellow North Texas Premier Soccer Association rival Leon FC. After their original match was postponed, NTX had to wait until Jan. 12 to play their third round match on the road against Motagua of New Orleans, which they won in an 11-round penalty kick shootout. FC Maritsa received a first round bye and had a pair of tight games to advance to the final round: a 4-3 home win over FC Minnesota, and a penalty kick win on the road over Michigan’s Livonia City FC.

Cal FC (USASA/UPSL)
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Santa Ana Winds FC (USASA/UPSL)

A pair of Southern California-based UPSL clubs will square off in the final round with a spot in the US Open Cup on the line. After a two-year hiatus, Cal FC has returned to the competition and notched a 3-1 win over San Nicolas FC and a 6-1 win over Outbreak FC to reach Round 3. Their original match with Cal United FC II was cut short when the lights went out at their stadium and the game was rescheduled for Jan. 16, when Cal FC won a penalty kick shootout 7-6. The club best known for their 2012 upset of Major League Soccer’s Portland Timbers are seeking their fourth US Open Cup berth and their first since 2015. After falling one game short of qualifying in 2017, the Winds finally made their US Open Cup debut last year. They had no trouble dispatching their first two qualifying opponents with a 4-0 win over the Los Angeles Wolves (UPSL) and a 5-0 win over Lionside FC (UPSL). The Winds needed extra time to get past Buena Park FC (SoCal Premier League), 3-1, and receive a home game a “Win & You’re In” match with Cal FC.

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying: NTX Rayados’ Kevin Ellis redeems himself in PK win vs. Motagua of NOLA

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NTX Rayados pose for a team photo before their 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against Leon FC. Photo: NTX Rayados
NTX Rayados pose for a team photo before their 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against Leon FC. Photo: NTX Rayados

It was all about “redemption” on Saturday night in New Orleans.

The North Texas (NTX) Rayados, who are attempting to qualify for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup for the eighth year in a row, needed 11 rounds of penalty kicks to survive and advance their 2019 Open Division Local Qualifying match against Motagua of New Orleans. After the match finished in a 1-1 draw, Kevin Ellis of NTX Rayados stepped to the penalty spot in the opening round and had his attempt saved. A couple rounds later, Motagua’s Nestor Peralta had his attempt ring off the crossbar which helped level the shootout at 3-3. No one missed until Round 11 when Rayados goalkeeper Emmanuel “Bebo” Frias dove to his right to stop Brandon Chagnard’s attempt to open the door for the visitors.

This left North Texas player/manager Tito Salas with a tough decision. With the shootout on the line, he had the choice to put Ellis back out there for a second attempt, or to choose another player to take the shot.

Salas didn’t hesitate: “I told him, ‘It’s time for redemption’.”

Ellis stepped to the spot, fired it to the right of Motagua netminder Jose Santos Jr. and into the back of the net to send Rayados to the final round of qualifying.

Motagua finished the game with 10 men after a second yellow card was issued to Leo Barros late in the second half, so when it came time for the shootout, the rules state that once the shorthanded team finishes with their last player in the shootout, the team with 11 players has a choice. They can either allow their 11th player to shoot, or they can choose someone else.

For Salas, it was an easy decision and Ellis was more than confident that he could seal the deal.

“He usually scores his PKs,” said Salas. “There’s a reason why he went first . We are very confident in him.”

NTX Rayados logoThat confidence paid off as NTX Rayados will advance to the final round of the qualifying where they are likely to face off with the El Paso, Texas-based Southwest FC at a venue that will be announced by the US Soccer Federation in the coming weeks. The date of the fourth and final round is scheduled for the weekend of April 6-7.

The Rayados are attempting to qualify for the US Open Cup for the eighth consecutive season, which would extend their Modern Era (1995-present) record for an Open Division Local team.

This rivalry has been growing since they first met in 2012. NTX Rayados are unbeaten against Motagua in US Open Cup qualifying since their first meeting, and every match has had a lot on the line. This was the first time that the match between the two clubs didn’t decide who got into the US Open Cup. However, the overall rivalry isn’t dominated by the Rayados. In Amateur Cup play, Motagua has had the edge, winning all three meetings, including a win in the USASA Region III Amateur Cup Final that sent the Crescent City club to the national finals.

“It’s been a great rivalry,” said Salas. “But it’s been more of a friendship. We get along with them.”

NTX Rayados arrived in New Orleans with just 12 players, but it was their play in the first half that gave them confidence, including the opening goal in the later part of the first half. The play started out of the back where Salas fed the ball to Jose Antonio Hernandez on the wing. Hernandez took the ball to the endline and crossed it into the penalty area where it took a deflection in front and fell to the feet of the team’s all-time US Open Cup goalscorer, Alberto Rodriguez. Rodriguez, who scored two goals in the club’s upset of the Oklahoma City Energy (USL) in the Second Round of last year’s tournament, slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to put the visitors in front.

The Rayados went into the halftime break with the lead and with plenty of confidence.

“We had some good chances early,” said Salas, who hit the crossbar in the first half. “It seemed like it was going to be a different outcome from the beginning. But once they scored their goal they got really hype and they were all over us.”

That equalizer came for Motagua in the with about 10 minutes left in regulation.

Motagua’s player/manager Steven Morris was the hero for the home team. He played a through ball to Samir Garcia down the left wing, who took possession and dribbled inside the box. Garcia laid the ball off with a back heel and Morris finished from the corner of the six-yard box to the near post.

NTX Rayados players Christopher Escalera (left) and Cedric Nickerson get ready in the locker room before their 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against Motagua of New Orleans. Photo: Goose | NTX Rayados
NTX Rayados players Christopher Escalera (left) and Cedric Nickerson get ready in the locker room before their 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against Motagua of New Orleans. Photo: Goose | NTX Rayados

The energy ramped up for Motagua, who were playing against a road team who only had a backup goalkeeper Lorenzo Guillen on their bench (he would later enter the game as a field player in extra time). The momentum they gained from the goal, and the Rayados’ heavy legs, took a hit minutes later when Leo Barros was issued his second yellow card for a tackle from behind leaving the home side down to 10 men.

The match would go into extra time and NTX Rayados appeared to regain the lead but they had a goal taken off the board. On a set piece in the first extra time period, the ball was crossed in and after North Texas put the ball into the back of the net, celebrated that goal and started to head back to the center of the field for the kickoff, the referee and one of the linesman stopped them in their tracks. The two officials had a meeting and determined that the Rayados had committed a foul in the box prior to the goal.

The match would have to be determined at the penalty spot where NTX prevailed 10-9 to keep their five-game US Open Cup qualifying unbeaten streak alive against Motagua of New Orleans.

“It was a hard-played game like we expected,” said Motagua player/manager Steven Morris. “It’s the type of game everyone gets up for. Congratulations to the Rayados and we wish them luck going forward. It’s tough when you play with 10 men and once you get to PKs, it’s a gamble. I’m really proud of my boys and we will be back.”

“They fought hard,” said Salas about his Rayados club. “You could tell that our legs were giving up on us , but I’m proud of the guys. It definitely wasn’t what we expected, and it definitely wasn’t easy.”

These two teams have been scheduled to play each other in every US Open Cup qualifying tournament since 2013, with NTX Rayados winning four times along with another match finishing in a draw (that helped the Rayados clinch a spot in the US Open Cup). In their first meeting that took place in New Orleans in 2013, NTX Rayados cruised to a 4-0 win in the USASA Region III Open Cup Semifinals, which punched their ticket to the 2013 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

There was no qualifying tournament in 2014 as the USASA was changing their qualifying method, but the two teams met again in June of 2014 in Montgomery, Ala. to decide the entries for the 2015 US Open Cup. In group play, NTX Rayados just needed a draw against Motagua in the final game to clinch their fourth straight Open Cup berth, and they got just that, as the game finished 3-3.

The USSF created the current Open Division Local qualifying tournament in 2016 and the two teams were scheduled to play before the federation decided to cancel the final round and enter all of the remaining clubs into the tournament. The two teams met in the final round in each of the last two years with NTX Rayados winning both games in Balch Springs, Texas, 2-0, in 2017, and by the score of 2-1 last year.

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3
Motagua of New Orleans 1:1 NTX Rayados
NTX advances, 10-9 in penalty kicks

Penalty Kick Shootout
NOLA: Brandon Chagnard (GOAL)
NTX: Kevin Ellis (SAVED)
NOLA: Steven Morris (GOAL)
NTX: Jose Antonio Hernandez (GOAL)
NOLA: Nestor Peralta (MISS)
NTX: Mychel Jones (GOAL)
NOLA: Scott Burris (GOAL)
NTX: Victor Pinal (GOAL)
NOLA: Samir Arzu (GOAL)
NTX: Cedric Nickerson (GOAL)
NOLA: Hisham Aldbziz
NTX: Chris Escalera (GOAL)
NOLA: Anthony Peters (GOAL)
NTX: Alberto Rodriguez (GOAL)
NOLA: Patrick Lynch (GOAL)
NTX: Tito Salas (GOAL)
NOLA: Fernando Vargas (GOAL)
NTX: Brandon Pfluger (GOAL)
NOLA: Jose Santos Jr. (GK) (GOAL)
NTX: Emmanuel “Bebo” Frias (GK) (GOAL)
NOLA: Brandon Chagnard (SAVED)
NTX: Kevin Ellis (GOAL)

Which NPSL clubs will qualify for the 2019 US Open Cup?

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Miami FC 2's newest signing, Dario Suarez, celebrates after coming off the bench and scoring in his debut against FC Miami City in the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: @LemonCityLive
Miami FC 2’s newest signing, Dario Suarez, celebrates after coming off the bench and scoring in his debut against FC Miami City in the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: @LemonCityLive

UPDATE: The USSF released the format for the 2019 US Open Cup and Chattanooga FC decided to withdraw from the tournament, which pushed Midland-Odesssa Sockers FC up to 12th place, and earned them a spot in the 106th edition of the tournament.

The National Premier Soccer League’s (NPSL) 2018 season was filled with first-year clubs reaching for the brass ring, historic clubs looking to show they’re still a powerful force, former professional clubs looking for a league of their own, and much more. With everything settled down, we now have a better idea which teams have the best chance to qualify for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

How this list is made is determined by using the 2019 US Open Cup Handbook, which can be downloaded here.

When the NPSL was founded in 2003, teams were required to qualify through the United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA). It wasn’t until 2011 when the league was awarded national league status and received their own spots in the competition. What started with only four berths in 2011 has gradually grown to a Modern Era (1995-present) high of 22 teams last year.

With the changing soccer structure, including the creation of new Division III league (USL League One) and new teams being added to both professional leagues (MLS & USL Championship), it’s currently unknown how many berths will be allocated to the NPSL teams. This information is expected to be announced by the US Soccer Federation some time this month.

This sort of change isn’t anything new to the tournament. Back in 2011, the inaugural seasons of the North American Soccer League (NASL) (then Division II) and USL Pro (then Division III) added some interest to United States Soccer Federation sanctioning process. The federation’s decision to not sanction the NASL in January 2011, due to concerns regarding the league’s financial stability, meant teams from it were not able to compete in the 2011 US Open Cup despite provisional sanctioning later being given in February. USL League One has already been given sanctioning as a Division III league as of Dec. 14, 2018.

Recent announcements might lead some to conclude that the number of NPSL teams that will qualify for the 106th edition of the US Open Cup will be reduced. The US Soccer Federation announced on social media that a fourth round of qualifying would be needed for the Open Division Local Qualifying tournament, which is expected to trim the number of teams to eight clubs (2018 USASA Amateur Cup champion Bavarian SC and the seven fourth round winners), which is down from 13 teams in 2018. With the increase in the number of teams entering from the professional leagues (MLS, USL Championship, USL League One), it seems as though the number of amateur teams may be getting cut to make room.

NPSL’s CLASSIFICATION RULES

Heading into the 2019 US Open Cup, the NPSL has 98 teams that are eligible for the competition divided into four regions: Northeast (26), South (30), Midwest (22), and West (20). Tournament bids are staggered in a way to reward regions with more teams – for example, the South Region would get a sixth team into the tournament before any of the other three regions get a fifth.

The first eight possible berths are awarded to teams that advanced deep into the 2018 NPSL playoffs. Slots one and two are reserved for the champion and runner-up, respectively. Slots three and four are given to the teams that reached the semifinals and teams four through eight are held by the remaining quarterfinalists.

NPSL ranks largely by points per game, but prioritizes at least one Open Cup bid for every division. It’s important to consider where a team plays (conference and division) when you read the teams listed and take extraneous factors into consideration such as teams folding, declaring themselves ineligible, changing leagues, or more.

It’s near certain that teams listed in the top eight are all but guaranteed a spot in the 2019 US Open Cup. After that, teams are ranked based on criteria that the NPSL has come up with in accordance with the Open Cup Committee. This information can be found inside the 2019 edition of the handbook (pg. 14).

As soon as we know how many tournament spots the NPSL is being awarded, we will know who is in and who is not. Until then, here is the order that the teams would qualify:

1. Miami FC 2 (NPSL Champion, South Region – Sunshine Conference)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 3 (2016-18 … including Miami FC NASL history)
Best Open Cup Finish: 2018 Second Round (3-1 loss vs Miami United FC of NPSL)

Miami FC 2 was born out of necessity after the cancellation of the 2018 North American Soccer League season left the first team with no professional league while legal proceedings played out. While the lawyers deliberated Miami FC 2, with a roster full of professional players, ran through the Sunshine Conference with an 8-1-3 regular season record, a +25 goal differential, and both the regular season and conference championships. The team continued to dominate in the national bracket of the playoffs as well, outscoring their opponents 10-2 over the course of four games. The final saw the franchise win its first national championship over FC Motown, 3-1, in Madison, New Jersey.

As the league champion, they are definitely going to get in. The only question is whether or not they will compete under the name “Miami FC” or “Miami FC 2”.

2. FC Motown (NPSL Finalist, Northeast Region – Keystone Conference)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 3 (2016-18 as Clarkstown Eagles)
Best Open Cup Finish: 2018 Round 2 (3-1 loss vs Penn FC of USL)

Dilly Duka of FC Motown dribbles against the New York Red Bulls U-23s in the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: Bob Larson | TheCup.us
Dilly Duka of FC Motown dribbles against the New York Red Bulls U-23s in the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: Bob Larson | TheCup.us

Following a re-brand after the 2017 season, with FC Motown merging with the Clarkstown Eagles, the club will be looking to bring its regular season success onto the national stage in 2019. FC Motown nearly went undefeated during the regular season by going 9-1-0 in the Keystone Conference, clinching the regular season title in the process. The team, led by former MLS player Dilly Duka, followed this up by blowing past fellow New Jersey side FC Monmouth, 4-1, before avenging its sole loss in the conference championship in a close contest with West Chester United that they won 4-3 in a penalty kick shootout (after a 1-1 draw)

Following a blowout of FC Baltimore in the Regional Quarterfinals, the team upset a strong New York Cosmos B side, 3-2, on a rainy night in Manhattan. In the national semifinals, a late David Nigro goal in the 121st minute against FC Mulhouse Portland gave Motown the win, 2-1. Following a loss to Miami at home in the NPSL final, Motown will be looking to expand the culture of success it’s created in its fourth consecutive berth since the team’s founding in 2012.

3. Duluth FC (NPSL Semifinalist, Midwest Region – North Conference)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 1 (2018)
Best Open Cup Finish: 2018 Round 2 (2-0 loss vs Saint Louis FC of USL)

Duluth FC has already surpassed the success of its inaugural NPSL season in 2017, and hopes to do the same in what is likely the club’s second trip to the US Open Cup. In an already burgeoning amateur scene in Minnesota, Duluth was not even the best team in North Conference as it came behind Minneapolis City SC in the final standings. However, the team’s record of 8-2-4 was enough to earn it a place in the Midwest Region quarterfinals. From there, the team’s string of three close wins, two of which were decided by penalty shootout, landed the BlueGreens in the national semifinals.

Duluth FC celebrates their PK victory over Dakota Fusion FC in the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: Seth Steffenhagen | Steffenhagen Photography
Duluth FC celebrates their PK victory over Dakota Fusion FC in the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: Seth Steffenhagen | Steffenhagen Photography

Despite falling to eventual champions Miami FC 2, 3-0, Duluth’s first Midwest Region title and overall record should be enough to see it into the competition for the second year in a row.

4. FC Mulhouse Portland (NPSL Semifinalist, West Region – Northwest Conference)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: None

FC Mulhouse Portland emerged out of the five team Northwest Conference as a runner-up in the regular season, but pushed forward all the way to the NPSL National Semifinals behind a solid offensive unit.

The team, formerly known as Portland Spartans FC, has already outdone any of its previous accomplishments since its founding in 2014. Despite losing in the semifinals to FC Motown on an extra time goal, the team’s impressive victory over Orange County FC, 6-4, in the quarterfinals helped establish it as a viable threat. With a West Region championship, a final four appearance, and an ever growing partnership with FC Mulhouse France, the Portland side will be looking to make an impact come 2019.

5. Little Rock Rangers ((NPSL Quarterfinalist, South Region – Heartland Conference)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: None

Little Rock is likely on their way to the US Open Cup for the first time after the club’s best season in their three-year history in the NPSL. After a brief playoff appearance in 2017, the Rangers’ 7-3-0 regular season record earned it the second seed in the Heartland Conference playoffs – which they won from top-seeded FC Wichita 5-3 in a penalty shootout after a scoreless draw. An impressive win over the Laredo Heat led the team to its first regional final, where they would fall to eventual champion Miami FC 2, 3-0.

At the number five spot, the Rangers are almost assured a spot in next year’s tournament, which would make them the first Arkansas-based club to ever qualify in the US Open Cup’s 105-year history.

6. New York Cosmos B (NPSL Quarterfinalist, Northeast Region – North Atlantic Conference)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 5 (2014-2018 … including New York Cosmos NASL history)
Best Open Cup Finish: 2018 Fifth Round (2014, 2015, 2016)

Danny Szetela of the New York Cosmos celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal against NYCFC in the 2016 US Open Cup. Photo: Steve Hamlin | TICC
Danny Szetela of the New York Cosmos celebrates with his teammates after scoring a goal against NYCFC in the 2016 US Open Cup. Szetela is the team captain of Cosmos B for the 2018 season. Photo: Steve Hamlin | TICC

While in a somewhat similar situation to Miami FC 2, New York Cosmos B’s perfect regular season, 10-0-0, and North Atlantic Conference title is worthy of an Open Cup berth.

The New York Cosmos has had a reserve team in the NPSL since 2015, and even won the league title in their debut season. The “B” team has always been excluded from the US Open Cup due to the rule that a professional team owned by a higher-level professional team cannot take part in the tournament. However, when the NASL was on hiatus, the Cosmos senior team didn’t have a league to play in, and were excluded from the 2018 US Open Cup. With that being the case, the US Soccer Federation made a special exception and allowed the Cosmos, Miami FC and the Jacksonville Armada FC to enter their NPSL sides into the competition.

The “B” team’s short run in the 2018 Open Cup was a vast contrast from its regular season performance. The team outscored its opponents 40-8 over ten games and reached the Northeast Region finals.

7. AFC Ann Arbor (NPSL Quarterfinalist, Midwest Region – Great Lakes Conference)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 2 (2017, 2018)
Best Open Cup Finish: 2017 First Round (2017, 2018)

For the second year in a row, AFC Ann Arbor finished as the regular season Great Lakes Conference champions and reached the final for the NPSL Midwest Region.

The team’s regular season ended with a record of 9-1-2, including a rout of FC Indiana, 9-0, at home. This performance earned the team the second seed in the Midwest Region playoffs, where it defeated NPSL newcomer Cleveland SC, 1-0, in the regional semifinals. After playing to a 3-3 draw in the Regional Finals against Duluth FC at home, missed penalty kicks from defender Matthieu Braem and midfielder Michael Shaikly allowed the visitors to advance, 4-3 in the tiebreaker.

8. Orange County FC (NPSL Quarterfinalist, West Region – Southwest Conference)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 1 (2018)
Best Open Cup Finish: 2018 Second Round (2-0 loss at Fresno FC of USL)

Much like its inaugural NPSL season, Orange County FC, led by their head coach and Hall of Famer Paul Caligiuri reached the West Region final as a lower seed and they upset a higher-seeded team.

The team’s regular season record, 7-1-4, earned it third place in the Southwest Conference and a spot in the conference’s play-in-game to the playoffs. After defeating FC Arizona in the playoffs for the second year in a row, 3-0, the team dispatched both teams that finished higher than them in the conference. The top-seeded ASC San Diego, who had fallen to OCFC in both their regular season meetings, lost again in the regional quarterfinals, 3-1, before the No. 2 seeded FC Golden State was beaten by a second half scoring surge, 4-2. OCFC’s playoff run came to an end in the Regional Final against FC Mulhouse Portland, 6-4, in the highest scoring game of the national playoffs.

9. Laredo Heat (South Region – Lone Star Conference, 3.0 points per game)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 5 (2006, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 … as as member of USL League Two, formerly PDL)
Best Open Cup finish: 2014 Fourth Round (1-0 loss at Houston Dynamo of MLS)
Notable Win: 3-2 win at Fort Lauderdale Strikers (NASL) in 2014 Third Round

Houston Dynamo's Will Bruin and Laredo Heat's Adan Villavicencio battle for the ball in their Fourth Round US Open Cup match in 2014. Photo: Wilf Thorne/Houston Dynamo
Houston Dynamo’s Will Bruin and Laredo Heat’s Adan Villavicencio battle for the ball in their Fourth Round US Open Cup match in 2014. Photo: Wilf Thorne/Houston Dynamo

After leaving USL League Two (formerly the PDL) and taking a two-year hiatus from play, the Laredo Heat returned as a member of the NPSL in 2018. The team didn’t take long to adjust, winning the Lone Star Conference regular season title with a perfect 10-0-0 record, before falling in the South Regional semifinals, 2-1, to the Little Rock Rangers.

In the conference semifinals, a goal from Fort Worth Vaqueros FC in the second half was quickly matched in the 61st minute by the Heat’s Gabriel Rodriguez, who would later add the game-winner in the 80th minute en route to advancing, 3-1. The Houston Dutch Lions proved to be a formidable foe for Laredo in the conference finals, taking a 2-0 lead against the host into the second half. A late game rally with goals from Ziyad Fares and Petteri Pietola forced extra time, where the Heat would take on two more and hold off a Lions comeback for the win, 4-3.

10. FC Baltimore Christos (Northeast Region – Mid-Atlantic Conference, 2.20 points per game)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: None

Another first year participant for the NPSL that’s hoping to receive their first trip to the US Open Cup.

Baltimore’s inaugural season saw them finish atop the Mid-Atlantic Conference regular season table with a record of 7-2-1, which included the highest-scoring game in the NPSL season against Legacy 76, 13-0, at home on June 29. The team’s playoff success didn’t follow in the same fashion, however, as they fell to the conference’s No. 3 seed FC Frederick, 2-1, in the conference final. The Charm City club find themselves in the No. 10 spot thanks to the New York Cosmos B and FC Motown winning their respective conferences, meaning FC Baltimore is left as the highest non-champion team (based on points per game) remaining and was granted a wildcard spot in the Northeast Region semifinals.

Despite falling to eventual NPSL Finalist FC Motown, 3-0, in the playoffs, Baltimore’s offseason has seen the team form a partnership with US Open Cup favorite and fellow Baltimore side Christos FC which may spell bright things in the team’s future.

11. Erie Commodores FC (Midwest Region – East Conference, 2.25 points per game)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 1* (2018)
* Qualified for the 2013 US Open Cup but declined the invitation due to travel/financial reasons
Best Open Cup finish: 2018 Second Round (2-1 loss vs Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC of USL)

The Commodores have a chance to participate in back-to-back Open Cups after a successful season in the Midwest Region’s East Conference. The team won its second East Conference regular season championship in as many years with a near-unbeaten record of 8-1-3. The only game the team lost was on the road against Cleveland SC, 3-2. Even though Erie would get the win back at home later on in the season, the rubber match between the two clubs went to the Admirals as they advanced passed the Commodores, 4-0, in the Midwest Region quarterfinals.

12. Chattanooga FC (South Region – Southeast Conference, 2.00 points per game)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 6 (2011, 2013-2017)
Best Open Cup finish: 2015 Third Round (2-1 extra time loss vs Atlanta Silverbacks of NASL)

2019 will be Chattanooga FC’s eleventh season in the NPSL and may also include the team’s seventh birth in the U.S. Open Cup. This won’t only depend on how many births the league receives.

Chattanooga is benefiting from the rule that every conference in the NPSL must be represented in the tournament. Prior to applying that rule, Chattanooga was in the 22nd spot and squarely on the “bubble”. However, once that rule is applied, then they move up to the fourth position within the south region and puts them at the No. 12 spot.

After putting up a great season in the Southeast Conference including winning the regular season title, the Tennessee side fell in the conference final the Atlanta Silverbacks FC, 6-5 in penalty kicks after playing to a scoreless draw. Despite this, Chattanooga is more likely to receive a birth than Atlanta thanks to their offensive success during the year where the team has a +14 goal differential and scored 30 times over the course of 14 games.

13. El Farolito (West Region, Golden Gate Conference, 2.29 points per game)
Number of (Modern Era) US Open Cup appearances: 1
Best Open Cup finish: 1993 US Open Cup champions (as CD Mexico)

After qualifying for the tournament in 2018 through the Open Division local qualifying, El Farolito’s jump from the San Francisco Soccer Football League to the NPSL disqualified it from taking part due to a rule stating no team can switch leagues mid-tournament. One year later, the 1993 Open Cup champions are back in the competition in its inaugural NPSL season as one of the best teams from the West Region.

El Farolito, then known as CD Mexico, won the 1993 US Open Cup championship.

The team’s undefeated regular season record, 9-0-5, clinched the Golden Gate Conference regular season title and it, along with its +20 goal differential, is why they are in position to be the only team from its conference to earn a 2019 berth.

The team’s playoff run got off to a impressive start when it defeated Sonoma County Sol, 2-0, in the West Region quarterfinals. El Farolito took the lead in the first half with a 37th minute goal, but the Sol had a chance in the second half when Faro’s Ademar Rodriguez was sent off with a red in the 67th minute. A stoppage time goal from Camilo Campo sealed the win however as the team advanced to the regional semifinals where it would lose to FC Mulhouse Portland, 2-0.

14: Philadelphia Lone Star F.C. (Northeast Region – Keystone Conference, 2.40 points per game)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 1 (2017)
Best Open Cup Finish: 2017 First Round (3-1 loss at Ocean City Nor’easters of USL League Two)

The newly re-branded Philadelphia Lone Star FC finished 2018 not only with a new name but with a high enough points per game average to put themselves in the No. 14 spot on the qualifying tables for the 2019 US Open Cup.

It wasn’t easy for the team, which played as Junior Lone Star FC during the NPSL season, as it split its first four games in a highly competitive Keystone Conference. Strong showings like the team had against Torch FC, 7-1, or the Electric City Shock, 3-1, helped raise the team’s points per game to 2.4 and secured a second place finish in the league table.

Philadelphia’s playoff run was short lived as it fell to No. 3 seed West Chester United SC, 4-3 in penalty kicks (after a 2-2 draw), in the Keystone Conference semifinal.

15: Midland-Odessa Sockers FC (South Region – Lone Star Conference, 2.20 points per game)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 2 (2015*, 2018)
* As member of USL League Two (formerly PDL)
Best Open Cup Finish: 2015 Second Round (3-1 loss vs Oklahoma City Energy FC of USL)

The Midland-Odessa Sockers postseason ended early during the Lone Star Conference semifinals, but a successful regular season could put the team into the 2019 edition of the US Open Cup. The team scored 30 goals en route to a second place finish in the conference table with a 7-2-1 record.

As the second seed, the Sockers advanced directly to the conference semifinals, where they fell to the Houston Dutch Lions FC, 4-3.

16: Minneapolis City SC (Midwest Region – North Conference, 2.43 points per game)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: None

More than 300 fans were in attendance at the National Sports Center to support Minneapolis City in their 2017 US Open Cup qualifying match against Oakland County FC. Photo: Daniel Mick | http://www.danielmickcreative.com/USOC-Minneapolis-City-v/

Despite a highly successful regular season, Minneapolis City SC’s lack of postseason success and NPSL’s rankings based on regions leaves the team low on this list, and could be even lower depending on how many teams the NPSL gets in the 2019 US Open Cup.

The team’s undefeated season, 10-0-4, the only one in the entire Midwest Region, helped earn it the North Conference regular season championship. A stellar offense was to thank for this on-field success as the Crows were the most proficient scoring team in the entire NPSL with 46 goals scored and averaging 2.4 points per game. Despite being a strong home side with a record of 6–0–1 at Augsburg University, the first seed in the Midwest Region fell in its first playoff match there to the No. 5 seed Duluth FC, 2-1. The Crows were able to come back from an early deficit, but a penalty inside their own box during the 115th minute gave Duluth a penalty kick, which Ricardo Ramos would score on route to advancement.

Minneapolis City are best known for being disqualified from the 2017 Open Division Local qualifying tournament when they violated tournament rules by switching leagues (from the Premier League of America to the NPSL) in the middle of the qualifying process. The club is still seeking its first US Open Cup berth.

17. Brooklyn Italians (Northeast Region – North Atlantic Conference, 2.20 points per game)
Number of (Modern Era) US Open Cup appearances: 7 (2010-2015, 2018)
Best Finish: 1979*, 1991 US Open Cup Champions
* Under the name Brooklyn Dodgers

Rasmus Hansen of the Brooklyn Italians celebrates what would be the game-winning goal against the New York Cosmos B in the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: Bob Larson | TheCup.us
Rasmus Hansen of the Brooklyn Italians celebrates what would be the game-winning goal against the New York Cosmos B in the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: Bob Larson | TheCup.us

A staple in the US Open Cup in recent years, the two-time US Open Cup champion Brooklyn Italians are seeking to qualify for the tournament for the second year in a row and the eighth time in the last 10 years. They put themselves in pretty good position after a 7-2-1 regular season record and an appearance in the North Atlantic Conference final.

In an already stacked conference, the fact that the side’s only loses came against the undefeated New York Cosmos B and No. 3 seed Hartford City FC showed the team could be a viable threat come playoff time. The Italians even avenged its regular season loss against Hartford in the conference semifinals, 3-0, the same score the Colts had run up against Brooklyn earlier in the season, before narrowly falling to Cosmos B in the final in penalty kicks, 5-3 (after a 1-1 draw)

Brooklyn has won the national tournament twice (1979 and 1991) since the team’s inception in 1949 and remain one of the most well-known and successful sides in American amateur soccer.

18: ASC San Diego (West Region – Southwest Conference, 2.33 points per game)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 1 (2017 … as Albion SC Pros)
Best Open Cup Finish: 2017 First Round (3-2 loss vs Chula Vista FC of the USASA)

In a city where soccer has become a hot topic, ASC San Diego is a conference champion with a possible future in the US Open Cup. The team enjoyed a productive season sitting atop the final Southwest Conference standings table with a record of 9-2-1. The only loss came from Orange County FC, who finished the season sweep by knocking off the Southwest Region’s top seed in the regional quarterfinals, 3-1.

San Diego is also the final member of this list to be included in the upcoming NPSL Founder’s Cup.

19: FC Wichita (South Region – Heartland Conference, 2.20 points per game)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: 3 (2016-2018)
Best Finish: 2018 Third Round (3-2 loss at NTX Rayados)
Notable Win: 4-3 at Tulsa Roughnecks FC (USL) in 2018 Second Round

FC Wichita celebrate the club's 4-3 upset of the Oklahoma City Energy in the Second Round of the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: FC Wichita
FC Wichita celebrate the club’s 4-3 upset of the Oklahoma City Energy in the Second Round of the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: FC Wichita

FC Wichita could be Open Cup bound for the fourth time in as many years after narrowly winning the Heartland Conference regular season title with a record of 7-2-1. However, with the Open Division Local team entries being reduced from 13 to eight, this could be considered “the bubble” portion of the list, assuming the NPSL and USL League Two will also see reductions in the number of entries.

Last year saw the team make NPSL history by defeating the Tulsa Roughnecks of the USL to advance to the Third Round. This marked the second time since 2003 that an amateur team from the NPSL eliminated a pro team in the tournament.

This year, the team started with a seven-game winning streak that set it up as the top team in the conference. However, losses to Saint Louis Club Atletico and Little Rock Rangers put the team’s top seed hopes in jeopardy. A 1-1 draw against Demize NPSL (who finished near the bottom of the table) on the last day won the conference by a single point for the team’s second consecutive regular season championship. A revenge rout of Saint Louis, 4-0, in the semifinals of the conference playoffs gave the team another rematch against Little Rock who once again came away with the narrow win, 5-3 in penalty kicks (after a 0-0 draw).

Despite having the same points per game (2.2) and record as fellow South Region competitor Midland-Odessa Sockers FC, Wichita ranks lower due losing the tiebreaker on average goal difference per game, 2.2 to 1.3.

20. Cleveland SC (Midwest Region – East Conference, 2.00 points per game)
Number of US Open Cup appearances: None

Cleveland SC is another first year club for this list whose inaugural season may have been good enough to see it into the competition.

From the ashes of former NPSL club AFC Cleveland (which qualified for the US Open Cup in 2016 and 2017), Cleveland FC finished second in the East with a record of 7-2-3 to take the conference’s final spot in the Midwest Region playoffs. As the fourth seed, the team kicked off the postseason against the third seed Erie Commodores FC in the regional quarterfinals. In what some may consider an upset, Cleveland took the lead against the hosts early with a goal from Vincent Bell in the 7th minute and never looked back. Bell would score two more on route to a hat trick and two Commodore players would be sent off after earning double yellow cards as the newcomers advanced, 4-0.

The team’s playoff run ended in the semifinals against AFC Ann Arbor, 1-0, but the team’s cup chances are helped due to a high-producing offense – including a regular season sweep against Greater Binghamton FC Thunder where the team outscored its opponent 21-0, the highest total for any home/away regular season series this year.

More possibilities

21. West Chester United SC (Northeast Region – Keystone Conference, 2.10 points per game)
22. Houston Dutch Lions (South Region – Long Star Conference, 2.10 points per game)
23. FC Golden State (West Region – Southwest Conference, 2.20 points per game)
24. Grand Rapids FC (Midwest Region – Great Lakes Conference, 1.90 points per game)

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying: Academica SC edges Oakland Stompers in wildfire-postponed match

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Ramiro Ceja of Academic SC scored the lone goal in the club's 1-0 win over Oakland Stompers in the Third Round of the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Brittney Virgo
Ramiro Ceja of Academica SC scored the lone goal in the club’s 1-0 win over Oakland Stompers in the Third Round of the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Brittney Virgo

It was a physical battle to kick off the New Year in a Open Division qualifying match for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup as Academica SC moved past a ten-man Oakland Stompers side, 1-0. This game was originally scheduled to take place on Nov. 17, 2018, but safety issues surrounding the wildfires in northern California postponed the match.

With this win, Academica advances to the recently announced fourth and final round of qualification, which will take place the weekend of April 6-7. The draw for the Fourth Round will be announced following the conclusion of the two remaining postponed Third Round matches in mid-January.

Based on geographical locations, the most likely scenario is for Academica to face IPS/Marathon Taverna from Portland, Ore. in the next round. Academica and IPS are both attempting to qualify for the US Open Cup for the first time in their respective club’s history.

From the whistle, both sides struggled to get a decisive grip against one another and weren’t helped by the pouring rain which picked up around the 20th minute of play. Tempers and emotions ran high throughout the game, but it reached a breaking point right as the halftime whistle blew.

Academica forward Cody Golbad and Stomper defender Gilbert Coulibaly exchanged words before the latter gave a hard push into Golbad’s face. While it isn’t known what was said between them, the interaction earned Golbad a yellow card and Coulibaly a red – meaning his team would need to play the entire second half down a man. This was not pleasant news to the defender who continued to verbally harass the referee in protest, causing his teammates to intervene and help lead him off the pitch.

“That red card changed the momentum of the game,” Academica forward Ramiro Ceja said after the game. “It was a hard, physical game and kind of changed the reality of the game. kind of lost their heads with it and we took advantage to prepare ourselves and take over with the mistakes they did.”

Academic SC poses for a team photo after their 1-0 win over the Oakland Stompers in the Third Round of the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Brittney Virgo
Academica SC poses for a team photo after their 1-0 win over the Oakland Stompers in the Third Round of the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Brittney Virgo

He continued on to say that players on both sides were going down with hard tackles as the referee tried his best to keep order, which included doling out multiple yellow cards and warnings to both sides. But at a certain point, Oakland’s aggression on the field shifted the team’s focus to something that could be taken advantage of.

Despite being up an extra man for an entire half, Academica could not get an advantage early in the second half. Both teams got chances back and forth, with opportunities on both sides of the field to keep their team in it. But those tempers and the physicality persisted throughout.

The visiting team finally broke through against its Oakland hosts when Ceja knocked in the winning goal, unassisted, in the 80th minute. In the remaining 10 minutes plus stoppage time, the Stompers chances never felt threatening. Multiple offensive opportunities were blocked or cut off as Academica held on for the win.

Academica, which has local roots dating back all the way to the 1970s as a church youth group in Turlock, Calif., are now one step closer to qualifying for the US Open Cup. While they await to see who their next challenger is, Ceja knows preparation will always be the same.

“It’s everyday preparation,” Ceja said. “Making myself prepared making my sure my teammates, as family, get together. Making sure the team understands each player how we play. Making sure we understand why we do what we do to make the team more successful.”

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3: FC Denver last USSSA club standing after win vs. Gam United

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FC Denver celebrates after the club's 4-1 win over Gam United FC in their 2019 US Open Cup qualifier. Photo: FC Denver Twitter
FC Denver celebrates after the club’s 4-1 win over Gam United FC in their 2019 US Open Cup qualifier. Photo: FC Denver Twitter

FC Denver advanced in the Open Division Local qualifying tournament for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup after eliminating local rival GAM United on a freezing Sunday night on the Metropolitan State University soccer stadium in downtown Denver. It has not yet been announced if this is the last qualification match necessary before the tournament proper begins in 2019 however, Denver has now eliminated Indios FC, Harpos FC and GAM United and are the last Colorado-based amateur club, and the last United States Sports Specialty Association (USSSA) team remaining in the tournament.

Cesar Castillo and Alex Bernhardt led the way with a goal and an assist each as FC Denver moves on step closer toward qualifying for the second year in a row, and the second time in club history.

From the first whistle, FC Denver was on the front foot holding possession, finding their way around the GAM fullbacks and testing GAM goalkeeper Prince Goma. Denver’s early efforts paid off in the ninth minute when winger Cesar Castillo delivered a perfect cross to Alex Bernhardt who headed in the opening goal.

Ten minutes later, Lashaw Salta delivered a left footed cross to Fernando Magallanes who trapped the ball with his chest and scored a half volley goal directly in front of the net.

In the 27th minute, midfield maestro Castillo curved a free kick around the GAM wall and into the bottom right corner of the goal to give Denver a 3-0 lead before the half-hour mark of the match. Just when it looked like FC Denver would cruise into halftime, GAM United’s Michael Sarpong scored off a quick counter attack to keep the visiting team within striking distance.

Through the second half, FC Denver continued to possess the ball and pin back the GAM backline. The front three of Magallanes, Castillo and Bernhardt would often shift positions popping up in dangerous positions for right back Kyle Crouse or midfielder Miguel Escobar to find with a line breaking pass. Head coach Drew Melin credited the “very fluid front three, that kept the defense guessing” to the consistent pressure generated.

In the 71st minute, FC Denver nearly scored again with a number of shots rattling the crossbar and eventually drawing a penalty. Goalkeeper Prince Goma made two quick saves in a matter of seconds saving Castillo’s penalty shot and then quickly jumping back up to save the second attempt.

Moments later FC Denver scored the final goal when Castillo served a long free kick to the near post where Alex Bernhardt flicked the ball to the back post where an unmarked Jon Lister was able to settle and score to put the game away.

After the match, Melin added that the effort from each FC Denver player was fantastic and they are looking forward to whomever they are paired with next in the Open Cup.

“We set a goal as soon as we lost to the Switchbacks last year that we want to get back to that point (US Open Cup Second Round) and build on that each year”

Melin credited Alex Bernhardt as the man of the match as he led his team one step closer to qualify for the US Open Cup for the second year in a row.

“He was everywhere,” said Melin. “Up on offense and defensively, he got a goal and an assist, he played his best game for the club”

Jim Coppock also contributed to this report

FC Denver Starters

U#        First                 Last

14           Alex                       Bernhardt

3              Cesar                     Castillo

17           Tyler                      Chauncey

8              Kyle                        Crouse

6              Marco                   Escobar

5              Peter                     Jacobson

11           Fernando             Magallenes

12           Joel                        Miller

1              Michael                Moberg

4              Nabil                      Odulate

7              Lashaw                 Salta

Bench

19           Ryan                      Bernhardt (dnp)

13           Paul                       Hogan

9              Troy                       Hudson (dnp)

2              John                      Lister

18           Drew                     Melin (dnp)

20           Jacob                     Peterson (dnp)

16           Christian              Weaver

Gam United Starters

U#        First                 Last

10           Ajok Gai               Abiar

9              Nana                     Boakye

17           Inza                        Cisse

4              Karrar                    Fouad

1              Prince                   Goma

3              Emmanuel          Gymafi

12           Saad                      Hissein

22           Ibraheem            Latona

47           Michael                Sarpong

2              Karim                    Soumah

24           Carson                  Swope

Bench

20           Francis                  Afropong (dnp)

24           Sajjad                    Alfatlawi (dnp)

7              Alex                       Amador

19           Solomon              Appiah

27?         Francis                  Appio (dnp)

11           Brice                      Goma

18           Kodzovi                Woglo (dnp)

Scoring Summary

9              FCD        14-Alex Bernhardt                            Assist: 3-Cesar Castillo

22           FCD        11-Fernando Magallenes              Assist: 7-Lashaw Salta

27           FCD          3-Cesar Castillo                               free kick

39           GAM     47-Michael Sarpong                        Assist:

78           FCD          2-John Lister                                    Assist: 14-Alex Bernhardt

Substitutions

FCD        57’          Out:   5-Peter Jacobson                 In: 16-Christian Weaver

70’          Out: 11-Fernando Magallenes    In:   2-John Lister

80’          Out:   7-Lashaw Salta                      In: 13-Paul Hogan

GAM     61’          Out:   9-Nana Boakye                     In: 11-Brice Goma

74’          Out: 10-Ajok Gai Abiar                   In: 16-Abdou Mbaye

79’          Out:   4-Karrar Fouad                      In:   6-Alex Amador

Disciplinary

GAM 60’               Yellow  9-Nana Boakye

GAM 72’               Yellow  4-Karra Fouad

GAM 90+             Yellow  1-Prince Goma

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3 game-by-game review

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The field at Northfield High School in Denver was icy and not able to host the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match between Gam United and FC Denver. Photo: Peter Andrews
The field at Northfield High School in Denver was icy and not able to host the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match between Gam United and FC Denver. Photo: Peter Andrews

UPDATED (12/2/18): FC Denver defeated Gam United FC 4-1 in their match that was postponed.

UPDATED (1/6/19): Academica SC edged the Oakland Stompers 1-0 in their postponed qualifier

UPDATED (1/13/19): NTX Rayados win dramtic PK shootout with rival Motagua of New Orleans

When the schedule was set for the Third Round of the Open Division Local Qualifying tournament for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup, there were 14 games on tap for the weekend of Nov. 17-18. However, due to a variety of issues, only 10 of them were completed.

Of those 10 winners that advanced to Round 4, only two of them (West Chester United, Santa Ana Winds) were teams that have qualified for the US Open Cup in the past. With that, the Fourth Round, if it takes place, will feature a lot of new faces.

California United FC 2 and Cal FC were tied at 2-2 and approaching the 90th minute when the lights went out at Rolland Stadium in Thousand Oaks, Calif. A city curfew ordinance forced the game to be suspended and will be finished at a later date.

The remaining three postponed games didn’t even get started. Gam United and FC Denver were faced with a playing field that was frozen, NTX Rayados and Motagua of New Orleans postponed their match to give North Texas more time to arrange travel to New Orleans. Finally, Academica SC and the Oakland Stompers were unable to play because of poor air quality in Oakland, Calif. due to the wildfires in Northern California.

A few notable teams were eliminated in the Third Round: Three-time US Open Cup champion New York Pancyprian Freedoms, 2017 US Open Cup darlings Christos FC (Md.), and GPS Omens (Mass.) were denied a shot at a fifth Open Cup berth in the last seven years.

It is unclear, as of now, whether a Fourth Round, which is tentatively scheduled for March of 2019, will take place. Every professional team in the United States is automatically entered into the US Open Cup, and with the addition of an entirely new professional league with USL League One (Div. 3), and a number of expansion teams in the USL Championship (Div. 2), the format of next year’s tournament has yet to be finalized. Without a finalized format, it’s unclear how many Open Division teams (National Premier Soccer League, USL League Two — formerly Premier Development League — , and all of the Open Division Local teams) will be granted entry into the competition.

The deadline for professional teams to register for the 2019 US Open Cup is Dec. 31. The United States Soccer Federation is expected to make an announcement about the format after the New Year.

#USOC2019 NEWS
2019 US Open Cup qualifying schedule/results
2019 US Open Cup Round 1 game-by-game review
2019 US Open Cup Round 2 game-by-game review

NORTHEAST REGION

Safira FC (USASA – UPSL – Sommerville, MA)
2:2 (7:6 PK)
GPS Omens (USASA – Bay State Soccer League, Boston, MA)

A pair of Massachusetts powers went head-to-head in a match that had to be decided by penalty kicks. UPSL side Safira FC scored a dramatic equalizer through Matthew Vidal in second half stoppage time to send the game into extra time. After a scoreless 30 minutes, Safira would prevail in the PK shootout, 7-6. Safira moves one step closer to qualifying for the US Open Cup for the first time, while GPS Omens are denied a shot of qualifying for the fifth time in the last seven years. Harris Smriko assisted on both of Stefan Defregger’s goals for GPS, while Luiz Bellettini equalized for Safira in the first half. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

West Chester United Predators (USASA – United Soccer League of Pennsylvania – West Chester, PA)
3:0
New York Pancyprian Freedoms (USASA – Cosmopolitan Soccer League – Jamaica, NY)

West Chester United pose for a team photo before their 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against New York Pancyprian Freedoms. Photo: West Chester United
West Chester United pose for a team photo before their 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against New York Pancyprian Freedoms. Photo: West Chester United

On a cold night in Jamaica, New York, the West Chester United Predators eliminated the three-time US Open Cup champion New York Pancyprian Freedoms, 3-0. The Predators are seeking to return to the US Open Cup for the first time since they made their tournament debut in 2016. Similar to its victory in the previous round against the four-time tournament champion Ukrainian Nationals, West Chester downed the Freedoms by keeping ball possession constantly and not letting up pressure early on. By the time the Predators’ Will Greer punched in the opening goal in the 38th minute, his team had already put on good chances and taken advantage of clumsy fouls. Following Chad Poarch’s shot from the top of the box deflected into the net just before half, the New York side never truly got back into the match. The second half saw another goal for the visitors while the Freedom’s chances were smothered before they could develop. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

MID-ATLANTIC REGION
World Class Premier Elite FC (USASA – Maryland Major Soccer League – Boyds, MD)
3:1
Rochester Lancers 2 (USASA – Rochester District Soccer League – Spencerport, NY)

World Class Premier traveled from Maryland to Rochester, NY and came away with a 3-1 road win to advance to Round 4 of the qualifying tournament. Elton Joe and Daniel Anikrah gave the well-traveled visitors a 2-0 halftime lead, but the Lancers (formerly the Rochester River Dogz) made it a one-goal game in the 80th minute with a goal from Anthony Rozzano. World Class would put the game away with a late goal as the Maryland Majors club moved closer to its first trip to the US Open Cup. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Christos FC (USASA – Maryland Major Soccer League – Elkridge, MD)
1:2
Virginia United (ANFUSA – Woodbridge Soccer League – Woodbridge, VA)

It was a battle between Christos FC, a team that made a name for itself with a dramatic run in the 2017 US Open Cup, and first-time entry Virginia United. Now, United has a chance to make their own name in the competition. United, the last remaining club from the Asociacion Nacional Fútbol en USA, upset Christos 2-1 to deny the Maryland-based club a shot at qualifying for a third year in a row. Mauricio Martinez scored both goals for Virginia. 

SOUTHEAST REGION

Soda City FC Sorinex (USASA – Central League – Lexington, SC)
1:2
ASC America SC (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – Jacksonville, FL)

The scene after America SC's 2-1 win over Soda City FC Sorinex in the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Joshua Taylor
The scene after America SC’s 2-1 win over Soda City FC Sorinex in the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Joshua Taylor

After falling behind early at home, ASC America SC scored two unanswered goals to advance past the visiting Soda City FC Sorinex, 2-1. Soda City, the lone team from South Carolina in the tournament, got on the board early when captain Driss Bareket scored off a corner kick in the 12th minute. ASC America would equalize in the 25th minute on a Pedro Toblas penalty kick, and William Eing’s goal just before halftime would prove to be the game-winner. ASC America advanced to Round 4 as they are seeking their first-ever US Open Cup berth. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Florida Soccer Soldiers (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – Hialeah, FL)
6:0
Hurricane FC (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – Delray Beach, FL)

The Florida Soccer Soldiers faced off against Hurricane FC in Delray Beach, Fla. and it was a total landslide. Forward for Soccer Soldiers, Valentin Sabella scored two goals, as well as gathering two assists to his name. His partner William Stamatis also bagged two goals, with an assist. Midfielder Jose Morles also added a goal to his tally, combining to a 6-0 win against Hurricane FC. For the whole of the 90 minutes, Soccer Soldiers were in total control. With this win, Hurricane FC is eliminated from US Open Cup contention, with Florida Soccer Soldiers keeping their hopes of qualifying for the first time in club history alive. (Report by Max Johnson)

CENTRAL REGION

FC Maritsa (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – St. Louis, MO)
0:0 (6:5 PK)
Livonia City FC (USASA – Michigan Premier Soccer League – Livonia, MI)

After 120 scoreless minutes, the visiting FC Maritsa (Mo.) capped off a tense night with a penalty kick win, 6-5, over Livonia City FC (Mich.). The St. Louis side, the only entry from the state of Missouri, did not leave the pitch unscaved however. Josh Ward of Maritsa suffered a serious injury in the 17th minute which caused a nearly 30 minute stoppage as paramedics tended to him. (UPDATE: After multiple surgeries, Ward is expected to miss a few months) Following that, both sides had opportunities to go ahead in what was in fact 27 minutes of stoppage time. A crowd of more than 100 fans braved the sub 30 degree temperatures at Schoolcraft College witnessed Livonia’s Matt McCourt sail his attempt in the shootout high over the bar, which allowed FC Maritsa to advance to Round 4. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

NTX Rayados (USASA – North Texas Premier Soccer Association – Dallas, TX)
vs.
Motagua of New Orleans (USASA – Gulf Coast Premier League – New Orleans, LA)

Motagua of New Orleans had their Second Round qualifying match in Round Rock, Texas postponed due to weather, and were not able to play the game until last weekend (Nov. 11). After Motagua defeated the Celtic Cowboys Premier 3-2, they were determined as the home team in Round 3. With less than a week to arrange travel from Dallas to New Orleans, the two teams agreed to postpone the game until Jan. 12. The game was finally played with NTX Rayados winning a dramatic penalty kick shootout at Pan American Stadium in New Orleans. By advancing, Rayados extends their unbeaten streak against Motagua in US Open Cup qualifying play and keeps their hopes alive of extending their Modern Era (1995-present) streak of qualifying for seven consecutive US Open Cup tournaments. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

MOUNTAIN REGION

San Juan FC (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – Draper, UT)
0:3
Southwest FC (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – El Paso, TX)

Southwest FC celebrates in the locker room after the club's 3-0 win over San Juan FC in the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Southwest FC
Southwest FC celebrates in the locker room after the club’s 3-0 win over San Juan FC in the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Southwest FC

El Paso-based Southwest FC scored in the second minute of the match and didn’t look back as they defeated San Juan FC (Utah), 3-0. Cesar Sosa scored the opening goal, followed by David Lopez giving the team a two-goal lead in the 35th minute. In the 63rd minute, substitute Mario Ramirez put the game away as Southwest FC attempts to become the first Open Division Local team from El Paso to qualify for the tournament in the Modern Era (1995-present). Only two clubs from El Paso have qualified in the Modern Era, El Paso Patriots of the Premier Development League (2005, 2007, 2009, 2011-12) and El Paso Indios USA of the National Premier Soccer League (2007). [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Gam United FC (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – Aurora, CO)
1:4
FC Denver (USSSA – Colorado Premier League – Aurora, CO)

When the two teams arrived at Northfield High School in Denver for their qualifying match on Nov. 17, they found the field covered in ice. The match was postponed until Dec. 2 where FC Denver earned a convincing 4-1 win over Gam United FC. Cesar Castillo and Alex Bernhardt led the way with a goal and an assist each as the lone remaining USSSA side moved one step closer to qualifying for the second year in a row (and the second time in team history). [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGION

Buena Park FC (USASA – SoCal Premier League – La Palma, CA)
2:3
Santa Ana Winds FC (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – Lake Forest, CA)

Santa Ana Winds FC have a tendency to complicate games for themselves, and on November 17 in Open Cup qualifying vs Buena Park FC, the same was true. Winds FC came back to win in overtime by a score of 3-2, after going down to 10 men near the end of the first half due to a foolish elbow by Carlos Torres that struck a BPFC player’s face. Overall, three unanswered goals, with two big ones in overtime by Max Rico and Xavier Corona, was the story of the night for Winds FC. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

California United FC II (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – Irvine, CA)
2:2
Cal FC (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – Thousand Oaks, CA)
(Match suspended in 89th minute)

California United FC 2 and Cal FC were tied at 2-2 and approaching the 90th minute when the lights went out at Rolland Stadium in Thousand Oaks, Calif. A city curfew ordinance forced the game to be suspended and will be replayed entirely on Jan. 16 at the StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. Kickoff is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET.

WEST REGION

Academica SC (US Club Soccer – LIGA NorCal – Turlock, CA)
1:0
Oakland Stompers (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – Oakland, CA)

This game was postponed due to air quality issues stemming from the wildfires in Northern California and was played on Jan. 5. After a first half stalemate, Academica forward Cody Golbad and Stomper defender Gilbert Coulibaly exchanged words before the latter gave a hard push into Golbad’s face. While it isn’t known what was said between them, the interaction earned Golbad a yellow card and Coulibaly a red – meaning his team would need to play the entire second half down a man. It took Academica 35 minutes to take advantage of the shorthanded Stompers with Ramiro Ceja scoring the game’s lone goal in the 80th minute. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

JASA RWC (USASA – United Premier Soccer League – Redwood City, CA)
2:3
IPS/Marathon Taverna (USASA – Oregon Premier League – Portland, OR)

With a first half goal by Joaquim Capuia and two goals in three minutes by Eric Hernandez (PK) and Alcides Thomas just after halftime, it looked as if IPS (International Portland Select) Marathon Taverna was going to cruise past JASA RWC. However, shortly after falling behind 3-0 in the 52nd minute, JASA’s James Huffer brought the visitors from Redwood City, Calif. back in the game. He scored goals in the 58th and 67th minutes to cut the lead to one but he had to leave the game late in the second half with an injury, which not only denied JASA their goalscoring hero, but also left them a man down for the last 10 minutes of the game. IPS survived, and advanced to Round 4 as they are trying to become the first Open Division Local team from Oregon to qualify for the Open Cup in the Modern Era (1995-present). [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3: West Chester United oust 3-time champion Freedoms

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West Chester United pose for a team photo before their 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against New York Pancyprian Freedoms. Photo: West Chester United
West Chester United pose for a team photo before their 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against New York Pancyprian Freedoms. Photo: West Chester United

The New York Pancyprian Freedoms hosted the West Chester Predators in Round 3 of the Open Division Local qualifying tournament for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. West Chester were victorious 3-0 after a spirited but mismatched affair that resulted in a fitter, faster and more skilled display.  All three of the Predators’ goals came from attacking runs that went either through or beside an ever tiring Freedoms backline. A late surge of energy by the Freedoms in the second half was not enough to create the scoring opportunities they desperately needed.

It’s been over 30 years since the Pancyprian Freedoms won the club’s third US Open Cup title, but a few pre-MLS bastions such as these continue to keep the tradition alive and continue to compete in the 106-year-old tournament. For clubs like the Freedoms, it’s a chance to revive the days where soccer was as much a game as it was an expression of expatriate pride. In this case, the Cypriot variety.

West Chester, on the other hand, could not be any different. Based at the outer suburb of West Chester, 25 miles west of Philadelphia, they started as a youth organisation that sprouted an amateur senior team in its more recent history. Just like all like programs across the country, it becomes a somewhat intermediate stop in an aspiring football professional’s career. And in 10 short years, the Predators have become one of the top amateur teams in the country and are trying to qualify for the US Open Cup for the second time (2016).

It was a battle between the old and the relatively new, and it was the Predators who came out on top.

“We knew that they were very good on possession, they go East to West,” said West Chester head coach Blaise Santangelo. “We thought if we could get them on some counters with our pace, we thought we had a little more pace than they did, we were a little bit younger and if we could get them on the counter, we actually got three goals off of that. We thought we could really stretch them.”

In the game, West Chester was faster, fitter, more determined.

“We lost to a team that was in better shape, more organised,” said Andreas Chronis of the Freedoms. “They had a great team in the summer and they had a great team today too. We weren’t able to get that one goal that we needed to get us back in the game. We got a little tired, it was a tough loss.”

The Predators’ attacking midfielder Matthew Greer echoed Ronaldo in the way that he would run in, around and through the Freedoms’ backline from beginning to end. He was found in almost every part of the attacking third. Sometimes passing, sometimes receiving, sometimes even fetching balls being contested by other players.

Greer opened the Predators’ account, weaving through two close defenders on the left flank, flicking the ball into the center of the field, 25 yards from goal, and delivering a one touch blow into the back of the net in the 36th minute.

Not to be outdone, Chad Poarch also executed a one-man attack on goal twice. First, netting a goal for himself just before the half time whistle and in the second half finding Andreas Bartosinski to his right to make it a 3-0 game in the 74th minute.

The Freedoms were outpaced and outrun by the time the second half rolled around and could not dominate the center of the field. They found themselves playing long balls down the wings and then into the center, most of which found an opposing center back who would trouble the Freedoms by starting a string of promising attacks directly up the line.

The Predators’ defense was just as determined, staving off multiple 50/50 balls in the closing minutes of the game to preserve the shutout.

With the win, West Chester United advances to the Fourth Round of the qualifying tournament but it is unclear, as of now, whether a Fourth Round, which is tentatively scheduled for March of 2019, will take place. Every professional team in the United States is automatically entered into the US Open Cup, and with the addition of an entirely new professional league with USL League One (Div. 3), and a number of expansion teams in the USL Championship (Div. 2), the format of next year’s tournament has yet to be finalized. Without a finalized format, it’s unclear how many Open Division teams (National Premier Soccer League, USL League Two — formerly Premier Development League — , and all of the Open Division Local teams) will be granted entry into the competition. It’s possible that the WCP will have to play a Fourth Round qualifying match, but they won’t find out until January.

will advance to the final qualifying week and the Freedoms will return to the New York Cosmopolitan League after the Thanksgiving holiday. Undefeated and three points behind the competition leaders with two games in hand their prospects for local success and another opportunity at Open Cup glory should not be too far off.

Scoring Summary
WCU: Matthew Greer – 36th min.
WCU: Chad Poarch – 42nd min.
WCU: Andreas Bartosinski (Chad Poarch) – 74th min.

Booking Summary
NYP: Andreas Chronis – 70th min.
NYP: Benjamin Maurey – 79th min.

Referee: Ernie Constantine
Assistants: Anthony Espino, Sean Lyons
Fourth Official: Joshua Pagan

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3: International Portland Select hold off JASA RWC, 3-2

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Players from International Portland Select celebrate one of their goals in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against JASA RWC. Photo: Ben McFarland
Players from International Portland Select celebrate one of their goals in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against JASA RWC. Photo: Ben McFarland

Used with permission from Protagonist Soccer

For the second time in as many months, a United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) side from California made the trip up to Portland, Oregon for a US Open Cup qualifying match. In October, International Portland Select FC (ISPFC) held off Nevada Coyotes 5-4 and with a little luck of the draw, were picked to host JASA RWC in Round 3. JASA, a winner of their previous qualifier as well, and top of their UPSL Wild West South Division, brought their good form and all black kits to Buckman Field for a 7 p.m. kickoff on Sunday, Nov. 18.

After jumping out to a 3-0 lead, IPS would survive a second half comeback by JASA and advance to Round 4 with a 3-2 win. With the victory, IPS moves one step closer to becoming the first Oregon-based Open Division Local club to qualify for the US Open Cup in the Modern Era (1995-present).

Players from International Portland Select and JASA RWC battle for the ball in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Ben McFarland
Players from International Portland Select and JASA RWC battle for the ball in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Ben McFarland

It had been clear all day, and at the time of kickoff, the crisp fall Portland evening had dipped to just around 47 degrees. IPS playing from west-to-east, came out in their red shirts and white shorts, in what appeared to be a 4-4-2 placing Nathaniel Pogue and Alcides “Paco” Thomas up top. Dangermen, Saydee and Hernandez were on their respective wings for the Portland side. For JASA, goalscorers Ryan Masch and Ugo Uche, who’ve combined for six scores in two previous US Open Cup matches, were joined on the pitch by James Huffer (scorer of the 87th minute sealer in the previous round).

Within minutes, JASA had earned a corner kick, but it was cleared and IPS nearly scored on an effort by Nathaniel Pogue. Early on, IPS was pushing on in the attack and creating multiple chances—Alcides Thomas was playing with some bravado until he collided with JASA’s goal keeper and was given the yellow for his efforts. JASA seemed to shift to a higher line of encounter and began to turn the screw—by the midway point of the first half, the match had become a back-and-forth battle.

IPS had earned themselves several corner kicks and JASA had found ways to clear them, but in the 34th minute, the visitors from Redwood City, Calif. couldn’t clear it far enough and Joaquim Capuia smashed a drive from just outside the 18-yard box which beat the keeper to his right. Down a goal, with just over 10 minutes in the half, JASA pushed on and nearly had a great opportunity in the 43rd minute when Uche finally got free on a great run—however, he was called to be in an offside position and IPS were given possession back. Due to quite a few stoppages, there were nearly five minutes in time added on; IPS nearly took advantage of that added time in the 47th with a flurry of shots on goal, but JASA’s keeper, Victory Meraz and his backline were able to withstand the pressure and go into the half only down by one.

The sides switched directions and the second half action picked up right away; Eric Hernandez went from being a threat down the left-hand side, to being entirely too much to handle for JASA. After a few hard challenges along he sideline in previous spells, Hernandez broke in to the box and slowed down just enough to draw a hard bit of contact and the penalty was given. He was able to take the spot-kick himself and put his side up 2-0 in the 50th minute. JASA seemed to lose the plot and just a minute later, Pogue provided a pass to Paco Thomas, who slotted it home with a low shot to the keeper’s left … IPSFC were cruising 3-0 in only the 52nd minute.

International Portland Select / Marathon Taverna logo

 

IPS continued to push for an increased advantage, and once again there was a collision with the JASA goalie, Meraz, this time he stayed down just a little bit longer. While he eventually got up, JASA made a change and brought on Vazquez-Flores for Angell and what seems like moments later, in the 58th minute, JASA put together a wild play resulting in a laser-header for James Huffer.

Play continued in see-saw fashion until the 67th minute, when Ugo Uche broke free on the left side again, but this time his service was finished and Huffer earned his brace, helping the visitors cut the lead to just one goal with less than a half hour to go. If it was chippy before, it certainly picked up for the last stanza of the game.

JASA captain, Ivan Maric, earned his yellow card; IPS goal scorer, Eric Hernandez received one as well. After a series of substitutions, it seems that either JASA was reluctant to use their last sub or they might have been out of them, but they were reduced to 10 players for a few minutes while Huffer recovered from a cramp on the sideline. IPS nearly struck again, with a free kick from Thomas, which sizzled past the goal frame. Pogue was then issued a yellow after a full-blooded collision with a JASA defender and on the ensuing play, JASA nearly squared it up.

Once the match was called, all of the in-match frustrations disappear and both sides reacted respectfully to see each other off the pitch.

JASA RWC are currently at the top of their table in the UPSL Wild West South and will host the Oakland Stompers on Saturday, Nov. 24 for the division title. IPSFC finished their OPSL season in second place and will play a playoff match on Nov. 27 at Buckman Field. It looks as though IPS will have to wait to see their fate, as not all of the Third Round qualifiers have completed and there is an existing possibility that changes to the qualifying process may have to be implemented to allow for changes to the number of professional teams entering in the first round. The deadline for professional teams to enter the Open Cup is Dec. 31 and until the total number of teams is determined, there is no solid answer on situation surrounding the amateur sides.

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3: World Class Premier wins snowy road match vs. Rochester Lancers 2

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World Class Premier and the Rochester Lancers 2 square off in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifier. Photo: Nasha Queen
World Class Premier and the Rochester Lancers 2 square off in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifier. Photo: Nasha Queen

Daniel Ankrah’s presence on both sides of the ball proved to be the difference maker in a frigid, snowy game Sunday at Roberts Wesleyan College.

Ankrah, who scored in the last minute of both the first and second half, championed a win for World Class Premier Elite FC over the Rochester Lancers 2, 3-1, in the Third Round of the Open Division Local qualifying tournament for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup qualifying.

“He was phenomenal,” World Class Premier head coach Kokou Assigbe said. “We knew we needed him today to step up.”

Elton Joe opened the scoring early for WCP, notching a goal in the first ten minutes. After receiving a through ball over the top of the Lancer defense, he cut across the left side of the 18-yard box and slipped the ball underneath the legs of Rochester goalkeeper William Banaheme. Joe continued his impressive play which included a hat trick and two assists in the club’s 6-0 win over Cville Alliance FC Reserves in the previous round.

It took the rest of the first half before Ankrah found the back of the net, who slotted a shot in against the far post after handling a cross from the top of the 18-yard box.

“He’s one of our key players. He played to the game plan, and an opportunity was provided for him to get the chances that he got and he took them” Assigbe said. “That was the mindset, if the chances come he needs to take them and he took them just when we needed it.”

World Class Premier logoAnkrah lended a helping hand on the defensive side of the ball as well. Samuel Wasson presented one of the Lancer’s best chances to equalize midway through the first half, only to have his shot turned aside by Ankrah.

Back-to-back corner kicks followed for Rochester, who protested for a handball call during the clearance of the second kick.

Jared Toth managed to hit a shot which eluded WCP goalkeeper Evan Raimist only for the ball to bounce back into play off the intersection of the post and crossbar.

Rochester’s Issac Kissi fired a shot which got blocked by a defender as well. Kissi led the Lancer’s up top, who probed the Premier defense with multiple dangerous crosses during the opening half before Ankrah’s first goal.

“They got some good chances in the first half especially crossing the ball across,” said Assigbe. “We knew that was gonna be a little bit of trouble coming into the second half.”

Raimist rose to the occasion for WCP in the second half. He protected the middle of the box and turned away the Lancers’ chances, including a deflected shot from Peter Dilorenzo and Kissi which he punched over the bar.

“If he did not make that save, I don’t think the game would have ended the way it did,” Assigbe said. “It was early on, there was a lot of time left on the clock. Him making that save was crucial for us. That kept us in the game.”

World Class Premier’s possession-based style deterred Rochester’s offense in the second half, limiting them from mounting a complete comeback.

“We just knew that we had to keep playing the game,” Assigbe said. “Keep possession of the ball. Not give the ball away, not give them any chances. I think we did that for the majority of the second half.”

Rochester battled to stay in the match regardless. Crosses by Juan Pablo Reyes and Jake Schindler resulted in mere opportunities. Kissi dazzled the crowd with an acrobatic bicycle kick that cleared the crossbar, before Rozzano finally tallied for the Lancers off a volley about 35 minutes into the final half.

The late surge proved fruitless however, as WCP held strong. Ankrah gained open space on a late counterattack, placing the ball in the back of the net and watching as it dribbled in to seal the match away.

With the win, World Class Premier advances to the Fourth Round of the qualifying tournament but it is unclear, as of now, whether a Fourth Round, which is tentatively scheduled for March of 2019, will take place. Every professional team in the United States is automatically entered into the US Open Cup, and with the addition of an entirely new professional league with USL League One (Div. 3), and a number of expansion teams in the USL Championship (Div. 2), the format of next year’s tournament has yet to be finalized. Without a finalized format, it’s unclear how many Open Division teams (National Premier Soccer League, USL League Two — formerly Premier Development League — , and all of the Open Division Local teams) will be granted entry into the competition. It’s possible that the WCP will have to play a Fourth Round qualifying match, but they won’t find out until January.

 

 

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3: 10-man Santa Ana Winds rally for OT win

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Santa Ana Winds logoSanta Ana Winds FC have a tendency to complicate games for themselves, and on Nov. 17 in Open Cup qualifying vs Buena Park FC (BPFC), the same was true. Winds FC came back to win in extra time by a score of 3-2, after going down to 10 men near the end of the first half due to a foolish elbow by Carlos Torres that struck a BPFC player’s face. Overall, three unanswered goals, with two big ones in overtime by Max Rico and Xavier Corona, was the story of the night for Winds FC.

Buena Park had the numeric advantage for the majority of the match, it was actually Santa Ana that controlled most of the possession. However, the Winds struggled to score goals in regulation.

After Buena Park’s Nate DeRosa took advantage of a defensive miscue and dribbled 40 yards to beat the goalkeeper in the 13th minute, the Winds needed help to find an equalizer. In the 31st minute, Santa Ana gained possession near the Buena Park endline, by the corner flag. The ball was played across the face of the goal and in an attempt to clear the ball, a Buena Park defender put it into his own goal to tie the game.

“We got over confident,” said Corona about Buena Park’s opening goal. “We have a good team and we needed to be scored on to wake us up. Sometimes you need to be down to start playing better.”

Despite playing down a man the majority of regulation, the Winds still had more shots, corner kicks and possession than the visiting Buena Park.

“Coach told us to remain calm at halftime,” said Rico. “We had to play different positions. We played well with 10 men, but that’s the kind of soccer we play.”

Santa Ana turned the tables in the first minute of overtime, on a left-footed blast by defender Max Rico, after a poor clearance by a BPFC defender landed at Rico’s feet in midfield. Minutes later, Xavier Corona almost single-handedly scored in the 107th, darting up in attack from the deep midfield and passing to a player in space who found him in return. Corona then created space for himself on that returned pass and blasted a right-footed shot away from the keeper to seal the three answered goal comeback.

Most of Buena Park’s scoring opportunities came on long vertical counter attacks, where they occasionally found their striker on the right flank facing Winds FC one-on-one. BPFC did not stray, nor adjust, from this game plan though they had the man advantage. Both teams were left with 10 men after BPFC’s Mustafa Juma was red carded in the 93rd minute. BPFC would add a late goal through Grant Carlson but they were unable to find an equalizer in the final seven minutes of the match.

With the win, Santa Ana advances to the Fourth Round but it is unclear, as of now, whether a Fourth Round, which is tentatively scheduled for March of 2019, will take place. Every professional team in the United States is automatically entered into the US Open Cup, and with the addition of an entirely new professional league with USL League One (Div. 3), and a number of expansion teams in the USL Championship (Div. 2), the format of next year’s tournament has yet to be finalized. Without a finalized format, it’s unclear how many Open Division teams (National Premier Soccer League, USL League Two — formerly Premier Development League — , and all of the Open Division Local teams) will be granted entry into the competition. It’s possible that the Winds will have to play a Fourth Round qualifying match, but they won’t find out until January.

“The first half was mostly mental mistakes on our part,” said Winds head coach José López about his team’s performance. “So motivation was the answer for us, letting them know what was at stake in this game, reminding them of who we are, and what our club’s goals are was our halftime strategy. After that, everything we worked on in practice and in games during the season came out and we pulled through.”

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