2019 US Open Cup qualifying

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1: Celtic Cowboys’ big second half eliminates San Antonio Runners

October 5, 2018 by Zach Smith

Players from the Celtic Cowboys and the San Antonio Runners challenge for the ball in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Zach Smith

MORE: 2019 US Open Cup qualifying results/schedule

All Martin Togher and the Celtic Cowboys Premier team felt when the final whistle blew on Saturday was a sense of relief.

The Austin-based amateur team overcame a one-goal deficit with three second-half goals to beat the San Antonio Runner Soccer Club in Round 1 qualifying for the 2019 U.S. Open Cup Saturday afternoon at Onion Creek Soccer Complex.

“They had the better start, but our physicality kept us in the game,” Togher said. “Chris up top allowed us to transition quite well. We weren’t technically getting the ball on the ground in the first half and we were happy to be in it.”

The Cowboys’ Round 2 opponent is yet to be determined after the match between Bay Area Oilers FC and Leon FC was postponed twice due to flooded fields.

Rob Pratt scored the first goal of the game for San Antonio 15 minutes into the second half. But the Cowboys came back with two quick goals by Taylor Peoples and a PK by Chris Wright.

Samuel Jackson added a goal for good measure late in stoppage time.

“(The Celtic Cowboys) have a reputation for extremely physical and I prepared our team for that,” San Antonio Runners SC head coach Mason Rankin said. “Both teams scored off a PK, they score a lot off of corners and we’ve been working all week on getting ready.”

Players from the Celtic Cowboys and the San Antonio Runners challenge for a ball in the air in their 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Zach Smith

Rankin said his team was riding high on confidence coming in, having a few good performances in scrimmages against Celtic. This game was rescheduled from the week earlier and there were some of the Runners’ starters that missed out on the Open Cup tilt.

The UPSL version of the San Antonio Runners is a new team, made up of Sunday League players, players from the club and college teams in the San Antonio area and players that had their eligibility run out at school.

Now, their focus shifts to winning nationals. The Runners are undefeated at 4-0-0 and sits on top of the UPSL Central Conference Heart Division.

The first two Celtic goals in the second half came with five minutes of each other. San Antonio put on the pressure and had more chances from long range, but could never get closer than just inside the 18-yard box.

“In the second half, we showed a resolve that was excellent,” Togher said. “We battled. We kept on competing and things just went right for us. We were forcing mistakes on their part. (San Antonio) had had great possession in the second half, but they didn’t get behind our back line.”

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1: Kendall Wanderers need PKs to oust Boston Siege again

September 25, 2018 by Joaquin Colon-Nava

MORE: 2019 US Open Cup qualifying results/schedule

The second game of the 2019 US Open Cup open division local qualifying tournament would see two teams from the Bay State Soccer League face off for the second year in a row. Last year in the opening round, the Kendall Wanderers beat the Boston Siege FC, 5-2. This year, the Wanderers advanced once again but they had to work a little harder for it. After 90 minutes of scoreless soccer, and an intense 30 minutes of extra time, the score would finish 2-2. Then Kendall eliminated Boston in the longest penalty kick shootout in the four-year existence of this new qualifying tournament, winning 9-8.

Upon kickoff it would be the Kendall Wanderers who once would again get the better of the possession and chances. However, the Siege held their own, keeping the Wanderers scoreless and creating good chances of their own when they had the ball. The half ended without a goal, and after the break, the roles would be reversed.

The Siege controlled much of the possession and went about threatening Kendall’s defense throughout the second half. The Wanderers were left to attack, while still dangerous, against the run of play. In the end, neither team could find the breakthrough as the score would remain 0-0 through the end of regulation.

In extra time, the game opened up significantly. Both teams were now trading shots, the deadlock was finally broken on a Wanderers’ goal scored directly from a corner kick in the 97th minute.

The game’s urgency intensity ramped up in the minutes that followed as players came together in the 103rd minute. A Wanderers’ player claimed he was elbowed in the face, shoved a Boston player. Luckily for both teams, once the dust settled, no one was sent off.

The incident may have sparked the Wanderers because they doubled their lead just before the first extra time break.

As the teams went to their respective benches for OT halftime, another confrontation broke out. This time, multiple players from both teams were jawing at each other and would have have to be separated by their teammates and the referees. After the break, an energized Boston Siege team quickly cut the deficit in half less than two minutes into the second half of extra time. By the 112th minute, the score was tied once again and it would stay tied through 120 minutes forcing penalties.

The penalty kick takers would remain perfect through six rounds of penalties until both teams missed their shots in the 7th round. Finally, in the 10th round, and with the two final outfield players Boston Siege’s Mario Martinez missed and Declan Hunter scored putting the Kendall Wanderers through to the second round of the qualifying tournament as the club attempts to qualify for the US Open Cup for the second year in a row, and the second time in club history.

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1 game-by-game review

September 25, 2018 by Josh Hakala

The Open Division Local Qualifying tournament for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup kicks off on Sept. 22. Graphic by: Dallas Kreil

The 106th edition of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup is now officially underway with opening round qualifiers wrapping up this past weekend. Two more games were postponed, but of the 36 games that were completed, there was plenty of drama.

GPS Omens (Mass.) took Southie FC to overtime and won with just 10 men while NTX Rayados scored an equalizing goal in stoppage time and prevailed in a dramatic and controversial penalty kick shootout. Some previous champions are still in the hunt as well with the four time champion Ukrainian Nationals and three-time champion New York Pancyprian Freedoms both advanced. Christos FC, who advanced to the Fourth Round of the 2017 US Open Cup, also won their first qualifier.

Two matches were postponed due to heavy rain in Texas. San Antonio Runners and the Celtic Cowboys Premier had their game in Austin rained out, and Leon FC and the Bay Area Oilers FC were washed out in Houston. Make-up dates will be announced soon.

This will be the fourth year of the new qualifying format, and as always, TheCup.us is providing the best coverage of the US Open Cup. Check below for a short recap of each match.

MORE: 2019 US Open Cup qualifying results / Round 2 schedule

SATURDAY, SEPT. 22

GPS Omens (MA) 2:1 (AET) Southie FC (MA)
For the third time, GPS Omens and Southie FC squared off in the US Open Cup qualifying tournament. In 2015, Southie FC knocked off GPS in a “Win & You’re In” match. Last year, the two Bay State Soccer League teams met and GPS got their revenge with a 4-0 win. On Saturday, due to some scheduling challenges, GPS played the entire match with 10 men. Despite playing shorthanded, both teams traded first half goals and they remained deadlocked into the second extra time period. The match seemed to be headed to penalty kicks, but Danny Goldman scored what would prove to be the game-winner.

Kendall Wanderers (MA) 2:2 (9:8 PK) Boston Siege (MA)
A pair of Bay State Soccer League rivals met in the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament for the second year in a row and it took a little more than 90 minutes for the match to come alive. The game was scoreless heading into extra time when Chris Reid of the Kendall Wanderers bent a corner kick directly into the back of the net to break the deadlock. The Wanderers, who are attempting to qualify for the US Open Cup for the second year in a row after making their debut earlier this year, seemed to be in control after they doubled their lead shortly after. But Boston would score a pair of late goals and equalize with roughly seven minutes to play. What would follow would be the longest penalty kick shootout of the tournament format’s brief four-year history. The Wanderers would emerge victorious 9-8 to advance. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Tigres FC (DC/VA) 1:3 Cville Alliance FC Reserves (DC/VA)
The Cville (Charlottesville, Va.) Alliance FC Reserves jumped out to an early lead and never let go in a 3-1 win over Tigres FC. Bryce Thomas headed home an Ivan Arapovic in the 29th minute as the lone goal in the first half between the two Soccer Organization of the Charlottesville Area clubs. Alan Koger added another goal off a header from an Evan Nestrack corner kick in the 60th minute. Luke Oostdyk put the game away in the 86th minute but Tigres then ruined the shutout shortly after. The Alliance is a club previously known as Aromas Cafe FC that qualified for the 2016 US Open Cup. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Safira FC (MA) 3:1 Mass United FC (MA)
Last year, Safira FC and Mass United FC met in the Second Round of this same US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Mass United won 2-0. This year, things are different. Both teams joined the UPSL and Safira avenged that loss with a 3-1 home win. Pablo Guimaraes scored a goal in each half and Hugo Bomfim added another as Safira moved on to Round 2 for the second year in a row.

Players from World Class Premier (orange) and Izee Auto FC battle for the ball in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Craig Tower

Izee Auto FC (MD) 2:4 World Class Premier Elite FC (MD)
Former Christos FC and Rochester Rhinos player Levi Houapeau was the star as World Class Premier Elite FC earned a 4-2 win over Izee Auto FC in an all-Maryland matchup in the opening round. Houapeau scored a pair of goals to give the Elite the club’s first-ever US Open Cup qualifying win and put them into the Round 2. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Jackson Lions FC (NJ) 1:0 (AET) Newtown Pride FC (CT)
A penalty kick in extra time was the only difference between Jackson Lions FC and Newton Pride FC in the opening round of the 2019 US Open Cup. Lions keeper Charlie Cunliffe had a big night in goal for the hosts to shut out visiting Newtown, and Ryan Bailey drew the penalty kick and converted to make the difference for Jackson, who are the only New Jersey squad in the 2019 edition of the US Open Cup qualifying tournament. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Lansdowne Yonkers FC (NY) 0:4 NY Pancyprian Freedoms (NY)
It was a familiar matchup as Cosmopolitan Soccer League foes Lansdowne Yonkers FC (formerly Lansdowne Bhoys FC) and the New York Pancyprian Freedoms met for a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying matchup. The Pancyprian Freedoms scored one goal in the first half to take a 1-0 lead at the break, then added three in the second half to claim a 4-0 victory for the Freedoms. Adam Himeno was involved in three of the four goals (2 goals, 1 assist) as the three-time US Open Cup champions are attempting to qualify for the tournament for the first time since 2016.

Motagua of New Orleans (LA) 5:2 (AET) Port City FC (MS)
A back and forth affair saw Motagua of New Orleans defeat Port City FC 5-2 in extra time. Playing on its home turf, Motagua took the lead in the 10th minute. An own goal put Port City in front 2-1 before halftime but Brandon Chagnard converted a penalty kick in the 78th minute and the match went into extra time. New Orleans took the game over in extra time with Nestor Peralta and Samir Arzu adding goals in the 96th and 118th minutes to claim the three-goal victory. Motagua qualified in 2016 and fell one game short of the tournament in 2017 and 2018. Now they advance to Round 2 for the fourth year in a row.

ASC American SC (FL) 1:0 Orlando FC Wolves (FL)
A scrappy and tense match saw the UPSL Florida Conference playoff champions ASC America SC dominate most of the match while Orlando FC Wolves fought every minute to keep it level. Despite maintaining their dominance throughout the match, poor finishing kept America scoreless until the 105th minute. The game’s lone goal came after a series of poor defensive clearances from the fatigued and battered Wolves players. America SC capitalized with an interception and a quick lobbed ball over the left side of defense which left Alexandre Teixeira with ample space in front of him. Going one-on-one with the keeper, he beat him to the near side. The second half of extra time concluded with America holding out defensively and keeping their opponents on edge with several counter-attacks to seal the one goal victory in the club’s Open Cup qualifying debut..

Miami Sun FC (FL) 1:2 Florida Soccer Soldiers (FL)
The Florida Soccer Soldiers made the most of their Open Cup qualifying debut with a 2-1 win over Miami Sun FC. The Soccer Soldiers, who won the UPSL Florida Conference regular season championship in their first year with the league, defeated their fellow South Florida UPSL rivals, who are also relatively new to the UPSL (founded in 2016).

Dallas Elite FC (TX) 4:4 (3:4 PK) NTX Rayados (TX)
Earlier this year, NTX Rayados had the breakthrough that they had been seeking in what was their 7th consecutive US Open Cup appearance. They upset their first pro team and won $25,000 in prize money as they advanced to the Fourth Round where they fell to the Houston Dynamo. They accomplished that with a number of dramatic moments.

In their opening 2019 US Open Cup qualifying game, they kept the drama rolling with a penalty kick win over newcomers Dallas Elite FC. North Texas jumped out to a 2-0 lead, but Dallas fought back to tie the game and send it into extra time. Dallas kept the momentum in extra time and took the lead twice, only to lose the lead both times. The final equalizer from NTX came in stoppage time to force penalty kicks. In the PK shootout, the Rayados scored what would have been the winning goal, but the referees disallowed the goal because it appeared as though the ball didn’t go in because the net either had a hole in it or the shot broke a hole in it. Despite the missed opportunity, North Texas prevailed, 4-3 in a shootout that saw the Rayados miss three attempts and Dallas miss on four over eight rounds. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

CaliGators FC (CA) 2:6 California United FC II (CA)
In a game between a pair of qualifying first-timers, California United FC II and CaliGators exchanged goals in the opening 22 minutes. Cal United then rolled off five unanswered goals to end the first half. They never looked back and cruised to a 6-2 victory. Gustavo Villalobos led the way by finishing off a hat trick in just 44 minutes for California United FC II of the UPSL.

Academica SC (CA) 4:1 Davis Legacy (CA)
It took just five minutes for hosts Academica SC to put one past Davis Legacy on Saturday with Adrian Plascencia scoring off a Gera Cazares pass for the only goal of the first half. But the Legacy would fight back, scoring five minutes after the break through Joe Skvarna. In the 64th minute, David Esparza scored the eventual game-winner, before a late brace from Ramiro Ceja sealed the match and allowed Academica to reach the second round of qualifying for the second year in a row.

Players from the Oakland Stompers and the Oakland Leopards await a cross in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: StrikerOwen via Flickr

Oakland Leopards (CA) 0:1 Oakland Stompers (CA)
A late goal from PJ Garcia was all that was needed for the Oakland Stompers to get past the Oakland Leopards and move on to the second round of qualifying. Former Sacramento Republic (USL) star Dominik Jakubek recorded the clean sheet and took man-of-the-match honors.

San Ramon Dynamos FC (CA) 0:7 JASA RWC (CA)
The Redwood City-based JASA RWC had no trouble in their Open Cup qualifying debut, dominating the San Ramon Dynamos, 7-0. Alejandro Escobedo earned the clean sheet in goal for JASA and they received goals from Emanuel Vazquez (2), Ugo Uche (2), Ryan Masch, Alexander Herra, and James Huffer.

Los Angeles Wolves FC (CA) 0:4 Santa Ana Winds FC (CA)
Santa Ana Winds FC put forth a dominant effort against Los Angeles Wolves FC with a 4-0 triumph in a US Open Cup edition of the Sunset Derby. The UPSL side was led on the day by Jordan Gorman, who had a hand in all four goals that were scored. Gorman notched a hat trick and then assisted on a goal by Mark Cruz to lead the Winds to victory. For the Winds, they take one step closer to qualifying for the second year in a row. While the Wolves, who have qualified for the US Open Cup in each of the last three years, will fail to make it four in a row.

Cal FC (CA) 3:1 San Nicolas (CA) –

Cal FC poses for a team photo before the club's 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against San NIcolas FC. Photo: Cal FC — Cal FC poses for a team photo before the club’s 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match against San NIcolas FC. Photo: Cal FC

Cal FC began its return journey to the Open Cup glory with a 3-1 victory over fellow UPSL side San Nicolas FC at Calabasas High School. Head coach Keith Costigan tweeted after the match. “Really proud of the group. Good performance against a very good team.”

Cal FC, who recently returned to the UPSL after a two-year hiatus, now move on to the second round of qualifying, taking another step toward qualifying for the tournament that helped them make a name for themselves. In 2012, Cal FC stunned the Portland Timbers to become the first open division local club to oust a Major League Soccer team without penalty kicks. They have not qualified for the tournament since 2015.

However, after the match was over, San Nicolas filed a protest, claiming that Cal FC is ineligible because they did not participate in a league last season. Cal FC provided an explanation to TheCup.us and you can read all the details HERE. The USSF eventually denied the protest.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 23

Deportivo Lake Mary (FL) 1:2 Sporting Orlando SC (FL)
A pair of qualifying first-timers from the Orlando area squared off with Sporting Orlando earning a 2-1 win over Deportivo Lake Mary. Luca Lantin opened the scoring in the first half only to see Lake Mary equalize early in the second half. Vinicius Oliveira then played the hero, scoring what would prove to be the game-winner midway through the second half to give Sporting their first-ever qualifying win.

Ukrainian Nationals (PA) 2:0 United German Hungarians (PA)
The four-time US Open Cup champion Ukrainian Nationals dominated American soccer in the 1960s, but they haven’t attempted to the qualify for the competition since 2015. They haven’t successfully qualified for the Open Cup in a couple of decades. But the Nats took the first step to breaking that streak with a 2-0 win over the United German Hungarians (UGH), another club with a rich history from the Philadelphia area (UGH was founded in 1910 and started playing soccer in 1922). Jordie Griffith scored both goals on what was a wet and rainy afternoon in North Wales, Pa.

Vereinigung Erzebirge (PA) 0:1 West Chester United (PA)
A pair of Philadelphia-area teams from the United Soccer League of Pennsylvania faced off in Warminster, Pa. as West Chester United edged Vereinigung Erzebirge 1-0. Matt Greer’s goal in the 57th minute was the difference as West Chester United advances. The Predators are trying to qualify for the first time since 2016 when they made their tournament debut. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Steel Pulse FC (MD) 1:2 Aegean Hawks FC (MD)
Aegean Hawks FC claimed a 2-1 victory over Steel Pulse FC on Sunday afternoon at Troy Park in Elkridge, Maryland – the match was one of two US Open Cup matches happening simultaneously at the park, as Christos FC and Rockville SC also faced off. In the match-up between Aegean Hawks FC and Steel Pulse FC, a 6th minute goal from Austin Stewart gave Aegean Hawks FC an early lead. While this score remained through halftime, Aegean Hawks FC added a second goal in the 66th minute to extend their advantage. Steel Pulse FC quickly responded with a goal through Sam Mensah in the 70th minute, but could not find the equalizer as the Hawks held on for the 2-1 win. The Hawks, who have qualified for the US Open Cup three times (2007, 2009, 2012), are trying to get back to the tournament for the first time since 2012.

Christos FC (MD) 4:1 Rockville SC (MD)
Christos FC made a name for themselves in 2016 when they won three games in the 2016 US Open Cup and earned a date with D.C. United of Major League Soccer. While they fell to United that day, they represented what makes the US Open Cup special where even an amateur team sponsored by a liquor store from Baltimore can face off with a team from MLS in a meaningful, knockout competition.

However, they were unable to rekindle that fire last year when they qualified again, but lost in penalty kicks in the opening round to Reading United AC of the PDL. Christos took the first step toward getting to the tournament for the third year in a row with a 4-1 win over fellow Maryland Major Soccer League side Rockville SC. All four goals were scored by former Maryland-Baltimore County standout Pete Caringi III. Caringi played a major role in the team’s 2016 Cup run where he became just the second Open Division local player to score a hat trick in the Modern Era and was named TheCup.us Player of the Round in a First Round win over Fredericksburg FC (NPSL).

Soda City FC Sorinex (SC) 5:1 FC Cardinals (NC)
Soda City FC dominated from start to finish in its 5-1 win over FC Cardinals on Sunday afternoon. Both teams were making their US Open Cup qualifying debut as the hosts opened the scoring in the 9th minute when Hunter Haynes headed in a long throw-in to give Soda City the early lead. In the 30th minute, Homero Jacobo added a second on a cross from Dean Smith. Just before halftime, Smith added a goal of his own to give Soda City a 3-0 lead. In the second half, Smith tallied his second goal of the match in the 51st minute while substitute Mitchell Roberts netted a fifth for the home side in the 83rd minute. FC Cardinals scored their only goal of the match in the 89th minute to round out the scoring as Soda City FC claimed the 5-1 win.

Ann Arbor FC (MI) 3:4 (AET) Livonia City FC (MI)
A high-energy first-half saw five goals between Ann Arbor FC and Livonia City FC, with the goals coming in bunches. Livonia City jumped out to a two goal lead with McKenzie Bechard and Billy Werthman scoring in the 20th and 25th minutes, respectively. Ann Arbor FC responded with three straight goals to close the half, the first from Casey Bantle in the 36th minute and a brace from Drew Ducker, who netted goals in the 38th and 41st minutes. In the second half, Livonia City FC brought the game back level with a goal from Pat Smith in the 52nd minute, and the score remained 3-3 until extra time. A second yellow card to an Ann Arbor FC defender saw the side reduced to 10 men in the 105th minute, which Livonia City FC took advantage of in the second extra time period as Craig Beebe found the winner in the 116th minute to see LCFC advance to the next round as the last remaining Michigan club in the tournament.

Colorado Rovers (CO) 1:0 Club El Azul (CO)
The Colorado Rovers snapped a three-game losing streak in the US Open Cup qualifying tournament with a 1-0 win over fellow Colorado side Club El Azul. The Rovers did this despite receiving two red cards (and another member of the team’s bench was sent off as well). The Rovers’ win was their first since this qualifying tournament format was launched in 2015. The team had previously qualified for the 2013 and the 2014 tournament out of the USSSA’s qualifying tournament.

Gam United FC (CO) 2:1 Northern Colorado FC (CO)
Gam United scored a pair of goals in the opening 18 minutes, which was fortune for them because Karrar Fouad was shown a second yellow card in the 34th minute. Gam United had to hold on for the remainder of the match with 10 men. Isaac Martinez scored a PK for Northern Colorado in the 58th minute but United was able to hold on to earn the club’s first-ever qualifying win. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Boston City FC 2 celebrates what would prove to be the game-winning goal in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match vs. Juve-Pro Soccer. Photo: Michael Preston

Boston City FC II (MA) 1:0 Juve-Pro Soccer (MA)
It was a tense and competitive battle between the two Massachusetts-based clubs. By the time halftime hit, both teams had already received a red card and were playing with ten men. Boston City would break through in the 52nd minute when Jhonata Batista scored on an assist from Marcelo Cunha. City was able to hold on to that lead even after Jadson Leite received a red card in the 79th minute. It was Boston’s first-ever Open Cup qualifying win.

Buena Park FC (CA) 4:0 Valley United SC (CA)
Buena Park broke the game open in the second half, earning a 4-0 win over Valley United SC. Park captain Nate Da Rosa opened the scoring with a first half penalty kick, and then a second on the other side of halftime. Da Rosa assisted on Eric Young’s goal in the second half and Josh Sonico added another to put the game away. Buena Park is attempting to qualify for the US Open Cup for the first time. Last year, they fell one win short of punching their ticket, losing to the Los Angeles Wolves FC in the final round.

DC Cheddar (DC/VA) 1:3 Super Delegates FC (MD)
DC Cheddar, a name derived from an “inside joke” between the founders of the club and the Super Delegates FC squared off as a meeting of two first-time entries. The Super Delegates from the Maryland Major Soccer League rebounded after giving up what is likely the fastest goal of the round in the 3rd minute. Adrian Johnson would lead the way with a pair of goals, while Cedric Tchoumkeu adding another. Marie Bell dished out assists on two of the three goals for the Delegates.

Colorado Rush (CO) 1:2 (AET) Harpo’s FC (CO)
These two teams were neck-and-neck the entire game, but Trevor Anmann wound up being the hero for Harpo’s FC. His goal in extra time gave his side a 2-1 win and allows them to keep their cup bid alive as they seek to return for the first time since 2016. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

Virginia United pose for a team photo before the club's 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match vs. Centro America. — Virginia United pose for a team photo before the club’s 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match vs. Centro America.

Centro America FC (DC/VA) 1:2 Virginia United (DC/VA)
For the first time in tournament history, teams from the Asociacion Nacional Fútbol en USA entered the competition and, as luck would have it, they would both meet each other in Round 1. Virginia United would earn a victory in the rain by the score of 2-1. Virginia United scored a goal on either side of halftime by Luis Aguilar and Ricky Burke and Centro America would pull to within one on a goal from Mauricio Benavides in the 72nd minute but were unable to find an equalizer in the final 18 minutes of the match.

Real Sociedad Royals (CA) 4:0 Quickening (CA)
Real Sociedad earned the club’s first regulation win in a qualifying game with a 4-0 win over Quickening on Sunday. The Royals have entered the tournament every year since it launched in 2015, but after a PK win in their debut that year, they have lost three straight games to some significant powers (San Nicolas in 2016, LA Wolves in 2017 and 2018). They snapped that losing streak with goals from Jesse Aguirre, Randy Poggio, Santiago Busatto, and Cesar Arceo.

Indios Denver FC (CO) 0:1 FC Denver (CO)
In a rematch of last year’s “Win & You’re In” match that went to extra time, FC Denver won for the second year in a row, eliminating Indios Denver FC, 1-0. The difference was a late goal by Alex Bernhardt Denver won 1-0 in extra time.

Red Force FC (FL) 2:1 FC Kendall (FL)
It was the third time that these two South Florida powers had met in US Open Cup qualifying. FC Kendall won in 2015, while Red Force won in 2016 to clinch a spot in the 2017 US Open Cup. It was Red Force who came out in the third meeting. Following a scoreless first half, Stiven Salinas chipped the keeper on a counter attack to give Red Force FC a 1-0 lead. FC Kendall found an equalizer less than 10 minutes from full time, but Marcelo Palucci’s goal in the final moments gave Red Force the 2-1 victory. Red Force advances in their

quest to qualify for the US Open Cup for the fifth time in the last seven years.

Unfortunately, a few days after the match, a media report surfaced that claimed FC Kendall is folding.

Lionside FC (CA) 2:0 SC Trojans FC (CA)
Lionside FC defeated SC Trojans FC, the lone college-based team (USC) in the competition, to earn their first-ever US Open Cup qualifying win. Kevin Geddes scored a goal in each half (37th min., 85th min.) to send the UPSL side into Round 2. In the 37th minute, Matt Dagilis played a ball over the top to Geddes, who volleyed it past the keeper to open the scoring. It remained at 1-0 until the 85th minute when Carlos Valle broke free into the penalty area and had his shot blocked, but the ball fell to Geddes who put the ball into the back of the net to ice the game.

Outbreak FC (CA) 2:1 LA South Bay Monsters FC (CA)
LA South Bay Monsters took the lead early on a penalty kick, but a handball in the box would give Outbreak a chance to match them from the spot. Steve Bagheri would score to tie the game in the 33rd minute. Then, about 15 minutes into the second half, a hard-hit cross from Cory Wolfrom found Torey Edwards who scored on a diving header to put Outbreak in front, 2-1. Outbreak were able to survive the pressure from the Monsters the remainder of the second half as they move on to Round 2. Outbreak qualified for the US Open Cup in 2016 and 2017, but fell short in 2018 and are looking to bounce back.

Players from Leon FC (green) and Bay Area Oilers battle for the ball in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Jose Castellanos Twitter @Vos_Castellanos, IG @FutbolAndBrews

SATURDAY, SEPT. 29

San Antonio Runners (TX) vs. Celtic Cowboys Premier (TX)
After heavy rain postponed the original game on Sept. 22, the Celtic Cowboys Premier and the San Antonio Runners got together a week later in Austin. After San Antonio jumped out to a 1-0 lead in the first half, the host Celtic Cowboys scored three second half goals to advance to the next round. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

SUNDAY, OCT. 7

Leon FC (TX) 2:0 Bay Area Oilers FC (TX)
In a game that was postponed twice due to heavy rains, the Dallas-based Leon FC traveled down to Houston and scored two goals in the final 10 minutes (80th min. and 88th min.) to defeat the hometown Bay Area Oilers FC. Leon FC, who are making their qualifying debut, will likely advance to play fellow Dallas club NTX Rayados in the next round. [+] FULL MATCH REPORT

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying: Second Round draw released

September 25, 2018 by Craig Tower

The draw determining opponents for the 28 games of the second round of Open Division Local Qualifying was held today, with matches to be played on October 20th and 21st. Fifty-six amateur clubs will battle for the right to move into the next round.

Four teams have yet to play their first round games due to weather events in Texas (Celtic Cowboys Premier vs. San Antonio Runners and Bay Area Oiler FC vs. Leon FC). The draw pitting the winning teams with their second round opponents will take place after their first-round games have been completed.

Of the teams playing in the second round, 18 received first round byes. Thirteen teams which would have played in the first round received byes for geographical considerations, and five were randomly selected to receive byes. Of the teams receiving byes, 8 were paired to play one another already and so were not part of the draw.

U.S. Soccer’s Open Cup Committee has not yet determined the number of qualifying rounds to determine the teams which will enter into the First Round of the 2019 U.S. Open Cup. Official reports project 3-4 qualifying rounds will be necessary to winnow the field down prior to the First Round in May. Winners in the second round can expect to play the third round on November 18th or 19th. The fourth round, should it be necessary, would not be played until March or April of 2019.

In a new twist for 2019, the 2018 U.S. Adult Soccer Association (USASA) National Amateur Cup champion Bavarian SC of Milwaukee will automatically advance to the First Round of the Open Cup in addition to the other amateur qualifiers.

The championship match of the 2018 competition will be played on Wednesday, Sept. 26. The 2018 Final pits the Houston Dynamo against two-time finalist Philadelphia Union (8 p.m. ET; ESPN2) as both clubs seek to win their first-ever Open Cup championship.

2019 U.S. Open Cup Open Division Local Qualifying Second Round Schedule

For a complete list of 2019 US Open Cup qualifying results and updated Round 2 schedule, click HERE

Northeast Region
Date Game (home team listed first) Time Venue
Oct. 20 Kendall Wanderers (Mass.) vs. GPS Omens (Mass.) 12 p.m. ET Danehy Park – Field 3; Cambridge, Mass.
Oct. 20 Safira FC (Mass.) vs. Boston City FC II (Mass.) 7 p.m. ET Dilboy Stadium; Somerville, Mass.
Oct. 20 Jackson Lions FC (N.J.) vs. New York Pancyprian Freedoms (N.Y.) 7:30 p.m. ET Jackson Justice Complex – Soccer Turf Field; Jackson, N.J.
Oct. 21 Ukrainian Nationals (Pa.) vs. West Chester Predators (Pa.) 2:30 p.m. ET Ukrainian American Sports Center – Field 1; North Wales, Pa.

Mid-Atlantic Region
Date Game (home team listed first) Time Venue
Oct. 20 Cville Alliance FC – Reserves (Va.) vs. World Class Premier Elite FC (Md.) 6 p.m. ET Charlottesville High School Stadium; Charlottesville, Va
Oct. 21 Christos FC (Md.) vs. Aegean Hawks (Md.) 3 p.m. ET Troy Park – Field 2; Elkridge, Md.
Oct. 21 Virginia United (Va.) vs. Super Delegates Football Club (Md.) 5 p.m. ET Howison Homestead Soccer Complex – Field 1; Manassas, Va.
Oct. 21 Rochester River Dogz (N.Y.) vs. Tartan Devils Oak Avalon (Pa.) 5 p.m. ET Basket Road Rectangle Field; Webster, N.Y.

Southeast Region
Date Game (home team listed first) Time Venue
Oct. 20 Florida Soccer Soldiers (Fla.) vs. Red Force FC (Fla.) 8:30 p.m. ET Kendall Soccer Park – Field 2; Miami, Fla.
Oct. 20 America Soccer Club (Fla.) vs. Central Florida FC Spartans (Fla.) 8:30 p.m. ET West Orange High School; Winter Garden, Fla.
Oct. 21 Sporting Orlando Soccer Club (Fla.) vs. Hurricane FC (Fla.) 10 a.m. ET Celebration High School Stadium; Kissimmee, Fla.
Oct. 21 Soda City FC Sorinex (S.C.) vs. Shahin Atlanta FC (Ga.) 7:15 p.m. ET Lexington County Soccer Complex – Field 10; Columbia S.C.

Central Region
Date Game (home team listed first) Time Venue
Oct. 20 FC Maritsa (Mo.) vs. FC Minnesota (Minn.) 7 p.m. CT Parkway North High School – Varsity Field; St. Louis, Mo.
Oct. 21 Aurora Borealis Soccer Club (Ill.) vs. Livonia City FC (Mich.) 4 p.m. CT Ohio Moose Sports Complex; Mooseheart, Ill.
Note: Games for remaining teams in Central Region (Motagua New Orleans (La.) and Texas teams Bay Area Oiler FC, Celtic Cowboys Premier, Leon FC, NTX Rayados and San Antonio Runners) will be determined following completion of two games from First Qualifying Round that were postponed due to flooded fields.

Mountain Region
Date Game (home team listed first) Time Venue
Oct. 21 FC Denver (Colo.) vs. Harpos FC (Colo.) 1:30 p.m. MDT Aurora Sports Park – Field 1; Aurora, Colo.
Oct. 21 Colorado Rovers (Colo.) vs. Gam United Football Club (Colo.) 3 p.m. MDT Broomfield Commons – Championship Turf; Broomfield, Colo.
Oct. 21 Boise Cutthroats FC (Idaho) vs. San Juan FC (Utah) 3 p.m. MDT Boise State Recreational Field; Boise, Idaho
Oct. 21 Sporting AZ FC (Ariz.) vs. Southwest FC (Texas) 7 p.m. MST John Riggs Stadium (Mesa Community College); Mesa, Ariz.

Southern California Region
Date Game (home team listed first) Time Venue
Oct. 20 Outbreak FC (Calif.) vs. Cal FC (Calif.) 7 p.m. PT Long Beach State University – George Allen Field; Long Beach, Calif.
Oct. 21 Buena Park FC (Calif.) vs. Real Sociedad Royals (Calif.) 3 p.m. PT Kennedy High School – Varsity Field; La Palma, Calif.
Oct. 21 Lionside FC (Calif.) vs. Santa Ana Winds FC (Calif.) 6 p.m. PT Lake Forest Sports Park – Field A; Lake Forest, Calif.
Oct. 21 California United FC II (Calif.) vs. Chula Vista FC (Calif.) 7 p.m. PT Orange County Great Park – Field 2; Irvine, Calif.

West Region
Date Game (home team listed first) Time Venue
Oct. 20 Oakland Stompers (Calif.) vs. Real San Jose (Calif.) 7 p.m. PT Raimondi Park; Oakland, Calif.
Oct. 20 Academica SC (Calif.) vs. Contra Costa FC (Calif.) 7 p.m. PT Academica Fields – East Field; Turlock, Calif.
Oct. 21 JASA RWC (Calif.) vs. Napa Sporting SC (Calif.) 5 p.m. PT Sequoia High School – Stadium Field; Woodside, Calif.
Oct. 21 IPS/Marathon Taverna (Ore.) vs. Nevada Coyotes FC (Nev.) 7 p.m. PT Rob Strasser Memorial Field; Portland, Ore.

2019 US Open Cup qualifying: Houapeu’s brace pushes World Class past Izee Auto

September 25, 2018 by Sean Maslin

Players from World Class Premier (orange) and Izee Auto FC battle for the ball in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying match. Photo: Sean Maslin

After helping Christos FC make a name for themselves in the 2017 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup, Levi Houapeu has moved on to another Maryland club and has them on a path to qualify for the 2019 tournament.

The 29-year-old striker scored twice for World Class Premier Elite FC in their 4-2 win over Izee Auto FC in the opening round of the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament.

Despite weeks of unending rain and balmy conditions. Saturday’s match at Blandair Regional Park was actually played under ideal fall-like conditions. With a favorable pitch that allowed both sides to put a heavy emphasis on quick passes and using the counter-attack.

Izee struck first with Rashid Deen putting his side ahead on a counter attack in the 11th minute.

Despite going down a goal early, World Class weren’t deterred. Led by captain Idrissa Sesay, the World Class offense began probing the Izee defense, looking for space to exploit. They found it in the 27th minute when a combination pass from Sesay to Houapeu found the target man with a clear goal-scoring chance. He wouldn’t miss knocking his chance into the back of the net to make it 1-0.

Just five minutes later, Sesay snagged a goal of his own. With the Izee defense focusing on Houapeu, he found space down the left flank and hit a low effort towards the far post, making it 2-0 just before halftime.

Early in the second half, Izee showed a sense of urgency, pushing the World Class defense on their heels. In the 47th minute, Izee midfielder Christian Caulker broke past their defense and hit a shot that appeared destined for the back of the net. However, it lifted slightly late and went off the bar. Defender Oumar Ballo, formerly of the USL’s Swope Park Rangers, was there to make the stop and clear the chance away.

Izee were equally unlucky in the 70th minute, with Michael Rouhana receving a pass down the right side with just the keeper to beat. Much like with Caulker earlier in the half his chance looked equally promising, but in the end the fall night lifted his chance just a little high.

After surviving two near equalizers, World Class worked to put the match away late. Daniel Ankrah (72′) and Houapeu (78′) added insurance goals in the final 20 minutes to seal the result for the Maryland Major Soccer League side. While Izee did cut their deficit to two with Abuka Kareem’s goal in the 86th minute, it wasn’t enough to see their side through.

Houapeu’s two goals on Saturday are just the latest chapter in his US Open Cup resume. He made his debut in 2010 with Reading United AC. That year, they took the USL’s Real Maryland Monarchs to extra time before falling short. By 2014, the former University of Maryland Baltimore County standout had signed with the Rochester Rhinos of the USL, in addition to spending time playing indoor soccer where he won a league championship with the Baltimore Blast. With the Rhinos, he scored a goal in the 2014 US Open Cup as Rochester advanced to the Round of 16 where they lost 2-1 to the New England Revolution of MLS. Last year, he played every minute of every game and scored the game-winning goal against Chicago FC United (PDL) which sent Christos FC into the Fourth Round to face D.C. United (MLS), which put the team on the map.

Houapeu and the rest of World Class Premier will take part in the second round of the qualifying tournament where they will travel to Charlottsville, Va. to take on the Cville Alliance FC Reserves on Oct. 20.

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1: Harpo’s need OT goal to beat shorthanded Colorado Rush

September 25, 2018 by Jim Coppock

MORE: 2019 US Open Cup qualifying results/schedule

Colorado Rush and Harpo’s FC added another chapter to their rivalry with a matchup in the 2019 US Open Cup open division local qualifying tournament

The two teams have battled for several years in and around several local leagues, primarily the Colorado Premier League and Premier Arena Soccer League. This was the second meeting between the two clubs in a US Open Cup qualifier, and just like their first game back in 2015, Harpo’s came away with a win.

This time, Harpo’s needed extra time to edge a shorthanded Rush team, 2-1, to move one step closer to qualifying for the tournament for the first time since making a second straight appearance in 2016.

Kick-off at just moments past 5 p.m. local time, under bright sunshine and a temperature in the upper 80s. A crowd of around 100 fans would ultimately make their way in to watch the game at Shea Stadium in Highlands Ranch, Colo.

The Rush were only able to dress 12 players for the game due to various player commitments.

The first 15 minutes or so was the teams feeling each other out. Decent, but not terribly dangerous opportunities for both sides; though Chas Parry of Rush did put one off the bar with a clinical spin move after settling a ball under heavy pressure from a Harpo’s defender. Harpo’s Herzberger would have been helpless to save had the ball been just a few inches lower.

Harpo’s FC took to the front foot in the final 20 minutes of the first half, putting four shots on goal on that stretch, but Rush keeper Marscheider was equal to all of them. The first of those was a point-blank shot at the edge of the goal box at the near post from about three yards out from Shane Wheeler in the 23rd minute. Trevor Amman would have a couple of good far-post chances saved by Marschnieder’s fingertips in the final 20 of the half.

First, a ‘grass cutter’ in the 28th minute from 11 yards after picking off a lazy pass out of the back. Then 14 minutes later, from about 14 yards out after receiving a well-struck pass from Wheeler on the right wing and beating five Rush players.

The half ended the way it began, 0-0.

The game restarted with Harpo’s still on the front foot. A shot from about 35 yards, just seconds into the half, forced Marscheider to again make a save. The game took a bit of a breather around the hour mark. Harpo’s would re-ignite it in the 67th minute. Trevor Amman was once again saved by Marscheider, forcing yet another corner. Off that corner, the ball would skip off of Marscheider’s fingers and fall to a Harpo’s player. The first shot looked as though it might have struck Rush’s Peter Willams in the arm, but the whistle did not come until after the ensuing rebound, when Marschneider went across the front the same Harpo’s player, appearing to knock him to the ground. The referee’s whistle sounded instantly with a point to the spot. The resulting penalty hit the back of the net in the 69th minute from the right foot of Judson McKinney to give Harpo’s a 1-0 lead.

The Rush began the process of finding the equalizer straight away. Many runs, up both wings, seemed to stretch the Harpo’s defense out of shape more than once. The equalizer would finally come in the 77th minute from a ball won in the defensive third of the Rush. A nearly 50-yard ball was sent up field, meeting JT Grover’s head and falling back to a wide open Chas Parry. Parry then found a wide open Grover streaking up the right wing. After a
couple of touches to control the ball, he slotted home to the far post from about 10 yards out to tie the game.

The remaining 13 minutes saw some good back-and-forth play as both teams went looking for the winner. Harpo’s had a bit of edge in the chances department. After Harpo’s committed a foul in the 87th minute would give the Rush a solid scoring chance when the free kick would find the head of Stisser, but it sailed well wide of goal.

Extra time started much as regulation ended with more back-and-forth play. There was more ball movement with less speed. Again, Harpo’s with a slight edge in chances.

The final period of play began with Harpo’s forcing another save from Marscheider after only 30 seconds. Again though, there was a lot of action from both sides through most of the extra frame. In the 111th minute, a Harpos corner kick produced a laser beam of a shot from the top of the box that was saved by Marscheider.

Four minutes later, Harpo’s FC would find the winning goal. They won the ball deep in their own half and went on a counter attack up the left wing allowed Harpo’s to gain 30 yards up the field. This led to another 30-yard pass into space through the middle of the Rush midfield. The ensuing run pulled Marscheider out of goal and outside the post. Then, a quick turn and pass to the onrushing Trevor Amman, who struck a beautiful arcing shot to the upper-right corner from about 17 yards out.

Harpo’s executed excellent clock management for the final five minutes to close out the game and advance to Round 2.

2019 US Open Cup qualifying: Jackson Lions slip by Newtown Pride on controversial PK

September 25, 2018 by Zach Rayment

Jackson Lions FC needed extra time to defeat Newtown Pride, 1-0, in the First Round of the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup qualifying tournament.

Ryan Bailey scored the game’s only goal from the penalty spot in the third minute of stoppage time in the first half of overtime.

Lions head coach Brad Fraley applauded his players for getting the shutout win over 120 minutes.

“It’s early in the year,” Fraley said. “But, it’s nice to get a shutout on top of the win.”

The lone goal of the match was scored on a penalty kick that the Newtown players were visibly upset with after the match had ended. Filipe Dutra made a sliding challenge on Jackson’s Ryan Bailey late in the first half of stoppage time and the referee did not hesitate to point to the spot. There was a stoppage of about two or so minutes after the call was made with the visiting team wholeheartedly arguing with the referee. There is no doubt that Dutra made contact with the player, but he also got a big chunk of the ball and Newtown may have a case. Nonetheless, their qualifying campaign ended early.

Overall, it was a fairly even match with both teams struggling to attack consistently. It was no surprise that they needed extra time to decide the game. The Lions and Pride both went through spells where they had control, but the two struggled to create chances. The little moments of magic came from the wing. Jackson’s Walter Calderon was one move away from cutting through the visiting defense on a handful of occasions. Newtown’s Sylla Salifou was the biggest threat and looked like he was going to be the difference maker, but it was not meant to be for the Connecticut-based club.

Jackson Lions FC will advance to the next round of qualifying where they will face off with the three-time US Open Cup champions New York Pancyprian Freedoms on Oct. 20.

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1: Charlottesville Alliance, formerly Aromas Cafe, starts with a win

September 25, 2018 by Ben Montes-Bradley

MORE: 2019 US Open Cup qualifying results/schedule

In a battle of two teams from the Soccer Organization of the Charlottesville (Va.) Area, the Cville Alliance Reserves came away with a 3-1 win over Tigres FC in the opening round of the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup qualifying tournament. With light rainfall and a darkened sky, the Alliance, a club formerly known as Aromas Cafe FC that qualified for the 2016 US Open Cup, took over in the second half to punch their ticket to the second round.

To start the game, both teams played incredibly fast paced and aggressive, attempting to score early and take the advantage. The first half was filled with long balls behind defenses and aggressive runs up the sides by the attacking players. The defenders did not let up either, making sure to close out and chase their man, putting a lot of pressure on the man with the ball.

With a free kick at the 29-minute mark, Cville scored their first goal when midfielder Ivan Arapovic crossed in the ball where captain Price Thomas was able to head it into the back of the net.

The second half brought stronger rain, colder temperatures, and the same amount of intensity that highlighted the first half. Tigres had some great runs led by their two standout players, Erivaldo Da Silva and Tlotzin Chaveste Alatorre.

Unfortunately for Tigres, at the 60-minute mark, Cville scored their second goal as Alan Koger crossed in a corner and Evan Nesterak was able to jump over his defender and head it in to give the Alliance the two goal lead.

The match continued to be hard fought, Erivaldo Da Silva had some really great chances near the goal but none were able to find the back of the net. Yet even with the hard effort from Tigres and some very near misses, the Alliance put the game out of reach when Seyedehsan Monazamialipour crossed the ball just before going out of bounds, finding a wide open Luke Oostdyk on the right side for an easy header in the 87th minute.

Tigres unwilling to end the game in a shutout finally scored when Da Silva got to the ball as it was being knocked around on the Alliance’s defensive side and drilled a shot in to give Tigres their only goal.

The match was hard-fought on both sides as well incredible to watch, both teams flew up and down the pitch, both sides playing like a team instead of a group of individuals. In the end, it ends with a 3-1 victory for the Charlottesville Alliance.

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1: Gam United win debut vs. Northern Colorado FC

September 25, 2018 by Peter Andrews

MORE: 2019 US Open Cup qualifying results/schedule

Gam United won its first-ever US Open Cup open division local qualifying match using an early lead to fend off Northern Colorado FC en route to a 2-1 victory at Aurora Public Schools Stadium in Aurora, Co.

Gam got on the board first in the 12th minute. A long ball through the defense found winger Saad Hissein, who made no mistake with a cool finish past the Northern Colorado keeper.

They doubled their lead just six minutes later. Working his way to the edge of the box, Michael Sarpong played a low ball toward Carson Swope near the penalty box. Swope made no mistake with a smooth stroke into NoCo’s net.

Things took a turn when Gam United found themselves reduced to ten men in the 34th minute. Defender Korrar Fouad picked up his second yellow card of the match with a reckless challenge. Gam stared down the barrel of 55 minutes of shorthanded soccer.

NoCo pulled within one after halftime. In a chippy match that finished with nine yellow cards issued, it seemed inevitable that one team would earn a penalty kick. A NoCo player was scissored down at the edge of the box, and Isaac Martinez sent the keeper the wrong way in the 58th minute.

A tremendous defensive intervention by Sajjad Alfatlawi in the 76th minute saved the game for United. Martinez came through on goal and rounded the keeper with a heavy touch that took him just a touch wide. Alfatlawi pelted back at full speed and blocked Martinez’s shot off the line. Try as they might, NoCo just could not find a second goal.

The final whistle prompted a raucous celebration from Gam United’s supporters. The club draws almost entirely from Aurora’s refugee and immigrant communities.

“This is what we love about soccer,” captain Karim Soumah said after the match. “The competition, the fans, and the beauty of soccer.”

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 1: West Chester United edge rivals Vereinigung Erzgebirge

September 25, 2018 by Matt Ralph

A second half goal from Matt Greer was the difference on a muddy day in the Philadelphia suburbs in a 1-0 win for West Chester United over Vereinigung Erzgebirge (VE) that put the club one step closer to qualifying for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

Greer, who was one of the standouts in West Chester’s run to the National Amateur Cup final in August, found the breakthrough in the 57th minute when Chas Wilson fed him a ball into the box he was able to calmly put past VE goalkeeper Tim Washam.

Players from West Chester United and Vereinigung Erzebirge battle for the ball in a 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament game. Photo: Matt Ralph | BrotherlyGame.com

The lead was not undeserved given the pressure and the attacking talent on display for West Chester, but VE had chances of their own they weren’t able to put away in a scrappy back-and-forth clash that featured a flurry of whistles and several players losing their footing in the muddy surface.

“The way the game flowed if you make a mistake in the back that’s how it’s going to be won,” VE head coach Rob Oldfield said after the match. “I thought we played pretty good — I think these are still the best two teams in the state.”

The rivals, which finished first and second in the majors division standings of the United Soccer League of Pennsylvania last season, are familiar foes with history as opponents in the amateur ranks. Several players on the field either played together or against each other on local division 1 college teams.

So it was no surprise that the margin would be narrow and the competition fierce from the opening whistle.

Greer, a former Dartmouth and Philadelphia Union Academy midfielder had been threatening throughout the day with some strong runs through the middle of the VE defense before capitalizing on the best chance either side had on the day to open the scoring 12 minutes after the break.

“It seemed like the play just opened up,” Greer said. “I made a pass off to Chas, he did a good job feeding it off; I think the conditions may have played a part because the center backs couldn’t recover, there was a big pocket and I was able to get one on one with the goalkeeper.”

West Chester United head coach Blaise Santangelo called the rivalry between the teams “ridiculous.”

“Last time we were here they beat us in the Werner Fricker Open Cup so we have a ton of respect for them,” Santangelo said. “I think we were the better team on the day but it was a battle.”

With the win, the Predators return to the second round of local qualifying for the fourth straight year after losing last year to Phoenix SC and Christos FC in the second round in 2017. They qualified for the Open Cup for the first time in club history through local qualifying by winning two rounds in 2016.

“We’ve been so close to qualifying for the Open Cup in so many competitions throughout the year,” said captain Michael Gonzalez. “This tournament means a lot to us and it’s one of our biggest goals every season to get to that first round.”

Sunday’s match at VE was one of two on the day for USL of PA teams. Ukrainian Nationals advanced in the other game against United German Hungarians, 2-0, and will host West Chester United on Sunday, Oct. 21 at the Ukrainian American Sports Center in North Wales, Pa. in Round 2.