DC United

2018 US Open Cup Round 4: D.C. United survive North Carolina FC in PK shootout

June 6, 2018 by Sean Maslin

David Ousted of D.C. United celebrates during the penalty kick shootout against the Richmond Kickers in the Fourth Round of the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: D.C. United

D.C. United supporters got their third chance to watch their local side at home this season. And then some. After a very long road trip United returned ‘home’ to the Maryland SoccerPlex on Tuesday night, were held to a 1-1 draw before defeating North Carolina FC of the USL 4-3 in penalties in their first match in the 2018 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

With a match on the road against the Seattle Sounders on Saturday and another road test against Toronto FC on Wednesday, United coach Ben Olsen opted to go with a mix of starters and reserves to start the contest. Holdover midfielders Chris Durkin and Paul Arriola gave the side some shape along the spine, allowing them to move the ball some through the midfield. They made gradual progressions against a North Carolina defense that was bullish on ceding any territory.

Eventually D.C. did get an attacking chance off with Arriola ripping a shot from just inside the eighteen yard box in the 11th minute. But goalkeeper Alex Tambakis was there to make the stop, diving right to keep things level.

North Carolina were not so lucky in the 25th minute, when United midfielder Ian Harkes picked up his own rebound and slotted it into the back of the net to give D.C. the 1-0 advantage. It was his second career US Open Cup goal, two more than his dad, Hall of Famer John Harkes.

Harkesy comes through on the clean up. #DCU | #DCvNC 1-0 pic.twitter.com/WVFZ3WeJIZ

— D.C. United (@dcunited) June 5, 2018

In the second half, North Carolina’s attack came alive. Using their speed on the outside, NCFC started to force United’s compact defense to break ranks. That allowed for additional space inside for NCFC to exploit. In the 70th minute, substitute Marcel Kandziora took a header off of a cross into United’s box. Although his chance initially looked to be on target it would go wide. While they were unsuccessful, North Carolina would equalize. In the 83rd minute, after a corner kick into the box was headed away by a D.C. defender, NCFC forward Marios Lomis snared the rebound. After a clever controlled touch he delivered an impressive volley past United goalkeeper David Ousted to tie things up at one. The goal was Lomis’ third of the tournament.

What. A. Volley! Marios Lomis keeps @NorthCarolinaFC in it against @dcunited #USOC18 pic.twitter.com/sqpburFNku — USL (@USL) June 6, 2018

After extra time did not produce a winner, the two sides went into penalty kicks. The two sides traded goals in the first round with both Daniel Rios and Yamil Asad scoring for NCFC and D.C. respectively. The second round was a different story as Kyle Bekker of North Carolina saw his chance parried away by Ousted. United forward Darren Mattocks seized the opportunity for his side’s next chance, scoring the go-ahead goal. While Harkes missed his chance in round number four, the blow was lessened as NCFC’s Peabo Doue saw his own shot go wide of the mark. In the fifth and final round, United sealed the win with Bruno Miranda doing the honors.

“I only walked through but I try to read the player when he comes up,” said Ousted. “I try to read what he wants to do, what kind of player he is, what kind of foot he has on him. You see that in the strikes in the game. It’s just about trusting that gut feeling and getting a little bit of luck.”

For United, it was their first time eliminating a professional team since their improbable US Open Cup championship in 2013.

“First of all, means a lot for the club. Secondly, it means a lot for me to be able to win a and win a trophy,” said Ousted. “I think it’s five games, then you’re with a trophy. That’s a short way to get a trophy so we definitely want to win it. I want to win it so we’re going to go full out.”

2017 US Open Cup Round 5: New England Revolution eliminate D.C. United for first time in 16 years

June 29, 2017 by Justin Churchill

The New England Revolution celebrate one of the team's two goals against D.C. United in the Round of 16 of the 2017 US Open Cup. Photo: David Silverman | New England Revolution — The New England Revolution celebrate one of the team’s two goals against D.C. United in the Round of 16 of the 2017 US Open Cup. Photo: David Silverman | New England Revolution

The New England Revolution used a strong mid-game surge to beat the visiting D.C. United on Wednesday night in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. The 2-1 victory sets up a quarterfinal match up against the New York Red Bulls in the Cup quarterfinals.

The visitors opened the scoring early on a seventh-minute strike from José Guillermo Ortiz. Following the goal, D.C. kept sustained pressure and frustrated the short-handed New England squad, which only dressed 17 players on the evening.

With a mere amount of time remaining in the first half, midfielder Diego Fagundez equalized the score, with a beautiful free kick in the 44th minute.

“I practiced it today and yesterday,” said Fagundez of his goal. “I told Chris (Tierney) and Farrell that I would score today. I had my chance and i’m glad I could take it.”

STUNNER. pic.twitter.com/6iOYVFKUI2

— NewEnglandRevolution (@NERevolution) June 29, 2017

Fagundez took his free kick from 20 yards out and curled it right past D.C. keeper Travis Worra.
With the two teams deadlocked at 1-1 at halftime, it didn’t take long for the Revs to take full advantage of the shift in momentum. Rookie forward Brian Wright scored his first professional goal for the go-ahead score in the 48th minute.

“It was a great effort from everybody, from start to finish.” New England coach Jay Heaps said. “We knew what we needed to do and we didn’t have a full bench because of injuries and callups.”

For New England, it was the first Open Cup win over United since the 2001 Semifinals when the Revs advanced and eventually finished as the tournament’s runner-up. This puts the Revolution into the Quarters for the fourth time in the last five years.

2017 US Open Cup Round 4: D.C. United pulls away late to end Christos FC’s Cinderella run (video)

June 13, 2017 by Beau Dure

D.C. United scored three late goals to pull away from Christos FC in the Fourth Round of the 2017 US Open Cup. Photo: D.C. United | Tony Quinn

The Johns Hopkins Hospital X-ray tech ran his heart out on the right wing. The former USL player and current ODP coach scored a wonder goal. The 30-year-old A/V equipment sales manager, older than most of the players on either side, nailed down central defense.

And fans of Daniel Baxter (X-rays), Mamadou Kansaye (ODP), Josh Taylor (A/V) and the rest of Baltimore amateur club Christos FC flocked to the Maryland SoccerPlex, some arriving early and some not making it through the long lines until late in the first half, when the only spaces for spectators were standing room along the concourses and in the bushes.

In the end, the amateurs put a good scare into D.C. United on Tuesday night, taking an early 1-0 lead and remaining tied through the 80th minute, but were unable to match Dallas Roma FC (2006) and Cal FC (2012) as regional amateur clubs who have knocked off an MLS side in US Open Cup play. Lloyd Sam and Julian Buescher combined for three goals as United rallied to win 4-1.

D.C. United overcame an early 1-0 deficit to defeat amateur side Christos FC 4-1 in the Fourth Round of the 2017 US Open Cup. Photo: D.C. United

“I thought it was pretty good up until the last 10 minutes,” said Christos FC co-coach and master of understatement Brian Bugarin.

The MLS side, starting a mix of regulars and reserves, pressed early on a sweltering night at the Plex, surely hoping their fitness would overwhelm a team that rarely trains. Sebastien Le Toux, the Modern Era’s all-time leading scorer, had two chances in the first three minutes.

But Christos, despite sitting back a bit, quickly equalized the shot count. Kaoru Forbess, a former indoor soccer pro and now a loan officer, had a well-placed header off a corner kick that forced United keeper Travis Worra to leap and punch it over.

“We didn’t get it in the first half,” said United coach Ben Olsen. “A few guys were off the pace for one reason or the other.”

Halfway through the first half, Christos unleased a dazzling series of passes on the right win, with Baxter heavily involved. It ended with a clattering in the arc and some testy face-to-face conversations.

Then Kansaye, a left back/midfielder from Mali who played for N.C. State, Maryland-Baltimore County and the Charlotte Independence (USL), calmly hit a dipping free kick over the seven-man wall and outside Worra’s grasp. The Christos-leaning crowd was thrilled.

@MenInBlazers this actually just happened. @ChristosFC has the lead on D.C. United in the #USOpenCup. Scenes. @davejsports this is nuts pic.twitter.com/RaRN4O5bSc

— GoonersInUSA Podcast (@GoonersinUSA) June 13, 2017

“It was good team play for us to get the ball up there,” Kansaye said. “I just saw an open shot. Thank the Lord, it went in.”

United stepped up the attack. Le Toux shot wide again. Another shot was deflected, forcing former Icelandic pro keeper Phil Saunders to punch it over, to the delight of some vocal fans in the crowd.

The class of Julian Buescher finally shone through for United. The German midfielder shrugged off a terrible giveaway and came back on the next possession with some deft close-quarters dribbling at the top of the box and finished cleanly to the far post for the equalizer in the 35th minute.

Christos had another good flurry late in the half, but then the pace of the game started to take a toll. Leading scorer Pete Caringi III, son of Maryland-Baltimore County coach Pete Caringi Jr., left the game in the first half. Kansaye cramped several times, once limping back on the field after getting permission to re-enter.

United piled on the pressure and brought in quality players off the bench. Ian Harkes entered the fray and had a steadying influence in midfield. Lloyd Sam brought fresh legs to the attack. Buescher remained the danger man, firing off a couple of blocked shots and incisive passes.

Christos FC celebrates their opening goal against D.C. United in their Fourth Round match in the 2017 US Open Cup. Photo: D.C. United | Tony Quinn

Christos managed one strong counterattack in the 69th minute, spraying the ball wide to 30-year-old fitness specialist Brian Graham. The winger played it into pesky attacker and sales representative Elton Joe, who collided with Worra. While Worra stayed down, United defender Jalen Robinson got a yellow card for shoving Joe, and Christos’ Levi Houapeu saw yellow as one of several Christos players to run to their teammate’s defense.

That play started the best spell for Christos in the second half, but after 80 minutes of challenging every United attacker, Christos finally lapsed on defense. Sam took advantage, sliding through the defense and finishing for the 2-1 lead.

Christos used its last sub to bring on Baltimore Celtic youth Geaton Caltabiano for the ailing Kansaye and putting him up front. United countered by bringing Ike Opare into the defense, replacing Bobby Boswell after the veteran went down.

But Sam set up Buescher for a clinching goal late. They pressed hard for a fourth goal in the 90th minute and had several shots blocked by Saunders and determined Christos defenders.

After Christos pressed at the other end, United countered, and Buescher dinked the ball back for Harkes to score a fourth. The announced four minutes of stoppage time weren’t over, but the referee halted proceedings at that point, like a UFC ref declaring a TKO.

For D.C. United, they have been competing in the Open Cup since winning it in the club’s inaugural season in 1996. In 49 games, United has only hit the four-goal mark one other time, and that came in a Second Round match against the Charleston Battery in 2000.

Christos players, though, took a lap of honor, saluting fans in all corners of the crowd of 5,286. That announced attendance was, by far, the biggest crowd to witness a US Open Cup game at that venue.

“Baltimore is such a big soccer town, but you rarely get anyone out on a Sunday afternoon. We hosted a national tournament and had 4-500 people, maybe,” Bugarin said.

Olsen didn’t mind that many of the fans in an alleged United home game were cheering for the underdog.

“Nah, it was great out there,” Olsen said with a relieved smile. “And I think the guys prefer it over playing some out-of-town team. Great supporters bring life.”

The final stats were predictably lopsided. United outshot Christos 30-7 and outpassed Christos 556-194, according to Opta.

But one stat stood out: Officially, Christos blocked nine shots.

“That’s Baltimore,” said Cody Albrecht, a defender and former D.C. United Academy player who has to be back at work at Northrop Grumman at 7:30 a.m. “We go hard for each other. Blocking shots, making tackles, doing the extra plays — that’s what make Baltimore teams Baltimore teams. I think that’s why we stayed in the game so long.”

Olsen was suitably impressed.

“I’m assuming as we grow as a soccer country that this is going to happen more and more. Better quality amateurs who can make this type of run. That’s what great about the Open Cup.”

2016 US Open Cup Round 4: Diego Restrepo helps Fort Lauderdale Strikers make history in PK win over DC United

June 17, 2016 by Jack Cumming

The Fort Lauderdale Strikers of the NASL narrowly escaped a reserve-filled DC United squad of Major League Soccer in a 4-3 penalty kick shootout. The game had to be decided from the penalty spot after 120 minutes of scoreless soccer at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Boyds, Maryland in the Fourth Round of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup on Wednesday.

It was a historic result for the Strikers as they eliminated a MLS team for the first time in club history (0-4-1, 1-0 PKs). It also marked the first time the Strikers advanced in an Open Cup game played on the road (0-5-2, 1-1 PKs).

With a second straight draw (and second straight penalty kick shootout win), they made an unfortunate bit of history as well. Fort Lauderdale broke the Modern Era record for longest winless streak. The seven-game winless streak began when they lost to the San Jose Earthquakes (MLS) in the Third Round of the 2012 US Open Cup. They won a PK shootout with the Laredo Heat (PDL) in the opening game of the 2013 tournament, but then lost three straight games (2013 Round 3 vs. FC Dallas … 2014 Round 3 vs. Laredo Heat … 2015 Round 3 at Charleston Battery) before this year’s back-to-back PK wins.

Fort Lauderdale was able to overcome an incredibly slow first half start and upend the favored MLS squad to the Fifth Round.

Lead by goalkeeper Diego Restrepo who earned TheCup.us Player of the Round by saving three out of four penalties against the Richmond Kickers (USL) in the previous round, Fort Lauderdale was able to capitalize on DC United’s limited chances on goal and force extra time. United, who’s first shot came in the 53rd minute by 16-year-old home grown player, Chris Durkin, could not seem to find any rhythm offensively against the strikers.

DC head coach Ben Olsen played a young and primarily reserve squad throughout most of the match. Sean Franklin was the lone regular season starter and captain during the first half, before being substituted by Taylor Kemp. It wasn’t until the 85th minute when Luciano Acosta replaced Durkin that two regular season starters were on the pitch at the same time.

Fort Lauderdale fielded a primarily first-team squad, including Jean-Marc Alexandre, a Haitian international, who returned to the match after competing in the Copa America Centenario. Goalkeeper Diego Restrepo proved to be an asset for the second consecutive week in cup play making eight saves including a penalty to cap a “cupset” to the next round.

The Strikers are only one of two teams that do not compete in MLS to advance to the Fifth Round of the Cup.

FULL MATCH REPLAY

Things you should know about the Third Round of the US Open Cup

May 27, 2016 by Chuck Nolan Jr.

Cal FC celebrate their goal in the first period of extra time. Photo: L.M. Parr | Portland Timbers — Cal FC celebrate their goal in the first period of extra time against the Portland Timbers of MLS. Photo: L.M. Parr | Portland Timbers

MORE: Notable upsets in the Third Round of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup

Since the expanded format in 1997, a USL League Two (formerly Premier Development League) team has failed to reach the Third Round just six times (1998, 2002, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2019). The recent struggles can be attributed to the fact that in 2007, the format was changed so that all non-MLS teams began the tournament in the First Round, unlike previous tournaments where USL League Two teams were matched up with other Open Division clubs. In more recent years, that format has been altered slightly where the First Round is exclusively Open Division clubs, with lower division pro teams entering in Round 2 and Round 3.

The biggest rout in the Third Round during the Modern Era came in 2014 when the Sacramento Republic (USL PRO) defeated the Fresno Fuego (PDL) 6-0.

In their 1998 Third Round match, Major League Soccer’s Tampa Bay Mutiny and the Worcester Wildfire of the A-League combined for nine cautions, and saw four players sent off. Tampa Bay won the match on penalties, after finishing extra time drawn 2-2.

The attendance record for the Third Round during the Modern Era is technically 20,376, which was set in 1999 by the Colorado Rapids when they hosted the Seattle Sounders (USL) at Mile High Stadium. The number of fans who actually watched the game is unknown because that game was part of a doubleheader with the U.S. Men’s National Team who were playing against English club Derby County. Since that game, the highest attendance in a Third Round game has been 17,212. This was set on May 29, 2012 at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, Utah when Real Salt Lake of MLS hosted the Minnesota Stars FC of the NASL. Unfortunately for the home team, they lost 3-1.

The highest scoring Modern Era Open Cup game occurred in the Third Round on July 19, 2005 when the Richmond Kickers (USL-1) defeated the Ocean City Barons (now the Ocean City Nor’easters of USL League Two) 8-4. The game was played at Sports Backers Stadium in Richmond, Va., a week after the original match was re-scheduled due to bad weather. The Barons scored first in the 4th minute, but Richmond stormed back with four goals in less than 20 minutes. With the score 4-1, Ocean City scored a pair of goals on either side of halftime to cut the lead to one. At that point, Neil Holloway, the Barons player/manager made some offensive-minded substitutions and pushed for the equalizer, but at that point, the flood gates opened and Richmond scored four more in the second half. The game would finish 8-4. The previous total goals record was shared by a pair of games. In 1995, the Seattle Sounders (A-League, now USL-1) defeated the Everett BigFoot (USISL Pro, now USL-2) 9-2 and in 1999 the San Diego Flash (A-League) cruised past the Arizona Sahuaros (D3 Pro, 3rd Division) by the same score.

In 2007, a record five MLS teams were upset in the Third Round, with only three clubs advancing to the next round. It was the fewest MLS teams to enter the Quarterfinals in the Modern Era (1995-present).

On five occasions, a pair of 3rd Division clubs have won Third Round games in the same tournament. In 2007, the Richmond Kickers (1-0 win vs. Los Angeles Galaxy) and the Harrisburg City Islanders (1-0 win vs. DC United) were victorious. Two years later, in 2009, the Wilmington Hammerheads won another Third Round match (their fourth) and with the Harrisburg City Islanders, they were the second pair of USL-2 teams to reach the Quarterfinals in the same season. In 2010, the City Islanders made it two years in a row, upsetting the New York Red Bulls 1-0 in overtime, while the Charleston Battery (who moved down to the 3rd Division after several years in the 2nd Division) eliminated the Chicago Fire of MLS in a penalty kick shootout after a scoreless draw. In 2012, with the expanded tournament (64 teams), three clubs from the 3rd Division reached Round 4. The Harrisburg City Islanders erased a 3-0 deficit in the second extra time period, forced penalty kicks and upset the New England Revolution. The Charlotte Eagles knocked off FC Dallas 2-0, while the Dayton Dutch Lions surprised the Columbus Crew by winning the first ‘Ohio Derby’ by a score of 2-1. In 2013, Orlando City SC upset their first MLS team, knocking off the Colorado Rapids 3-1, while the Charleston Battery upset the San Jose Earthquakes 1-0.

In 2014, seven 3rd Division clubs (USL PRO) and in 2015, 12 advanced past the Third Round, but this was largely due to a change in format where Major League Soccer didn’t enter the tournament until Round 4. In 2016, that number dropped to six.

In 2004, a Modern Era record four Open Division teams reached the Third Round. All four teams were from USL Leageu Two (PDL) and all four of them lost by a single goal (three of them by golden goal) in their Round 3 matches:

* Boulder Rapids Reserve lost to the Minnesota Thunder (A-League, Division II) 2-1 in sudden death extra time
* Carolina Dynamo lost to the Atlanta Silverbacks (A-League, Division II) 3-2 in sudden death extra time
* Cape Cod Crusaders lost to the Richmond Kickers (A-League, Division II) 1-0 in sudden death extra time
* Chicago Fire Reserves lost to the Rochester Raging Rhinos (A-League, Division II) 1-0 in regulation.

In 2013, that record was matched with four new teams:

* Ocean City Nor’easters (PDL) lost 2-1 at Philadelphia Union (MLS)
* Des Moines Menace (PDL) lost 2-0 at Sporting Kansas City (MLS)
* Reading United (PDL) lost 2-0 at New York Red Bulls (MLS)
* FC Tucson (PDL) lost 2-0 at Houston Dynamo (MLS)

In 2015, that record was broken with FIVE teams:

* Chattanooga FC (NPSL) lost 2-1 (AET) vs. Atlanta Silverbacks (NASL)
* Chula Vista (USASA) lost 7-3 at Sacramento Republic (USL)
* Jersey Express (PDL) lost 3-0 at New York Cosmos (NASL)
* PSA Elite (USASA) defeated Ventura County Fusion (PDL) 2-1 (1st all-Open Division Round 3 matchup)

In 2016, that number was up to SEVEN:

* Lansdowne Bhoys (USASA)
* Chattanooga FC (NPSL)
* Jersey Express (PDL)
* Des Moines Menace (PDL)
* La Maquina (USASA)
* LA Wolves FC (USASA)
* Kitsap Pumas (PDL)

In 2006, four more Open Division clubs reached Round 3, but for the first time, TWO of them advanced:

* Dallas Roma FC eliminated Chivas USA of MLS 4-2 in penalty kicks after playing to a scoreless draw to become the first USASA club to eliminate a Major League Soccer team.
* Carolina Dynamo defeated the Seattle Sounders (USL First Division, Division II) 3-2 after extra time
* Michigan Bucks lost to the Columbus Crew (MLS, Division I) 4-1
* Des Moines Menace lost to the Kansas City Wizards (MLS, Division I) 2-1

In 2014, due to an increase in Open Division entries and a change in format (most teams beginning in Round 2), a record 12 Open Division clubs reached the Third Round. Three of them advanced.

In 2012, for just the second time in the Modern Era, two Open Division teams advanced beyond Round 3, but both of them were particularly historic:

*The Michigan Bucks became just the fourth USL League Two (PDL) team to eliminate a Major League Soccer team when they defeated the Chicago Fire 3-2 in extra time at the Ultimate Soccer Arenas in Pontiac, Mich. With the win, they also became the first Open Division team to defeat multiple MLS teams in club history after they upset the New England Revolution in Foxboro, Mass. in 2000.

* Cal FC, a USASA club from Southern California managed by former US international Eric Wynalda, not only became the first USASA team to score a goal against a Major League Soccer team, but they became the first to defeat one. (Dallas Roma FC won their game in PKs, and therefore is officially a draw) Cal FC upset the Portland Timbers 1-0 in extra time at Jeld-Wen Field in Portland, Ore. Cal FC joined the Michigan Bucks as the only Open Division team to defeat an MLS team on the road, but the Bucks’ upset of New England in 2000 remains the only time an Open Division team has done it within 90 minutes.

In 2003, the Fresno Fuego (PDL) became the first Open Division team to win a Third Round game in the Modern Era (1995-present), upsetting the El Paso Patriots (A-League, Division II) by a score of 5-2.

Prior to 2014, only 12 3rd Division clubs have ever advanced beyond the Third Round. In 2015, seven NEW clubs advanced. San Antonio FC was the only new USL teams to accomplish that feat in 2016.

Wilmington Hammerheads (2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2016)
Harrisburg City Islanders (2007, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016)
Charleston Battery (2010, 2013, 2015)
Richmond Kickers (2007, 2011, 2014, 2015)
Charlotte Eagles (2012)
Dayton Dutch Lions (2012)
Orlando City SC (2013, 2014)
San Francisco Bay Seals (1997)
Rochester Rhinos (2014, 2015, 2016)
Pittsburgh Riverhounds (2014, 2015)
Arizona United SC (2014)
Seattle Sounders 2 (2015)
Charlotte Independence (2015)
Louisville City FC (2015)
Saint Louis FC (2015)
Oklahoma City FC Energy (2015, 2016)
Austin Aztex (2015)
Colorado Springs Switchbacks (2015, 2016)
Sacramento Republic (2014, 2015)
San Antonio FC (2016)

Note: The format of the 2014 US Open Cup changed so Major League Soccer teams didn’t begin the tournament until Round 4 to accommodate the increase in teams (80).

In the Modern Era, only 16 open division teams have advanced beyond the Third Round:

Fresno Fuego (2003, PDL)
Des Moines Menace (2005, PDL)
Dallas Roma FC (2006, USASA)
Carolina Dynamo (2006, PDL)
Cal FC (2012, USASA)
Michigan Bucks (2012, PDL)**
Orlando City U23s (2014, PDL)
Laredo Heat (2014, PDL)
PSA Elite (2014, USASA)
PSA Elite (2015, USASA)*
Kitsap Pumas (2016, PDL)
La Maquina (2016, USASA)*
Christos FC (2017, USASA)*
Miami United FC (2018, NPSL)*
NTX Rayados (2018, USASA)*
FC Golden State Force (2018, PDL)**
Orange County FC (2019, NPSL)

** Defeated a MLS team in Round 3
* Defeated an Open Division team in Round 3

Things you should know about the Second Round of the US Open Cup (Modern Era)

May 17, 2016 by Josh Hakala

FC Cincinnati fans cheer on their team during a Second Round match in the 2018 US Open Cup against Detroit City FC. Photo: Brett Hansbauer | 4th Floor Creative

In 2002, no team below the Second Division advanced beyond the Second Round.

The Modern Era (1995-present) record for single-game attendance is held by FC Cincinnati when they had an announced attendance of 12,790 at Nippert Stadium (University of Cincinnati) when they defeated AFC Cleveland (NPSL) 1-0 in extra time on May 17, 2017. The record for average attendance in the Second Round is 3,019 (16 games) from the 2001 tournament.

The El Paso Patriots recorded the biggest rout in the Second Round since 1995, defeating the Arizona Sahuaros 9-1 in 1998. Kirk Wilson scored three times to lead the Patriots. Matching the eight-goal margin, the most lopsided shutout came in 2001 when DC United of MLS trampled the New Jersey Stallions of the D3 Pro League 8-0.

Kiley Couch of Dallas Roma FC (left) challenges for the ball against Romario of Miami FC during their Second Round match during the 2006 US Open Cup. Photo: Dallas Roma FC

From 1996-2013, only three Open Division Local clubs won Second Round games. Bavarian SC defeated the Reading Rage (D-3 Pro League) 1-0 in the Second Round of 2003. Dallas Roma FC became the first USASA team to defeat a second division team when they eliminated Miami FC (USL First Division) 1-0 in 2006. Cal FC traveled across the country and upset the Wilmington Hammerheads of USL Pro (Div. 3 pro) 4-0 to reach Round 3 in 2013. However, in 2014, that mark was blown out of the water, as a record five Open Division Local teams reached the Third Round: New York Greek American Atlas (Region I), RWB Adria (Region II), North Texas Rayados (Region III), Des Moines Menace (Region II), and PSA Elite (Region IV) who advanced after the San Diego Flash forfeited. The reason for this increase was due, in large part, to the change in format which saw an increase to 80 teams, and an abbreviated opening round (8 games). Of this group, only RWB Adria and PSA Elite began in the First Round, so the rest of the teams only had to win one game.

Open Division teams winning Second Round games doesn’t happen often, but it’s not unheard of during the Modern Era. 41 USL League Two (formerly PDL) teams have made it to the Third Round in the Modern Era. The Flint City Bucks (formerly Michigan Bucks) have done it more than anyone else, advancing to Round 3 six times. 19 Open Division Local teams have reached the Third Round. The NPSL has had nine teams win Second Round games, with four of them all coming in 2018: Brooklyn Italians (2014), Chattanooga FC (2014, 2015, 2016), Elm City Express (2018), Miami United (2018), FC Wichita (2018), Jacksonville Armada (2018), Orange County FC (2019).

The US Soccer Federation increased the number of teams to 80 in 2014, creating the largest Second Round in the Modern Era (and quite possibly of all time) with 24 games on the schedule. One of the games was forfeited, and one was moved to May 13, leaving a record 22 games to be played on May 14. That record was broken as the tournament continued to expand in 2017 when there were 26 games played, and then again in 2022 when 31 games were on the schedule.

In 2013, a record four Open Division clubs advanced to Round 3. The following year, due to a change in format and an increase in amateur entries, 12 amateur clubs reached the Third Round, which remains a Modern Era record.

1997: Central Coast Roadrunners
1999: Mid-Michigan Bucks
2000: Mid-Michigan Bucks, Chicago Sockers
2001: Seattle Sounders Select
2003: Mid-Michigan Bucks, Fresno Fuego
2004: Chicago Fire Reserves, Cape Cod Crusaders, Boulder Rapids Reserves, Carolina Dynamo
2005: Ocean City Barons, Des Moines Menace
2006: Michigan Bucks, Des Moines Menace, Carolina Dynamo
2009: Ocean City Barons
2011: Chicago Fire PDL, Kitsap Pumas
2012: Michigan Bucks, Ventura County Fusion,
2013: Des Moines Menace, FC Tucson, Ocean City Nor’easters, Reading United AC
2014: Reading United AC, New York Greek American Atlas SC, RWB Adria, Orlando City U23s, Brooklyn Italians, Laredo Heat, North Texas Rayados, Fresno Fuego, PSA Elite, Baltimore Bohemians, Chattanooga FC, Des Moines Menace
2015: Chattanooga FC, Chula Vista FC, Jersey Express, PSA Elite, Ventura County Fusion
2016: Chattanooga FC, Des Moines Menace, Jersey Express, Kitsap Pumas, La Maquina, Lansdowne Bhoys FC, Los Angeles Wolves FC
2017: Chicago FC United, Christos FC, GPS Omens, Los Angeles Wolves FC, Michigan Bucks, Reading United AC
2018: Elm City Express, FC Golden State Force, FC Wichita, Jacksonville Armada FC, Miami United, Mississippi Brilla FC, NTX Rayados, Ocean City Nor’easters, Sporting AZ FC
2019: Florida Soccer Soldiers, Orange County FC

Updated after 2019 US Open Cup

2015 US Open Cup Round 5: Philadelphia Union overcome early red card, rally to beat DC United 2-1 (video)

June 30, 2015 by Michael Berton

The Philadelphia Union overcame a red card and a 45-minute weather delay to defeat DC United 2-1 in the Fifth Round of the US Open Cup on Tuesday night.

Second-half goals from Eric Ayuk and Fabinho erased a first-half strike by DC’s Jairo Arrieta. All three goals came after a questionable 24th-minute red card to CJ Sapong, who was given the card on a routine battle for a header. The referee deemed that Sapong led with his elbow and gave him a straight red card.

Union coach Jim Curtain said, “It’s a mistake by the referee for sure. It wasn’t a contentious game. made it a hard night for us.”

Arrieta scored just three minutes after the card. Miguel Aguilar made some nifty moves on the right side of the penalty box and crossed to a wide open Arrieta. The Costa Rican made no mistake, giving his team a 1-0 lead.

Even with the man disadvantage, the Union pushed forward. At times playing with all save the goalie in the offensive have of the field, Philadelphia put together a few close chances. The best chance came in the 42nd minute when Eric Ayuk’s was bobbled by DC keeper Andrew Dykstra. Andrew Wenger would have had a great chance on net on the rebound, but was offside.

The home side’s pressure meant DC could sit back and counter. Aguilar was dangerous down the right hand flank, and only last ditch defending kept the MLS leaders from scoring a second goal. The half came to an end nearly two hours after kickoff thanks to a 45-minute weather delay that stopped the game 14 minutes in.

Philadelphia kept up the pressure in the second half. In the 51st minute, Cristian Maidana played in Ayuk on the right, who crossed to a wide open Andrew Wenger in the middle of the box. Wenger’s shot somehow hit both posts before careening out of the penalty area.

Five minutes later, Ayuk got the goal that eluded Wenger. Sheanon Williams was played through on the left and crossed to Ayuk, who easily tapped home the equalizer.

In the 77th minute, it was second-half substitute Fabinho who put the Union up for good. Intricate passing between himself and Maidana eventually led to the Brazilian getting into the penalty area. Fabinho hit a screamer past DC keeper Andrew Dykstra to put the Union up 2-1.

With the early red card to Sapong, the Union were put in a strange situation of having to play Maidana, normally a creative attacker, in the target forward role. He was effective, playing a part in both goals.

“When your star striker goes out so early, it’s tough to burn a sub. We decided to let that group ride with it,” Curtain said.

With the win, the Union improve to 8-3-2 all-time in Open Cup play. Philadelphia will play the winner of the New York Red Bulls-New York Cosmos matchup in the Quarterfinals. If the Red Bulls win, the Union will travel to Red Bull Arena. Philadelphia will host if the Cosmos are the victors.

FULL MATCH REPLAY: DC UNITED AT PHILADELPHIA UNION

2015 US Open Cup Round 4: DC United pulls away in extra time, beats Pittsburgh Riverhounds 3-1 (video)

June 17, 2015 by John Krysinsky

UPDATE: The Round of 16 draw was conducted by the US Soccer Federation and it was determined that Philadelphia Union will host DC United in the next round.

The Pittsburgh Riverhounds took one of Major League Soccer’s top teams to the edge before a lively standing-room-only crowd Wednesday at Highmark Stadium, but fell to DC United, 3-1, in extra time in the Fourth Round of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

United needed two goals in extra time to advance past the United Soccer League’s Riverhounds.

“I’ve been involved with Open Cup games for what, 17, 18 years, this is what it looks like almost every time,” DC United head coach Ben Olsen said. “Their energy. Their quality. Their commitment. They gave us a heck of a fight tonight.”

Olsen’s team was fortunate that they were able to convert on set pieces in key moments.

“I’ve talked a lot with our guys about how are we going to get to the next level. And set pieces would be a big part of it,” Olsen said.

United opened the scoring early in the first half after each team traded attacking chances.

Luis Silva’s corner kick was redirected by Conor Doyle, freezing the Riverhounds defenders, and Facundo Coria broke into the box to easily pass the ball into the goal to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.

After a few more rugged minutes where the Riverhounds could not sustain any significant possession, Pittsburgh finally capitalized on a long ball sent into the attacking third. Opare was whistled for pushing Riverhounds midfielder Kevin Kerr in the box, giving the home side a penalty kick.

“I had some success early getting past the left back,” Kerr said. “I told our guys, keep sending it to me. I’ll chase it down where ever. I’ll work for it. Fortunately, for us, it paid off, as we got the penalty kick.”

That set the stage for Rob Vincent, the USL’s leading scorer, to net the equalizer, sending the crowd of more than 4,000 into a frenzy. It was Vincent’s third goal in as many Open Cup games this year, and his 12th in all competitions in 2015.

The Hounds kept attacking for the remainder of the first half, forcing several saves from Dykstra. Mike Green was at the center of many of those attacks, but his biggest contribution may have come on the defensive end.

Green headed the ball off the line just before halftime, denying Jalen Robinson in a play reminiscent of one made a few nights before against Sweden by US Meghan Klingenberg, a Pittsburg native, in the Women’s World Cup.

In the second half, DC made some adjustments — and began creating more quality chances, led by Miguel Aguilar. He got behind the Riverhounds defense a few times for some dangerous opportunities, but couldn’t finish.

“Our commitment was better,” Olsen said. “We started getting behind them a bit more. That opened more space and we were able to dictate the game more.”

Pittsburgh continued to press as well, but was unable to add to its goal tally.

The Riverhounds had to fight off a few dangerous corner kicks and crosses from United in the late stages of regulation, but managed to extend the game.

Just two minutes into overtime, Kofi Opare headed Jared Jeffery’s well-placed corner into the goal to give United a 2-1 lead.

Moments later, Aguilar drew a couple of Riverhounds defenders to the left side and served a nice ball into the center of the box for DeLeon, who finished with the United’s third goal via the air.

“They were so dangerous on set pieces,” Kerr said. “It does sting a bit, when you dominate for stretches, and still lose the game on set pieces.”

The loss was Pittsburgh’s first Open Cup loss at Highmark Stadium in six games since 2013, when scenic stadium opened on the banks of the Monongahela River.

FULL MATCH REPLAY: DC UNITED AT PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS

TheCup.us contest: Enter to win Seattle Sounders, Philadelphia Union Bethlehem Steel jerseys, DC United scarf

June 16, 2015 by Josh Hakala

UPDATE: We have winners! SEE BELOW

As we get ready for the signature round of the 102nd edition of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup we thought now is a great time to give back to our loyal readers.

In honor of the launching of our new website, the Seattle Sounders, Philadelphia Union and DC United have donated some great items from the last two US Open Cup championships. All you have to do is answer some US Open Cup trivia questions.

You are welcome to answer as many questions as you like. The more correct answers you have, the more entries you get into the drawing for the prizes. Do not submit or post your answers/guesses to social media. To answer the question, use our email form HERE

Here are the questions:

* Since the designated player era began in Major League Soccer in 2007, very few DPs have actually taken part in US Open Cup games. Who was the first designated player to score a goal in a US Open Cup game?

ANSWER: Claudio Lopez scored a goal for the Kansas City Wizards in the Third Round of the 2008 US Open Cup on an 82nd minute penalty kick which tied the game in a 4-2 extra time win over the Carolina RailHawks (USL First Division).

* Who holds the single-tournament record for assists in the Modern Era? (Hint: He’s works for a team that qualified for the 2015 US Open Cup)

ANSWER: Diego Serna of the Miami Fusion (MLS) dished out five assists during the 2000 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup, which still stands as a record. In reference to my hint, Serna was the head coach of Miami United that took part in the 2015 tournament

* Only four players have won back-to-back US Open Cup titles with two different teams in the Modern Era (1995-present). Name them. (Note: We’re including players who were on the team roster. We’re not limiting it to players who actually played in the Final.)

ANSWER: Ben Crawley (1995 Richmond Kickers, 1996 DC United), Brian Kamler (1995 Richmond Kickers, 1996 DC United), Richie Williams (1995 Richmond Kickers, 1996 DC United), Tom Soehn (1997 Dallas Burn, 1998 Chicago Fire)

* Who are the only players in the Modern Era who have scored multiple career goals in the US Open Cup Final?

ANSWER: Fredy Montero (2009, 2011) and Sanna Nyassi (2010) of the Seattle Sounders are the only two players to score more than one US Open Cup Final goals.

CONGRATS TO OUR WINNERS:

Mark De Haan from Zeeland, MI
James Shockley from Louisville, KY
Jason Klein from Madison, WI
James Coston from St. Louis, MO

#USOC2015

Fourth Round fun facts: Notable upsets, things you should know about Round 4

May 23, 2014 by Josh Hakala

Players from the Houston Dynamo (orange) and NTX Rayados battle for the ball in their Fourth Round match in the 2018 US Open Cup. Photo: Jose Castellanos | Prost Amerika

The US Open Cup has only had a Fourth Round (prior to the Quarterfinals) 12 times in the Modern Era (2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2012-22).

The first indoor game in US Open Cup history took place in the Fourth Round. On July 20, 2004, the Minnesota Thunder hosted the Los Angeles Galaxy at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minn. The Thunder upset the Galaxy that day 1-0, in front of 5,505 fans. Defender Chris Brunt scored the game-winning goal in the 21st minute.

No Open Division team in the Modern Era has ever advanced beyond the Fourth Round

Only 7 USL League Two (PDL) teams have advanced to the Fourth Round, all but one have faced MLS teams
2018: FC Golden State Force (lost 3-1 at Los Angeles Galaxy)
2016: Kitsap Pumas (lost 2-0 at Seattle Sounders FC)
2014: Laredo Heat (lost 1-0 at Houston Dynamo)
2014: Orlando City U23s (lost 3-0 at Portland Timbers)
2012: Michigan Bucks (lost 2-1 AET vs. Dayton Dutch Lions)
2006: Carolina Dynamo (lost 4-2 vs. Houston Dynamo)
2005: Des Moines Menace (lost 6-1 vs. Kansas City Wizards)
2003: Fresno Fuego (lost 3-1 vs. Los Angeles Galaxy)

Only 6 Open Division Local (USASA) teams have advanced to the Fourth Round
2018: NTX Rayados (lost 5-0 at Houston Dynamo)
2017: Christos FC (lost 4-1 at D.C. United of MLS)
2016: La Maquina (lost 4-1 AET at Los Angeles Galaxy of MLS)
2015: PSA Elite (lost 6-1 at Los Angeles Galaxy of MLS)
2014: PSA Elite (lost 5-0 at Seattle Sounders of MLS)
2012: Cal FC (lost 5-0 at Seattle Sounders of MLS)
2006: Dallas Roma FC (lost 2-0 at Los Angeles Galaxy of MLS)

Only 2 NPSL teams have advanced to the Fourth Round
2019: Orange County FC (lost 3-0 at Los Angeles Galaxy)
2018: Miami United FC (lost 3-0 vs. Orlando City SC)

In 2006, only teams from Major League Soccer emerged from the Fourth Round.

touray-harrisburg-vs-red-bulls-big — The Harrisburg City Islanders (USL Pro) won a Fourth Round game in 2012 by upsetting the New York Red Bulls 3-1 after extra time. Photo: Harrisburg City Islanders

The Chicago Fire did not lose a Fourth Round game until 2019 when they lost to Saint Louis FC. Prior to that, they had a 7-0-2 (2-0 PKs) record.

Major League Soccer began playing in the tournament in the Fourth Round for the first time in 2014 as part of an expanded format.

The attendance record in the Modern Era was set in 2013 when Sporting Kansas City (MLS) hosted Orlando City SC (USL PRO) at Sporting Park in front of an announced attendance of 15,981. Thanks to that figure, the record for Fourth Round average attendance was broken with 6,887 across the eight games. Sporting Kansas City later broke their own record in 2015 when they hosted and defeated Saint Louis FC (USL) 1-0 on June 16, 2015 in front of an announced crowd of 19,298. FC Cincinnati shattered that record in 2017 when they drew 30,160 to Nippert Stadium to watch them upset the Columbus Crew (MLS), 1-0.

In 2014, with Major League Soccer not entering the tournament until Round 4, a record three amateur teams (Laredo Heat, Orlando City U23s, PSA Elite) advanced beyond the Third Round, followed by five amateur teams reaching the Fourth Round in 2015.

Notable upsets in the Fourth Round

2003: Wilmington Hammerheads (PSL) 4:1 Dallas Burn (MLS)
2003: Seattle Sounders (A-League) 1:0 San Jose Earthquakes (MLS)
2004: Charleston Battery (A-League) 1:0 Metrostars (MLS)
2004: Rochester Raging Rhinos (A-League) 1:1 New England Revolution (MLS) (ROC advances on PKs 3-1)
2004: Richmond Kickers (PSL) 2:1 DC United (MLS)
2004: Minnesota Thunder (A-League) 1:0 Los Angeles Galaxy (MLS)
2005: Rochester Raging Rhinos (USL-1) 3:1 Metrostars (MLS)
2005: Minnesota Thunder (USL-1) 4:1 Colorado Rapids (MLS)
2006: None
2012: Harrisburg City Islanders (USL PROro) 3:1 (AET) New York Red Bulls (MLS)
2012: Charlotte Eagles (USL PRO) 2:1 (AET) San Antonio Scorpions (NASL)
2013: Carolina RailHawks (NASL) 3:1 (AET) Chivas USA (MLS)
2013: Orlando City SC (USL PRO) 1:0 Sporting Kansas City (MLS)
2014: Atlanta Silverbacks (NASL) 2:1 Real Salt Lake (MLS)
2014: Carolina RailHawks (NASL) 1:1 (3:2 PKs) Chivas USA (MLS)
2014: New York Cosmos (NASL) 3:0 New York Red Bulls (MLS)
2014: Rochester Rhinos (USL) 1:0 DC United (MLS)
2015: Charlotte Independence (USL) 1:0 New England Revolution (MLS)
2015: New York Cosmos 2:2 (4:3 PKs) New York City FC (MLS)
2016: New York City FC (MLS) 0:1 New York Cosmos (NASL)
2016: D.C. United (MLS) 0:0 (3:4 PKs) Fort Lauderdale Strikers (NASL)
2017: Columbus Crew (MLS) 0:1 FC Cincinnati (USL)
2017: Miami FC (NASL) 3:1 Orlando City SC (MLS)
2017: Sacramento Republic FC (USL) 4:1 Real Salt Lake (MLS)
2018: Louisville City FC (USL) 3:2 New England Revolution (MLS)
2018: Nashville SC (USL) 2:0 Colorado Rapids (MLS)
2018: Sacramento Republic FC (USL) 2:1 (AET) Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)
2019: Saint Louis FC (USL-C) 2:1 Chicago Fire (MLS)
2019: Colorado Rapids (MLS) 2:2 (2:4 PKs) New Mexico United (USL-C)
2022: None