Since the expanded format in 1997, a PDL team has failed to reach the third round only four times (1998, 2002, 2007, 2008). 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 PDL teams were matched up with USASA or other PDL clubs.
Everett BigFoot
2008 Semifinals: Battery beat Sounders in PKs to reach first Open Cup Final
The Charleston Battery earned a place in the US Open Cup Final for the first time in club history after winning a penalty kick shootout with the Seattle Sounders in the Semifinals. The Battery are the first non-MLS team to advance to the Final since the Rochester Raging Rhinos won the tournament in 1999.