2019 US Open Cup

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

December 3, 2018 by Robert Wilson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jim Coppock also contributed to this report

FC Denver Starters

U# First Last

14 Alex Bernhardt

3 Cesar Castillo

17 Tyler Chauncey

8 Kyle Crouse

6 Marco Escobar

5 Peter Jacobson

11 Fernando Magallenes

12 Joel Miller

1 Michael Moberg

4 Nabil Odulate

7 Lashaw Salta

Bench

19 Ryan Bernhardt (dnp)

13 Paul Hogan

9 Troy Hudson (dnp)

2 John Lister

18 Drew Melin (dnp)

20 Jacob Peterson (dnp)

16 Christian Weaver

Gam United Starters

U# First Last

10 Ajok Gai Abiar

9 Nana Boakye

17 Inza Cisse

4 Karrar Fouad

1 Prince Goma

3 Emmanuel Gymafi

12 Saad Hissein

22 Ibraheem Latona

47 Michael Sarpong

2 Karim Soumah

24 Carson Swope

Bench

20 Francis Afropong (dnp)

24 Sajjad Alfatlawi (dnp)

7 Alex Amador

19 Solomon Appiah

27? Francis Appio (dnp)

11 Brice Goma

18 Kodzovi Woglo (dnp)

Scoring Summary

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

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

27 FCD 3-Cesar Castillo free kick

39 GAM 47-Michael Sarpong Assist:

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

Substitutions

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

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

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

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

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

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

Disciplinary

GAM 60’ Yellow 9-Nana Boakye

GAM 72’ Yellow 4-Karra Fouad

GAM 90+ Yellow 1-Prince Goma

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

November 25, 2018 by Josh Hakala

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NORTHEAST REGION

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

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

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

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

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

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

#GameUpdate. Concluding the end of the first half World Class is up 2 goals. #2-0 #usopencup #goals #playtherightway #mensleague pic.twitter.com/aHt1xavBKZ

— World Class Premier (@Worldclassprem) November 18, 2018

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

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

Victory picture @anfeeu #usoc2019 #usopencup pic.twitter.com/1pxVHap3Or

— VA UNITED (@VAUNITED2) November 20, 2018

SOUTHEAST REGION

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

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

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

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

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

CENTRAL REGION

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

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

Maritsa wins it on PKs 6-5 pic.twitter.com/GYUmIHHfT3

— Livonia City F.C. (@LivoniaCityFC) November 18, 2018

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

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

MOUNTAIN REGION

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

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

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

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

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA REGION

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

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

Two golazos in overtime by Max Rico and Xavier Corona got us the win in #USOC2019 qualifying. Watch Max Rico (SAN) score this goal on Santa Ana Winds vs Buena Park FC on @mycujoo https://t.co/k5PRobt52R

— Santa Ana Winds FC (@Winds_FC) November 18, 2018

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

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

WEST REGION

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

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

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

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

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

November 24, 2018 by Paul Blackman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

November 21, 2018 by Josh Duder

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

Used with permission from Protagonist Soccer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

November 21, 2018 by Wolveridge Langan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Congrats guys!!! #thatwinthough? #usopencup #worldclasspremierelite #wcpe #wecametowin? #playingtherightway pic.twitter.com/9B3kaQDesZ

— World Class Premier (@Worldclassprem) November 18, 2018

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

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

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

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

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

November 21, 2018 by Omar Avalos

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Two golazos in overtime by Max Rico and Xavier Corona got us the win in #USOC2019 qualifying. Watch Max Rico (SAN) score this goal on Santa Ana Winds vs Buena Park FC on @mycujoo https://t.co/k5PRobt52R

— Santa Ana Winds FC (@Winds_FC) November 18, 2018

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

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

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

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3: Southwest FC’s early start sparks win over San Juan FC

November 21, 2018 by Phil Baki

On what was a cold night in the West Texas town of El Paso, Southwest FC emerged victorious by a score of 3-0 over San Juan FC of Utah in the Open Division Local Qualifying tournament for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. SWFC’s captain, David Lopez, set the tone with a goal and an assist from his left back position and the team’s ability to convert timely chances, if not all of their chances, put the result beyond doubt. The win could mean SWFC’s first Open Cup berth, but that celebration will be on hold for just a bit.

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

If Southwest FC ultimately does qualify, they would be just the third El Paso club (El Paso Patriots, El Paso Indios USA) to qualify for the tournament, but they would be the first one that wasn’t a part of the PDL or the NPSL.

Southwest FC got off to a lightning fast start for the second straight Open Cup game, opening the scoring after just two minutes through a combination of high pressure, quick passing, and a clinical finish at the end. It was Cesar Sosa, playing up top for SWFC who supplied the cool, left-footed finish.

The approach looked familiar, with their first goal against Sporting AZ in the Second Qualifying Round coming from similar early pressure.

“I think every game is different and we prepare for each differently … but the approach of Sporting and San Juan were similar so we saw it might work,” said SWFC manager Endy Gonzalez.

San Juan followed with a quick chance off a long throw, with Elias Dandi striking the post with a glancing header that nearly caught SWFC out. From there, the strategy for SWFC shifted, opting for control and looking for their opportunities to get forward and attack San Juan, who had chosen to sit back for much of the first half.

This led to a period of about 25 minutes where chances were hard to come by for either team. However, SWFC struck again in the 35th minute. A break down the right hand side eventually fed Sosa again, who was able to find David Lopez at the far post. Lopez made no mistake, smashing the ball into the upper left-hand corner and sending SWFC into the break with a two-goal advantage.

The break served San Juan well and they came out snarling in the second half. The visitors from Utah were the better side after the interval and threatened to dent SWFC’s lead.

Still it was the El Paso side that threatened first, with Alexis Gomez forcing a save from San Juan’s Juan Parente with a curling effort from the right side of the area. San Juan maintained pressure though and Dandi struck the post with the visitors best chance of the game.

As the game entered its final half hour, both teams made a few substitutions. SWFC won the tactical battle, as they earned a free kick on the left wing. The captain Lopez stepped up to take and delivered a free kick that evaded the defense and recent sub Mario Ramirez powered home the finish to give SWFC the 3-0 lead and put the game out of reach for San Juan.

The Utah club did not go quietly, as they tested Daniel Medina in the SWFC goal a number of times. The last 10 minutes was mainly San Juan knocking on the SWFC goal and then being immediately countered by the fresh substitutes down either flank. This sequence of punches and counterpunches saw the clock run to ninety minutes and SWFC claimed the well-deserved victory.

The US Open Cup has many instances where teams who are not familiar with each other have to adapt. This particular matchup was the first between these teams and SWFC was able to grab that early advantage that sent San Juan searching for solutions. This adaptability could serve SWFC well as they progress further in the competition.

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3: America SC holds off Soda City Sorinex to advance

November 21, 2018 by Joshua Taylor

In an exciting match at West Orange High School in Winter Garden, Fla., America Soccer Club of the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) managed to hang on for a 2-1 victory over the South Carolina-based Soda City FC Sorinex.

With the win, ASC moves on to the Fourth Round of qualifying as they attempt to qualify for the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup for the first time in club history.

At the beginning of the match, Soda City had chances early on but ASC goalkeeper Joao Bolizan made saves early to keep ASC in the match. In the 12th minute, the captain for Soda City, Driss Bareket, put his team on the board as he converted on a deflection from a corner kick.

America Soccer Club returned the pressure and created chances but weren’t able to capitalize until they got some help from Soda City. In the 25th minute, City were called for a foul in the box and the referee pointed to the spot for a penalty kick for ASC. Pedro Toblas converted the PK as he blasted the shot past Soda City goalkeeper Camillo Agudelo to tie the match 1-1.

ASC was able to build some momentum later in the first half as both teams fought to take the lead before the halftime break. In the 44th minute, William Eyang of ASC received a cross from distance and buried it past Agudelo to give his club the lead heading into the locker room.

In the second half, it was a battle as both teams got physical and had many chances but couldn’t convert. In the 80th minute, Soda City midfielder, Graham Jermstad, had a free kick opportunity but he hit it straight at the keeper. Later, in stoppage time, Soda City was given a corner kick but their shot attempt went wide as they were inches from tying the match.

The referee blew the final whistle to seal the deal for coach Marcos Borges and his America Soccer Club, which extended their unbeaten streak to 10 matches in all competitions. After the match, he talked about how he admired how both teams played hard until the end and was proud of how his team bounced back after being down a goal early. While he was disappointed that his team didn’t put away some early chances, he was happy their they kept fighting and advanced to Round 4.

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3: FC Maritsa braves cold, beats Livonia City in PKs

November 20, 2018 by David Hebestreit

Players from FC Maritsa and Livonia City FC battle for the ball during their 2019 US Open Cup qualifier. Photo: Nyle Ellis @nyleellis_

FC Maritsa’s Rob Acosta converted the seventh, and final, kick from the spot at Schoolcraft College Saturday night, after 120 minutes of scoreless play in the regulation and overtime periods, to propel the St. Louis club past Livonia City FC in a Third Round Open Division Local Qualifying match for the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

With the 7-6 shootout decision, FC Maritsa advances to the next round of the US Open Cup, which brings them one step closer to qualifying for the tournament for the first time in club history. If they are able to accomplish that, they would become the first amateur team from Missouri to qualify since the KC Athletics in 2010.

The game started with both teams struggling to find their style. Then, in the 18th minute, City’s Pat Smith and Maritsa’s Josh Ward collided in a clean 50/50 tackle along the fans’ sideline. Ward immediately grabbed for his lower leg and was in distress. After a 28-minute delay for paramedics to arrive and care for Ward, play resumed and things started to open up. FC Maritsa later confirmed that Ward broke his tibia and after multiple surgeries, he is expected to be on the sidelines for a few months.

The two sides were a contrast in styles of play, Maritsa controlling most of the tempo with short passing and movement off the ball in small spaces. City played a bit more direct, often trying to beat the backline with one pass, or looking to build on counter attacks.

In the shootout, City got things started when Gavin Cameron calmly stroked the ball to the right of the keeper for the 1-0 lead. Maritsa answered when Lucas Almeida blistered one into the upper-90 to the right of the keeper. The teams went back-and-forth for another five penalty kicks each, just as they had for 120 minutes of the match, nothing separating them. In the seventh round, though, City’s Matt McCourt hit his penalty kick over the bar to give Maritsa hope. Center back Rob Acosta stepped up and drilled the ball into the corner to seal the deal and send Maritsa into celebration mode.

Maritsa wins it on PKs 6-5 pic.twitter.com/GYUmIHHfT3

— Livonia City F.C. (@LivoniaCityFC) November 18, 2018

Maritsa coach Stefan St. Louis asserted, “I can’t say enough about the guys. It feels good to have put in so much, and then to get rewarded like this right at the end, with the last kick. It feels great. I have to give credit to Livonia ; they are a Michigan team and they came and played hard. But, we think this is the one that gets us into the open cup proper, though.”

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

Essentially, there was no separation between the two sides. In the 120 minutes of action, there weren’t many clear chances. Each team had a shot glance off the crossbar, and Livonia City had a couple sitters early in the match that they hit wide of the target. But, it was a controlled and evenly matched affair all night long.

Martisa’s best chance came relatively early. After a 12th minute corner kick found Selmer Ademovic in the box, the attempt beat City keeper Alex Dubetz, but defender Billy Werthmann headed the effort away from the goal line.

In the 42nd minute, Dubetz received a yellow card after intentionally handling the ball outside the box in the one serious breach of the City backline in the first half. The ensuing free kick by Maritsa’s Almeida struck the crossbar, preserving the tie game.

City’s Kosay Zaya had a clear chance in second half stoppage time, but his strike was turned aside by the goalkeeper Blake Westerman, who got two strong hands to parry it away from harm. Westerman is an experienced netminder who spent time playing indoor soccer for the St. Louis Ambush.

For FC Maritsa, Vadim Cojocov, Luis Costa, and Timothy Menzel controlled the midfield, playing in and out of the target players and effectively switching the ball to the flanks to probe the attack.

For City, Vince Bruno and Matt Versteeg evened out the Martisa possession from their central defender spots. Maritsa was able to hold possession in and around the City penalty area; but they were not able to break the backline down, as Bruno and Versteeg stayed organized and defended confidently.

While it was cold for Livonia City’s first-ever US Open Cup home game, the wind and snow that had threatened earlier in the week held off, which helped bolster the crowd of more than 100 supporters.

Bench is all set for our friends @stlmaritsafc personalized goodie bags for the away team! As well as a propane heater for a cold Michigan night! @opencup / @usopencup pic.twitter.com/2GVfr4y2Ob

— Livonia City F.C. (@LivoniaCityFC) November 17, 2018

City coach Gaven King said, “I am proud of the team. are the best competition we’ve played yet, along with Quinto Elemento. We had plenty of chances of our own. I am not upset about the loss, though disappointed for the team and fans that we won’t advance.”

FC Martisa co-owner and general manager Alexander Todorov said his club has come a long way.

“This is a great night for us,” said Todorov. “We started out as a pick-up team, then, paying our dues in the Sunday leagues six or seven years ago, worked our way up and into the UPSL and now the Open Cup, I am sure similar to what done here. We’re a small club, so this is a great event for us.”

FC Maritsa now looks to the Spring when they will gear up for not only UPSL league play, but also another US Open Cup match. Whether that will be a Fourth Round qualifier or the US Open Cup proper, that remains to be seen. Regardless, the little club from St. Louis continues to make its way around the region in support of its dream of US Open Cup glory.

2019 US Open Cup Qualifying Round 3: Safira FC’s late equalizer leads to PK win over GPS Omens

November 20, 2018 by Savahna Reuben

Safira FC celebrate after they advance with a 7-6 PK shootout win (2-2 draw) over GPS Omens in the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying tournament. Photo: Chris Aduama | Aduama.com

At 12:35 p.m. on a cold, cloudy afternoon in the south of Boston, GPS Omens and Safira FC kicked off for the third qualifying round of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

The Omens went up early with a goal by former Rochester Rhinos player Stefan Defregger. In the 31st minute, Safira answered, and Vander Luiz Bellettini was able to bury a rebound off GPS keeper’s initial cross-net save. In the 74th minute, similar to their first goal, GPS scores on a through ball from Smriko to Defregger. As the clock ran out, with just a minute to play, an unmarked Safira Vidal tied up the game 2-2 off another saved deflection. Overtime saw shared possession, multiple shots, and big saves from the keepers. But ultimately, this game went to penalty kicks, where Safira outlasted GPS 7-6 to advance.

Safira FC now move themselves one step closer to qualifying for the US Open Cup for the first time, while GPS is denied a shot at qualifying for the fifth time in the last seven years.

For the first 10 minutes of play, Safira FC dominated possession with no shot attempts. But in the 10th minute, Omens’ Harris Smriko stripped the ball in the midfield to play Stefan Defregger in between two defenders for a one-on-one with the keeper. He finished to the back post and put GPS up 1-0 early.

Omens showed some life after the goal with their midfield winning 50-50 balls and putting immediate pressure on the Safira backline, finding Pat Murray, Jake Johnson and Defregger in and around the 18. But an organized Safira stayed tight and organized, leaving the Omens with little space to take shots.

Twenty minutes in, Safira found some connections up the left flank with combination play getting Vander Luiz Bellettini up into the attack. In the 21st minute, left forward Hugo Bomfim gave Safira their best opportunity thus far from 22 yards out, kicking a hard, low driven shot off the dribble-but GPS goalkeeper Jason Katz tipped it out, hitting the post and giving the ball to the Omens back line to clear.

The goalkeeper for Safira FC, Patrick Vilela makes a save in the PK shootout against GPS Omens in the 2019 US Open Cup Qualifying tournament. Photo: Chris Aduama | Aduama.com

In similar Safira fashion, a strong GPS backline anchored by Harry Copeland and Brill Samuel with Jake Edwards and Pumelele Maqubela on the flanks controlled multiple challenges from Safira forwards. With two strong Safira corners, Katz made two impressive saves tipping the first over the net and coming up big in the air off his line to make the catch for the second half way though the first half.

Safira continued to put heavy pressure on the Omens, with a dangerous counter attack opportunity by Safira’s Lage Silva finding the forward in, but the Omens back line was able to clear the ball out of trouble. Shortly after, Safira’s Carvalho slotted the ball with great pace as Katz dove across the entirety of goal line to redirect the ball with his fingertips to the opposite side. An unmarked Safira left back, Bellittini, came in with force to drive the ball to the back of the net, tying up the game 1-1 in the 31st minute.

With nine minutes left in the first half, Omens had a good opportunity with Defregger stealing a mishandled ball from Safira’s midfield, leaving a shot opportunity for Pat Murray that he kicked wide of the net. In the 42nd minute, Safira had yet another opportunity to put pressure on Katz, who redirected a ball and made a nice save on an incoming shot to alleviate the pressure. Destin Pierrot made a slide tackle on the counter attack and stayed down with an injury as the clock ran out on the half. He was able to remain in the game.

At the half, the score was tied 1-1. Safira looked confident, playing aggressive soccer and getting the vast majority of calls in their favor. The Omens regrouped, addressing their multiple opportunities and a need to convert.

With the second half underway, Safira applied pressure right out the gate with Bomfim forcing Katz to make a full extension dive, getting both hands on the ball and keeping Safira at bay.

As the half rolled on, possession was even, but the Omens struggled to move the ball upfield. GPS Scott Prozeller and Jake Hyland provided some composure in the midfield to connect lines.

With 32 minutes to play, Safira had a pair of corners beautifully placed in the box. Katz once again came up big, owning his box and punching both balls out of danger. The Omens countered, but Safira keeper Vilela was able to force Defregger to take an early shot, and the ball was blocked by a Safira defender.

Both teams continued to create chances and both back lines weathered dangerous storms. On a counter attack, the Omens’ Smriko sent a cross in to Defregger, who had a well-placed flick-on header to Jake Johnson. Johnson, who dominated field coverage as a defender, placed a shot deep to the far corner. Safira keeper Vilela dove, making a great save to deflect the ball off frame for a GPS corner. Just minutes later, GPS was able to slot the ball through two Safira defenders leaving GPS’ Derek Stenquist with a one-on-one opportunity. But Vilela was able to come up with a big save to keep Safira in the game.

In the 74th minute, Omens’ Smriko was able to push the ball up through the midfield and play to Defregger, who had a quality finish to put the Omens up 2-1. After scoring, GPS showed composure on the ball, maintaining a steady attack and looking for another goal.

In the 92nd minute, Vidal beat his defender and was one-on-one with the GPS goalkeeper. Katz was able to force Vidal to shoot early, and he deflected the ball out making the save. But Vidal stayed hunting and, still unmarked, finished into the top corner for the equalizer to keep Safira’s hopes alive. After one last corner opportunity for Safira, the match moved to extra time.

Overtime consisted of nearly even possession. As the referees strived to maintain control of an aggressive game, hard tackles from Safira gave the Omens foul opportunities in key spots across the pitch. A yellow card is issued to Safira’s Geovane Silva. With 10 minutes left to play in the first half of extra time, the Omen’s Harry Copeland hustled to close empty space and deflect a dangerous Safira cross to keep the Omens out of trouble.

In the second half of extra time, GPS dominated possession on Safira’s half of the field. With multiple opportunities for the Omens, Safira was able to buckle down and keep them from converting. Two big saves from Vilela and Katz left their teams in the game with minutes to play.

In the final seconds, Edwards found Copeland for a great chance header to the opposite corner. But Safira’s Vilela made a terrific save, coming up with a catch. On the last play of extra time, Safira earned a corner and played a trick ball short to get a shot off. Katz once again comes off his line to make a big save and send the ball long for a last ditch attempt at a goal. GPS couldn’t convert and the whistle blew to send the match into a penalty kick shootout.

PK Shootout Summary

GPS: Scott Prozeller (Saved)
Safira: De Almedia Correia (Goal)
GPS: Defregger (Goal)
Safira: Bomfim (Goal)
GPS: Hyland (Goal)
Safira: Teixeira (Miss)
GPS: Edwards (Saved)
Safira: De Matos (Goal)
GPS: Smriko (Goal)
Safira: Guimaraes (Miss)
GPS: Stenquist (Goal)
Safira: Andrade (Goal)
GPS: Pumelele (Saved)
Safira: Vidal (Saved)
GPS: Samuel (Goal)
Safira: Bermudez (Goal)
GPS: Copeland (Goal)
Safira: Vilela (Goal)
GPS: Abdu (Miss)
Safira: Bellitinis (Goal)

After 10 rounds of penalty kicks, Safira would prevail, 7-6.

Safira FC manager Andre Ferriera kept his team motivated through full time, extra time and PKs by telling his players to remain focused, and appreciate a second chance.

“After the late goal in the game, I told my team before extra time, ‘You have been given a second chance by the soccer gods!’ and we can’t waste a second chance,” said Ferriera. “Then when we go to PKs, I said it again, ‘we’ve been given another chance by the soccer gods, but anything can happen in PK’s, so we have to do our job and finish the ball.’”

He also commended GPS on their dedicated play, praising, “They’re a really good team. Any team could have won this game. If a mistake is made by a team, a goal is scored, because this is the level of play. Either team would have represented Massachusetts very well.”

Looking forward to their next Open Cup game in the spring, Ferreira smiled, “For now, we have time to rest up and get ready for the next round.”

Maggie Crowe also contributed to this report