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LAS VEGAS, Nev. (August 25, 2020) – Under a setting sun and with a desert breeze blowing across the pitch, OC kicked off at Cashman Field. OC were calm and comfortable, keeping possession and patiently moving forward.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (August 25, 2020) – Under a setting sun and with a desert breeze blowing across the pitch, OC kicked off at Cashman Field. OC were calm and comfortable, keeping possession and patiently moving forward.

Orange County won an early penalty after Brian Iloski was clattered at the edge of the Las Vegas box by José Carrera. Aodhan Quinn stepped up and calmly placed his shot into the left corner to give OC the early lead.

Two minutes later, Las Vegas threatened with their first chance of the night. Johnny Fenwick headed a deflected cross towards goal, but Frederik Due easily caught the Englishman’s attempt.

In the 18th minute, after a series of corners for the hosts, Ramon Martin del Campo scored on a header to level the scoreline. Headed crosses would continue to be the main method by which Vegas would attack, with Carrera heading over from close range four minutes later.

Both sides grew more confident as the first half continued, but neither side really challenged on target until the 42nd minute. Burgos dispossessed Danny Finlayson and took a shot from distance, but Due did well to move across goal and parry the ball away.

After three added minutes, the half ended 1-1.

OC didn’t waste time attacking after the restart. Iloski forced a great save from Lalo Delgado to keep the scoreline level in the 47th minute. Iloski continued his reign of terror over the Vegas defense by goading Grant Robinson into a booking. Quinn and Okoli combined on the ensuing free kick, but Delgado again gathered for the hosts.

A moment later, Rashawn Dally threatened for Vegas, but the forward blasted his shot off of Orozco and the ball sailed over the crossbar for a corner that was easily defended.

After 10 minutes of back and forth play, Vegas had another chance after Kevin Alston conceded a foul at the edge of the Orange County box. This time it was Fenwick perched over the ball, and Due dove to his left to make another great save.

Darwin Jones was the first change of the night, with the winger coming on for Edson Alvarado. On the other side, Mobi Fehr replaced Noah Billingsley.

In the 66th minute, Frederik Due collided with Rashawn Dally and conceded a penalty, but the Dane was undeterred and saved Burgos’ low effort.

Robbie Kiernan and Kevin Coleman then came on for Orange County, replacing Kobe Henri and Cammy Palmer, respectively. For the hosts, Blake Frischknecht replaced Burgos. A few moments later, Seth Moses and Jaidenn Waggoner came on for Grant Robinson and Jordan Murrell.

Blake Frischknecht scored for Las Vegas six minutes before time, giving the hosts the lead.

Orange County won an early penalty after Brian Iloski was clattered at the edge of the Las Vegas box by José Carrera. Aodhan Quinn stepped up and calmly placed his shot into the left corner to give OC the early lead.

Two minutes later, Las Vegas threatened with their first chance of the night. Johnny Fenwick headed a deflected cross towards goal, but Frederik Due easily caught the Englishman’s attempt.

In the 18th minute, after a series of corners for the hosts, Ramon Martin del Campo scored on a header to level the scoreline. Headed crosses would continue to be the main method by which Vegas would attack, with Carrera heading over from close range four minutes later.

Both sides grew more confident as the first half continued, but neither side really challenged on target until the 42nd minute. Burgos dispossessed Danny Finlayson and took a shot from distance, but Due did well to move across goal and parry the ball away.

After three added minutes, the half ended 1-1.

OC didn’t waste time attacking after the restart. Iloski forced a great save from Lalo Delgado to keep the scoreline level in the 47th minute. Iloski continued his reign of terror over the Vegas defense by goading Grant Robinson into a booking. Quinn and Okoli combined on the ensuing free kick, but Delgado again gathered for the hosts.

A moment later, Rashawn Dally threatened for Vegas, but the forward blasted his shot off of Orozco and the ball sailed over the crossbar for a corner that was easily defended.

After 10 minutes of back and forth play, Vegas had another chance after Kevin Alston conceded a foul at the edge of the Orange County box. This time it was Fenwick perched over the ball, and Due dove to his left to make another great save.

Darwin Jones was the first change of the night, with the winger coming on for Edson Alvarado. On the other side, Mobi Fehr replaced Noah Billingsley.

In the 66th minute, Frederik Due collided with Rashawn Dally and conceded a penalty, but the Dane was undeterred and saved Burgos’ low effort.

Robbie Kiernan and Kevin Coleman then came on for Orange County, replacing Kobe Henri and Cammy Palmer, respectively. For the hosts, Blake Frischknecht replaced Burgos. A few moments later, Seth Moses and Jaidenn Waggoner came on for Grant Robinson and Jordan Murrell.

Blake Frischknecht scored for Las Vegas six minutes before time, giving the hosts the lead.

Orange County committed men forward, but couldn’t find an equalizer. Las Vegas struck again on the breakthrough Junior Sandoval in the 92nd minute.

After six minutes of added time, Orange County SC suffered their first loss of 2020.

 

Scoring:

0-1: 12’ Aodhan Quinn (penalty)

1-1: 18’ Ramon Martin del Campo (Junior Burgos)

2-1: 84’ Blake Frischknecht (Rashawn Dally)

3-1: 92’ Junior Sandoval (Rashawn Dally)

 

Discipline:

52’: (LV) Gabe Robinson (yellow)

62’: (LV) Johnny Fenwick (yellow)

Orange County committed men forward, but couldn’t find an equalizer. Las Vegas struck again on the breakthrough Junior Sandoval in the 92nd minute.

After six minutes of added time, Orange County SC suffered their first loss of 2020.

 

Scoring:

0-1: 12’ Aodhan Quinn (penalty)

1-1: 18’ Ramon Martin del Campo (Junior Burgos)

2-1: 84’ Blake Frischknecht (Rashawn Dally)

3-1: 92’ Junior Sandoval (Rashawn Dally)

 

Discipline:

52’: (LV) Gabe Robinson (yellow)

62’: (LV) Johnny Fenwick (yellow)

IRVINE, Calif. (August 25, 2020) – US Youth National Team player, Kobi Henry will make his first professional start tonight at center-back for OCSC. At 16 years and 4 months old, Henry will be one of the youngest players in USL history to make a start in the USL Championship. Henry made his official OCSC debut earlier in the week in the closing stages of the win versus the LA Galaxy II.

IRVINE, Calif. (August 25, 2020) – US Youth National Team player, Kobi Henry will make his first professional start tonight at center-back for OCSC. At 16 years and 4 months old, Henry will be one of the youngest players in USL history to make a start in the USL Championship. Henry made his official OCSC debut earlier in the week in the closing stages of the win versus the LA Galaxy II.

“We are very proud and excited for Kobi to make his first professional start for us tonight,” said OCSC President of Soccer Operations, Oliver Wyss. “Since joining us a few months ago, Kobi has excelled in our professional environment and has earned his first start.”

The 16-year-old center-back joined OSCS from Inter Miami CF Academy as a highly touted prospect in June. The Florida native made 16 appearances in the Development Academy this past season for Inter Miami CF Academy. Henry was selected to compete in the UEFA Development Tournament for the U.S. U17’s held at St George’s Park, England in February of this year. Henry started in two of the three matches, against England and Denmark.

 

Kobi Joseph Henry

Pronunciation: Hen-ree

Position: Defender

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 165 lb

Born: April 26, 2004

Birthplace: Lakewood, FL

Instagram: @KOBIHENRYY

Twitter: @KobiHenry3

 

“We are very proud and excited for Kobi to make his first professional start for us tonight,” said OCSC President of Soccer Operations, Oliver Wyss. “Since joining us a few months ago, Kobi has excelled in our professional environment and has earned his first start.”

The 16-year-old center-back joined OSCS from Inter Miami CF Academy as a highly touted prospect in June. The Florida native made 16 appearances in the Development Academy this past season for Inter Miami CF Academy. Henry was selected to compete in the UEFA Development Tournament for the U.S. U17’s held at St George’s Park, England in February of this year. Henry started in two of the three matches, against England and Denmark.

 

Kobi Joseph Henry

Pronunciation: Hen-ree

Position: Defender

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 165 lb

Born: April 26, 2004

Birthplace: Lakewood, FL

Instagram: @KOBIHENRYY

Twitter: @KobiHenry3

 

ABOUT ORANGE COUNTY SOCCER CLUB

Orange County Soccer Club is Orange County’s only professional soccer team that is part of the United Soccer League (USL), the fastest-growing Division II professional soccer league in the world. The USL is comprised of 36 teams across the United States. The team plays its home games at the Orange County Great Park’s Championship Soccer Stadium, located in Irvine, CA. Nestled in the heart of the Great Park, Championship Soccer Stadium has a capacity of over 5,000 for Orange County SC matches. Orange County SC was one of 12 founding members of the USL during its inaugural 2011 season. The preceding club, Orange County Blues, won the 2015 Western Conference Regular Season Championship and reached the Western Conference Semi-Finals of the USL Playoffs in back-to-back seasons. Team owner and Chief Investment Officer of LARO Properties, James Keston, purchased and re-branded the team in 2017. Keston, who actively oversees all operations of the team, is dedicated to providing a pathway to professional soccer and a world-class soccer organization that focuses on the fans, players, and youth clubs of Orange County.

In December 2019, Orange County SC entered into a strategic partnership with Rangers FC from the Scottish Premier League.

For more information about Orange County Soccer Club, and to experience professional soccer in the OC, visit: https://www.orangecountysoccer.com.

For more information about the United Soccer League, visit: http://www.uslsoccer.com.

 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Chad Romiti

PR Manager

Orange County Soccer Club

949-647-GOAL

chad@https://www.orangecountysoccer.com

ABOUT ORANGE COUNTY SOCCER CLUB

Orange County Soccer Club is Orange County’s only professional soccer team that is part of the United Soccer League (USL), the fastest-growing Division II professional soccer league in the world. The USL is comprised of 36 teams across the United States. The team plays its home games at the Orange County Great Park’s Championship Soccer Stadium, located in Irvine, CA. Nestled in the heart of the Great Park, Championship Soccer Stadium has a capacity of over 5,000 for Orange County SC matches. Orange County SC was one of 12 founding members of the USL during its inaugural 2011 season. The preceding club, Orange County Blues, won the 2015 Western Conference Regular Season Championship and reached the Western Conference Semi-Finals of the USL Playoffs in back-to-back seasons. Team owner and Chief Investment Officer of LARO Properties, James Keston, purchased and re-branded the team in 2017. Keston, who actively oversees all operations of the team, is dedicated to providing a pathway to professional soccer and a world-class soccer organization that focuses on the fans, players, and youth clubs of Orange County.

In December 2019, Orange County SC entered into a strategic partnership with Rangers FC from the Scottish Premier League.

For more information about Orange County Soccer Club, and to experience professional soccer in the OC, visit: https://www.orangecountysoccer.com.

For more information about the United Soccer League, visit: http://www.uslsoccer.com.

 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Chad Romiti

PR Manager

Orange County Soccer Club

949-647-GOAL

chad@https://www.orangecountysoccer.com

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (August 25, 2020) – Orange County have a quick turnaround following their 2-1 win over Los Dos. Now the undefeated side will travel to Las Vegas and look to do a 10-day double over the Lights.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (August 25, 2020) – Orange County have a quick turnaround following their 2-1 win over Los Dos. Now the undefeated side will travel to Las Vegas and look to do a 10-day double over the Lights.

In Group B, Orange County remains in second place, with 14 points from six matches. Las Vegas remains at the bottom of the group, with five points from six. Both teams have three games in hand on group leaders Phoenix.

Both sides played on the weekend and both had successful results. Orange County picked up another three points against Los Dos, while Las Vegas rescued an extra time draw against Phoenix.

As a result, the hosts may come into this match with growing confidence. The six-goal thriller with Phoenix was just the second time this season that Las Vegas have scored more than one goal, the first coming just days prior against Tacoma. Las Vegas also presents a physical challenge for Orange County with triple-digit temperatures forecast at kickoff and a Lights team that has picked up a booking in all but one match this season.

It will be a good test for an Orange County defense that, despite conceding from a free kick on the weekend, had not been beaten in over 270 minutes. It has been a team effort, from Brian Iloski’s pressing to Robbie Kiernan and Michael Orozco’s disciplined back four. OC look comfortable conceding possession, averaging 46% possession per game, but boast a pass completion rate over 80% and average a goal for every 77 minutes.

Cammy Palmer was the hero of the match against Los Dos with a goal and an assist in a Man of the Match performance. Ugo Okoli also continued his run of good form, tallying another goal for OC.

Nathan Smith may be a late decision, as the fullback came off with a knock against Los Dos.

The match kicks off at 7 p.m. Pacific at Cashman Field in Las Vegas. The game is the ESPN Deportés game of the week and will also be streamed live in English on ESPN+ in the United States. The game is available internationally on the USL Championship YouTube channel.

In Group B, Orange County remains in second place, with 14 points from six matches. Las Vegas remains at the bottom of the group, with five points from six. Both teams have three games in hand on group leaders Phoenix.

Both sides played on the weekend and both had successful results. Orange County picked up another three points against Los Dos, while Las Vegas rescued an extra time draw against Phoenix.

As a result, the hosts may come into this match with growing confidence. The six-goal thriller with Phoenix was just the second time this season that Las Vegas have scored more than one goal, the first coming just days prior against Tacoma. Las Vegas also presents a physical challenge for Orange County with triple-digit temperatures forecast at kickoff and a Lights team that has picked up a booking in all but one match this season.

It will be a good test for an Orange County defense that, despite conceding from a free kick on the weekend, had not been beaten in over 270 minutes. It has been a team effort, from Brian Iloski’s pressing to Robbie Kiernan and Michael Orozco’s disciplined back four. OC look comfortable conceding possession, averaging 46% possession per game, but boast a pass completion rate over 80% and average a goal for every 77 minutes.

Cammy Palmer was the hero of the match against Los Dos with a goal and an assist in a Man of the Match performance. Ugo Okoli also continued his run of good form, tallying another goal for OC.

Nathan Smith may be a late decision, as the fullback came off with a knock against Los Dos.

The match kicks off at 7 p.m. Pacific at Cashman Field in Las Vegas. The game is the ESPN Deportés game of the week and will also be streamed live in English on ESPN+ in the United States. The game is available internationally on the USL Championship YouTube channel.

CARSON, Calif. (August 22, 2020) – Orange County SC picked up all three points against Los Dos on Saturday night.

On yet another muggy August evening, LA Galaxy II kicked off what would prove to be a very physical first half. Orange County SC pressed the hosts in the middle of the park, with Brian Iloski working hard against his former team.

CARSON, Calif. (August 22, 2020) – Orange County SC picked up all three points against Los Dos on Saturday night.

On yet another muggy August evening, LA Galaxy II kicked off what would prove to be a very physical first half. Orange County SC pressed the hosts in the middle of the park, with Brian Iloski working hard against his former team.

Both sides pushed for an early goal, but it would be OC with the first clear-cut chance. Iloski gathered a pass from Kevin Alston at the top of the box and fired his shot goalward, but his effort was right at Abraham Romero.

Just a moment later, Los Dos threatened as Iván Gutiérrez whipped a low cross through the Orange County box. Augustine Williams was unable to convert the chance.

The match quickly became a back-and-forth affair, with Iloski having another chance seconds later. The forward’s shot was blocked and went out for a corner, during which Romero and Nathan Smith collided as the fullback looked to score a bicycle kick.

After a couple moments of treatment, both players were up and moving and play resumed.

In the 14th minute, Aodhan Quinn pinged a free kick out wide to Rangers loanee Cammy Palmer, who floated his cross in towards Ugo Okoli. Okoli was waiting at the far post, and casually redirected the ball into the back of the net.

Los Dos wasted no time in looking for an equalizer. After a few minutes of sustained attacking, they won a dangerous free kick just outside of the OC box. Maurecio Cuevas stood over it, and the full back curled his effort over the wall. Aaron Cervantes got a hand to the ball, but it was not enough to keep the shot out and the hosts leveled the match in the 20th minute.

More open play followed, and Adam Saldana picked up the first booking of the game when he cut down Iloski on a counterattack. Five minutes later Quinn tried his luck from distance, but his effort was just wide of the near post.

Both sides continued to attack, but neither side was very successful in the final third, and both teams went into halftime level.

Los Dos had the first clear cut chance after the restart, but Augstine Williams’ attempted header was sent well over the crossbar. Seconds later, Nathan Smith was booked for a heavy challenge on the touchline. Against an organized OC defense, the hosts were unable to capitalize on the set piece.

Orange County then took control of the game, and after a good build up, Cammy Palmer again punished Los Dos. Just before the hour mark, the Northern Irishman fired a rocket of a shot into the top left corner to restore the lead.

Despite conceding possession to the hosts, OC looked confident of maintaining the scoreline. Nearly all Orange County outfield players were involved in denying the hosts an equalizer. With

15 minutes remaining, Palmer and Smith made way for Darwin Jones and Danny Crisostomo, with Kevin Alston moving across the pitch and taking over at left back.

Right after the hydration break, Cervantes denied Los Dos the opportunity to equalize twice. The young goalkeeper rushed off of his line to deny Augustine Williams a shot before pouncing on the rebound. The 18-year-old again continued to deny the hosts, picking up a save and punching a cross away from danger as time ran down.

Kevin Coleman replaced Edson Alvarado in the 87th minute. Three minutes into extra time, Kobi Henry made his debut for Orange County, coming on for Iloski.

Los Dos had one final chance in the dying seconds of the match, but Sebastian Nava’s shot from distance was well wide of the far post. It would be the penultimate kick of the game, as the referee blew for full time on the restart.

 

Scoring:

1-0: 14’ Ugo Okoli (Cammy Palmer)

1-1: 20’ Mauricio Cuevas

2-1: 59’ Cammy Palmer

 

Discipline:

25’: (LA) Adam Saldana (yellow)

50’: (OC) Nathan Smith (yellow)

72’: (OC) Cammy Palmer (yellow)

84’: (LA) Jesus Vasquez (yellow)

Both sides pushed for an early goal, but it would be OC with the first clear-cut chance. Iloski gathered a pass from Kevin Alston at the top of the box and fired his shot goalward, but his effort was right at Abraham Romero.

Just a moment later, Los Dos threatened as Iván Gutiérrez whipped a low cross through the Orange County box. Augustine Williams was unable to convert the chance.

The match quickly became a back-and-forth affair, with Iloski having another chance seconds later. The forward’s shot was blocked and went out for a corner, during which Romero and Nathan Smith collided as the fullback looked to score a bicycle kick.

After a couple moments of treatment, both players were up and moving and play resumed.

In the 14th minute, Aodhan Quinn pinged a free kick out wide to Rangers loanee Cammy Palmer, who floated his cross in towards Ugo Okoli. Okoli was waiting at the far post, and casually redirected the ball into the back of the net.

Los Dos wasted no time in looking for an equalizer. After a few minutes of sustained attacking, they won a dangerous free kick just outside of the OC box. Maurecio Cuevas stood over it, and the full back curled his effort over the wall. Aaron Cervantes got a hand to the ball, but it was not enough to keep the shot out and the hosts leveled the match in the 20th minute.

More open play followed, and Adam Saldana picked up the first booking of the game when he cut down Iloski on a counterattack. Five minutes later Quinn tried his luck from distance, but his effort was just wide of the near post.

Both sides continued to attack, but neither side was very successful in the final third, and both teams went into halftime level.

Los Dos had the first clear cut chance after the restart, but Augstine Williams’ attempted header was sent well over the crossbar. Seconds later, Nathan Smith was booked for a heavy challenge on the touchline. Against an organized OC defense, the hosts were unable to capitalize on the set piece.

Orange County then took control of the game, and after a good build up, Cammy Palmer again punished Los Dos. Just before the hour mark, the Northern Irishman fired a rocket of a shot into the top left corner to restore the lead.

Despite conceding possession to the hosts, OC looked confident of maintaining the scoreline. Nearly all Orange County outfield players were involved in denying the hosts an equalizer. With

15 minutes remaining, Palmer and Smith made way for Darwin Jones and Danny Crisostomo, with Kevin Alston moving across the pitch and taking over at left back.

Right after the hydration break, Cervantes denied Los Dos the opportunity to equalize twice. The young goalkeeper rushed off of his line to deny Augustine Williams a shot before pouncing on the rebound. The 18-year-old again continued to deny the hosts, picking up a save and punching a cross away from danger as time ran down.

Kevin Coleman replaced Edson Alvarado in the 87th minute. Three minutes into extra time, Kobi Henry made his debut for Orange County, coming on for Iloski.

Los Dos had one final chance in the dying seconds of the match, but Sebastian Nava’s shot from distance was well wide of the far post. It would be the penultimate kick of the game, as the referee blew for full time on the restart.

 

Scoring:

1-0: 14’ Ugo Okoli (Cammy Palmer)

1-1: 20’ Mauricio Cuevas

2-1: 59’ Cammy Palmer

 

Discipline:

25’: (LA) Adam Saldana (yellow)

50’: (OC) Nathan Smith (yellow)

72’: (OC) Cammy Palmer (yellow)

84’: (LA) Jesus Vasquez (yellow)

CARSON, Calif. (August 22, 2020) – Unbeaten in 2020 and currently sporting a three match win streak, Orange County SC will travel up the 405 freeway to take on LA Galaxy II.

OC and Los Dos have played the same number of matches, five. However, Orange County have 11 points and sit in second place, while Los Dos have nine points and occupy fourth.

CARSON, Calif. (August 22, 2020) – Unbeaten in 2020 and currently sporting a three match win streak, Orange County SC will travel up the 405 freeway to take on LA Galaxy II.

OC and Los Dos have played the same number of matches, five. However, Orange County have 11 points and sit in second place, while Los Dos have nine points and occupy fourth.

Galaxy II had a number of players test positive for COVID-19 three weeks ago. As a result, Junior Gonzalez’s side did not play a match for three weeks, finally returning to play against Phoenix on Wednesday. The match ended as a 4-1 loss for Los Dos.

While Los Dos have struggled through this point in the year, it has historically been a fair matchup against OC.

The Orange County defense continues to dominate matches, and together the back four conceded just one shot on target against Las Vegas. Former club captain Kevin Alston returned to the starting lineup, while Nathan Smith continued his good run of form on the left side.

Defensive success has been a key for OCSC all season, while the OC attack is starting to heat up.

Despite playing deep in the Orange County midfield, Aodhan Quinn has scored two goals in the last two matches. He shares the honor of being OC’s leading goalscorer in 2020 with Ugo Okoli. Okoli, Brain Iloski and Chandler Hoffman all look dangerous in the final third.

OC may not risk Frederik Due or Seth Casiple. Both came off after picking up knocks against Las Vegas last weekend.

The match kicks off at 7 p.m. Pacific at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+ in the United States. The game is available internationally on the USL Championship YouTube channel.

Galaxy II had a number of players test positive for COVID-19 three weeks ago. As a result, Junior Gonzalez’s side did not play a match for three weeks, finally returning to play against Phoenix on Wednesday. The match ended as a 4-1 loss for Los Dos.

While Los Dos have struggled through this point in the year, it has historically been a fair matchup against OC.

The Orange County defense continues to dominate matches, and together the back four conceded just one shot on target against Las Vegas. Former club captain Kevin Alston returned to the starting lineup, while Nathan Smith continued his good run of form on the left side.

Defensive success has been a key for OCSC all season, while the OC attack is starting to heat up.

Despite playing deep in the Orange County midfield, Aodhan Quinn has scored two goals in the last two matches. He shares the honor of being OC’s leading goalscorer in 2020 with Ugo Okoli. Okoli, Brain Iloski and Chandler Hoffman all look dangerous in the final third.

OC may not risk Frederik Due or Seth Casiple. Both came off after picking up knocks against Las Vegas last weekend.

The match kicks off at 7 p.m. Pacific at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+ in the United States. The game is available internationally on the USL Championship YouTube channel.

TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Championship announced the Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio for Week 8 of the 2020 regular season on Tuesday, with the Charleston Battery’s Zeiko Lewis earning Player of the Week honors after leading the Battery’s dramatic comeback victory against Atlanta United 2 on Saturday night.

The Bermuda international struck scored twice, including the game-winner in second-half stoppage time, as the Battery took a 3-2 victory against Atlanta after coming back from a two-goal deficit early in the second half.

Lewis earned 47 percent of the ballot for his performance. Indy Eleven’s Evan Newton received 27 percent of the poll after recording a three-save shutout that included a crucial penalty kick save in his side’s 1-0 victory against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which earned his 50th shutout in the Championship’s regular season all-time.

The Championship’s Player of the Week is selected by the USL National Media Panel, which is made up of representatives from each media market in the Championship.

 

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 8

GK – Evan Newton, Indy Eleven: Newton recorded a three-save shutout – the 50th in the regular season in his Championship career – that included a crucial penalty kick save in a 1-0 win against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.

D – Darnell King, Phoenix Rising FC: King scored once and had two shots on goal among four shots overall, made two interceptions and recoveries and completed 23 of 30 passes in Rising FC’s 2-0 win against San Diego Loyal SC.

D – Ashkanov Appolon, Sacramento Republic FC: Appolon helped Republic FC claim back-to-back victories on the week as he recorded 16 recoveries, won 12 of 20 duels and complete 49 of 57 passes against Reno 1868 FC and Tacoma Defiance.

D – Austin Yearwood, New Mexico United: Yearwood put in a solid defensive shift as New Mexico earned a shutout win on the road in Colorado Springs, winning 5 of 7 duels, completing 46 of 56 passes and two tackles and two clearances.

M – Eli Crognale, Birmingham Legion FC: Crognale put in a strong two-way performance in Legion FC’s victory against North Carolina FC, winning 9 of 10 duels, recording five interceptions and six recoveries while recording one key pass and completing 21 of 27 passes overall.

M – Aodhan Quinn, Orange County SC: Quinn scored in both games as OCSC took victories against San Diego Loyal SC and Las Vegas Lights FC while completing 95 of 119 passes across the two contests.

M – Zeiko Lewis, Charleston Battery: Lewis scored twice, including a stoppage-time winner to cap a three-goal comeback, while also recording four chances created and completing 28 of 38 passes overall against Atlanta United 2.

TAMPA, Fla. – The USL Championship announced the Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio for Week 8 of the 2020 regular season on Tuesday, with the Charleston Battery’s Zeiko Lewis earning Player of the Week honors after leading the Battery’s dramatic comeback victory against Atlanta United 2 on Saturday night.

The Bermuda international struck scored twice, including the game-winner in second-half stoppage time, as the Battery took a 3-2 victory against Atlanta after coming back from a two-goal deficit early in the second half.

Lewis earned 47 percent of the ballot for his performance. Indy Eleven’s Evan Newton received 27 percent of the poll after recording a three-save shutout that included a crucial penalty kick save in his side’s 1-0 victory against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which earned his 50th shutout in the Championship’s regular season all-time.

The Championship’s Player of the Week is selected by the USL National Media Panel, which is made up of representatives from each media market in the Championship.

 

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 8

GK – Evan Newton, Indy Eleven: Newton recorded a three-save shutout – the 50th in the regular season in his Championship career – that included a crucial penalty kick save in a 1-0 win against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.

D – Darnell King, Phoenix Rising FC: King scored once and had two shots on goal among four shots overall, made two interceptions and recoveries and completed 23 of 30 passes in Rising FC’s 2-0 win against San Diego Loyal SC.

D – Ashkanov Appolon, Sacramento Republic FC: Appolon helped Republic FC claim back-to-back victories on the week as he recorded 16 recoveries, won 12 of 20 duels and complete 49 of 57 passes against Reno 1868 FC and Tacoma Defiance.

D – Austin Yearwood, New Mexico United: Yearwood put in a solid defensive shift as New Mexico earned a shutout win on the road in Colorado Springs, winning 5 of 7 duels, completing 46 of 56 passes and two tackles and two clearances.

M – Eli Crognale, Birmingham Legion FC: Crognale put in a strong two-way performance in Legion FC’s victory against North Carolina FC, winning 9 of 10 duels, recording five interceptions and six recoveries while recording one key pass and completing 21 of 27 passes overall.

M – Aodhan Quinn, Orange County SC: Quinn scored in both games as OCSC took victories against San Diego Loyal SC and Las Vegas Lights FC while completing 95 of 119 passes across the two contests.

M – Zeiko Lewis, Charleston Battery: Lewis scored twice, including a stoppage-time winner to cap a three-goal comeback, while also recording four chances created and completing 28 of 38 passes overall against Atlanta United 2.

IRVINE, Calif. (August 15, 2020) – Orange County SC claimed another clean sheet en route to their third consecutive victory. With the win, OC are still unbeaten in 2020.

On an unusually warm August evening, OC started off on the front foot. Comfortable in possession, OC dominated the run of play throughout the half. Seth Moses picked up an early booking after pushing Nathan Smith into the advertising boards.

IRVINE, Calif. (August 15, 2020) – Orange County SC claimed another clean sheet en route to their third consecutive victory. With the win, OC are still unbeaten in 2020.

On an unusually warm August evening, OC started off on the front foot. Comfortable in possession, OC dominated the run of play throughout the half. Seth Moses picked up an early booking after pushing Nathan Smith into the advertising boards.

Ugo Okoli narrowly missed a pair of chances, pulling his shots just wide of the far post. Diego Lopez, a last-minute starter, played well, but the debutant was denied by a reflex save by Lights goalkeeper Edward Delgado.

Vegas threatened with a few flashes of attacking play through the opening 20 minutes, but only forced one save from Frederik Due. Otherwise, the visitors were happy to sit back and defend with numbers.

Midfielder Seth Casiple made an early exit after being on the receiving end of a heavy challenge.

Despite multiple chances for both sides, the scoreline remained level as referee Michael Radchuk blew for halftime.

OC made their second change just before the second half, when Aaron Cervantes replaced Due after the starting goalkeeper picked up a knock.

It continued to be a physical match in the second half, with fouls on both sides of the ball slowing the run of play. Just before the hour mark, Radchuk drew the ire of Orange County when he refused to show Moses a second yellow for a late, high tackle on Nathan Smith.

Cammy Palmer came on a few moments later for Diego Lopez, and the Rangers loanee wasted no time getting involved in the attacking play, linking up with Brian Iloski and Edson Alvarado.

Orange County continued to press forward in search of a lead. Their efforts were rewarded shortly thereafter: in the 69th minute, Aodhan Quinn scored a nice goal off of a Brian Iloski pass. It was a deserved lead after a dominant run of play.

After the restart, Danny Finlayson replaced Danny Crisostomo. And even with another defender on the pitch, OC pushed forward.

With both sides making changes as legs tired, the final 15 minutes of the match were a frantic affair. Las Vegas pushed deep into the Orange County half, while OC were forced into their first sustained defensive shift.

Orange County successfully mitigated the pressure, and after three added minutes, OC picked up their third consecutive win. It propelled the side into second place in Group B, with two games in hand on leaders Phoenix Rising FC.

After the match, head coach Braeden Cloutier was pleased with the performances of Diego Lopez and Aaron Cervantes. “For any young player, you have to be ready for your opportunity…

It’s a good learning experience for all young players, that they need to be tuned in and switched on. I think they both did good jobs tonight coming into an adverse situation.”

Cloutier continued, “We built a really good team with players that come in and contribute. Clean sheets and the talent that we have on this roster… we should be competing for a championship.”

 

Scoring:

1-0: 69’ Aodhan Quinn

Discipline:

09’: (LV) Seth Moses (yellow)

45’: (LV) Jaiden Waggoner (yellow)

74’: (LV) Ramon del Campo (yellow)

89’: (OC) Ugo Okoli (yellow)

Ugo Okoli narrowly missed a pair of chances, pulling his shots just wide of the far post. Diego Lopez, a last-minute starter, played well, but the debutant was denied by a reflex save by Lights goalkeeper Edward Delgado.

Vegas threatened with a few flashes of attacking play through the opening 20 minutes, but only forced one save from Frederik Due. Otherwise, the visitors were happy to sit back and defend with numbers.

Midfielder Seth Casiple made an early exit after being on the receiving end of a heavy challenge.

Despite multiple chances for both sides, the scoreline remained level as referee Michael Radchuk blew for halftime.

OC made their second change just before the second half, when Aaron Cervantes replaced Due after the starting goalkeeper picked up a knock.

It continued to be a physical match in the second half, with fouls on both sides of the ball slowing the run of play. Just before the hour mark, Radchuk drew the ire of Orange County when he refused to show Moses a second yellow for a late, high tackle on Nathan Smith.

Cammy Palmer came on a few moments later for Diego Lopez, and the Rangers loanee wasted no time getting involved in the attacking play, linking up with Brian Iloski and Edson Alvarado.

Orange County continued to press forward in search of a lead. Their efforts were rewarded shortly thereafter: in the 69th minute, Aodhan Quinn scored a nice goal off of a Brian Iloski pass. It was a deserved lead after a dominant run of play.

After the restart, Danny Finlayson replaced Danny Crisostomo. And even with another defender on the pitch, OC pushed forward.

With both sides making changes as legs tired, the final 15 minutes of the match were a frantic affair. Las Vegas pushed deep into the Orange County half, while OC were forced into their first sustained defensive shift.

Orange County successfully mitigated the pressure, and after three added minutes, OC picked up their third consecutive win. It propelled the side into second place in Group B, with two games in hand on leaders Phoenix Rising FC.

After the match, head coach Braeden Cloutier was pleased with the performances of Diego Lopez and Aaron Cervantes. “For any young player, you have to be ready for your opportunity…

It’s a good learning experience for all young players, that they need to be tuned in and switched on. I think they both did good jobs tonight coming into an adverse situation.”

Cloutier continued, “We built a really good team with players that come in and contribute. Clean sheets and the talent that we have on this roster… we should be competing for a championship.”

 

Scoring:

1-0: 69’ Aodhan Quinn

Discipline:

09’: (LV) Seth Moses (yellow)

45’: (LV) Jaiden Waggoner (yellow)

74’: (LV) Ramon del Campo (yellow)

89’: (OC) Ugo Okoli (yellow)

IRVINE, Calif. (August 15, 2020) – Following a stellar 2-0 road victory in the midweek, Orange County SC have returned home and are set to welcome Las Vegas Lights FC. OC are the odds-on favorites and will look to continue their unbeaten start to the 2020 season.

IRVINE, Calif. (August 15, 2020) – Following a stellar 2-0 road victory in the midweek, Orange County SC have returned home and are set to welcome Las Vegas Lights FC. OC are the odds-on favorites and will look to continue their unbeaten start to the 2020 season.

Las Vegas have struggled thus far, picking up just one point from three matches. The Sin City side sit at the bottom of Group B. Orange County are fourth in the group on eight points from four matches. OC have two games in hand on Phoenix, the current Group B leaders.

Despite a handful of USL players, a number of which played with second-placed Fresno FC in 2019, the visitors have struggled in 2020. The team bid farewell to head coach Eric Wynalda in June, replacing him with former Fresno FC manager Frank Yallop.

The new manager has had little opportunity to improve the side. The Lights have not played since August 1, when they lost to Silver State rivals Reno 1868 FC. Their most recent match, scheduled for August 8 against San Diego, was postponed after a positive COVID-19 test. OC and Las Vegas last met in the preseason and played to a goalless draw.

Having conceded just one goal through four matches, OC will look to pick up all three points against a side that has struggled to score.

Frederik Due was in stellar form against San Diego, making seven saves and keeping the team’s third cleansheet of the season. Kevin Alston made his first appearance since the restart, coming on as a late substitute for Brian Iloski. And up top, Ugo Okoli scored again in San Diego on Wednesday. The lone striker will look to score his third goal in as many matches.

OC face no selection issues going into this match.

The match kicks off at 7 p.m. Pacific at Championship Soccer Stadium at the Orange County Great Park. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+ in the United States.

Las Vegas have struggled thus far, picking up just one point from three matches. The Sin City side sit at the bottom of Group B. Orange County are fourth in the group on eight points from four matches. OC have two games in hand on Phoenix, the current Group B leaders.

Despite a handful of USL players, a number of which played with second-placed Fresno FC in 2019, the visitors have struggled in 2020. The team bid farewell to head coach Eric Wynalda in June, replacing him with former Fresno FC manager Frank Yallop.

The new manager has had little opportunity to improve the side. The Lights have not played since August 1, when they lost to Silver State rivals Reno 1868 FC. Their most recent match, scheduled for August 8 against San Diego, was postponed after a positive COVID-19 test. OC and Las Vegas last met in the preseason and played to a goalless draw.

Having conceded just one goal through four matches, OC will look to pick up all three points against a side that has struggled to score.

Frederik Due was in stellar form against San Diego, making seven saves and keeping the team’s third cleansheet of the season. Kevin Alston made his first appearance since the restart, coming on as a late substitute for Brian Iloski. And up top, Ugo Okoli scored again in San Diego on Wednesday. The lone striker will look to score his third goal in as many matches.

OC face no selection issues going into this match.

The match kicks off at 7 p.m. Pacific at Championship Soccer Stadium at the Orange County Great Park. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+ in the United States.

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 12, 2020) – Orange County SC picked up their first road win of the year and maintained their unbeaten start to 2020.

OC didn’t take long to bring excitement to the match: Seth Casiple chased a ball through the San Diego defense and shot, but the midfielder’s shot caromed off of the post.

At the other end of the pitch, Frederik Due was busy. The goalkeeper, making just his second appearance of the season, made a number of massive saves from both open play and set pieces to keep the hosts from scoring.

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (August 12, 2020) – Orange County SC picked up their first road win of the year and maintained their unbeaten start to 2020.

OC didn’t take long to bring excitement to the match: Seth Casiple chased a ball through the San Diego defense and shot, but the midfielder’s shot caromed off of the post.

At the other end of the pitch, Frederik Due was busy. The goalkeeper, making just his second appearance of the season, made a number of massive saves from both open play and set pieces to keep the hosts from scoring.

San Diego dominated possession throughout the half and earned a handful of corners through their attacking movement. Still, the Orange County defense remained resolute and kept the scoreline level.

OC made one change at the break, with Danny Crisostomo coming in for Rangers loanee Cammy Palmer.

Not long after the restart, San Diego had their biggest chance to open the scoring. Collin Martin found himself in space and shot, but couldn’t beat Due as Loyal earned another corner.

At the hour mark, OC broke forward down the left via Casiple. The midfielder played in Quinn, whose effort from distance was comfortably saved by Fenlason.

Five minutes later, an OC counterattack was successful. With San Diego playing a high line, Ugo Okoli connected with a long ball over the top, settled the ball at his feet, and found the bottom right corner from the top of the box.

OC didn’t sit back after the restart and immediately looked to score again. Brian Iloski slalomed through the Loyal defense, but his close-range effort was blocked by Fenlason. Young Scot Danny Finlayson followed up, but his shot was also blocked.

With just over 20 minutes remaining, San Diego slowed play down and began to dominate possession again. Former Orange County forward Irvin Parra entered the match, with Loyal looking to the journeyman to find the equalizer.

Orange County continued to counterattack and looked dangerous on the breakaway, but neither Hoffman nor Okoli could find the second goal after a pair of chances.

At the hydration break, Edson Alvarado came on for Chandler Hoffman.

With 10 minutes remaining in the match, Due again came up big to deny Charlie Adams’ free kick attempt. San Diego continued searching for the equalizer, with Francis Atuahene finding space within the six, but the Ghanaian skied his shot off of the crossbar before being flagged offside.

Parra tried his luck from distance, and again Due made the save.

Against the run of play, Orange County doubled their lead. Alvarado, with his back to goal, laid the ball off to Quinn, and the San Diego native blasted his shot into the back of the net from 25 yards.

Kevin Alston replaced Brian Iloski with five minutes remaining.

SD Loyal continued pushing forward, but with pressure mounting and time running out, the hosts struggled to convert their chances.

Entering stoppage time, Alvarado found himself clear of the Loyal defense. The young midfielder rounded the goalkeeper but was unable to recover and the ball rolled out for a goal kick. He delayed the restart and was booked as a result.

OC earned a pair of free kicks in the San Diego half late on, but used the set pieces to run down the remainder of the clock and see out the victory.

 

Scoring:

1-0: 65’ Ugo Okoli

2-0: 84’ Aodhan Quinn (Edson Alvarado)

 

Discipline:

28’: (SD) Carlos Alvarez (yellow)

53’: (OC) Aodhan Quinn (yellow) 56’: (SD) Emrah Klimenta (yellow)

90+1’: (OC) Edson Alvarado (yellow

San Diego dominated possession throughout the half and earned a handful of corners through their attacking movement. Still, the Orange County defense remained resolute and kept the scoreline level.

OC made one change at the break, with Danny Crisostomo coming in for Rangers loanee Cammy Palmer.

Not long after the restart, San Diego had their biggest chance to open the scoring. Collin Martin found himself in space and shot, but couldn’t beat Due as Loyal earned another corner.

At the hour mark, OC broke forward down the left via Casiple. The midfielder played in Quinn, whose effort from distance was comfortably saved by Fenlason.

Five minutes later, an OC counterattack was successful. With San Diego playing a high line, Ugo Okoli connected with a long ball over the top, settled the ball at his feet, and found the bottom right corner from the top of the box.

OC didn’t sit back after the restart and immediately looked to score again. Brian Iloski slalomed through the Loyal defense, but his close-range effort was blocked by Fenlason. Young Scot Danny Finlayson followed up, but his shot was also blocked.

With just over 20 minutes remaining, San Diego slowed play down and began to dominate possession again. Former Orange County forward Irvin Parra entered the match, with Loyal looking to the journeyman to find the equalizer.

Orange County continued to counterattack and looked dangerous on the breakaway, but neither Hoffman nor Okoli could find the second goal after a pair of chances.

At the hydration break, Edson Alvarado came on for Chandler Hoffman.

With 10 minutes remaining in the match, Due again came up big to deny Charlie Adams’ free kick attempt. San Diego continued searching for the equalizer, with Francis Atuahene finding space within the six, but the Ghanaian skied his shot off of the crossbar before being flagged offside.

Parra tried his luck from distance, and again Due made the save.

Against the run of play, Orange County doubled their lead. Alvarado, with his back to goal, laid the ball off to Quinn, and the San Diego native blasted his shot into the back of the net from 25 yards.

Kevin Alston replaced Brian Iloski with five minutes remaining.

SD Loyal continued pushing forward, but with pressure mounting and time running out, the hosts struggled to convert their chances.

Entering stoppage time, Alvarado found himself clear of the Loyal defense. The young midfielder rounded the goalkeeper but was unable to recover and the ball rolled out for a goal kick. He delayed the restart and was booked as a result.

OC earned a pair of free kicks in the San Diego half late on, but used the set pieces to run down the remainder of the clock and see out the victory.

 

Scoring:

1-0: 65’ Ugo Okoli

2-0: 84’ Aodhan Quinn (Edson Alvarado)

 

Discipline:

28’: (SD) Carlos Alvarez (yellow)

53’: (OC) Aodhan Quinn (yellow) 56’: (SD) Emrah Klimenta (yellow)

90+1’: (OC) Edson Alvarado (yellow

IRVINE, Calif. (August 12, 2020) – Orange County SC will journey south to San Diego for the first-ever meeting between the two clubs, after two postponed games and a 17-day layoff, OC are ready to take all three points from their hosts. The hosts currently sit in second place in Group B with eleven points from six matches. OC sits in fourth in Group B, with five points from three matches. This will be the first-ever meeting between Orange County and San Diego.

IRVINE, Calif. (August 12, 2020) – Orange County SC will journey south to San Diego for the first-ever meeting between the two clubs, after two postponed games and a 17-day layoff, OC are ready to take all three points from their hosts. The hosts currently sit in second place in Group B with eleven points from six matches. OC sits in fourth in Group B, with five points from three matches. This will be the first-ever meeting between Orange County and San Diego.

San Diego’s last match against Las Vegas Lights on Saturday, August 8 was postponed.

This will be Orange County’s first match since holding Phoenix into one goal over two back to back matches at home over 2 weeks ago.

After taking four from a possible six points against Phoenix and being named number one in the USL power rankings, OCSC will be full of confidence heading into their first away fixture.

The OC defense has only conceded one goal in three matches, and the dominant backline looks capable of continuing their success. Ugo Okoli opened his scoring account with OC on July 25th and joined Kevin Coleman on the list of goal scorers in the young season.

OC face no selection issues going into this match.

The match kicks off at 7 p.m. Torero Stadium in San Diego. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+ in the United States.

San Diego’s last match against Las Vegas Lights on Saturday, August 8 was postponed.

This will be Orange County’s first match since holding Phoenix into one goal over two back to back matches at home over 2 weeks ago.

After taking four from a possible six points against Phoenix and being named number one in the USL power rankings, OCSC will be full of confidence heading into their first away fixture.

The OC defense has only conceded one goal in three matches, and the dominant backline looks capable of continuing their success. Ugo Okoli opened his scoring account with OC on July 25th and joined Kevin Coleman on the list of goal scorers in the young season.

OC face no selection issues going into this match.

The match kicks off at 7 p.m. Torero Stadium in San Diego. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+ in the United States.