NEWS

IRVINE, CA (August 29,  2025) – Orange County Soccer Club today named Lionel Messi’s MÁS+ by Messi the official sports hydration drink of OCSC. MÁS+ by Messi will serve as the exclusive hydration beverage for Orange County SC and OCSC2, available for fans to purchase on game days at Championship Soccer Stadium.

The Next-Generation Hydration Beverage, created by Messi, addresses the demand for a sports drink with superior ingredients and exceptional flavor, which he terms “Positive Hydration.” It offers a well-balanced mix of electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals, delivering great taste in four delightful flavors Messi enjoys. Made with natural flavors, it contains no artificial sweeteners, colors, or caffeine.

“Staying properly hydrated is critical for elite athletes training in Southern California’s intense heat,” said Peter Nugent, OCSC President of Soccer Operations. “Más+ provides our players with a top-tier, healthy hydration option favored by leading clubs and athletes worldwide.”

OCSC players and fans will enjoy four vibrant flavors, loved by Messi, and named after inspirational milestones in his life: 

• Más+ by Messi Miami Punch: Inspired by the city where Messi and his family live, home of Messi’s current and next chapter, Miami Punch has a balanced blend of berry flavors with a hint of pineapple for a refreshing fruit punch taste.
• Más+ by Messi Orange d’Or: Orange d’Or has a refreshing orange flavor with hints of tangerine flavor for a balanced citrus taste. It’s inspired by Messi’s record eight wins of the Ballon d’Or (“Golden Ball” in French) Trophy.
• Más+ by Messi Berry Copa Crush: Inspired by Messi’s seven Copa del Rey titles with Barcelona and his Copa America win with Argentina, Berry Copa Crush has a refreshing blend of sweet and luscious berry and cherry flavors.
• Más+ by Messi Limón Lime League: Limón Lime League balances refreshingly sweet, fruity flavor and zesty citrus taste. It honors the time Messi spent playing in the UEFA Champions League, a cup he won three times.

Orange County SC is the first USL Championship club to partner with MÁS+ by Messi, joining MLS Side Inter Miami CF as the only 2 clubs in the U.S. currently partnered with the brand.

You can try Más+ by Messi at Championship Soccer Stadium on game day. For tickets, click HERE.

ABOUT ORANGE COUNTY SC

Orange County Soccer Club (OCSC) is Orange County’s only professional soccer team and a founding member of the United Soccer League (USL). It was purchased by Club owner and Chief Investment Officer of LARO Properties, James Keston, in 2017. OCSC, which plays its home games at the 5,500-seat Orange County Great Park Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine, CA, won its first USL Championship title in 2021. OCSC is dedicated to being the leader in professional player development in the United States, providing a pathway to professional soccer and the top leagues around the world. 

ABOUT MÁS+ NEXT GENERATION BEVERAGE CO. Más+ Next Generation Beverage Co. is a new, entrepreneurial liquid refreshment beverage company founded with sports icon Lionel Messi. For more information, go to https://www.masbymessi.com.

Kickoff: Saturday, August 30 (7:00 PM PDT)
Where: How to Watch: ESPN+, KCAL+, FanDuel Sports Network
Available in the U.K.: USL on YouTube

Orange County SC enters this match with a strong home record at Irvine’s Championship Soccer Stadium, where they’ve consistently stifled opponents. This inter-conference clash pits OCSC’s home prowess against Birmingham Legion FC’s gritty, counter-attacking style from the Eastern Conference. OCSC’s talented squad is primed to deliver, but Birmingham poses dangerous threats, promising a tense and potentially high-scoring battle. Birmingham holds a 2-0 edge in prior meetings, giving OCSC extra motivation to flip the script at home.

Fresh off a sharp 10-man performance in Tulsa, OCSC is still riding high, with both result and execution fueling confidence. Their attacking edge and home-field advantage position them well, but Birmingham’s physicality and knack for exploiting transitions demand a disciplined defensive effort from OCSC to protect their turf.

OCSC returns to The Championship on September 27 for a “Back to School Night” match against Charleston Battery. Tickets are available here. This game offers OCSC another chance to assert its home dominance and keep its momentum rolling.

OCSC returns to The Champ on September 27^th for a “Back to School Night” match against Charleston Battery. For tickets, click HERE.

LEGION OF DOOM

Ronaldo Damus returns to the Champ and remains a potent attacking threat, likely to exploit spaces behind the defense. With Tyler Pasher sidelined by injury, Birmingham must find a new wing partner to support Damus. Their defense has kept them in contention, marked by a physical approach with over 58 yellow cards this season. Anticipate frequent fouls from the visitors, a league-wide tactic to disrupt tempo and neutralize OCSC’s quick transitions. Birmingham’s success will depend on their midfield, where they must force turnovers and capitalize on OCSC mistakes with swift counters. Goalkeeper Matt Van Oekel is dependable, but Birmingham’s offense struggles, often conceding more goals than they score. With just two clean sheets in 2025, Van Oekel and the defense must be near-perfect to keep OCSC scoreless at home.

Birmingham Legion FC 2024 USL Championship Regular Season Record: 13-15-6

Goals Scored: 33 | Goals Allowed: 48 I Clean Sheets: 9

Players to Watch:

F Ronaldo Damus
GK Matt Van Oekel

THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Ethan Zubak thrives on scoring at the Championship, and with Birmingham’s defensive weaknesses, he’s likely to find the net on Saturday. Chris Hegardt remains pivotal in midfield, driving transitions and creating opportunities. Ousmane Sylla has also emerged as a dynamic force in the center, bringing energy and relentless pressing to sustain OCSC’s intensity. The OCSC backline must stay compact and disciplined, as Birmingham poses a threat on the counter, particularly through Damus and Enzo Martinez. OCSC needs to stay organized, cut off wide service, and react swiftly in transitions. Colin Shutler and the central defenders must remain vigilant, especially during quick transitions, set pieces, and dead-ball situations.

OCSC 2024 USL Championship Regular Season Record: 13-11-10

Goals Scored: 44 I Goals Allowed: 51 I Clean Sheets: 15

Players to Watch:

F Ethan Zubak
GK Colin Shutler

All-time Record:
Orange County SC is 0-2-0 all-time against Birmingham Legion FC (Last 5 against BIR- 0-2-0)

Previous Matchup: 2024 USL Championship

Orange County SC 0-3 Birmingham Legion FC (July 22 2024, Birmingham, AL)
Scoring Summary: 51’ Stefano Pinho, 89’ Stefano Pinho. 90+5’ Tyler Pasher

Today, U.S. Soccer announced that Pedro Guimaraes, a defender from Orange County SC’s “Next Wave,” has been selected for the U.S. U-17 Men’s National Team training camp in Noordwijk, Netherlands, from September 1-8, 2025. 

This marks the team’s second-to-last camp before the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar. Under head coach Gonzalo Segares, the U-17 squad will face the Netherlands in two friendly matches on September 5 and 8 at Gemeentelijk Sportpark SJC, both starting at 7 p.m. local time (1 p.m. ET).

Guimaraes is one of two players from USL Championship clubs included in the Netherlands-bound roster. This will be his fourth U-17 camp. Previously, in June 2025, he participated in a Spain camp, playing in all three friendlies. In February 2025, Guimaraes competed in the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup Qualifier in Costa Rica, featuring in all three matches and scoring his first international goal in a 22-0 win against the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Following this month’s matches, the U-17 MNT will meet once more during the October FIFA window before Segares names his roster for Qatar.

Join OCSC on Saturday night to give Pedro a proper send-off before he heads to the Netherlands. For tickets, click HERE.

FC Tulsa came out on the front foot, immediately applying pressure to Orange County SC’s back line and setting the tone for an aggressive match. That pressure nearly paid off early when Pedro Guimarães clipped Owen Damm just outside the area, earning a yellow card and handing Tulsa their first real opportunity of the match. From the ensuing free kick, Colin Shutler came up big for OCSC, springing across goal to punch the direct strike over the bar and deny an early breakthrough.

After weathering that early storm, Orange County began to settle into the match by slowing the tempo and dictating play through the midfield. Bryce Jamison tested Tulsa’s defensive shape with a couple of well-timed runs in behind, but his most promising chance was halted by what looked like a clear jersey pull ignored by the referee, leading only to a Tulsa goal kick.

The game shifted dramatically in the 20th minute when Stephen Kelly was controversially shown a straight red card for a challenge that many in the stadium felt was harsh. The decision left OCSC down to ten men far earlier than they could have anticipated. Tulsa failed to capitalize on the ensuing free kick just outside the box, as Eliot Goldthorp fired well over the target. However, just four minutes later, the hosts punished Orange County when Kalil ElMedkhar rose highest to head home a cross, putting Tulsa in front 1–0.

Despite being a man down, OCSC showed resilience. They regrouped quickly, controlling stretches of possession and keeping Tulsa largely at bay. By halftime, Orange County remarkably held 62% of the ball, absorbing pressure while limiting Tulsa’s chances to preserve the narrow deficit.

The second half opened with Orange County continuing to frustrate their opponents, limiting Tulsa’s attacking rhythm and dictating the flow in midfield. In the 60th minute, Mouhamadou War entered for Jamison and immediately injected fresh energy, creating multiple looks on goal with his direct running and creativity. Tulsa, despite their numerical advantage, struggled to keep pace with OCSC’s intensity and resorted to fouls to slow the game, collecting two more yellow cards along the way.

Orange County nearly found their equalizer in the closing stages. In the 81st minute, Vuk Latinovich narrowly missed on a towering header that had the goalkeeper beaten. Just one minute later, substitute Cheick Koné thought he had delivered the dramatic equalizer, turning home a rebound moments after stepping onto the pitch. However, the celebration was cut short as the assistant referee’s flag went up for offside, a decision that left the visitors visibly frustrated.

With 5’ minutes of extra time OCSC took the attack to Tulsa with a flury of cornerkicks and shots on goal.

In the end, Tulsa narrowly escaped with the 1–0 victory, but Orange County walked away with plenty of positives, demonstrating grit, tactical discipline, and the ability to control large spells of possession even when reduced to ten men.

Milestones:

TEAM	FIRST HALF	SECOND HALF	FULL TIME
OCSC	0	0	0
TUL	1	0	1

SCORING SUMMARY:

24’ Kalil ElMedkhar (TUL) – Assist Eliot Goldthorp

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY:

ORANGE COUNTY SC

6’ Pedro Guimaraes – Yellow Card
20’ Stephen Kelly – Red Card
43’ Colin Shutler – Yellow Card

FC TULSA

10’ Marcos Cerato – Yellow Card
45’ Lamar Batista – Yellow Card
66’ Boubacar Diallo – Yellow Card
67’ – Kalil ElMedkhar – Yellow Card
95’ – Owen Damm – Yellow Card

ORANGE COUNTY SC LINEUP: (4-4-2)

Colin Shutler (GK); Vuk Latinovich, Nicholas Benalcazar, Ryan Doghman[C], Ashton Miles (81’ Cheick Koné), Pedro Guimaraes (46’ Nicola Ciotta), Stephen Kelly, Ousmane Sylla (74’ Cameron Dunbar), Bryce Jamison (60’ Mouhamadou War), Ethan Zubak (81’ Tristan Trager), Chris Hegardt

Unused subs: Tetsuya Kadono (GK); Tyson Espy, Gavin Karam, Efern Solis

Head Coach: Danny Stone
Possession: 62% | Shots: 14 | Shots On Goal: 2 | Corners: 5 | Fouls: 14 | Offsides: 5 |

FC TULSA: (3-4-3)

Johan Penaranda (GK); Delentz Pierre, Abdoulaye Cissoko, Lamar Batista (46’ Stefan Lukic), Owen Damm, Marcos Cerato (46’ Giordano Colli), Kalil ElMedkhar (69’ Alexander Dalou), Boubacar Diallo, Taylor Calheira (90+4 Trevor Amann), Eliot Goldthorp (69’ Jamie Webber), Harvey St Clair

Unused subs: Cole Johnson (GK); Jamie Webber, Lucas Stauffer

Head Coach: Luke Spencer
Possession: 38% | Shots: 19 | Shots On Goal: 4 | Corners: 7 | Fouls: 22 | Offsides: 3 |

Orange County SC v. FC Tulsa

2025 USL Championship | Matchday 19

Date: August 23, 2025
Venue: OneOK Field – Tulsa, OK

Kickoff: Saturday, August 23rd (5:30 PM PDT)
Where: How to Watch: ESPN+
Available in the U.K.: USL on YouTube

Orange County SC heads to Tulsa for a showdown with the Western Conference leaders in what promises to be one of the weekend’s marquee USL fixtures. Both sides enter in top form, OCSC riding a four-match unbeaten streak and holding a six-match dominance over Tulsa (5 wins, 1 draw), while also being the last team to hand Tulsa a loss this season. For Tulsa, it’s all about keeping its grip on first place; for Orange County, it’s a chance to climb higher in the playoff race with a statement road victory.

Fans should expect a high-intensity battle. These two clubs thrive on set pieces, physical duels, and fast-paced attacks. In their last meeting, Tulsa committed 15 fouls to OC’s 10, underlining the gritty nature of this rivalry. Matches between them have historically been open and goal-heavy, averaging over three goals per game. Whether it’s decided by a dead-ball moment or turns into a shootout, the ingredients are all here for fireworks.

With two of the league’s hottest teams colliding, one defending its throne and the other eager to topple it. Saturday night’s clash has all the makings of a can’t-miss, goal-filled spectacle.

OCSC returns to The Champ on August 30th for a Labor Day Beer Fest and the return of Ronaldo Damus, when Birmingham Legion FC comes to town. For tickets, click HERE

ROUGH-NECKS

FC Tulsa sits atop the Western Conference with 39 points through 20 matches, though they’ve played two more games than Orange County. Despite their strong position, Tulsa has gone 11 straight games without a clean sheet, underscoring both their attacking firepower and defensive vulnerability.

Leading the line is Taylor Calheira, the club’s biggest attacking threat, who thrives on quick combinations and movement designed to overload opposing defenses. He’ll rely heavily on Tulsa’s midfield unit to provide service, while the back line looks to disrupt OCSC’s build-up play and quickly transition into attack.

Tactically, Tulsa must remain compact to avoid being pulled into the kind of end-to-end game that favors Orange County’s counter-punching style. Goalkeeper Johan Peñaranda has been dependable this season, but after conceding twice against OCSC in May, he’ll need to deliver one of his sharpest performances to keep the visitors off the scoresheet this time around

.

FC Tulsa 2024 USL Championship Regular Season Record: 9-14-11

Goals Scored: 33 | Goals Allowed: 48 | Clean Sheets: 8

Players to Watch:

F Taylor Calheira
GK John Penaranda

TROUBLE IN T-TOWN

Orange County SC enters unbeaten in their last four matches, cementing themselves as one of the hottest teams in the Western Conference. Back in May, OCSC dictated the tempo against Tulsa, holding 54% possession and limiting the hosts to just one shot on target—their lone goal of the night. Meanwhile, Orange County launched an attacking barrage with 24 total shots and 8 on frame, highlighted by a brace from Lyam MacKinnon.

The midfield battle will be crucial once again. Ousmane Sylla and Stephen Kelly will be tasked with controlling the rhythm and breaking down Tulsa’s press, while Ethan Zubak looks to punish any defensive lapses up front. On the flanks, Mo War and Chris Hegardt will aim to stretch the pitch on the baseball field dimensions, swinging in dangerous deliveries for OCSC’s attackers. Expect Bryce Jamison and Tristan Trager to bring fresh legs and attacking spark off the bench in the latter stages.

Defensively, OCSC has been rock solid in recent weeks. The pairing of Nico Benalcazar and Vuk Latinovich continues to anchor a backline that’s given goalkeeper Colin Shutler every chance to shine. Shutler has been in commanding form, allowing just four goals across the last seven matches, and will be looking to add another clean sheet to his record.

OCSC 2024 USL Championship Regular Season Record: 13-11-10

Goals Scored: 38 | Goals Allowed: 45 | Clean Sheets: 15

Players to Watch:

F Ethan Zubak
GK Colin Shutler

All-time Record:

Orange County SC is 10-8-2 all-time against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC (Last 5 against COS- 2-3-0)

Previous Matchup: 2025 USL Championship

Orange County SC 2-1 FC Tulsa (May 3rd, 2025, Irvine, CA)

Scoring Summary: 55’ Lyam MacKinnon, 74’ Taylor Calheira, 80’ Lyam MacKinnon

Orange County SC traveled to the altitude of Colorado Springs with confidence after a gritty draw in Pittsburgh, and from the opening whistle they looked ready for the challenge. The match began at a lively tempo, with both sides trading early opportunities and testing one another across the midfield. Orange County looked sharp pressing high up the pitch, while the Switchbacks tried to use their pace to stretch the defense and exploit space in behind.

The first major moment arrived in the 24th minute when Colorado broke forward and appeared to have a clear look on goal. Zach Zandi drove into the penalty area, only to be met by a perfectly timed sliding challenge from defender Nicola Ciotta, who denied what looked like the Switchbacks’ best chance of the half. It was a moment that set the tone for OCSC’s defensive resilience.

Disaster struck for Orange County in the 41st minute when captain Tom Brewitt was forced off with an injury. The English center back, a vocal leader in the back line, was replaced by Vuk Latinovich, who immediately stepped into the heart of defense to help see out the half.

The first 45 minutes proved to be a physical battle. Orange County earned several set-piece opportunities, consistently attacking the first ball but struggling to convert them into clear chances. Colorado, meanwhile, managed to generate a handful of looks from open play, but their finishing lacked sharpness, with no attempts truly troubling goalkeeper Colin Shutler.

The second half picked up much like the first, with Orange County pressing aggressively and trying to pin Colorado back. The introduction of teenage winger Bryce Jamison added fresh energy, stretching the Switchbacks’ back line and forcing them to adjust to his speed and directness.

The hosts nearly struck in the 61st minute when they carved out their clearest chance of the night, but Shutler stood tall, making a crucial stop to keep the score level. The referee’s assistant raised the flag for offside after the save, but it didn’t take away from the importance of Shutler’s intervention in preserving the clean sheet.

That moment proved to be a turning point. On the ensuing counterattack, Jamison and Ciotta combined down the flank to earn a corner. Stephen Kelly whipped in a dangerous delivery, and after a scramble in the box the ball deflected off Ashton Miles and fell kindly for Nico Benalcazar, who buried his finish to give Orange County a deserved 1–0 lead.

From there, it was all about composure and discipline. The OCSC back line, marshaled by Latinovich and Ciotta, absorbed wave after wave of Switchbacks pressure. Colorado pushed numbers forward and committed to finding an equalizer, but Orange County’s structure held firm.

The fourth official signaled six minutes of stoppage time, sending the home crowd into a frenzy, but OCSC stayed calm, breaking up attacks and managing possession with maturity. Every clearance, tackle, and bit of hold-up play from the visitors drained precious seconds off the clock.

When the final whistle blew, Orange County walked away with a hard-fought 1–0 victory The result extends their strong run of form and proves once again that this team can handle adversity, whether it’s altitude, injuries, or late pressure, and still find a way to take all three points.

OCSC returns to The Champ on August 30th for an Eastern Conference match against Birmingham Legion FC. For tickets, click HERE

Milestones:

OCSC first win in Colorado Springs since 2021

OCSC is undefeated in its last 4 game (Last 5 in all competitions)

TEAM	FIRST HALF	SECOND HALF	FULL TIME
OCSC	0	1	1
COS	0	0	0

SCORING SUMMARY:

63’ Nico Benalcazar (OC) – Assist Ashton Miles

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY:

ORANGE COUNTY SC

87’ Pedro Guimaraes – Yellow Card

91+1 Stephen Kelly -Yellow Card

COLORADO SPRINGS SWITCHBACKS FC

7’ Jonas Fjeldberg – Yellow Card

19’ Christian Hererra – Bench Yellow Card

53’  Akeem Ward – Yellow Card

56’ Marco Micaletto – Yellow Card

70’ Zachary Zandi – Yellow Card

80’ Steven Echevarria – Yellow Card

ORANGE COUNTY SC LINEUP: (4-2-3-1)

Colin Shutler (GK); Tom Brewitt [C](41’ Vuk Latinovich), Nicholas Benalcazar, Ryan Doghman, Nicola Ciotta, Kevin Partida (58’ Ashton Miles)Stephen Kelly, Ousmane Sylla, Mouhamadou War (46’ Bryce Jamison), Ethan Zubak (84’ Tristan Trager), Chris Hegardt (84’ Pedro Guimaraes)

Unused subs: Tetsuya Kadono (GK); Cameron Dunbar, Cheick Koné, Gavin Karam 

Head Coach: Danny Stone

Possession: 43% | Shots: 6 | Shots On Goal: 2 | Corners: 6 | Fouls: 20 | Offsides: 1 |

COLORADO SPRINGS SWITCHBACKS FC: (3-4-2-1)

Adam Beaudry (GK); Steven Echevarria, Garven-Michee Metusala, Matthew Mahoney, Akeem Ward, Zachary Zandi (Charlie Adams), Aidan Rocha, Quenzi Huerman, Marco Micaletto, Jonas Fjeldberg (59’ Levonte Johnson), Juan Tejada

Unused subs: Cristian Herrera (GK); Brennan Creek, Tyler Clegg, Henry Weston, Chase Gozdieski, Matt Real, Yosuke Hanya, 

Head Coach: James Chambers

Possession: 57% | Shots: 9 | Shots On Goal: 2 | Corners: 3 | Fouls: 15 | Offsides: 2 |

Orange County SC v. Colorado Springs Switchbacks SC

2025 USL Championship | Matchday 18

Date: August 16, 2025
Venue: Weidner Field – Colorado Springs, CO

Kickoff: Saturday, August 16th (6:00 PM PDT)
Where: How to Watch: ESPN+
Available in the U.K.: USL on YouTube

Orange County SC hit the road once again this week, heading to Colorado Springs for another crucial Western Conference test. Fresh off a gritty, hard-fought draw in Pittsburgh, the Black & Orange are aiming to turn that resilience into a full three points at Weidner Field. Playing at altitude in Colorado Springs has historically been a mixed bag for OCSC. While the thin air can challenge visiting sides, the club enters this match in strong form and riding the momentum of recent results. 

The Switchbacks, meanwhile, have been far less dominant at home in 2025 than in past seasons, leaving an opening for OCSC to capitalize.

The two sides are already familiar foes this year. OCSC earned a decisive 3–1 victory at Championship Soccer Stadium earlier this season, a win that showcased their ability to disrupt Colorado Springs’ tempo and punish defensive lapses. Since that meeting, the Black & Orange have only grown sharper, with improved chemistry, more fluid transitions, and a cutting edge in the final third.

Saturday night’s contest has all the makings of an intense tactical battle. Both teams will aim to control the pace, win midfield duels, and minimize costly mistakes. For OCSC, success will come down to executing the finer details: staying compact defensively, creating and finishing high-quality chances, and being ruthless in the attacking third. If they can hit those marks, manage the demands of altitude, and keep their composure in the late stages, they’ll be well-positioned to return home with another big road result—and valuable points in the playoff race.

OCSC returns to The Champ on August 30th for a Labor Day Beer Fest and the return of Ronaldo Damus, when Birmingham Legion FC comes to town. For tickets, click HERE

MILE HIGH

Colorado Springs will look to push the tempo in wide areas, relying on their front line to keep constant pressure on the OCSC defense. Unlocking Marco Micaletto in midfield will be crucial for the Switchbacks to generate quality chances and force the Black & Orange onto the back foot. Expect them to use their pace on the wings to stretch play, attack the flanks, and deliver dangerous crosses into the box. In goal, Adam Beaudry, on loan from the Colorado Rapids, has impressed over his last four appearances, but he has yet to face the kind of sustained attacking threat that OCSC can bring.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC 2024 USL Championship Regular Season Record: 15-12-7 (USL Championship Cup Winner)
Goals Scored: 48 | Goals Allowed: 40 | Clean Sheets: 13

Players to Watch:
M Marco Micaletto
GK Adam Beaudry

ATTITUDE AT ALTITUDE

Orange County SC arrives in Colorado Springs unbeaten in their last three matches and riding an attacking surge with 11 goals in their past five outings. To earn points at altitude, the Black & Orange will need to stay compact without the ball, punish the Switchbacks on restarts, and strike quickly in transition. Expect Ethan Zubak to press Colorado’s back line throughout the night, with Chris Hegardt and company looking to create early chances, especially given OCSC’s strong record when scoring first. The battle for midfield supremacy will be decisive, where Kevin Partida and Stephen Kelly must dictate tempo, win duels, and link play. Kelly’s ability to deliver precise set pieces could prove pivotal, while Tom Brewitt’s organization and Colin Shutler’s commanding presence in goal have anchored recent defensive stability. That composure will be essential in the closing stages. Keep an eye out for a possible debut from newcomer Tyson Espy, whose fresh legs and energy could help lock down a result late.

OCSC 2024 USL Championship Regular Season Record: 13-11-10
Goals Scored: 38 I Goals Allowed: 45 I Clean Sheets: 15

Players to Watch:
F Ethan Zubak
GK Colin Shutler

All-time Record:
Orange County SC is 10-8-2 all-time against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC (Last 5 against COS- 2-3-0)

Previous Matchup: 2025 USL Championship
Orange County SC 3-1 Colorado Springs (May 24th, 2025, Irvine, CA)
Scoring Summary28’ Chris Hegardt (OC), 61’ Cameron Dunbar (OC), 66’ Anthony Fontana (COS), 90+3’ Mouhamadou War (OC)

Orange County SC is pleased to announce the signing of 16-year-old defender Tyson Espy to his first professional contract. A standout with the U.S. Youth National Team, Espy joins OCSC’s acclaimed #NextWave development program from the LAFC Academy.

Hailing from Dana Point, CA, born in Irvine, Espy holds the distinction of being the first Irvine-born player to sign a professional contract with OCSC. Before joining the LAFC Academy, Espy played his youth soccer with Laguna United.

Espy is considered to be one of the top youth prospects in the nation in his age group. He was recently named to the 2025 MLS NEXT All-Star Game in Austin and previously completed a training stint with Bundesliga powerhouse Bayern Munich.

“We are delighted to welcome Tyson to Orange County SC,” said President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Peter Nugent. “Tyson is a highly promising prospect, and there was considerable interest in him from clubs across the country, so his decision to sign here is a strong endorsement of the development pathway we’ve built. We’re fully committed to providing the structure, support, and professional environment needed for him to grow and ultimately achieve his goals of competing at the highest level in Europe. We look forward to contributing to his development and helping him reach his full potential.”

Espy has been a mainstay in U.S. Youth National Team camps at the U-15 and U-16 levels. With the U-15 squad, he won both the UEFA Development Tournament in Portugal and the Vlatko Markovic Tournament in Croatia. He scored his first international goal in a November 2024 draw against Mexico and most recently traveled to Argentina and Uruguay with the U-16s. He is considered a core member of the U.S. player pool ahead of the 2026 Concacaf U-17 Championship and 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup.

“I chose to join OCSC for a few reasons… to take my development to the next level by playing in a competitive, professional environment; to push myself in new ways and lean into the challenges of playing on a first team; and because OCSC provides a strong platform to prepare me to play in Europe,” said Espy. “While with OCSC, I want to maximize my development and contribute to the rise of the team to win the USL Championship.

Beyond OCSC, I see myself playing in Europe… that’s the goal, and I believe OCSC is the perfect place to make this a reality.”

After excelling at the MLS Academy level, Espy is now taking the next step by signing professionally with Orange County SC and joining the Pathway to Europe program, OCSC’s proven track record of launching top youth talent to the global stage.

He will reunite on the back line with former LAFC teammate Pedro Guimaraes, as he looks to follow in the footsteps of former OCSC stars like Kobi Henry, Korede Osundina, Kyle Scott, and Milan Iloski, all of whom have gone on to play for top-flight clubs around the world.

Espy will be available for selection on Saturday, August 16th, for the away game in Colorado Springs. Be sure you see the next OCSC home game on August 30th, as we take on Birmingham Legion FC. Lock in your tickets, HERE.

Transaction Details:

Orange County SC signs defender Tyson Espy, August 2025

Name: Tyson Espy

Position: Center Back

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 170 lbs

Number: #15

Born: April 3, 2009

Birthplace: Irvine, CA

Hometown: Dana Point, CA

Previous Club: LAFC Academy

Social Media: @tyson.espy on Instagram

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About Orange County Soccer Club:

Orange County Soccer Club (OCSC) is Orange County’s only professional soccer team and a founding member of the United Soccer League (USL). It was purchased by Club owner and Chief Investment Officer of LARO Properties, James Keston, in 2017. OCSC, which plays its home games at the 5,500-seat Orange County Great Park Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine, CA, won its first USL Championship title in 2021. OCSC is dedicated to being the leader in professional player development in the United States, providing a pathway to professional soccer and the top leagues around the world. 

Orange County SC secured a hard-fought point in a 1-1 draw in Pittsburgh. The lone goal came on OC’s only shot on target when Ethan Zubak headed in a set-piece goal on a kick by Stephen Kelly in the 40th minute.

Despite sustained pressure from the Riverhounds, Orange County’s back line, anchored by goalkeeper Colin Shutler, stood tall to preserve a 1–0 advantage at the halftime whistle.

The second half started slowly with both teams cautiously seeking a goal, until Pittsburgh took the game on the front foot in search of an equalizer.

Pittsburgh got the goal they were looking for on a set piece in the 68’ minute when Guillaume Vacter headed the ball into the back of the net on a pass from Sean Suber.

Both sides looked content to settle for a draw, but Pittsburgh ramped up the intensity in the final 10 minutes, forcing Orange County’s defense into action. Despite being outshot and out possessed, OCSC held firm at the back, absorbing pressure as the Riverhounds chased a late winner while carving out a few dangerous chances of their own through disciplined, organized play.

OCSC returns to The Champ on August 30th for an Eastern Conference match against Birmingham Legion FC. For tickets, click HERE

Milestones:

Ethan Zubak 10,000 USL Championship minutes

Colin Shutler’s 200th career save

TEAM	FIRST HALF	SECOND HALF	FULL TIME
OCSC	1	0	1
PIT	0	1	1

SCORING SUMMARY:

41’ Ethan Zubak (OC) – Assist Stephen Kelly

68’ Guillaume Vacter (PIT) – Assist Sean Suber

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY:

ORANGE COUNTY SC

60’ Chris Hegardt

78’ Kevin Partida

90 +1’ Colin Shutler

PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC

23’ Beto Ydracvh

28’ Bertin Jacquesson

33’ Augustine Williams

90’ Bradley Sample

ORANGE COUNTY SC LINEUP: (4-2-3-1)

Colin Shutler (GK); Tom Brewitt [C], Nicholas Benalcazar, Ryan Doghman, Nicola Ciotta (65’ Koa Santos), Kevin Partida (85’ Vuk Latinovich), Stephen Kelly, Ousmane Sylla (74’ Tristan Trager), Mouhamadou War (65’ Bryce Jamison), Ethan Zubak, Chris Hegardt (85’ Ashton Miles)

Unused subs: Tetsuya Kadono (GK); Cameron Dunbar, Pedro Guimaraes, Gavin Karam 

Head Coach: Danny Stone

Possession: 44% | Shots: 3 | Shots On Goal: 1 | Corners: 3 | Fouls: 10 | Offsides: 1 |

PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC LINEUP: (3-4-2-1)

Erik Dick (GK); Augustine Williams(46’ Charles Ahl), Daniel Griffin, Perrin Barnes, Bertin Jacquesson(76’ Brigham Larsen), Luke Biasi(76’ Brunallergene Etou), Robbie Mertz (88’ Jason Bouregy), Jackson Walti(76’ Bradley Sample), Guillaume Vacter, Sean Suber, Beto Ydrach

Unused subs: Jacob Randolph (GK); Jorge Garcia, 

Head Coach: Bob Lilley

Possession: 56% | Shots: 17 | Shots On Goal: 4 | Corners: 10 | Fouls: 18 | Offsides: 1 |

Orange County SC v. Las Vegas Lights FC

2025 USL Championship | Matchday 17

Date: August 9, 2025

Venue: Highmark Stadium – Pittsburgh, PA

Kickoff: Saturday, August 9th (4:00 PM PDT)

Where: How to Watch: ESPN+

Available in the U.K.: USL on YouTube

Orange County SC heads back out on the road looking to improve on its 1-5-1 away record. OCSC is one of the hottest teams in the league, riding a 3-1-1 record in its last 5 matches and scoring 8 goals while conceding 1 in the last two USL Championship games. It’s hard to say what to expect on Saturday because Pittsburgh is unlike any other opponent, but OC has a history of winning against the Riverhounds, and 5 of OC’s 6 wins over the hounds were earned in Pittsburgh. The Orange and Black are a team that is coming into form, and with a healthy roster, there will be a lot of depth heading into the weekend.

Expect a close, tactical affair, and what could be a tight game with few goals. Saturday’s outcome might potentially be decided by a moment of brilliance from Ethan Zubak or an inspired breakthrough from OCSC’s counterattack.

OCSC returns to The Champ on August 30^th for a Labor Day Beer Fest and the return of Ronaldo Damus when Birmingham Legion FC comes to town. For tickets, click HERE

LILLEY BALL

The Riverhounds are unlike any opponent OCSC will face in 2025, and Bob Lilley’s club is a bizarre statistical anomaly. The Riverhounds have played 18 games and hold 5^th place in the East with 26 points. The hounds have scored 17 goals and conceded 15, and their Keeper, Eric Dick, has 42 saves on the season. Augustine Williams and Robby Mertz make up the bulk of the offense. Williams is a proven goal scorer and one of the best in the USL Championship. Of his 80 career goals in the Championship, only 3 are against OCSC, and one of them was a PK. The defense is a typical Bob Lilly sturdy defense, with Sean Suber representing a dependable and physical force on the backline. The defense is disciplined with a hard-to-break style in the USL Championship. Known for conceding just 0.9 goals per match, but Dick’s 42 saves indicate opponents are finding opportunities to test him.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC 2024 USL Championship Regular Season Record: 12-10-12 (7th Place in the East)

Goals Scored: 41 | Goals Allowed: 28 | Clean Sheets: 16

Players to Watch:

F Augustine Williams

GK Erik Dick

MELT STEEL

Steel melts at 2,800°F, and OCSC’s offense might just be hot enough to break through the Pittsburgh Riverhounds’ tough defense. Orange County’s knack for early goals and forcing mistakes will be key to Saturday’s outcome. Expect Ethan Zubak to spearhead the attack, backed by midfielders Ousmane Sylla and Chris Hegardt. Kevin Partida and Nico Benalcazar must dominate the midfield and make sharp passes. OCSC should control possession and set the pace, while defenders Tom Brewitt and Vuk Latinovich focus on neutralizing pressure and capitalizing on counterattacks to exploit Pittsburgh’s errors. Goalkeeper Colin Shutler and the backline have been solid, conceding just 3 goals in their last 7 matches, with 5 clean sheets. Shutler has faced 57 shots this season, saving 34, and with 199 career saves, he could hit 200 in Pittsburgh.

OCSC 2024 USL Championship Regular Season Record: 13-11-10

Goals Scored: 38 I Goals Allowed: 45 I Clean Sheets: 15

Players to Watch:

F Ethan Zubak

GK Colin Shutler

All-time Record:

Orange County SC is 6-1-2 all-time against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (Last 5 against PIT- 3-1-1)

Previous Matchup: 2024 USL Championship

Orange County SC 2-0 Pittsburgh (March 16th, 2024, Pittsburgh, PA)

Scoring Summary: 3’ Brian Iloski (OC), 76’ Cameron Dunbar (OC)