USL Phoenix Rising FC

Arizona United Eliminated from U.S. Open Cup Following 3-0 Loss

Published on June 2, 2016 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Phoenix Rising FC News Release


PEORIA, Arizona - Arizona United Soccer Club's 2016 run in the U.S. Open Cup came to an end in the third round following a 3-0 loss to Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. The club lasted one round better than last season's run, but fell short of their 2014 run to the fourth round.

"I think we had enough chances in the first (half), well before whenever that goal was," said Arizona United midfielder Luke Rooney. "And then obviously in the second half we conceded bad to make it 2-0, and then obviously the second half we weren't quite good enough."

United had its chances to score. Less than ten minutes into the match, midfielder Luke Rooney had space and hit a strong shot on target, but Switchbacks goalkeeper Billy Thompson punched it away. In the 15th minute, midfielder Nick Costa whipped a strong cross into the box, but Sam Garza's attempted one-timed shot when high and wide.

But the best chance in the first half came in the 38th minute. Long Tan, with his back to the net, turned with the ball and fired a shot that was denied. A follow up header from Tyler Blackwood was kicked away just before the ball crossed the line.

Soon after, Colorado Springs' Luke Vercollone scored the fist goal of the match. The Switchbacks FC added two more goals in the second half. Aaron King made it 2-0 in the 59th minutes. Vercollone added a second goal in the 83rd minute.

"I think if you defend like that for the first goal then you don't deserveto win a game," said Arizona United assistant coach Marc Bircham.

United's best chance to score in the second half came in the 62nd minute. Uchenna Uzo turned and curled a shot from the top of the box that smacked off the crossbar.

Arizona United has the weekend off before it returns to league play on Saturday, June 11, when they take on OC Blues FC. Kickoff will be at 7:30 p.m.

Notes: Arizona United head coach Frank Yallop was sent off just before the half for dissent.

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United Soccer League Championship Stories from June 2, 2016


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