USL-1 North Carolina FC

Carolina RailHawks Aim to Maintain Home Undefeated Streak

Published on June 6, 2007 under USL First Division (USL-1)
North Carolina FC News Release


The Carolina RailHawks take on the Rochester Raging Rhinos on Friday, June 8th at 7:30 PM at SAS Soccer Park. The match is the first for the RailHawks after their return from a successful three game west coast swing in which the team recorded a win, a tie, and a loss. The RailHawks are currently sitting in fourth place in the USL Division 1 with a record of 3-2-4 for 13 points. The Rochester Raging Rhinos are ahead of the RailHawks by two spots in the standings with a record of 4-3-4, giving them 16 points.

Though this is the inaugural regular season match between the two squads, there is a quite a bit of history in the rivalry. RailHawks president and general manager Chris Economides was one of the founders of the Rhinos, while head coach Scott Schweitzer enjoyed the most successful years of his playing career in Rochester. Defenders Frankie Sanfilippo and David Stokes, as well as midfielders Jonny Steele and Chris Carrieri, have all played for the Rhinos franchise.

"It's going to be a great game," said RailHawks head coach Scott Schweitzer. "I played in Rochester, some of our guys played there, Chris Economides is from there. Rochester is the epitome of a franchise team that was great right from their inception and we want to be that team today. We aspire to be the best both on and off the field and we want to continue our unbeaten home streak with a victory."

The Rhinos are led Liberian forward Johnny Menyongar, who is currently sitting in 2nd among the league leaders in points. The defense is anchored by Kenney Bertz, Kevin Novak, and Scott Palguta. USL-1 Player of the Week, Rochester Rhinos goalkeeper Chase Harrison will be looking to defend his title.

"Friday night's game is a meaningful match for us since so many of my former players play for Carolina," said Rhinos head coach Laurie Calloway. "Chris Economides and Scott Schweitzer meant a lot to Rochester soccer, so I'm sure that it will be a meaningful game for them as well. It should be a special night."

Carolina goalkeeper Chris McClellan and the RailHawks defense look to continue on their stellar run of form, having conceded only 5 goals in 9 games played. The RailHawks are still undefeated at home and are prepared to continue the streak especially against such a big rival.

In addition, the Cary RailHawks U-23 PDL team will host the Atlanta Silverbacks at 4:30 PM on field 2 at SAS Soccer Park. The PDL team is currently in third place tied with the Silverbacks and a victory could skyrocket them to the top of the Southeast Division PDL standings. Fans are encouraged to come to the stadium early and enjoy the double-header.

The Carolina RailHawks continue their partnership with the North Carolina Food Bank. Fans are encouraged to bring non perishable food items to the stadium and drop them in the bins by the box office to receive a free match day program.

The theme of the week is School's Out as children across the Triangle prepare for the summer months by taking in a game of soccer, they are encouraged to take part in the human tunnel that greets the players as they come out on the field. They may line up in front of building D half hour before game start. Children will also be able to meet the team as they sign autographs at Autograph Alley, on the north side of the stadium, immediately after the game.

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USL First Division Stories from June 6, 2007


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