Darren Mackie to Start for Phoenix FC Tonight
May 23, 2013 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Phoenix FC News Release
PHOENIX, AZ (May 23, 2013) -- Phoenix FC's first league match in almost two weeks pits the Wolves against the Charlotte Eagles on Thursday, May 23, at 7:30 p.m. at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium in a match that will see forward Darren Mackie in the Wolves' starting lineup for the first time this season.
Former Scottish Premier League standout Darren Mackie is the first player ever signed to play for Phoenix FC, and he was intended to be the centerpiece of a high-octane offense for the Wolves. Mackie suffered a groin injury early in training camp and has since been sidelined, making only one brief appearance off the bench. His addition to the starting lineup has been highly anticipated both in Phoenix and in international circles, where "The Dazzler" has a substantial following of devoted fans.
Social media buzz has been active since Monday when word first leaked out that Mackie was projected as a starter this week. Fans from his hometown of Aberdeen, Scotland took to Facebook and Twitter to comment on his return, as did Phoenix-area soccer supporter groups La Furia Roja 1881 and Fuerza Lobos.
Mackie's return is expected to draw new fans to the stadium, as well as increased viewership of the live stream of the match from fans around the world. The live stream can be seen at www.uslnation.com.
Phoenix FC will also kick off the Memorial Day weekend tonight with a Military Appreciation Night by offering a free ticket to all active and retired military members. Proper military identification must be presented at the Phoenix FC ticket booth beginning at 6 p.m. to receive one (1) free admission.
Tonight's projected starting lineup is: (GK) Sheldon Parkinson; (D) Devon Grousis, Renan Boufleur, Cyprian Hedrick, Donny Toia; (M) Netinho, Scott Morrison, Anthony Obodai, Diego Faria; (F) Darren Makie, Aaron King; (Res.) Isaiah Schafer, Josh Bento, Jose Ramos, Tommy Ramos, Brian Holmes, Peabo Doue, Andrew Weber.
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