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USL Phoenix Rising FC

English Duo Dynamic on and off the Pitch

May 23, 2016 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Phoenix Rising FC News Release


Teammates, roommates, and native Englishmen, Arizona United's Tyler Blackwood and Luke Rooney have a dynamic connection both on and off the field.

"We didn't know each other until we moved in together," Rooney said. "They didn't let us choose our roommates, but I guess because we are both from London, they figured they'd group us together. But hey, it's turned out really well so far."

Blackwood and Rooney have lived together for about a month, with the addition of fellow teammate Tom Williams two weeks ago. And with close living quarters and team events on a daily basis, Blackwood and Rooney are enjoying their time together.

"I've had to show Rooney some things since we've lived together," Blackwood said. "Basic things, really, but he didn't even know how to wash his own clothes."

Along with learning how to do his own laundry and choosing which fast food restaurants are the best, Rooney said that Blackwood has become a really good friend.

"Typically after practice, we will get back to our place and go straight out to the pool," Rooney said. "A lot of the team stays inside. I don't know what they do - stretch maybe, or sleep. But Tyler and I are out as much as we can, jumping off of the fountain, doing fun flips. We are definitely always having a good time."

And this budding friendship isn't just seen down by the pool. With Blackwood as the one of the team's strikers and Rooney behind him in midfield, the duo's connection is translating well on the field.

"I think our bond does give us an edge on the field," Blackwood said. "On a basic level, if I don't like someone, I'm not going to want to pass them the ball. If I like them, then I will. I like Rooney, and Rooney likes me, so we make the plays that benefit the team the most, not just ourselves."

"And it really does help to like your teammates," Rooney added. "To be honest, I think that we're really lucky to all like each other and get along. We have a really good mix of people on the team which is cool. But looking at just Tyler and myself, being such good friends off the field really enhances the way we play together during a game. Unfortunately, I've only been able to set him up for one goal so far, but it's early in the season and we have a lot more games to play. Once we get it right, we'll be hard to stop."

On April 15, the duo successfully combined for a goal during the team's 1-0 victory over Real Monarchs. Rooney crossed the ball from right field to center, setting up Blackwood to score the only goal of the match. And with twenty-one games left on Arizona United's schedule, the men aren't too worried about getting more shots on goal.

"It'll all come together," Blackwood said. "We have all been working hard in practices, and with Rooney behind me, there's no way we won't dominate."

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