USL North Carolina FC

Kristo, Mehl Signings Offer Skillful Additions to North Carolina FC

Published on January 23, 2019 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
North Carolina FC News Release


CARY, N.C. - North Carolina FC has signed two more key players to its squad with the additions of forward Robert Kristo and defender Timmy Mehl. Both moves are pending league and federation approval, while the club is also waiting for the receipt of Kristo's International Transfer Certificate.

Kristo joins North Carolina FC after three years abroad, playing for teams in Italy and Germany. The 25-year-old forward most recently spent two seasons with German 3. Liga side VFL Osnabrück, playing over 700 minutes while primarily being relied on as a substitute. Prior to his stint in Germany, Kristo played for Italian sides Tuttocuoio and Fidelis Andria in Serie C from 2015-2016, while on loan from Serie B side Spezia.

"Robert is a striker that offers a physical presence along with mobility and technical skill," said North Carolina FC Head Coach Dave Sarachan. "Outstanding in the air, Robert will provide an important dimension in our attack as a target striker."

Kristo turned pro following a standout college career at Saint Louis University. The forward was a three-time All-American and tallied 41 goals and 15 assists in 71 appearances with the Billikens. In his final season, he was named the Atlantic 10 Conference Offensive Player of the Year and was a Hermann Trophy semifinalist.

On the defensive side of the ball, Mehl joins NCFC after a standout college career at Indiana University. The center back made 72 appearances, scored six goals and added four assists. He was also a two-time All-Big Ten selection and helped lead his team to the NCAA College Cup last season. Mehl was part of an Indiana defensive unit that led the NCAA with 15 shutouts and only allowed 13 goals all season. Mehl joins his college teammate Austin Panchot on the North Carolina FC roster.

"Timmy comes from an outstanding collegiate program that had great success this season," added Sarachan. "He played a huge role in their back line and will provide us another center back option. He is comfortable on the ball and playing out of the back under pressure, which will be important in our way of playing."

North Carolina FC's roster includes goalkeeper Alex Tambakis, defenders Aaron Guillen, Timmy Mehl, Steven Miller and DJ Taylor, midfielders Austin da Luz, Dre Fortune, Victor Igbekoyi, Austin Panchot, Graham Smith and Duval Wapiwo and forwards Yamikani Chester, Donovan Ewolo, Robert Kristo and Marios Lomis.

As the start of the 2019 season nears, now is the perfect time to purchase season tickets for North Carolina FC. This year's deals feature many great packages and benefits, including the brand-new Auto-Renewal Program and traditional benefits such as priority purchasing for exclusive international exhibitions. Click here to learn more about season tickets or call the Coastal Credit Union Box Office at 919-459-8144 to speak with a ticket representative.

Player Profile:

Name: Robert Kristo

Position: Forward

Birthdate: 5/14/1993 (Age: 25)

Hometown: St. Louis, Mo.

Height: 6'4

Weight: 205 lbs

Citizenship: United States

College: Saint Louis University

Previous Club: VFL Osnabrück

Transaction: North Carolina FC has signed Robert Kristo.

Player Profile:

Name: Timmy Mehl

Position: Defender

Birthdate: 8/31/1995 (Age: 23)

Hometown: Manhattan Beach, Calif.

Height: 6'1

Weight: 170 lbs

Citizenship: United States

College: Indiana University

Transaction: North Carolina FC has signed Timmy Mehl.

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United Soccer League Championship Stories from January 23, 2019


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