NASL North Carolina FC

Match Preview: RailHawks Aim to Put Together Home Win Streak

Published on September 24, 2015 under North American Soccer League (NASL)
North Carolina FC News Release


CARY, NC (September 24, 2015) - The Carolina RailHawks are returning to WakeMed Soccer Park to host Ottawa Fury FC on Saturday, September 26th at 7:30 pm ET.

Saturday's faceoff will be the third time the two teams meet this year. The RailHawks lost a tight away game 2-1 in Ottawa on July 26th. However, the RailHawks defeated the Canadian side 3-1 in the Spring Season.

The RailHawks are coming off a close 2-1 loss against the Atlanta Silverbacks at Atlanta Silverbacks Park in which former UNC forward Tyler Engel scored his first career goal, which came in the first minute of the game. The Silverbacks responded with two goals, in the 31st and 34th minutes, respectively. The RailHawks countered with close opportunities from Nacho Novo and Nazmi Albadawi, but were not able to capitalize.

Ottawa Fury FC's last game ended in a 4-1 victory over the New York Cosmos at James M. Shuart Stadium. The first half of the game was spent in a deadlock, but Ottawa's four second-half goals put them on top.

The RailHawks are coming home ready to earn three points towards their push for a Championship position. The RailHawks currently have 26 Combined-season points and are seven points off of a Championship spot with six regular-season games remaining. Ottawa Fury FC is currently in first place in the Fall Season standings and second place in the Combined-season standings.

Following Saturday's home game, the RailHawks will remain in Cary for a home match against Jacksonville Armada FC at 7:30 pm ET on October 10th.

RailHawks Notes:

RailHawks Sign Experienced Defender Alex Pérez

The Carolina RailHawks announced on Thursday they have signed Alex Pérez for the remainder of the 2015 NASL season. The 24-year-old Spanish defender will look to help the RailHawks push for a spot in the NASL Championship.

Who to Watch

Midfielder Neil Hlavaty has been one of the most dependable players for Colin Clarke this year. The Berwyn native has clocked over 2,000 minutes in 2015, more than any of his teammates, and has recorded four goals and one assist. Hlavaty's versatility and reliability has made him a rather indispensable part of the RailHawks' lineup in almost every game.

Coach's Quote

"It becomes a big game for us," said RailHawks Head Coach Colin Clarke. "Right now we're in a must-win situation and that makes the Ottawa game very, very important."

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