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USL North Carolina FC

North Carolina FC Faces Major Playoff Battle against New York Red Bulls II

October 5, 2018 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
North Carolina FC News Release


CARY, N.C. - North Carolina FC (12W-11L-8D, 44 points) enters the contest against New York Red Bulls II (10W-8L-13D, 43 points) on Saturday, Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. looking for a win. This important game could be the difference maker as NCFC closes in on a playoff berth. The match is presented by WakeMed and is Fan Appreciation Night and Hamilton Night for NCFC Youth.

Both sides are locked in a tight race to qualify for the USL Playoffs. The teams have traded spots in the table each week and games are running out to decide who will qualify for the postseason. The match is NCFC's only game left against a fellow playoff contender, making it a true six-point game. A win for either side will not only push itself three points higher, but it will take away three much-needed points from the opposition. A victory will move NCFC to 47 points, which could vault the club as high as sixth place.

New York and its prolific scoring offense will present NCFC with a tough test. Near the top of the league with 64 goals scored, Red Bulls II have shown its quality in the final third all season long. However, the side is also susceptible to giving up goals and ranks near the bottom with 56 goals conceded.

New York can draw from its Academy and MLS sides, presenting a tough roster to prepare against. In the first meeting of the season, NCFC drew 2-2 in New York, where a come-from-behind effort - highlighted by a 90th minute equalizer from Donovan Ewolo - earned NCFC a point in the thrilling match.

Last Time Out:

NCFC is putting together its best form near the end of the season. The side has earned points from four of the last five matches and most recently picked up a 3-2 win over the Richmond Kickers behind a brace from Kyle Bekker and a goal from Austin da Luz.

Players To Watch:

North Carolina FC - No. 23 Zach Steinberger

Despite only being with the club for seven games this season, the midfielder has already tallied four goals and two assists. Steinberger has been a massive asset during the team's playoff run and is a constant threat in the attacking portion of the midfield.

New York Red Bulls II - No. 20 Amando Moreno

At just 23 years old, Moreno is one of the many young, talented players on the New York Red Bulls II roster. The forward has tallied a team-leading 10 goals and chipped in three assists and 21 key passes. Moreno is a product of the Red Bulls' Academy and has professional stints with the senior team and Club Tijuana in Mexico. NCFC will certainly need to keep the emerging prospect under wraps, as it looks to defend against the talented attacking side.

Up Next:

North Carolina FC will close out the regular season with two games on the road. NCFC will visit Louisville City FC on Tuesday, Oct. 9 before concluding the regular season against the Charlotte Independence on Saturday, Oct. 13. Both games will be massive opportunities to gain points and stay in a playoff position. NCFC can also clinch the Southern Derby with a win over Charlotte.

Check out the North Carolina FC Statistics



United Soccer League Championship Stories from October 5, 2018


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