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USL-1 North Carolina FC

RailHawks defeat New England Revolution in First Major Outing of 2009

March 14, 2009 - USL First Division (USL-1)
North Carolina FC News Release


Cary, NC - Head Coach Martin Rennie's WakeMed Soccer Park debut went off with a bang as the Carolina RailHawks won the inaugural "Community Shield" by defeating Major League Soccer powerhouse New England Revolution 1-0. RailHawks captain Mark Schulte scored the lone goal for the RailHawks, in the 16th minute, in what proved to be a hard fought, physical game against a side that was at the end of their preseason training. Coach Rennie was able to evaluate all of his roster as they measured up against soccer stars such as Jay Heaps, Shalrie Joseph and Matt Reis.

"We played a great game against a quality side," said RailHawks Head Coach Martin Rennie. "We still have a lot of work to do but it was great to win against a team at the end of their preseason. We were able to play everybody on our team against what will most likely be New England's starting lineup."

"I had a great serve by Kupono Low and I found myself free in the box," said RailHawks Captain Mark Schulte on scoring the goal. "We are grateful to the Revolution for spending their last week of training here in Cary. We were very fortunate to test ourselves against a great team."

The RailHawks came out flying in the first half, applying relentless pressure and tallying the first goal of the game. RailHawks captain Mark Schulte volleyed a header over the outstretched arms of New England goalkeeper Matthew Reis in the 16th minute to break the scoreless tie. RailHawks midfielder Kupono Low served the ball in from midfield off of a free kick. The RailHawks midfield and defense kept the Revolution attack at bay for the rest of the half to preserve the 1-0 advantage heading into the locker room.

Coach Rennie made a few changes to the lineup in the second half inserting Caleb Patterson in goal and adjusting the midfield with Daniel Paladini. Patterson record four saves including a spectacular point blank shot in the 86th minute by Revolution forward Kenny Mansally.

The Evening began with some great news for RailHawks defender Caleb Norkus as he proposed to his girlfriend and National Anthem singer Danielle Fernandez. Norkus and Danielle met at a RailHawks game last August and have been together ever since. Norkus surprised Danielle right after she sang the anthem and she accepted his proposal amid the cheers of over 2,000 fans.

Next The RailHawks continue their preseason exhibition with a match against Hoduran powerhouse, CD Olimpia on March 27, at 8:00 p.m. Tickets ($20, $27.50 and $35) are available at the LGFCU Box Office, by calling 919-859-KICK (5425), or by visiting www.carolinarailhawks.com.

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