Can't Miss Matches of Round 2 of the USOC

Tomorrow will see round two of the 2019 US Open Cup. Most of these clubs saw action in round one, so we already have some cinderella stories in motion. The UPSL’s Florida Soccer Soldiers, who qualified for the tournament via a fourth round withdrawal, won their round one match against a NPSL reigning champion, will see if they can continue their run. Of course, there’s already a cinderella in the tournament from previous years, plucky North Texas Rayados. This is when we sort the pretenders from the competitors, so let’s look at our matches to watch!

Andy Rittenhouse

West Chester United SC at Birmingham Legion FC

It took two minutes for West Chester United to take the lead in the first round of the U.S. Open Cup on a goal by Troy Amspacher, assisted by Andreas Bartosinski. West Chester United knocked out FC Baltimore Christos of the NPSL after having to resort to penalty kicks as extra time ended with both teams having scored one goal. West Chester netted five penalty kicks to Baltimore's four to take the win. They were one of the four teams from the United States Adult Soccer Association to make it through to the second round of the U.S. Open Cup last week.

The weekend saw West Chester lose to Atlantic City FC in an NPSL league match, 4-1. Amspacher did not play and Bartosinski played only 58 minutes. According to the match report, a few other players saw a change in playing time since the match against FC Baltimore Christos in the first round. The ones that did not play this past weekend were Charles Wilson and J.P. Nolan. Michael Gonzalez only played 56 minutes and Bartosinski played 58 minutes. Not playing the league match this weekend should help them feel more rested heading into their competition with the USL Championship side Birmingham Legion.

Birmingham also played Saturday in a league match against Louisville City FC. Their loss was tough as they were out key players including their starting goalkeeper Matt Van Oekel, who will remain out at least another week with a high ankle sprain. Birmingham has been playing every week for a few months now and are feeling pretty banged up. After nine matches played, they are sitting in position 12 out of 18 in the USL Championship Eastern Conference table.

Wilson will play anywhere on the field that he is asked, but for this match, expect him to be playing toward the front and pushing forward as he leads the attack for West Chester. Birmingham is not a very explosive team moving forward, averaging one goal a game in the USL Championship in their first year in the league and as a professional team. Expect to see any attack come from either forward Prosper Kasim or midfielder Daniel Johnson, as the team leaders in chances created. Even with the struggles Birmingham has had so far, West Chester will be the underdog as an amateur side. They have won five straight road games through qualification and the first round and will fight to continue that streak.

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Aarik Long

Charlotte Independence vs. Florida Soccer Soldiers

One of the first three matches to kick off in the second round is my pick to be one of the best matches of the whole round. The UPSL’s Florida Soccer Soldiers head to Matthews, North Carolina to face the USL Championship’s Charlotte Independence.

The Florida Soccer Soldiers pulled off what is considered an incredible upset with a win over NPSL power and reigning NPSL Champion, Miami FC. A sixth minute goal from Miami’s Ariel Martinez put the favorites up 1-0 before William Stamatis equalized immediately after the half in the 46th minute. In the 70th minute, Carlos Meneses missed a penalty. It seemed like that would be the one that got away for the UPSL side, but in the 87th minute Meneses redeemed himself and put the Florida Soccer Soldiers up 2-1, which would be the final score.

The Florida Soccer Soldiers are undefeated in UPSL play and have a goal differential of +17. They are a dominant side and if there is any UPSL squad that could make a serious run, it would be the team from North Miami Beach (or Cal FC, but that’s for someone else to talk about).

As for the Independence, Saturday saw the club drop yet another match, this time to fellow cellar dweller Loudoun United. The 3-1 loss means that Charlotte has not won a soccer match in nearly a month. In their first ten matches of the season, they’ve picked up just one win and only have a whopping four wins this calendar year.

If there was a perfect matchup for the Florida Soccer Soldiers to continue their Cinderella run, this is almost certainly it. A Charlotte Independence squad that has struggled mightily this season will have to try to defeat a red hot squad from South Florida if they want to advance, while that red hot squad looks to continue their underdog quest. It has storylines for both squads and should be interesting to watch.

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Dan Creel

Colorado Switchbacks vs. FC Denver

You’d have a hard time picking a better embodiment of how to build a modern grassroots soccer club than Denver FC. Founded in 2006 from a Craiglist post, the club now has four men’s teams that play at the semi-pro/elite amateur level in the Colorado Premier League, two of which are Open teams. Denver FC also reorganized a women’s Open team that started play in the CPL this spring. Denver’s alternative weekly, Westword, even named them the city’s Best Amateur Soccer Team for 2019.

Denver FC entered the 2019 U.S. Open Cup proper as the Mountain Region’s local qualifier, and they drew an away match against Midland-Odessa Sockers in the First Round. But, when that day rolled around, their flight to Midland was cancelled. Using the determination and resourcefulness needed for successful grassroots clubs, the team scrambled for other options. They ended up flying into El Paso and driving the four plus hours through the Trans-Pecos to make their match that evening. Undaunted, Denver FC lived up to their road warrior mantle and defeated the Sockers 2-1 when midfielder, Kyle Crouse, scored a 35-yard screamer in the 89th minute.

For their Second Round fixture, the team won’t have to go through such travel travails. This Wednesday Denver FC will only have to make a 90-minute drive south down I-25 to face Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC at Weidner Field. An affiliate of the Colorado Rapids, the Switchbacks play in the newly-rebranded USL Championship and enter the tournament with 24 other Championship teams.

This game will probably feel like deja vu as it is a virtual replay of last year’s Open Cup. Denver FC entered the 2018 tournament via qualification then defeated Azteca FC in the First Round. The teams met in the Second Round where the Switchbacks won 3-2 in a close, back-and-forth match.

Will this year will be a similar affair? The Switchbacks are currently sitting near the bottom of the Championship’s Western Conference and are likely looking to use this match as a spark to get their season back on track. But, Denver FC’s experience will keep them even-keeled and uncowed by their Division II rivals. If underdog Denver is able to keep the match close Colorado Springs, goalless in their last three matches, might start feeling the pressure to put one in the back of the net.

Colorado Springs should not underestimate their opponent’s skill. On top of that, Denver FC has shown the cool ability to score late. I wouldn’t put it past them to reverse last year’s form and steal this one away from their Centennial State brethren.

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Joshua Duder

El Farolito vs Fresno FC

Just a week ago, El Farolito of the NPSL’s Golden Gate Conference, dispatched conference foe Academic SC, in the first round of the US Open Cup by a score of 2-1. Leonardo Fredes broke his arm with the overhead winner and won’t be available for El Faro’s Round Two matchup, at home, against Fresno FC. Currently, El Farolito sit 6th place in their league table, with only two wins and two draws from seven games played so far. A far cry from the 32-point, conference winning performance in 2018, which is what qualified them to enter this year’s US Open Cup in the first round.

With Fredes out, head coach Santiago Lopez will look to Ronaldo Herrera, Carolos Montes, and Franco Calero to keep El Faro in the contest. The club are coming off a regular season draw, where East Bay Stompers played them to a 0-0 stalemate. They drew at home a week before that, and their two regular season wins have also come at home, so El Faro are showing signs of being a stronger homeside. They don’t have another NPSL match until June 1st, when they start a four game homestand, so, their supporter’s group, Burrito Brava, should expect their squad to leave nothing out on the pitch this Wednesday night. Founded in 1985, El Farolito are one of the more distinguished clubs in the competition and El Faro’s fans are looking for a repeat of their legendary run of 1993, when the club actually won the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup, though they were temporarily named CD Mexico at the time.

Round two of the Open Cup see franchises from USL Championship enter the tournament—Fresno FC are one of them. Currently 3rd in the West, with two matches in hand on some of their conference rivals, the Foxes, or Zorros, have a loss, a draw and three wins in their last five games played. There are no standouts with goals scored; guys like Christian Chaney and Jemal Johnson have three goals apiece; however, they have multiple players who have one or two goals and seem to get contributions from all over the pitch. Jackson has 5 assists and 13 created chances, while Juan Pablo Caffa has 2 assists, but has created 20 chances in only 8 appearances.

Head coach Adam Smith, who has worked in Sacramento with legendary coach Preki, as well as in Portland as the inaugural goalkeeping coach and eventual academy director, has loads of experience managing players at this level and has his Fresno squad well-oiled. His goalkeeper CJ Cochran, who has spent time with Atlanta Silverbacks, OKC Energy, Nashville SC, and now Fresno, as 3 clean sheets from 9 starts and their backline hasn’t given up more than two goals in a match since last season. Their most recent win was on the road, giving LA Galaxy II a 3-0 thumping. As a matter of fact, 3 of the Foxes 4 wins have come on the road, which, fingers-crossed, should result in a compelling US Open Cup round two match at historic Boxer Stadium in San Francisco. Fresno will make a 3-hour drive from Central Valley, California to the Bay Area for a 2:30 pm (PST) kickoff on Wednesday, May 15th.

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Dan Vaughn

OKC Energy vs. North Texas Rayados

North Texas Rayados have seen this story before and so have we, but we don’t get tired of a watching it again. The Rayados play in the North Texas Premier Soccer League and, with only one exception, are the biggest underdogs in the entire tournament. FC Denver plays at a similar level in the Colorado Premier League. But everyone else Rayados come against play from better funded, better supported leagues with massive local support. This seems to be a position they are completely comfortable with in this tournament.

Their track record of qualifying for the tournament is impressive, considering the odds of playing through 3-4 competitive qualifying rounds just to enter the Open Cup. Rayados have done that every year since 2011. Last year’s run was one for the ages, when the tiny local club made it to the 4th round and played against eventual champion, Houston Dynamo. Along the route, they knocked off a little club from Oklahoma, the same club they will be playing tomorrow.

Oklahoma City has had a rough time in the USL since 2015. After two seasons of great success, the club has had three years with mid-table finishes of 7th, 6th, and 10th in the West. This season looks like more of the same, with the club currently holding on to the 8th spot. However, it’s important to remember that the level of play in the USL Championship is almost incomparable to the North Texas Premier League.

So here we have a matchup of a USOC-veteran non-league side from a tiny local league going up against a mid-table side in one of the biggest leagues in the country. This is a David and Goliath rematch, after David knocked out the giant last year. What will we see this year? How can you bet against David?

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Shawn Laird

Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. The Villages SC

After an enthralling and draining win against the Lakeland Tropics on May 7th, The Villages SC now pay a visit to the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the second round of the US Open Cup. The Rowdies are currently joint leaders in the Eastern Conference of the USL Championship at 20 points with NY Red Bulls 2. Over their last five games, they are undefeated, with two wins and three draws. While that is a decent run of form, it also doesn’t exactly exude confidence in the squad.

On the flip side, The Villages SC have yet to kick off their League 2 season. The Buffalo look to build on an impressive 2018 season that saw them finish second with a 9W-3D-2L record and a spot in the Southern Conference Championship. Once in the championship, the Buffalo made a solid run to the National Semifinal, where they lost to Reading United 1-0. I look for them to push even harder to get to the National Championship and ultimately win it this year.

While I have not kept up recently with the Rowdies or The Villages SC, I expect The Villages to come out swinging. Having said that, I feel that the length of travel (2 hours with traffic) and the fact that it is a midweek game plays into the Rowdies benefit. Unless the players on The Villages were able to get the day off work, I expect some of them to be tired or not physically ready to deal with the pressure I’m sure Tampa plans to employ. Overall, I see Tampa advancing to the next round, 3-1.

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Stephen Packer

Des Moines Menace vs. Saint Louis FC

USL Championship side Saint Louis FC travel to the Hawkeye State to face USL League Two's Des Moines Menace in what will be an interesting matchup between teams at both ends of the United Soccer League's new structure. Des Moines go into the game on a high after winning their opening USL-2 game 2-0 against Green Bay Voyageurs, but struggled to put away NPSL side Duluth FC in the first round of the Open Cup, only managing to do so after extra time and penalties. The game was also not without controversy, with Des Moines defender James Thomas conceding a penalty in the 34th minute for a charge that has been described as a hockey check (if hockey players checked with their elbows). If this game does go to penalties however, Des Moines will be buoyed by the knowledge that they scored all three of theirs in the best of five, while Scotsman and captain Jordan Bell saved two of Duluth’s spot kicks.

Meanwhile, visitors St. Louis FC have played nine games in the USL Championship Eastern Conference, winning five and losing only once. Their tight defense has conceded only once in the last three games (against 17th-placed Swope Park Rangers), but on the other hand, the two clean sheets came from 0-0 draws. So, the game seems poised to be a tense affair, with Saint Louis sure to want to avoid extra time and penalties by getting their offense firing within 90 minutes. My favorite piece of Saint Louis trivia is that their manager is Anthony Pulis, son of current Middlesbrough manager Tony Pulis; Pulis Sr.’s influence seems most keenly felt as Saint Louis often try to put pressure on their opponents’ goal in the first 15 minutes or so before emphasizing defense in depth with good organization and fundamentals. Des Moines must guard against conceding early if they want to progress to the third round and fly the flag for USL-2.

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Phil Baki

El Paso Locomotive vs. Forward Madison

There normally are not very surprising matchups, geographically speaking, in the early rounds of the US Open Cup. However, El Paso and the faithful of the Locomotive have been handed an absolute treat in this one by drawing a club who has made waves nationwide from their place in the Midwest, Forward Madison FC, known more affectionately as the Flamingos.

While Locomotive have reached this round purely by virtue of existing in the USL Championship, the Mingos had to get past one of the best amateur teams in the country and 2018 UPSL National Champions, Milwaukee Bavarians SC. The Mingos were professional in getting past the Amateur Cup Champions, scoring two first half goals and limiting Bavarians’ chances. Brandon Eaton and Jiro Barriga Toyama were the goalscorers on the day and lead Forward into the 2nd Round.

As for League form, Forward Madison have recorded two each of wins, draws, and losses, or as Thanos would say, “Perfectly Balanced.” This record along with a +1 goal difference belies a team that has been exactly average. Josiel Nunez is their top scorer in League One with two goals so they will look to spread the goals across the team as they do in the league. The approach has its pros and cons, as it makes them less predictable but without a clear danger man they could struggle against Locomotive’s defense.

Locomotive, on the other hand, have an emerging focal point in Jerome Kiesewetter. The former USMNT forward has two braces in the last two matches, beginning to convert the chances he is getting in front of goal. Locomotive are improving as a squad as well, undefeated in four straight since a loss to Phoenix Rising FC. The USL Championship side’s approach is a possession-based game that will likely leave Forward Madison with few chances on their journey to the Southwest. Locomotive will look to wear the Mingos down and get them chasing the game while a more incisive attack which has found fluidity in the last few matches will test the League One side’s resolve.

This matchup might be unexpected in terms of the geography involved, but you can expect this one to be extremely entertaining. The lineup will likely be full strength for Madison while Locomotive may look to give chances to less regular players. Look for hometown hero Louis Chapa Herrera to get a spot in the starting eleven in front of the El Paso community. Can Madison get past a Locomotive side playing three games in a week or will the Championship outfit impose themselves at home? Time will tell and this matchup will hopefully remind us of the potentially amazing ties that Cup soccer can bring.

Preview: 4th Round of Qualifying for the US Open Cup

This weekend will see the final round of qualifiers for the 2019 US Open Cup. Six matches will be played over two days between clubs eager to prove they belong in the in the national competition. The histories of these clubs vary as much as the level of experiences of the players. It’s the best aspects of the competition on display and will certainly yield matches worth watching. We already have one club advanced of this group, as Florida Soccer Soldiers earned entry when their opponent was disqualified. Every match of the 4th round is here, dissected by the writers of Protagonist Soccer. Enjoy!

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Saturday April 6 Matches

WEST CHESTER UNITED VS SAFIRA FC

Dilboy Stadium, in Somerville, Mass., will hold one of the many great U.S. Open Cup qualifiers coming our way on April 6th. That match will be between Safira FC, which play in the UPSL and locally, against West Chester United, who play in the NPSL and locally.

Safira FC finished top of the UPSL’s Patriot Division by three points in 2018 but lost immediately in the playoffs to Lincoln Club Futebol. Their 9-2-1 league record and 32-9 goals scored and allowed rate reflect a club that knows not just how to win matches, they know how to win divisions.West Chester also had a strong 2018, reaching the conference final for the Keystone Conference, which has a playoff tournament to decide who moves on to the regional tournament. They lost said final in a penalty shootout to Motown, who would go on to reach the NPSL National Final. Again, their 7-0-3 league record and 29-9 goal scored and allowed rate in 2018 reflect a club with quality on the pitch.

The match between West Chester and Safira will be a meeting of different regions and leagues, but both clubs do have a shared strong record in their leagues. West Chester is a storied club, founded in1976, but did not join the NPSL until 2017. Both clubs are also well-known for their youth programs.

- Dominic Jose Bisogno

FC MARITSA VS NTX RAYADOS

The Rayados run of qualifying for the 2019 tournament began with an insane match against a local rival, Dallas Elite FC that went to 8 rounds of penalties to get a winner. Their second qualifier was a more conventional 2-0 win over Leon FC. Apparently a taste for drama returned in the 3rd qualifier against the GCPL’s Motagua. After finishing regular time 1-1, the two clubs went through a series of PKs that went so long the player that began the penalties with a miss ended the series with a match winner. So with those wins in their back pocket, the Rayados head into this final qualifier with a tremendous amount of experience on the roster. However, the side has multiple injuries to deal with that will shake up their roster deployment for the match. Right back Cedric Nickerson is in a boot for the next month and TJ Nelson injured himself playing for indoor soccer club Dallas Sidekicks. Nelson will actually be having surgery on Friday, the day before the match. Japanese prospect Toi Yamaoka is also out. That’s three starters for the Rayados who will be out for this match - the most important match in their qualifying run.

When asked about this match, the club responded - “The only thing we know about Marista [sic] FC is that they are a great team and they are in this round for a reason. We cannot take any team lightly and we play to give a great match as they travel down here to play us in Dallas.”

Maritsa FC’s path to this match had its share of impressive games. After getting a first round bye, their second round opener against FC Minnesota was a back and forth affair that wasn’t settled until a 90th minute goal that put Marista through 4-3. Their third qualifying match was against Livonia City on a chilly night in Michigan. Unlike the goal fest of the first round, this match ended 0-0 and headed into PKs. That lasted 7 rounds until Rob Acosta ended it with a decisive pen.

This matchup is really a clash of history vs inexperience. NTX Rayados have qualified for eight straight Open Cup competitions while Maritsa is trying to qualify for their first. But with Rayados piling up the injuries, this might be a match primed for an unlikely upset. I can’t end a preview of a match without a prediction, so I’ll take NTX Rayados over Maritsa 2-1.

- Dan Vaughn

FC DENVER VS SOUTHWEST FC

This Fourth Qualifying Round is uncharted territory for amateur teams looking for a berth into the First Round of the 2019 US Open Cup. Thus, the quality is high and looking at the roads that Southwest FC of El Paso, TX and FC Denver have taken to reach this point make that quality apparent.

Southwest FC of the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) Southwest Conference come into this match having relied on fast starts to reach this point of the competition. Both in the Second Round game against 2018 UPSL National Finalists Sporting AZ and the Third Round match against 2018 UPSL National Fall Semifinalists San Juan FC of Utah, the Wolves pressed extremely well and the early pressure lead to goals in both cases. Manager Endy Gonzalez pointed out that he approaches each match differently, but he may rely on what has served them well to this point. Cesar Sosa Jr, the son of the last man to score for an El Paso team in the USOC (Cesar Sosa Sr./El Paso Patriots) is a constant threat on the front line and will have FC Denver’s attention. Endy will certainly look to his captain and man of the match from the 3-0 victory over San Juan, David Lopez, to provide the spark and insure the team reaches the level required to make SWFC the first team from El Paso to qualify for the USOC in the modern era.

FC Denver have fought a battle for Colorado up to this point, having eliminated three other Centennial State teams en route to the Fourth Round. They’ve left Indios Denver FC, Harpos FC, and GAM United FC in their wake, with the 4-1 thrashing of GAM being their standout performance of this run. They too relied on early pressure but were much more focused on creating dangerous chances from possessing the ball as much as possible. Their crossing can be extremely dangerous and SWFC’s fullbacks will need to be able to stop the service from out wide. Cesar Castillo, Alex Bernhardt, and Fernando Magallenes make up FC Denver’s potent attacking line and will constantly rotate positions to keep defenses on their toes. FC Denver reached the USOC 2nd Round last year before losing to the Colorado Springs Switchbacks of the USL.

Both teams have proven their quality up to this point of the tournament. The tournament proper has not begun yet, but this certainly feels like a proper cup tie. There is plenty on the line and both clubs will be giving their all to grab the spot that they claim is rightfully there’s this Saturday.

- Phil Baki

IPS VS ACADEMICA SC

Last Autumn, amateur side International Portland Select, knocked off UPSL clubs Nevada Coyotes and JASA RWC in successive matches of the USOC qualification rounds. They had lucked-out to draw both games at home, where they were able to neatly fit them in between fall season fixtures. Now, Head Coach Harvey Hurst has to take his luck, but mostly well-organized squad, on the road to face an even higher standard in NPSL Golden Gate Conference side, Academica SC.

Currently 8th in the NPSL Power Rankings, Academica SC are coming into the USOC match after a four goal performance away to conference foes East Bay FC Stompers. As a matter of fact, both of Academica’s wins this season have come on the road, with goals pouring in from Edwin Rodriguez, Marco Torralva, Gerrardo Cazares, Fermin Chaidez and 2018’s Conference, Regional, and National Best XI forward Cody Golbad. Unfortunately, Academica have neither won, or even scored in their first two home matches at their own Academica Fields. Founded in 1972, Academica SC have a long history of competing for titles in Northern California’s soccer scene. 2018 was their first season in the National Premier Soccer League, finishing fifth and missing the playoffs, however, several players and even Head Coach Sergio Sousa, earned all sorts of league commendations. In the fall, however, Academica stepped up their game and blew out Davis Legacy in the first round of the USOC qualifiers; hosted Contra Costa FC and won 3-2; travelled to Oakland’s Raimondi Park and defeated the Stompers 1-0. For them, hosting the last play-in to the US Open Cup proper, has been well-earned.

IPS FC / Marathon Taverna travel to Turlock, California as winners of the OPSL’s 2018 Fall Season title and haven’t lost a match for six months. While the Oregon Premier Soccer League has unexpectedly suspended the 2019 Spring Season, IPS FC have re-joined the Greater Portland Soccer District, a league which the club had been a part of back in the late 1980s and into the 1990s before joining OPSL. Portland are currently on 9 points from their first three matches into the GPSD season with 12 goals coming from usual suspects; Nate Pogue, Paco Thomas, Pablo Salinas, and Prince Saydee. The boys-in-red from Portland, Oregon head down to Turlock, California to play Academica SC at Academica Field on Saturday, April 6th – with a 7:00 pm kickoff. It will be streamed via www.pamamedia.com, either on their website or through their Youtube channel.

- Joshua Duder

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Sunday April 7 Matches

WORLD CLASS PREMIER ELITE FC VS VIRGINIA UNITED

U.S. Open qualifying for the Mid-Atlantic Region comes down to two teams: VA United and World Class Premier Elite FC. VA United hails from Woodbridge, Va. and plays in the Woodbridge Soccer League which is affiliated with Asociacion Nacional Fútbol en USA. VA United took out league rival Centro America FC 2-1 in the first qualifying round in a physical match that saw the refs hand out seven yellows. The club then blanked Maryland Major Soccer League’s Super Delegates Football Club 2-0 in the second qualifying round. The next qualifying match was a huge one for VA United as they were able to upset Cup veterans, Christos FC, 2-1. Mauricio Martinez Campos scored the brace that put VA United through.

VA United has notched all three impressive qualifying wins at Howison Homestead Soccer Complex and gets one more at home. But, that might not be much of an advantage against their opponents this time around.

Based in Montgomery County, Md., World Class Premier Elite FC, a new member of the United Premier Soccer League beginning in the current 2019 Spring season, is also a member of the Maryland Major Soccer League winning the 2018 Spring season championship. The club plays its UPSL matches at Blair High School Stadium in Silver Spring, Md. but have been road warriors during qualifying winning all three away from home.

With a potent offense led by co-captains, Sesay and Daniel Ankrah, World Class Premier Elite defeated MMSL rival, Izee Auto FC, 4-2 in Columbia, Md. then crushed Cville Alliance FC Reserves 6-0 at Charlottesville, Va. in the second qualifying round. Their most impressive victory may have been the next one where they traveled to far upstate New York and defeated Rochester Lancers 2 3-1 in snowy, bitter conditions.

It is trite to say, but at this level talent usually wins out. And, World Class Premier Elite has talent. In combination with that also comes vital on-the-pitch U.S. Open Cup experience. Levi Houapeu and Elton Joe were part of Christos FC's multiple cup runs. In addition, the club has a stout defense, anchored in the center by Oumar Ballo and Evan Raimist in goal. In UPSL league play, the club has started the season with four away wins including a current streak of three clean sheets. Across two competitions, that’s seven wins in a row and a gaudy +22 goal differential.

But, you can not overlook the fact that VA United took down Christos FC last round. Started by a bunch of friends who grew up playing soccer together in Woodbridge, VA United decided to take the leap into the U.S. Open Cup. They are doing something right and their cup success has given them the motivation and exposure to raise the club's ambitions. During their cup run, the club created a board, brought in a new head coach, and began operating in a manner more like a semi-professional club. The team has been training hard for this match and their system is working. But is their commitment enough to give them the edge necessary to stop another attack-minded powerhouse?

- Dan Creel

CAL FC VS SANTA ANA WINDS FC

Cal Football Club

Cal FC can be categorized as one of the most dominant squads in amatuer soccer and Open Cup qualification. The club finished its fall 2018 UPSL season undefeated and has started its spring 2019 season with the same passion for dominance. So far, Cal FC is perfect through five games this season, scoring 22 goals and only allowing 7. “We have 7 new players on the team.  All are excellent players with professional experience,” said owner/ GM Michael Friedman about the clubs updated player pool for the 2019 season. He added “ Head coach Keith [Costigan] is doing a great job shaping the team.”

Open Cup success is a target for Cal FC and the club has already put together a few big results during qualification, including a PK shootout victory of fall 2018 UPSL champions, Cal United Strikers FC II. Of course Cal FC has its historic US Open Cup run in 2012, but will be looking to go even farther in 2019. “The USOC is the highest level tournament in the USA,” said Friedman, he added “to be in the tournament again would satisfy one of our stated goals.”

Santa Ana Winds FC

The club looking to spoil Cal FC’s Open Cup goals is fellow UPSL Pro Premier rival, Santa Ana Winds FC. The Winds typically have success within the UPSL, but have managed to mixed results during the first five matches of the 2019 spring season. Currently the club has three wins and two losses in the first five matches, scoring 16 goals and allowing 11. “Coach José López has been trying new players in recent league matches and this reflects in the clubs recent form, but recent results are not an indicator of our team’s match readiness come April 6,” said communication and social media manager Omar Ávalos.

On the route to the fourth round, the Winds have blown past LA Wolves FC, Lionside FC and Buena Park FC with a collective scoreline of 12-2, including two clean sheets in the first two rounds. While Santa Ana have proven to play spoiler in the past, the club will have its biggest test ahead of them on April 6th. A test that no other team has passed since Cal FC’s rebirth last season.

- Steven Ramirez

FLORIDA SOCCER SOLDIERS

With the final round of the 2019 US Open Cup qualifying forthcoming, it turns out that the club with the easiest route in to the tournament proper is the Florida Soccer Soldiers of the UPSL Southeast Conference. It was an unfortunate turn of events for their opponents, America Soccer Club, as it was confirmed by the UPSL they were no longer financial able to maintain their active club status. I reached out for a comment from America SC, but have not received any comment other than what has previously been said about the club.

However, things bode well for the Florida Soccer Soldiers. Not only is this their first time advancing in to the Open Cup, they currently sit in second place in their division, behind Red Force FC by three points. If I had to give an opinion on the Soccer Soldiers, I would have to say that, with the amount of talent on their roster, they could surprise one or two teams during their journey in the tournament. At the same time, though, being a semi-professional club could result in things not falling in their favor and thus could limit them to a one and done type of run in the Open Cup.

The Florida Soccer Soldiers have yet to comment on the situation surrounding the forfeited match against America SC thus far, but I hope to have a statement from them in the coming days.

I look forward to seeing who the Soccer Soldiers are pitted against in the first round of the Open Cup and will actively be rooting for them during their run.

- Shawn Laird

Recap: America SC vs. Soda City FC

November 17th was one hell of a night to remember for America Soccer Club.  They were competing in potentially the last round of local qualifying for amateur sides against Soda City FC from South Carolina.  In this contest of two top UPSL clubs, it could be seen that both teams were up to the task of leaving it all on the pitch.

For the first 15 minutes of the match, things were evenly contested and it was beginning to turn in to a chess match.  However, that changed in the 17th minute.  Soda City took a corner that ended up in the mixing pot in front of the America keeper.  While the ball pinged around, none of the America defenders could get a foot to it and it ultimately landed at the feet of a Soda City player, who poked it home to give them the early lead.

The tide began to swing in America’s favor just a few minutes later, though.  In the 22nd minute, William Eyang was dragged down in the box after fighting with a Soda City player for a loose lobbed ball from an America player.  Once the ref cleared the area, Rafael Tobias stepped up and sent the keeper the wrong way to tie the game in the 25th minute.  Eyang added another to America’s tally at the end of the first half on a lobbed ball over the top.  He beat out two defenders and was able to poke the ball home in to the bottom left corner, past the keeper’s outstretched hands.  Shortly after America scored the second goal, the half ended.

The second half was rather uneventful, aside from multiple yellow cards handed out to both sides due to rough challenges.

In the end, America came out victorious by a final of 2-1.  Once again, this writer was able to pick the correct winner, however, the score was wrong.  While the margin of victory was correct, there was no clean sheet to be had in this round.

America now waits to learn whether they must play another qualifying round or they’ve made it to the first round proper.  Unfortunately, they won’t find that out until January 2019. Here’s to hoping they are placed in the US Open Cup tournament and continue their run.

- Shawn Laird

Recap: Cal FC vs. Cal United FC II

After a rescheduling of venue, the match eventually kicked off at 8:15 PM PST. While it got cold during the late hours, the tempo on the field was hot. Both of these undefeated teams were battling it out for Open Cup glory and to be crowned champion of California, in name only.

The match started and Cal FC immediately began to cause trouble. After catching the Cal United midfield off guard, Cal FC caused a turnover near the center circle and within three passes found an open Irvin Parra, who slotted away the first goal of the night. Even after coughing up that turnover, the United side was still relaxed, moving the ball at a slow pace as it tried to transition into offense. And just like in the first goal, Cal FC caused a turnover in midfield and with two quick passes Parra found the ball his feet about thirty yards out and with a perfect shooting lane. After a few touches on the ball, he launched in the second goal of the night.

Down by two after twelve minutes, Cal United was forced to find its way into the match. United adjusted its lineup and pushed down its defensive midfielder right above the center back line. This gave it an extra outlet to pass to and someone to help cover any other counter attacks launched at it. It was a successful tactic and began to allow the United offense to gain traction in the match. It began to pass through the Cal FC midfield, but often focused on playing through one side at a time, never really changing the direction of attack. United finally got back into the match after a sweet cross from the left wing that was directed at the open target on the back post. At the fortieth minute, United began to focus on using the entire pitch while in possession. This would open up the field and eventually lead to a brilliant set of passing attempts that found their way into the box and led to the second goal for Cal United and the half ended 2-2.

The second half, while goalless, was some of the most open and exciting soccer I have seen in the lower leagues. Cal United played compact defensively and started the half holding possession. This seemed to throw off the Cal FC team that was unable to break at pace like it did during the first half. Each team began to take turns attacking one another. United began to have the better chances in the half, but couldn't break the wall that was covering the Cal FC goal. Cal FC keeper Marquez came up with a multitude of huge saves, often back to back attempts that began to frustrate the United offense. The match remained heated and in contention all the way until the 89th minute. Then darkness consumed the entire stadium as all the lights were shut off. Due to a city ordinance, the lights were not allowed to come back on and the match was suspended in the 89th minute of play.

This matchup between the two SoCal giants is currently postponed until a later date. Even after the disappointment of this unfinished match, the battle for California remains one of the best matches played all season.

- Steven Ramirez

Recap: Santa Ana Winds vs. Buena Park FC

The third round of U.S. Open Cup qualifying in Southern California kicked off on Saturday with two teams from separate leagues facing off. Santa Ana Winds FC of the UPSL hosted Buena Park FC of the SoCal Premier League. This match would go 120 minutes with the Winds picking up a huge 3-2 victory.

The match was an organized BPFC defense versus a quick and possessive Santa Ana Winds FC offense. The first half ended 1-1 with the defensive BPFC looking like the better side. Its midfield five was impenetrable and if the Winds did manage to break through the midfield line, they were met by an aggressive back line.

The first goal came in the thirteenth minute after an overly aggressive Winds defender mistimed a bouncing header and a BPFC attacker broke past the line to win a one-on-one battle against the Santa Ana keeper. Santa Ana got one back in the 31st minute after a cross from the left wing hit a BPFC defender and fell into the back of the net for an own goal.

At the end of the first half a Winds defender elbowed a Buena Park attacker while shielding the ball. He received a red card and it looked like the game in the second half would shift in favor of BPFC. That didn't happen, and even being down a man Santa Ana dominated possession and chances on goal. Buena Park did not change its game plan and allowed the Winds to move the ball all around the pitch causing a multitude of chances. The BPFC back line stayed resolute and did not give up a goal, sending the match into extra time.

Extra time started off with a bang after BPFC turned the ball over in its own half. A Winds attacker shot a nice ball from outside the box and sunk it in the back of the net. If there ever was a time for Buena Park to kick it up a notch, this was it, yet it continued to hold defensively and allowed Santa Ana all the time on the ball. The Winds weren't done either. Entering the 107th minute and after a solid string of passes, Santa Ana found itself in shooting range once more and bagged its third goal. BPFC was able to get another goal added to its total, but it wouldn't be enough to overcome the furious Winds side.

- Steven Ramirez

USOC Recap for IPSFC vs JASA RWC

For the second time in as many months, an UPSL side from California made the trip up to Portland, Oregon for an US Open Cup qualifying match. In October, International Portland Select FC (ISPFC) held off Nevada Coyotes 5-4 and with a little luck of the draw, were picked to host JASA RWC in round three. JASA, a winner of their previous qualifier as well, and top of their UPSL Wild West South Division, brought their good form and all black kits to Buckman Field for a 7:00 PM kickoff on Sunday, November 18th.

It had been clear all day, and at the time of kickoff, the crisp fall Portland evening had dipped to just around 47 degrees. IPS playing from west-to-east, came out in their red shirts and white shorts, in what appeared to be a 4-4-2 placing Nathaniel Pogue and Alcides “Paco” Thomas up top. Dangermen, Saydee and Hernandez were on their respective wings for the Portland side. For JASA, goalscorers Ryan Masch and Ugo Uche, who’ve combined for 6 scores in two previous US Open Cup matches, were joined on the pitch by James Huffer (scorer of the 87th minute sealer in the previous round).

Within minutes JASA had earned a corner, but it was cleared and IPS nearly scored on an effort by Nathaniel Pogue. Early on, IPS was pushing on in the attack and creating multiple chances—Alcides Thomas was playing with some bravado until he collided with JASA’s goal keeper and was given the yellow for his efforts. JASA seemed to shift to a higher line of encounter and began to turn the screw—by the midway point of the first half, the match had become a back-and-forth battle.

IPS had earned themselves several corner kicks and JASA had found ways to clear them, but in the 34th, the visitors from Redwood City, couldn’t clear it far enough and Joaquim Capuia smashed a drive from just outside the 18-yard box which beat the keeper to his right. Down a goal, with just over 10 minutes in the half, JASA pushed on and nearly had a great opportunity in the 43rd when Uche finally got free on a great run—however, he was called to be in an offside position and IPS were given possession back. Due to quite a few stoppages, there were nearly 5 minutes in time added on; IPS nearly take advantage of that in the 47th with a flurry of shots on goal, but JASA’s keeper, Victory Meraz and his backline were able to withstand the pressure and go into the half only down by one.

The sides switched directions and the second half action picked up right away; Eric Hernandez went from being a threat down the left-hand side, to being entirely too much to handle for JASA. After a few hard challenges along he sideline in previous spells, Hernandez broke in to the box and slowed down just enough to draw a hard bit of contact and the penalty was given. He was able to take the spot-kick himself and put his side up 2-0 in the 50th minute. JASA seemed to lose the plot and just a minute later, Pogue provided a pass to Paco Thomas, who slotted it home with a low shot to the keeper’s left… IPSFC were cruising 3-0 in only the 52nd.

IPS continued to push for an increased advantage, and once again there was a collision with the JASA goalie, Meraz, this time he stayed down just a little bit longer. While he eventually got up, JASA made a change and brought on Vazquez-Flores for Angell and what seems like moments later, in the 58th, JASA put together a wild play resulting in a laser-header for James Huffer. Play continues in see-saw fashion until the 67th minute, when Ugo Uche broke free on the left side again, but this time his service was finished and Huffer earned his brace, helping the visitors cut the lead to just one goal with less than a half hour to go. If it was chippy before, it certainly picked up for the last stanza of the game.

JASA Captain, Ivan Maric, earned his yellow; IPS goal scorer, Eric Hernandez received one as well. After a series of substitutions, it seems that either JASA was reluctant to use their last sub or they might have been out of them, but they were reduced to 10 players for a few minutes while Huffer recovered from a cramp on the sideline. IPS nearly struck again, with a free kick from Thomas, which sizzled past the goal frame. Pogue is then issued a yellow after a full-blooded collision with a JASA defender and on the ensuing play, JASA nearly square it up. Once the match is called, all of the in-match frustrations disappear and both sides react respectfully to see each other off the pitch.

JASA RWC are currently at the top of their table in the UPSL Wild West South and are will host Oakland Stompers on Saturday, November 24th for the division title. IPSFC finished their OPSL season in second place and will play a playoff match on November 27th at Buckman Field. It looks as though IPS will have to wait to see their fate, as not all of the 3rd round qualifiers have completed and there is an existing possibility that changes to the qualifying process may have to be implemented to allow for changes to the number of professional teams entering in the first round. The deadline for professional teams to enter the Open Cup is December 31st and until the total number of teams is determined, there is no solid answer on situation surrounding the amateur sides.

• Joshua Duder

Match Recap: Southwest FC vs. San Juan FC

On what was a cold night in the West Texas town of El Paso, Southwest FC emerged victorious by a score of 3-0 over San Juan FC of Utah. SWFC’s captain, David Lopez, set the tone with a goal and an assist from his left back position and the team’s ability to convert timely chances, if not all of their chances, put the result beyond doubt. The win could mean SWFC’s first Open Cup berth, but that celebration will be on hold for just a bit.

Southwest FC got off to a lightning fast start for the second straight Open Cup game, opening the scoring after just two minutes through a combination of high pressure, quick passing, and a clinical finish at the end. It was Cesar Sosa, playing up top for SWFC who supplied the cool, left-footed finish.

The approach looked familiar, with their first goal against Sporting AZ in the Second Qualifying Round coming from similar early pressure. “I think every game is different and we prepare for each differently…but the approach of Sporting and San Juan were similar so we saw it might work,” said SWFC manager Endy Gonzalez.

San Juan followed with a quick chance off a long throw, with Elias Dandi striking the post with a glancing header that nearly caught SWFC out. From there, the strategy for SWFC shifted, opting for control and looking for their opportunities to get forward and attack San Juan, who had chosen to sit back for much of the first half.

This lead to a period of about 25 minutes where chances were hard to come by for either team. However, after 35’ SWFC struck again. A break down the right hand side eventually fed Sosa again, who was able to find David Lopez at the far post. Lopez made no mistake, smashing the ball into the upper left hand corner and sending SWFC into the break with a two goal advantage.

The break served San Juan well and they came out snarling in the second half. The visitors from Utah were much the better side after the interval and threatened to dent SWFC’s lead.

Still it was the El Paso side that threatened first, with Alexis Gomez forcing a save from San Juan’s Juan Parente with a curling effort from the right side of the area. San Juan maintained pressure though and Dandi struck the post with the visitors best chance of the game. 

As the game entered its final half hour, both teams made a few substitutions. SWFC won the tactical battle, as they earned a free kick on the left wing. The captain Lopez stepped up to take and delivered a free kick that evaded the defense and recent sub Mario Ramirez powered home the finish to give SWFC the 3-0 lead and put the game out of reach for San Juan.

The Utah club did not go quietly, as they tested Daniel Medina in the SWFC goal a number of times. The last 10 minutes was mainly San Juan knocking on the SWFC goal and then being immediately countered by the fresh substitutes down either flank. This sequence of punches and counterpunches saw the clock run to ninety minutes and SWFC claimed the well-deserved victory.

The US Open Cup has many instances where teams who are not familiar with each other have to adapt. This particular matchup was the first between these teams and SWFC was able to grab that early advantage that sent San Juan searching for solutions. This adaptability could serve SWFC well as they progress further in the competition.

- Phil Baki

Protagonist Staff Previews USOC Round 3 Qualifiers

Nicholas Skoda

GPS Omens vs. Safira FC

The third round of the U.S. Open Cup Qualifiers has brought to the Northeast Region two intriguing matchups. The first of the two being between GPS Omens and Safira FC, both from Massachusetts. In the second round qualifiers, GPS Omens- who plays its soccer in the Bay State Soccer League -faced a familiar opponent in Kendall Wanderers. In fact, their meeting in the Open Cup’s second round was to be their third meeting this season. The two meetings prior to this game were a pair of 2-0 scorelines, the first one in favor of the Wanderers and the second in favor of GPS Omens. Their Open Cup game in Danehy Park in Cambridge, Massachusetts proved to be a close affair, with GPS Omens coming out on top with a 1-0 victory, courtesy of a second half goal from Patrick Murray.

Safira FC faced Boston City FC II at Dilboy Stadium in Somerville, MA in their second round qualifier of the Open Cup. These are another two teams that are familiar with each other, leading to a game that was sure to entertain. And the game didn’t disappoint, offering five goals in a 4-1 win for Safira. GPS Omens and Safira FC will play at 12:30 p.m. E.T. on November 17 at Rotch Field in Boston, MA. You can follow GPS Omens on twitter at @GPS_Omens and Safira FC on Facebook.

New York Pancyprian Freedoms vs. West Chester Predators

The other third round game in the Northeast Region is between New York Pancyprian Freedoms and West Chester Predators. It took 120 minutes and a penalty shootout to decide the second round game between New York Pancyprian Freedoms and New Jersey’s Jackson Lions FC. After a scoreless 90 minutes and fruitless extra time, New York Pancyprian Freedoms eventually won 3-1 on penalties. Having won the Open Cup in 1979, 1980 and 1982, Freedoms is looking to get back to that glory, but will first have to play West Chester Predators. In round two, West Chester Predators went to North Wales, PA for a meeting with another storied club when it comes to the Open Cup: Ukrainian Nationals. The Predators cruised to a 3-0 win. New York Pancyprian Freedoms and West Chester Predators will meet at 7:30 p.m. E.T. on November 17 at Belson Stadium of St. John’s University in Jamaica, New York.

Joshua Duder

International Portland Select FC vs JASA RWC (Redwood City)

One of Portland, Oregon’s local sides, International Portland Select Football Club (IPSFC) secured its place in the Oregon Premier Soccer League (OPSL) semifinals with a recent 5-4 win over Logrones. The boys in red will have one more regular season match this week before having time to prepare for UPSL side JASA RWC in the third qualifying round of the U.S. Open Cup. IPSFC won’t have to play its semifinal until the 27th of November, so the USOC match will be the sole concern of head coach Harvey Hurst for at least a week.

IPSFC host JASA RWC in a U.S. Open Cup qualifier on November 18th, 2018—kickoff is set for 7:00 PM at its regular season home grounds, Buckman Field. This is a different venue than Rob Strasser Field at Delta Park, where it defeated the last UPSL club to visit the Rose City for a USOC match. The Portland-based amateur soccer team celebrated an upset win over Nevada Coyotes on October 21st, in the highest-scoring match in the competition, 5-4. Nate Pogue scored a brace early on to give the home side a massive confidence boost and it held off the Coyotes with an additional brace by Prince Saydee and tidy finish by Paco Thomas.

Portland has been in pretty good form all year, only losing to Kell’s Swoosh, who seem to have its number. Aside from the losses to Kell’s, IPSFC have outscored opponents 19-3 and several of its players have shown a nose for goal. Ironically, Kell’s was the last open division amateur team from Oregon to reach the official USOC tournament- a quarter of a century ago. We’d have to go all the way back to 1989 to find that Gresham United had also made the dance— a win at home could see IPSFC join those impressive ranks.

JASA RWC- of UPSL’s Wild West South -is currently top of its table on fifteen points in seven played and only one match to go in order to secure the division. Local rival the Oakland Stompers are hot on JASA’s tail, however, and have a game in hand on JASA. The two originally had a league match set for November 17th, which would have been the same day as Oakland’s USOC match and a day before JASA’s—that final and decisive league match has been rescheduled for November 24th.

The side from Redwood City, California also won its previous USOC round two qualifier at home against Napa Sporting. Ryan Masch scored a brace and James Huffer sealed the win with an 87th minute goal. JASA is on an equally impressive run of form, undefeated this fall season and outscoring opponents 25-7. Ryan Masch has been joined by multiple scorers in league competition and is tied with danger man Ugo Uche for three-a-piece in U.S. Open Cup games so far.

While I expected IPS to be conservative against its last UPSL opponent in October, I was proven wrong—and with the scoring prowess shown by both sides, I fully anticipate another barn-burner. We should see International Portland Select outfitted in new red shirts, generously donated by Hummel and a team source has indicated that it expects to be wearing its black kits to Buckman Field Park, in Portland, on November 18th.

Oakland Stompers vs Academica SC

UPSL Wild West South’s Oakland Stompers, who sit second in their fall season table, started the season slowly but have out-gunned their last two opponents 12-1. Since the addition of former USMNT-capped player Benji Joya, they have turned around their league fortunes and are a match away from pipping the division from leaders JASA RWC. They will take a break from that race, however, to focus on their next USOC opponent, NPSL side Academica SC.

Unlike a few clubs still in the competitions, neither Academica or Oakland have had a bye during the qualifying stages. Oakland won its first match away to Oakland FC Leopards 1-0 and then beat San Jose 2-0 at Raimondi Park in October. It has kept two clean sheets in the tournament and look to do the same against Academica SC. On the other-hand, Academica SC has not been afraid to give up goals, but has simply outscored its opponents; 4-1 versus Davis Legacy in September and 3-2 against Contra Cost FC in October’s game.

Academica SC finished middle of the pack in its Spring ’18 NPSL Golden Gate Conference season, and its league doesn’t offer a fall fixture list—it seemingly has nothing better to do than prepare for its trip across the Bay to play the Stompers on November 17th at 7:30 PM at Raimondi Park.

Dan Vaughn

Virginia United vs. Christos FC

When you go up against Christos, you have to be considered the underdogs. Christos FC has a history of qualifying for the USOC, this being their third consecutive run to qualifying (if they win this match, obviously. They became nationally known in 2017 by making a 4th round run, the deepest by an amatuer side that year, and going up on DC United in the first half of their match. They’ve been a powerhouse in the region, playing in Maryland Majors. This season, they are currently second place and are being led by a great player with MLS ties. Pete Caringi III was drafted by MLS Montreal Impact  in 2014, but now plays for Christos. He almost single-handedly defeated their second round qualifier opponent (Aegean Hawks FC) by scoring 4 goals and an assist.

Squaring up against Christos, the underdogs, Virginia United. They are the opposite of Christos FC in experience in the tournament, this being their first year of qualifying as a club. Finding information Virginia United isn’t easy. They beat Super Delegates FC in their second round matchup, another Maryland Majors club. They play in a relatively obscure league, Asociacion Nacional Fútbol en USA, with little English language material online. Needless to say, they are a mystery club to this guy. (Thanks to TheCup.US for informing this preview)

I think when two clubs come against each other - one known, the other unknown - it’s natural to pick the one you know. In this case, the known is a club with a track record of performing well in this tournament. So with all that being said, I’ll take Christos FC 2-0.

Dominic Bisogno

Livonia City vs. St. Louis Maritsa

Having made it through a 4-3 thriller against MASL winners FC Minnesota, St. Louis Maritsa, members of UPSL’s Midwest-West Division, will now take on Livonia City in the third qualifying round of the U.S. Open Cup. Maritsa will be bringing UPSL experience and a 3-4-1 Spring 2018 record into their next match but will be facing a Livonia side that has won two qualifiers, one against Ann Arbor FC and the other against Aurora Borealis SC. Despite playing in a Michigan state league, the MPSL, Livonia have shown they mean business and should provide more than enough competition for a Maritsa side that struggled to best FC Minnesota, who have plans to expand into the NPSL via the Minnesota TwinStars but have no experience beyond the MASL. The match will also be hosted in Livonia, Michigan, giving the underdogs all the more reason to feel like they’re top dog.

Aarik Long

Southwest FC vs. San Juan FC

Round three is upon us, and once again, we have another great matchup. On one side is San Juan FC from Utah. On the other end is Southwest FC out of El Paso, Texas. They face off in under the lights in El Paso on November 17th. The match has a 7:30 PM MST kickoff.

In the second qualifying round of the US Open Cup, San Juan faced conference foe Boise Cutthroats FC in another phenomenal match in what I consider the best and most competitive rivalry in the UPSL and maybe all of American lower league soccer. The match finished 4-3 after an extra time goal for San Juan put the Cutthroats away. This was after a goal in the 90+2’ to equalize right before the final whistle. The game was back and forth with fast-paced offense going both ways throughout the whole game. The win kept San Juan unbeaten through that point of the season. Since then, they’ve dropped one game to Boise back in Utah, but they still come into the USOC match with a record of five wins and one loss.

Southwest FC had to go through one of the best teams in the UPSL as they faced Sporting AZ FC. They did beat the opponents 4-1, but there were certain circumstances that lead to that lopsided scoreline. For starters, Sporting AZ lost their keeper in the first ten minutes and would finish the game with just nine men after a second red card in the 83rd minute. Before the second red card, the score was 2-1. Despite this, I wouldn’t be so quick to throw the result out all together. Sporting AZ is easily one of the very best teams in the UPSL so any win you can score over the club is impressive.

An interesting quirk about this game is that the two teams second round opponents faced off this spring in the UPSL Quarterfinals. Sporting AZ FC defeated Boise Cutthroats FC 2-1 after some bizarre circumstances led to a long halftime and a strange game in general. It was one of the more talked about matches after questions of what happened at the half arose.

The Saturday night match under the lights will decide who gets into the 2019 US Open Cup, as this is the final qualifying round for amateur clubs. We’ll get to see two very good sides face off in what could be one of, if not the best, third qualifying round match.

Steven Ramirez

Buena Park FC vs. Santa Ana Winds FC

The only inter-league duel in Southern California. Buena Park FC represents the So Cal Premier and is currently in fifth place. While fifth in their league, BPFC have shown a dominance within these qualifying rounds. In the first round they beat UPSL club Valley United SC 4-0 and then beat league rival Real Sociedad Royals 2-1.

One advantage for BPFC was each Open Cup match was played at home in front of the Buena Park faithful, but now that setting is about to change as BPFC travel to face Santa Ana Winds FC at the Lake Forest Sports Complex. A new setting for a new challenge.

The Santa Ana Winds FC is coming off strong U.S open cup performances and are currently in third place in the So Cal South Pro Premier. The road to round three of qualification has seen the Winds only face other UPSL competitors, but have come away with huge victories: round one the Winds beat rivals LA Wolves FC 4-0 and in round two beat Lionside FC 5-0.

This last match of qualification sees two clubs who have shown an ability to find the back of the net and have also only allowed minimal goals in their current league system. Can Buena Park FC qualify and represent the So Cal Premier or will the Winds and the UPSL continue their qualifying trend? Check it out on Saturday November 17th, 2018 at 10:00 am.

Cal United FC II vs. Cal FC

The battle for California, the battle between So Cal UPSL giants and the battle to qualify for the country’s greatest open competition. Both of these clubs have been rumored to be joining NPSL Pro in 2019 and are currently dominated in their respective UPSL So Cal divisions. This dream matchup is worthy of occuring in the Open Cup itself, but fans will have to settle for a match within the qualification rounds.

Cal United FC II has only allowed three goals in all competitions this season: One from UPSL competition and two from the U.S. Open Cup qualification. In round one, Cal United traveled to face off against the CaliGators FC 6-2 and then beat Chula Vista FC 2-0. But this next match will be Cal United's toughest match up to date.

Cal FC will be looking to repeat its historical 2012 Open Cup run. After their controversial round one match against San Nicholas, where they won 3-1, they have gone on and beaten Outbreak FC 6-1. They remain undefeated within the UPSL and have only allowed 5 goals in all competitions, while scoring 35.

This Sunday, November 18th at 10:30 am, will be the must watch match up of this qualification round. These two powerhouses will be looking to show which team is the best in all of Southern California.

Shawn Laird

America Soccer Club vs. Soda City FC

In one week’s time, we will see America Soccer Club and Soda City FC play in the last round of local qualifying for the 2019 US Open Cup. This has the potential to be a heavyweight matchup among clubs in the lower divisions. Both teams currently lead their respective divisions in UPSL and look to continue their runs into the first round proper. I’m again picking America Soccer Club to win this one based on their current league form.  As has been the case all season, they sit at the top of the league with a perfect 9-0-0 record and 27 points. Once again, I am blown away by their offensive output and goal difference. They’ve scored 56 total goals compared only 6 goals against. That gives them a mind blowing +46 goal difference thus far and they don’t look like they’re stopping.

Soda City FC, for their part, is tearing it up in the Mid-Atlantic South Division. They currently lead the division by one point, but boast an impressive 5-1-0 record, with a solid +10 goal difference (18 goals for, 8 goals against). Aside from just taking a look at their record, I don’t have much else to say on Soda City.

My prediction? I think this goes to extra time, with America pulling off a hard fought 1-0 win and advancing to play with the big boys next year. Hopefully, they can pull off a Cinderella run once they make it to the tournament proper.

Phil Baki

NTX Rayados vs Motagua New Orleans

The last matchup of the US Open Cup Third Qualifying Round to be decided is between NTX Rayados of Dallas, TX and Motagua New Orleans. This matchup pits two teams against each other with US Open Cup History, although one has decidedly more than the other.

NTX Rayados come into this match looking to qualify for its eighth consecutive US Open Cup. Yes, eighth. For a local qualifying team, that is absolutely unprecedented and presents a challenge for any team looking to get past them and into the Cup. What makes the challenge even more daunting is the fact that Rayados were the longest surviving local qualifying team in the 2018 edition of the tournament. They beat Fort Worth Vaqueros of the NPSL in the First Round, OKC Energy of the USL in the Second, Wichita FC in the 3rd, and it took the Houston Dynamo of MLS to knock this club out. That is a seriously impressive run that they will be looking to match…or better. This year they squeaked past a determined Dallas Elite FC team on penalties in the First Qualifying Round, before taking down Leon FC fairly comfortably in the Second.

Motagua New Orleans have less history in the Cup but plenty of success under their belt. They’ve won the Gulf Coast Premier League three times and have two USASA Region III Championships. Their lone venture into the Open Cup proper was in 2016, when they faced off against Mississippi Brilla FC of the PDL and suffered a narrow defeat in the First Round. They have been determined to improve on that run however and this year’s Open Qualifying saw them take down Port City FC of Mississippi 5-2 after extra time and, after concerns and cancellations, they finally dispatched Celtic Cowboys of Austin, TX 3-2 to earn this shot at Rayados.

Both of these teams have shown in this early phase of the tournament that they are not goal shy but they are also vulnerable at the back. The entertainment factor in this matchup should be very high. I think given the history, it’s fair to say that Rayados are favorites due to experience, but the simple fact is that this is the US Open Cup and anything can happen.

Prediction: Rayados 3-2 Motagua AET

Qualifying Round 2: International Portland Select FC vs. Nevada Coyotes FC

The visiting Nevada Coyotes of the UPSL Wild West North came into Portland for Sunday’s USOC second round qualifying match in very good form, having outscored their conference opponents in four consecutive wins, 14-2; the only “loss” coming as a forfeiture due to pitch conditions. The very experienced Nevada head coach, Christian Patiño, seemed to have his boys-in-blue organized and ready when the whistle blew to kick off the match at Rob Strasser Memorial Field in Delta Park.

Head coach of the home side, International Portland Select FC, Harvey Hurst, was obviously not allowing his opponent’s semi-professional status change the approach for the kids from Portland. Decked out in Arsenal kits, they were jogging and stretching as a unit before the match and the keeper was flying left-to-right and back in the box, doing warm-up drills. They all seemed up to the task of hosting a side from a much larger league.

IPSFC started pushing early, earning a corner within two minutes of the match, and by the ten-minute mark, they were primarily controlling the pace of the match and hadn’t allowed the visitors any penetrating attacks. Nearly a quarter of an hour in, Nevada got its first real scoring opportunity with a set piece from the left-hand side. Bernardo Palma-Sosa made a great save and the match was still waiting for its first goal – we wouldn’t have to wait much longer.  

In the 17th minute, Nate Pogue received the ball about 40 yards out, ran a half circle, lost possession for moment, regained possession, was put through by teammate Paco Thomas and punished the Coyotes by breaking into the area and rocketing the ball off the underside of the crossbar, giving IPSFC the early lead. After the reset, Nevada calmly played the ball out of the back, avoided a little pressure and sent a long ball into IPSFC’s area; within seconds, Pogue received the ball near the same area he had caused trouble just moments before, side-stepped a defender and scampered into the box, beating the keeper nearside with a low shot giving the home side an improbable 2-0 lead.

This was clearly not the start Nevada had hoped for and frustration seemed to set in. Coyotes forward Jatta Salifu was called for a yellow after an innocuous tap in the back and it seemed like it was about to all unravel for the visitors after a series of successive fouls. However, in the 28th minute, Coyotes FC found a crack and earned a set piece from a foul outside the box. Edwin Navarro set up at an improbable angle for a shot on goal and stuck a hard, low in-swinger which bounced its way through the backline and Nevada cut the lead in half, down 1-2.

IPS’s Prince Saydee was energetic and nearly impossible to contain, and after a well-weighted pass from a central teammate found BJ  Romac making an excellent run down the right wing, Prince put himself in a perfect position to finish a great cross and the home side went back up by two. With just moments left in the first half, the Coyotes made it 2-3; they earned consecutive corners and despite a good clearance by the home side, Nevada were able to feed the ball back into Salifu Jatta, who put it through the box and found a far-post finish by Kieran Toland.

At the half, the two sides swapped directions and now attacking north-to-south, ISPFC were able to earn a set piece within moments of the second beginning. The home side continued to pressure the visitors — if their coach had made any changes, it wasn’t showing. Nate Pogue nearly had his hat trick in the 47th minute after he headed a corner over the crossbar and fizzled a shot high in the 53rd minute after IPSFC made a break into the attacking third. It wasn’t until the 59th minute, after a brilliant cross from the right from Eric Hernandez connected with the head of a floating Paco Thomas, the home side restored the two-goal advantage.

In the clichéd “most dangerous time to concede,” IPSFC did just that; in the 60th minute Nevada earned a free kick about 25 yards out and were able to put a floater onto the head of Jatta, he headed it down and across the box right where Jake Crim could finish to make it 3-4. Two-thirds of the way through the match the competition started to get chippy and at times the ref let the teams play through some rough challenges. The clubs made a series of changes to deal with the fatigue and knocks, it was in the 83rd when the home side earned a free kick from just to the right of the top of the “D.” Prince Saydee struck a left-footed golazo to put, what seemed like, the nail in the coffin for ISPFC. The boys-in-red up 5-3 with less than 10 minutes to go in the USOC qualifier.

Coach Hurst pulled Pogue in the 90th, attempting to eat up clock and give his heavy hitter a pat on the back. Minutes later, Jatta was on the attack down the left flank for Nevada again, and was able to corral the ball in the defender and shoulder free enough space to wrap his foot around the ball and beat the keeper nearside, making it 4-5 deep into second half stoppage time. With the home fans admonishing the ref to call time, the whistle was blown and the visiting UPSL side bowed out of the competition. While speaking to an assistant coach for Nevada post-match, he was solemn and shaking his head, “Credit to them, the home side, they could have tried to hold the lead at 2-0, but they just kept on coming.”

The clubs exchanged the customary professional social media mentions and will move in their separate ways. Nevada will have to get their minds right as they prepare for Azteca in UPSL Wild West North conference play this weekend. International Portland Select FC have drawn another home match for Round 3 of US Open Cup Qualifiers, and will host UPSL Wild West South table-topper JASA RWX (Redwood City) on November 18th. Before that, however, IPSFC will face Kells Swoosh FC this Sunday in the OPSL league play.

- Josh Duder

Qualifying Round 2: America SC vs. CFFC Spartans

America Soccer Club 2, Central Florida Football Club Spartans 1

One must learn when to eat some crow, and that was an unfortunate lesson learned this past weekend during the second round of U.S. Open Cup qualifying. I was one hundred percent certain America SC would rip through the midfield and defense of the Spartans. I was leaning on both teams’ runs of form in their respective leagues in my predicted score line. However, that score line of 4-0 in favor of America never materialized.

Instead, it was a hard-fought match that ended up breaking the hearts of the Spartans. America had plenty of possession in the opening thirty minutes of the match and had plenty of opportunities to take the lead, but those shots were either saved or way off target. The Spartans, however, took their chance to grab an early lead, when a long throw into the box was misjudged by the America keeper and allowed the Spartans to tap in for the goal.  

It wouldn’t be until the second half that America finally got its first goal. The Spartans gave America a beautiful opportunity by committing a foul twenty-five yards out from their own goal. Number eleven of America stepped up and put the ball in the upper ninety of the near post.  America then added a second with seventeen minutes left, on a beautiful through ball that broke the defense of the Spartans. The America striker calmly slotted the ball in the bottom far corner of the goal over the outstretched hands of the Spartan keeper.

The Spartans, for their part, were not going away very easily. Throughout the last seventeen minutes of the match, they continued to work and get shots off. They very nearly equalized on a perfectly weighted ball that the Spartan striker got to after muscling off the defender. Unfortunately, the ball didn’t drop the way of the Spartans in this match.

In the end, this was one exciting match for those in attendance and a good showing for all amateur clubs around the country in this tournament. Good luck to America in the next round, when it hosts Soda City Sorinex at West Orange High in Winter Garden, Florida on November 17th.

- Shawn Laird

Burt Granofsky: Safira FC vs. Boston City FC

Somerville, MA: A small band of fans watches the game. Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: Wendell de Matos (Safira #55) is subbed off in the second half. Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: Jhonata Batista (Boston City #9) chases the ball upfield. Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: Matthew Vidal (Safira #70) scores to make it 4-1. Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: Michael Rincon (Boston City #26) pulls back Vander Luiz Bellettini (Safira #3). Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: Geovane Lage Silva (Safira #80) heads the ball in traffic. Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: A Safira player is shown yellow after a harsh challenge. Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: William Balanta (Boston City #3) gets a hand on Pablo Guimaraes (Safira #7). Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: William Balanta (Boston City #3) fires the ball upfield. Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: Boston City FC managing director Craig Tornberg paces the sidelines. Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Somerville, MA: Jhonata Batista (Boston City #9) scores to make it 1-1. Safira FC defeated Boston City FC 4-1 in a 2019 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup game on October 20, 2018. (c) Burt Granofsky

Qualifying Round 2: Outbreak SC vs. Cal FC

Cal FC is trying to repeat its 2012 U.S. Open Cup success, but this time Eric Wynalda was in the stands while Keith Costigan was coaching his men to victory. Cal traveled to Orange County and was able to earn a spot in the third round of qualification with a big 6-1 victory. If Cal Football Club can continue on this winning path it will earn its fourth appearance in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.

“We went up against a tough Outbreak side. We had to respect them for winning their first Open Cup qualifying round. We wanted to carry our momentum from the past wins we've had in the past couple of weeks. Our game plan was to move the ball quickly and get into the open spaces to exploit their defense, which we did. As soon as we got the first goal we wanted to go after them even more. I'm very happy to have gotten the victory. Now it's back to winning our UPSL matches and preparing for the next round of qualification.”

-Eric Gonzalez, left back for Cal Football Club.

That first goal occurred in the 13th minute from midfielder Irvin Parra. There were a total of four goalscorers for Cal FC: Irvin Parra, German Alfaro, Cris Hernandez and Romario Lomeli. CFC's recent goal scoring success will be needed as the team looks to continue on its path to glory.

- Steven Ramirez

An Upset in the Desert

On paper, it seemed like an easy one to predict. Sporting AZ FC was the runner up in the 2019 UPSL Spring season playoffs. A large portion of their players had just returned from representing the United States in a 6v6 international tournament. Sporting is the class of the Southwest Conference.

No slouch was the opponent, El Paso’s Southwest FC, who finished 3rd in league play last season. But the gap between the two clubs was wide, on paper. The clubs had played twice in the spring season, Sporting won both times. While Southwest had added several new players, it was not a complete roster overhaul, so why would the result be any different?

The match kicked off with Southwest FC applying high pressure with aggression. Sporting’s passing options were cut off quickly every time they touched the ball and early on, Southwest won a set piece in the attacking half, which they quickly converted, putting them up 1-0. It was a punch in the mouth for the conference champ. But it was only the beginning of a rough day for Sporting.

The turning point of the match was in the 18th minute when Sporting’s keeper charged out of the box, making contact with a Southwest player who was shooting. Both players went down and the red card came out. Tom Marchisotto, GM and acting coach disagreed with the call, “I certainly didn’t think it was a red card on our keeper. 50/50 challenge, both players going for the ball, one got there just before. No problem with it being a foul, no problem with it being a yellow, but it’s not a last man situation.” The red card forced massive changes in Sporting AZ FC’s plans for the day and seemed to shake the club up. That isn’t to say that they didn’t respond. Indeed they did with a goal later in the first half that tied up the score 1-1.

But the damage had been done with the early red. Players down the bench began to complain loudly any time there were “missed calls” or perceived injustices. The chatter got so loud and so vulgar that the referee issued a yellow card to one of the players on the bench, Dom Papa. That yellow card would prove even more significant in the second half.

Already down a player, Sporting AZ FC surrendered a second goal early in the second half and coach Marchisotto decided to shake up the on field chemistry by bringing in a veteran defender, the previous yellow-carded Papa. He’s a great defender, well-known in the Southwest Conference for his leadership and aggressive play. However, entering the match with a yellow card, down a man and a goal, he was not in a great position for success. Soon after entering the match, he challenged a Southwest player for a ball and came in high and hard, knocking the opponent to the ground and earning his 2nd yellow and a quick exit from the match.

Now up 2 men, the floodgates opened and Southwest FC was able to push forward. In the last 20 minutes, the El Paso side was able to score 2 more goals, bringing the final score to 4-1. So one team advances and the other exits, just not in the roles that might have been expected. For Southwest FC, the eyes are forward facing to their next opponent, though where it will be is still up in the air. Endy Gonzalez, club GM and coach, isn’t sure who or where they will play next month. “We don’t know yet. We’re in the middle of nowhere, they’ll probably send us to Dallas or California, but we’ll just keep working hard, we’ve been doing that for the last two months.”

For Sporting AZ FC, it’s an early exit from a competition they were expecting to make a deeper run in. How the game might have played out without the early card, no one knows, but it’s clear Coach Marchisotto was still irritated by the way the match was officiated after the final whistle had blown. And it’s hard to blame him. The official was incredibly uneven in his call, handing out two reds, but allowing players to make aggressive and dangerous challenges without issuing a warning. The players on both teams got more and more upset, vocal, and out of control on the field. A stronger, more even hand could have kept the hotter heads in check, without the double reds. But the match is over, an upset is in the books, on to Round 3!

- Dan Vaughn

Can't Miss Matches of the 2nd Qualifying Round of USOC

Headed into this weekend’s second round of USOC qualifying matches, the staff of Protagonist Soccer decided to again pick our favorite matches of the weekend. Enjoy!

Josh Duder

International Portland Select FC vs Nevada Coyotes

Both International Portland Select FC and the Nevada Coyotes had a bye through the first round of qualifying matches in the 2019 US Open Cup—but they face off against one-another this week in the second qualifying round. IPSFC are set to host the UPSL side Nevada Coyotes on Rob Strasser Field at Delta Park in Portland, Oregon—kickoff is 7:00 PM

IPSFC have played in the Oregon Premier Soccer League (OPSL) for nearly 30 years, and despite being an amateur regional league, the club itself is know for producing talented players which move on to the likes of the NPSL, UPSL and college ranks. The Portland-based side has participated in the Lamar Hunt USOC for three years running and plan to improve upon previews forays into the competition. They’re coming into the match in very fine form as well, having won their last three matches on the trot; outscoring opponents 15-0.

The Coyotes, who come from the UPSL Wild West North Conference, visit Portland this weekend on the back of the first poor result of their fall season, losing 0-1 at home to conference foes Napa Sporting. Despite that, Nevada Coyotes sit atop their table with 4 wins from five and a goal differential of +11. I fully expect head coach Christian Patiño to be aggressive from the onset and put the home team on its heels. It will be interesting to see how IPSFC coach Harvey Hurst responds and if their leading goal getter Nathaniel Pogue can find any cracks in the visitor’s defense.

Other Notable USOC Matchups in The West

JASA RWC vs Napa Sporting

UPSL Western Division clubs JASA RWC and Napa Sporting come together for a non-league Wild West shootout. JASA of Redwood City, who are in first place in the UPSL Wild West North will host Napa Sporting of Wild West South Division. Napa sit in second place, just behind Nevada Coyotes and are coming into the match with good momentum after having shutout their last two opponents in league play. JASA RWC most recently played to a draw against Oakland Stompers.

Oakland Stompers vs Real San Jose

Former Santos Laguna, Sporting KC and Chicago fire man, Benji Joya recently signed with UPSL side Oakland Stompers and they’ll surely be looking to play him at home against Real San Jose. San Jose will be travelling up from the South Bay Area, where the most recently drew with San Ramon Dynamos to remain unbeaten in league play. Oakland’s last game ended in a 1-1 draw with JASA RWC and with their big signing in place, they’re looking to send San Jose back down the 101 and out of the 2019 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

Dan Vaughn

THIS MATCH HAS BEEN POSTPONED TILL 11/11 DUE TO WEATHER

Celtic Cowboys Premier vs Motagua New Orleans

Check out Celtic Cowboys’ Premier website and you’ll see a list of accomplishments by the Austin-based soccer club. Over the last 10 years, it’s been competitive in multiple tournaments, finishing top 4 in 7 of those. CC Premier play its matches in the Austin Men’s Soccer Association. One of the oldest leagues in the state, it features 6 competitive divisions plus a host of age-based leagues. In all, 130 teams play within the AMSA and CC Premier is in the top division and won the league just 2 seasons ago. This season the team is currently undefeated in league play early into the season.

Celtic’s first qualifying match was against newly formed UPSL side San Antonio Runners, who CC Premier beat 3-1. Chris Wright, Taylor Peoples, and Sam Jackson all scored for CCP in the match. Wright’s goal was his first ever for the club. Certainly a good start for the tournament for the Austin club.

Opposing Celtic in this second qualifying round is Motagua New Orleans. Playing in the Gulf Coast Premier League, Motagua had a solid 2018 season, finishing the regular season 8-1-1, tops in the Central Conference. That record tied it for second place in the entire GCPL, only three points back from Boca Knights. For Motagua, this is another season of the status quo: excellence. Motagua has won 3 titles in the league since 2014. It’s also added to that with 2 national amateur titles. Motagua NOLA is no club to ignore in this competition. For more background on the New Orleans’ club, see this article.

Motagua topped fellow GCPL team, Port City FC, 5-2, in the first qualifying round. The match featured 2 goals apiece in regular time, before Motagua got 3 goals in extra time. This upcoming match with CCP should be a good one, with two strong regional clubs facing each other. Add to that some of the prematch jawing about playing conditions and you have a match that should have some emotion thrown in with some great soccer.

I’m predicting Motagua advances, 2-1.

Aarik Long

Boise Cutthroats FC vs. San Juan FC

The two best teams in the UPSL Mountain Conference face off as Boise Cutthroats FC host San Juan FC. Last season, the clubs split their two games before meeting in the final of the Conference Playoffs with a berth in the National Semifinals on the line. Boise won that match and went to Colorado to try and win a UPSL National Championship. This season, the Cutthroats opened their season with a match in Salt Lake City against this same San Juan squad. The game was among the most entertaining you’ll see with seven goals being scored in total. San Juan FC would pick up the win, 4-3.

Boise head coach Jeromy Tarkon is definitely looking forward to this matchup. “San Juan is a phenomenal team with a ton of talent. With that said, we expect to win this game. We are also a dangerous team and let’s not forget, that we are yet to be beaten on our home turf.

“This game means so much to our club, our community, and our state. To have a home game in the second round of the US Open Cup is a really cool thing. In all honesty, Hector has done a wonderful job with what little support he has received thus far. Hopefully this will excite some of the locals to come out and support their local semi-pro soccer team. We plan on putting on a show this Sunday!”

This US Open Cup match will also serve as the final match of the regular season for each club. The two sit on top of the three-team table with nine and six points respectively. A win for Boise would get them even on points, but they would need to win by six goals to get even on goal differential. No matter what the score is after ninety minutes, you can rest assured knowing that this will be an incredible game, as it always is between these two clubs.

Phil Baki

Sporting AZ FC vs. Southwest FC

The matchup on paper is a run of the mill repeat of Southwest Conference matches from last season. Conference Champions Sporting AZ FC did manage to navigate last season with only one loss and outlasted the El Paso club 3-2 in the Southwest Conference Semifinal en route to a National Final and Runner Up status. Both teams would tell you to be careful to avoid that characterization.

Sporting AZ is a club that has burst into the national consciousness in amateur soccer, having pushed Milwaukee Bavarians to the very limits in a thrilling UPSL National Final in the Spring Season. It also just received back their manager, Tom Hurdle, and players who represented the United States at the 6v6 World Cup in Portugal. This level of competition is sure to push Sporting AZ to perhaps even greater heights.

SWFC are not sitting back though. It is attacking this Open Cup run as a chance to raise its profile and the players know that they have competed with AZ before. The post about the squad list for the match read, “History will be made.” It will likely take a historic performance to get the win away at Sporting, but this club has no shortage of ambition and it may just be able to pull it off.

Lucky for you, there will be live coverage and hopefully tons of other stuff right here on Protagonist as myself and Dan will be present.

Prediction- Sporting AZ 2-1 SWFC

Steven Ramirez

Outbreak SC vs. Cal FC

The second round of the 2019 U.S. Open Cup qualification kicks off in Southern California with a batch of incredible matches. Travel to Orange County and you'll get to see Outbreak SC vs. Cal FC, which will be an intense battle between two strong clubs who stand at the top of their respective leagues.

Outbreak SC currently sits in second place in the SoCal Premier league. With two wins and one draw, Outbreak Soccer Club has been able to outscore its opponents 9-6. In its most recent match, it tied 3-3 against FCGS Brea Steau. The club hopes it can continue its scoring prowess against a tough Cal FC defense. In the first round of qualification, Outbreak went down thanks to a penalty converted by the LA South Bay Monsters. Outbreak stayed resilient, earning and converting its own penalty before the end of half. The tie-breaking goal came in the second half from a diving header.

Cal Football Club is off to a perfect start in its first season back in the UPSL. After four victories it has scored twelve goals while only allowing two. The club has shown an ability to score multiple goals per game and just unleashed a 7-0 beatdown of division rival Lionside FC. In its last qualification match, Cal FC played a shorthanded San Nicholas FC and won 3-1. But that win did not come without controversy; after the match it was made public that San Nicholas FC played the match under protest, claiming violation of multiple sections of the U.S. Open Cup rulebook.

Based on discussions with the U.S. Open Cup governing body, San Nicholas was tasked with playing the match first and filing a protest afterward. This seemed like an automatic win for San Nicholas ownership, which led to the team only bringing 12 players and leaving some of its stronger players at home. Unfortunately for SNFC, the protest was denied and Cal FC continued to the second round. With the controversy behind it, Cal FC looks to add another win under its belt, but will be met by a strong Outbreak SC side. Tune in at 7:15 PM Pacific on Saturday the 20th to see this incredible matchup between these SoCal powerhouses.

Shawn Laird

America SC vs Central Florida FC Spartans

America SC looks to continue its winning ways and continue marching toward U.S. Open Cup glory this weekend when it faces the Spartans of Central Florida FC. Make no mistake about it, America SC is absolutely tearing through its opponents in the Florida Central Division of UPSL and it looks to do the same to the Spartans. Currently, America sits on a record of 6-0-0, scoring an astounding forty goals while giving up only two. Yes, you read that right. Two goals against America in league play through six matches. That leaves them with a mind boggling plus 38 goal difference.  Meanwhile, the Spartans languish in fifth place in the Central Florida Soccer League with a 3-1-2 record and an even goal difference. It looks like this could be a rough weekend outing for the Spartans, as they attempt to stop the high flying offense of America SC. Early prediction? America SC wins this handily 4-0.

Celtic Cowboys Premier Responds

Last week, I spoke with Motagua New Orleans about their concerns about playing conditions for their upcoming 2nd Round USOC qualifying match. That article (linked here) was posted without response from the host of that match, Celtic Cowboys Premier. The club was contacted, but the response wasn’t given in time for the original story. Yesterday, the club made a statement regarding the article and the concerns and, in the interest in fairness, we are posting it in its entirety. Commentary to follow the statement.

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We look forward to welcoming Motagua New Orleans to Austin for the second qualifying round game of the 2019 US OPEN CUP. Much like our opponents, the Celtic Cowboys Sports + Social Club is working hard to develop the game with no barriers to entry for any player. We are a volunteer-driven club, pushing hard on all levels to continue our development of sports, social engagement, and community service throughout Austin. We have a number of adult men's and co-ed teams - ranging from recreational to the highly competitive, which includes our 'Celtic Cowboys Premier' team. Every team in our club operates under the underlying principle of providing an opportunity for everyone throughout the city to play soccer. These players hail from across the United States as well as internationally. In addition to our soccer teams, we also have Gaelic football and hurling teams that play tournaments around the state and country. Across all the Celtic Cowboys teams, we understand the challenges teams face when travelling on a tight budget.

We are delighted to have quality fields to play our games each weekend. While the facility doesn't have the luxury of dressing rooms or running showers it is a quality surface. The opposition will be provided with the required benches, tents and other amenities that have been provided in our two previous US OPEN CUP Qualifying games which we have hosted over the last couple of years. Unfortunately, quality field space that also has dressing room facilities is at a premium in Austin and the high prices preclude our small, limited-budget organization from securing these types of spaces. That being said the facility does meet the requirements set forth by the USSF for hosting a US OPEN CUP Qualifying game as stated in the 2019 US OPEN CUP handbook (page 39).

Unfortunately, the article quotes the requirements used for the US OPEN CUP proper which is actually considered a different stage of the competition. The requirements mentioned in the article would not come into force until after the qualifying rounds end and the OPEN CUP proper begins in May 2019. While we appreciate the questions around what is an acceptable venue, we are a small club and are trying to develop a professional setup within the limits of a volunteer environment and operating within a tight budget. We pride ourselves on providing an opportunity for people to play a sport in both a recreational and competitive environment with our primary goal of getting as many people playing the game.

We'd hope that Motagua New Orleans considers staying the night in Austin and we plan to host the opposition for some food and drinks after the game at our sponsors' bar to show you some of our Celtic Cowboys and Austin hospitality.

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As a writer, I always try and discuss subject carefully and honestly. That requires me to sometimes apologize for making a mistake. To the Celtic Cowboys Premier organization, I definitely apologize for citing a standard incorrectly. While reading the entire USOC handbook doesn’t sound like much fun, it certainly would have stopped me from citing it incorrectly. For that I apologize.

Secondarily, I want to defend my motivations for writing the article. My goal was not to attack Celtic Cowboys Premier, but rather to point out the need for standard enforcement on the part of USSF and USOC. I understand and appreciate the difficulty that every lower league and regional club faces in competitions like the USOC. Supporting those clubs is one of the reasons this site exists.

So I hope that this weekend’s match between these two clubs goes well. I hope the facilities are satisfactory for both clubs. Let’s keep supporting local soccer and the US Open Cup.

- Dan Vaughn

A Reasonable Request

The largest changes begin with the most reasonable requests. How organizations react to those requests will typically rule the way in which those changes are accomplished. But it always begins with a single petitioner, offering up a request.

Motagua NOLA is one of those cornerstone clubs that supports the weight of the American pyramid. Founded in 1984, the organization has worked with kids from all economic backgrounds, finding ways to develop talent and live up to its motto “Every Child Plays, No Matter What.” On its website, the entry form is in English and Spanish, reducing the language obstacle to families that might use English as a second language or not at all. Its men’s team has been a model of consistency, every league it’s participated in, it’s had great success. In the International Soccer League Association New Orleans (ISLANO), Motagua won 6 titles. Now in the Gulf Coast Premier League (GCPL), which spans multiple states in the Gulf area, the club has already won 3 titles since 2014. And its winning hasn’t been limited to its league competitions. Due to its success in local leagues, it entered and won two USASA Region III National Cups (2015 and 2017).

What Motagua is great at is finding a winning balance using players from disparate backgrounds. Tony Martinez, club owner, sums up the mix: “We have a combination of American, English, Brazilian and Honduran born players, most of them have played at the next level and have chosen to pursue the work sector being brokers, physicians, business owners, coaches, and some still in college, yet who love to compete at the highest level possible.” This desire to compete has born itself out in title after title. This is a club that knows how to win, how to put talent together, and generate results. Tony was part of the club as a player for 15 years before transitioning to ownership and his desire to win goes beyond his local league, which is why Motagua competes in the US Open Cup.

It’s not easy for a local club from New Orleans to participate in a national cup that might force a club to travel across the country to play. “USOC is always a challenge for us, we put it on our schedule and always look forward to participating. It is very important to our club for this gives us credibility and notoriety. After competing in the Cup we have been noticed by others within the soccer community and clearly are now well respected.” This is the case for Tony, but also for so many other local clubs across the country. The Cup is seen as a chance to challenge a higher level of competition, to touch gloves with the big boys, to gain the respect of those clubs that you wouldn’t meet or play against otherwise.

But local clubs have been struggling to participate, mostly due to the financial burden they face: travel, accommodations, food and drink, and registration. While Motagua’s qualifying round one opponent was also from GCPL- Port City FC -it was actually the only other club from its league to participate this year. According to Tony, others have participated in the past, but the increasing cost has definitely reduced the numbers who do.

But financial challenges aren’t the only hardship facing traveling USOC competitors. Often, these clubs on the road arrive to find accommodations below the standards put forth by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). It’s not that standards don’t exist, it’s that USSF isn’t ensuring these standards are being met. This concern boiled up in social media after the announcement that Motagua would be traveling to Austin to face Celtic Cowboys Premier for its second round qualifier. An aerial photo of the game site was posted on Twitter with the caption “I pray you understand the sacrifice we make to travel hundreds of miles to play this beautiful game, BUT please ASSURE us we will have Dressing rooms or BATHROOMS to change in. Last year was horrific” followed by a retweet of the same post with another comment, “I don't see any dressing rooms, benches, let alone bathrooms, does this meet the requirements to host a US OPEN CUP Quilifier[sic]??” The passion and concern coming from Motagua isn’t petulant or rude. It almost reads like a cry for help to USSF.

Making all the arrangements for our Journey to Austin. @usopencup @JohnPMotta i pray you understand the sacrifice we make to travel hundreds of miles to play this beautiful game, BUT please ASSURE us we will have Dressing rooms or BATHROOMS to change in. Last year was horrific pic.twitter.com/Hw7s78tfPm

— Motagua New Orleans (@MotaguaNOLA) October 9, 2018

The question that remains unasked is who is at fault if the Onion Creek Soccer Complex for the match doesn’t meet the requirements of the Open Cup? According to U.S. Soccer, Onion Creek was the site for the September 29th first qualifying round match that Celtic Cowboys Premier hosted against San Antonio Runners (CCP won 3-1) and, according to Twitter, is the planned site of the second qualifier against Motagua.  While finding a site is up to the hosting club, USSF is still the organization setting and enforcing the standards. In the 2018 Open Cup Handbook, USSF specifies that “the Open Cup Commissioner makes a determination for each venue on whether it has met the requirements.” What are those requirements? Attachment A - U.S. Open Cup Stadium Requirements has an extensive list, which certainly does include “team benches to accommodate 14 personnel per team” and “dressing rooms with working showers (either connected to stadium or in an adjacent structure) for teams.” Austin Parks and Recreation were contacted about the Onion Creek Soccer Complex and, when asked about the existence of on-site bathrooms and changing facilities, responded with a flat “no.” Celtic Cowboys Premier play in the Austin Men’s Soccer Association and fields may be limited on short notice, but delivering a playable field with adequate facilities is expected of every host club. Why USSF isn’t holding teams accountable for their hosting requirements is the larger and more important question.

Tony Martinez does have some ideas on how to improve the Cup, and because he and his club are active participants, maybe the public (and USSF) should be listening. First, (he’s not alone in this proposal), “That they should try to find the methods to get more Amateur teams involved, find a solution to the costs of traveling to assure that their[sic] exist more participation.” Second, to limit qualifiers by state, “We travel to Austin for the 2nd round, if we advance, we will play more than likely  another Texas team, so it feels more like a TEXAS STATE Cup than a US OPEN CUP Qualifier.” And finally, the conditions. “Our biggest gripe is that the facilities do not meet the requirements mandated by US OPEN CUP. It is horrific to travel hours at a time, thousand of miles away, to have to succumb to dressing up in the tree lines, a shed, or the rental vans.” When asked for these suggestions, Tony didn’t offer them up with anger or condemnation; as he put it, “I usually stay away from politics.” Sometimes the situation forces reluctant participation in the discussion. For Martinez and Motagua this is where the rubber meets the road, where things are not theoretical or rhetorical. This is reality and things need to change. And the changes they are asking for aren’t unreasonable.

Regardless of these concerns, Motagua will make the drive to Austin on the 20th to face Celtic Cowboys. A club that Tony Martinez points out, “Do well at home and [we] expect this to be a very challenging matchup, yet we are prepared for such challenge for we are a very experienced team.” Focusing on the match and its competitor should be its only concern at this moment. Instead, it has to worry about what it will find in Austin when it arrives for the match. But, like so many tiny clubs from across the country, it will shoulder on because it truly loves the Open Cup.

This site has discussed ways the U.S. Open Cup could improve; from tiny changes in hosting to massive changes in investment strategies. It’s doubtful that USSF is listening to this tiny website. Who it should be listening to, however, is its member clubs, which are sacrificing to participate in this tournament. Just because Motagua plays in the GCPL doesn’t mean that its voice should be ignored by those in power. Just because Celtic Cowboy Premier plays in the AMSA doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be expected to deliver a host site that is to the standards of the tournament. What Motagua is asking for is respect: for its club, its players, and the standards. And that seems like a pretty reasonable request.

Celtic Cowboys Premier has been contacted via social media about this story. The club has responded and that story is here.

- Dan Vaughn

Round 1: LA Wolves FC (0-4) vs Santa Ana Winds FC

The first round of qualifying for the 2019 U.S. Open Cup kicked off this weekend. Santa Ana Winds FC started their Open Cup campaign off with a huge victory over UPSL rival, L.A. Wolves FC. The Winds would go on to win 4-0, showing up their neighbor to the north and eliminating them from another playoff competition. Winds striker Jordan Gorman contributed to every goal, scoring three and assisting one for Mark Cruz. The match was physical and at times challenging for the referee, who did his best to control the emotions of the players on the pitch.

Play was dominated by the Winds in the first half. They attacked both wide channels consistently and used their fullbacks to help overload the scrambling Wolves backline. When Los Angeles was in possession they would continuously play through the open spaces in the interior of the midfield, but this looked like a trap set by the Winds coaching staff. As the ball would be played in, the Winds midfield would collapse on the ball forcing the Wolves to either pass back and start the play over, or get  dispossessed leading to a counter attack from Santa Ana.

At the start of the second half possession was switched, the Winds dropped back towards their own goal and allowed Los Angeles to possess the ball. SAWFC defended as a team and allowed fewer scoring opportunities then in the first half. The Wolves press was disjointed, one player would apply pressure, but when they would cause a mistake or an errant pass, no other player was available to find the loose ball. Gorman would finish off his hat trick late in the second half off a beautiful tumbling scorpion kick.

- Steven Ramirez

Round 1: Ann Arbor FC (3-4) Livonia City FC

Ann Arbor FC (Mich.) vs. Livonia City FC (Mich.)

In a perfectly entertaining edition to the U.S. Open Cup’s qualifying rounds, Livonia City FC of the Michigan Premier Soccer League (MPSL) visited Ann Arbor FC, soon to be members of the UPSL.

The first half came with an endless stream of entertainment, with McKenzie Bechard and Billy Werthman giving Livonia City a 2-0 lead within the first 25 minutes. Casey Bantle gave AAFC a lifeline with a goal against the run of play in the 36th minute, but even the most hopeful of fans would likely have not expected for Drew Ducker to jump on board and score a brace from the 38th to 41st minutes, giving AAFC the lead going into halftime.

The second half would bring a slow but growing dominance from Livonia City, who equalized in the 52nd minute via Pat Smith to make it 3-3. The remaining 38 minutes would be full of close chances and good ideas but no goal to break the deadlock. Perhaps the most notable event from this remaining chunk of regulation time would be Jamal Hamoody’s at a Maradona “la Mano de Dios” goal in the 72nd minute, a strategy which would earn him the match’s first yellow card.

With two 15 minute chunks of added extra time on the way, both sides needed a goal to avoid penalty shootouts. AAFC’s hopes would receive a major roadblock when one of their defenders received a second yellow and left his side with 10 men. Finally, in the 116th minute, Craig Beebe would drive Livonia City to the finish line with a goal only four minutes before the end of AET. With that win, Livonia City FC
will move on to the second round of qualifying. Livonia gave their Man of the Match award to midfielder Connor Cole.

- Dominic Bisogno

Round 1: San Ramon Dynamos (0-7) JASA RWC

San Ramon Dynamos (0-7) JASA RWC

San Ramon Dynamos FC was set up in a 4-4-2 as it kicked off its very first USOC match as hosts to UPSL conference foe JASA RWC. According to the match commentary on MyCujoo, the home side was already at a disadvantage as it had a couple late scratches and was playing against a well-prepared club from across the bay in Redwood City. The height disparity was evident and it was no surprise that JASA’s coach looked to take advantage—he sent his wingers and fullbacks deep into the corners, looking to send in crosses from the onset—when that didn’t work, they’d play in along the touchline and pass back into the center, looking to cause havoc.

Rightback Matt Mitchell- a former Dynamos player -was now lacing his boots up for JASA, and was playing so far forward at times it seemed like he was a fifth midfielder. This overload helped JASA penetrate through every lane conceivable, putting shots on goal and off the woodwork early on. The Dynamos suffered an injury early in the half when defender Douglas went down with an apparent knee injury—he was on the sideline for at least five minutes receiving treatment before a change was made. As soon as the Dynamos’ new defender was on the pitch, JASA broke through again, but this time for its first goal courtesy of Emanuel Vazquez with the assist from James Huffer.

Minutes later, Matt Mitchell connected with Ryan Masch to put JASA ahead by two after some sloppy play—San Ramon suffered a second injury before the half and was forced to use a second substitution at the break. Down two goals to nil and down two players, the Dynamos made a formation change at the half to a more attacking 4-3-3 and I imagine they intended to put a little pressure on JASA, but it didn’t work out well for them. JASA made it 3-0 within moments of second half kickoff. JASA unlocked the Dynamos’ defense with a couple of passes and what seemed like a clever backheel by Huffer to release Vazquez into the open for another run onto goal.

San Ramon continued to press using the attackers, but the midfielders gave JASA gaps to play out of and it really provided the away team an impetus to attack rather than hold onto the ball. Dynamos’ goalkeeper Martin made some impressive saves, but was under constant pressure and ended up making some critical mistakes in the second half—he wasn’t helped by his defense, who simply could not clear the ball. They gave up a fourth goal in about the 70th minute after a long throw into the mixer and a few pings allowed Alexander Herra to put one away.

Showing heavy legs toward the last ten minutes of the match, JASA broke through the Dynamos again with a 2-on-3, then with another deft flick-through by Ryan Masch, Ugo Uche maneuvered around Martin and JASA was up 5-0. Shortly after that, JASA punished San Ramon’s sophomoric set-piece with precision distribution from keeper Alejandro Escobedo and two-touches up the left flank. Ugo Uche was in on goal and lured Martin out of the six-yard box just before calmly centering the ball for James Huffer to put it away at point-blank range.

Despite being up by 6 goals to none, JASA remained aggressive and it smothered any build-up San Ramon attempted. Conversely, the Dynamos had all but given up; under no pressure, the left fullback for JASA brought the ball forward 40 yards then made an advancing pass of another 40 yards, after one-touch into space by Huffer, JASA’s Ugo Uche was 1-on-1 with the Dynamos’ Martin and easily moved past him for the seventh goal. These two sides meet again next week in UPSL Western Conference play.