Four Rising players find the back of the net in high-scoring victory to conclude preseason
Phoenix Rising concluded its 2026 preseason with a statement 5-0 victory over USL League One side Spokane Velocity FC on February 27 at Phoenix Rising Stadium. Midfielder Hope Avayevu kicked the scoring off early before forward Charlie Dennis capped the five-goal performance in the final 10 minutes.
Following the match, Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah spoke with reporters about the preseason, his teams attack, preparing for Week One and more.
RISING HEAD COACH PA-MODOU KAH
His thoughts on Friday’s final preseason match…
“I think it was a good game. I’m very proud of the boys and the work they put in, the intensity that we played with and the desire and for all the accountability toward ourselves.”
On the midfield options through preseason…
“It has been a blessing to have different options, but also to have quality. When you insert quality, the quality remains high, which was what we looked for in the offseason. I like where we are, which drives the competitiveness of this group. That’s what we’re going to need.”
On the leadership of returning players…
“From day one, the team has shown leadership through accountability and standards. When you have that, everything becomes easier. Now we’re walking through the goals, which are every day. We don’t need to look ahead. Today is today… so we’re going to enjoy that, and then we will get back to work on Monday.”
On Jean-Éric Moursou and his potential…
“He can be a very, very good player, but everything also is day to day. We’re very pleased with what we have, but also we know he can be better. He himself wants to get better, he’s a perfectionist and is walking through that. He’s going to be a very, very good player in this league and hopefully beyond.”
On where the team is at following this preseason vs. last…
“We are all in a whole different place. On the sporting side with Brandon (McCarthy) and the scouting department we have done a great job identifying players that are going to suit us early on. But it’s also helped having returners back. We have 15 returners, which helps us keep that foundation and grow that foundation. We are very happy with that.”
