Match Preview

• Santi Moar has scored in all four games this season
• Rising leads the league in both goals (13) and goals per match (3.3)
• Phoenix is eyeing its first win vs. the Republic, the club is 0-2-3 all-time in Sacramento
• Rising ousted the Republic from playoffs in 2020, winning 1-0 in overtime 

• Santi Moar has scored in all four games this season
• Rising leads the league in both goals (13) and goals per match (3.3)
• Phoenix is eyeing its first win vs. the Republic, the club is 0-2-3 all-time in Sacramento
• Rising ousted the Republic from playoffs in 2020, winning 1-0 in overtime 

What You Need to Know

• Phoenix Rising is 2-0-0 at Wild Horse Pass
• Vegas is coached by former USMNT star Steve Cherundolo 
• This is Mental Health Awareness match, presented by Phoenix Children's 

THIS WEEK
Saturday, May 22 – vs. Las Vegas at Wild Horse Pass @ 7:30 p.m.
Stream: ESPN+ (U.S. viewers), ArizonaSports.com (audio only)
TV: CW 61 Arizona
English Radio: ESPN Phoenix 620 AM, 
Spanish Radio: La Mejor 106.5 FM & 1400 AM
Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Preview
Last week, in a rematch of last season's never-played USL Championship Final, Phoenix fell on the road to the Tampa Bay Rowdies in a heated 2-1 loss. Santi Moar notched his third goal of the season, but it was not enough to keep Rising's perfect record alive.

Coming off that emotional match,  head coach Rick Schantz doesn't want his team hanging its head.

"I told them it’s early, we tested ourselves, we didn’t change our tactics and we did so on purpose," said Schantz. "We played a very good team and matched up on the road in a difficult environment. We learn from it. We move forward. It’s not like it was game 30. It was game number three. We have 29 games left .

Did I want to go undefeated? Of course, every coach wants to go undefeated, but the likelihood is not very high. Now we just have to move on and focus on getting three points to make up for the loss."

Phoenix Rising now returns home to Wild Horse Pass to host Pacific Division opponent Las Vegas Lights FC. While Las Vegas has started off the season with two losses, Schantz is not underestimating the club and its talent. As a new affiliate team of LAFC, Las Vegas has received players on loan from the MLS side just hours before match kickoffs, which makes their starting lineup a bit tough to predict.

“We have to anticipate we’re going to play a very good team," said Schantz. "The only thing we do know is that it’ll be a 4-3-3 and their fullbacks will stay home. Their front three will sit high. They’ll try and get you in transition. They play very similar to us. This will be an opportunity for us, at our home field, to really get after an opponent.”

As far as his club goes, Schantz hinted that we may see some changes to the starting lineup and that practices have been very competitive. Rising will look to get back in the win column back at Wild Horse Pass, which has so far been very friendly.  

PHXvLV Series

• Rising is 6-1-1 all-time vs. Vegas since 2018
• Rising has never lost to Vegas in Arizona 
• Rising has outscored Vegas 23-9 all-time

A Little Bit About Phoenix Rising  

MORE, MORE, AND MORE MOAR
Santi Moar scored the lone goal against Tampa Bay on May 15. He has now scored or assisted in every game this season. He leads the team in goals (3), assists (2), and is second in chances created (7) behind Solomon Asante (9).

ON TARGET
Phoenix leads the league in shots on target per match (6.7) and is tied for first with Tampa Bay in goals per match (2.7). Rising is putting 51.3% of its shots on target and converting 20.5% of its shots to goals, both are on pace to be new club records.

IRON MAN WATCH x2
Solomon Asante and Kevon Lambert are each a game away from tying goalkeeper Carl Woszczynski's club record for most career appearances (91). Woszcynski spent five years with Phoenix, while Asante and Lambert are in their third and fourth seasons, respectively.

DYNAMIC DUO
Per Opta, Phoenix has two of the top five rated players in the league in Asante (4th) and Moar (5th). The two have combined for five goals, two assists, and 16 chances created.

A Little Bit About the Rowdies

LAST STARTING XI (4-3-3): GK Tomas Romero, D Álvaro Quezada, D Chinenye Uche, D Nathan Sepulveda, D Julian Gaines, M Bryce Duke, M Daniel Crisostomo, M Frank Daroma, F Cal Jennings, F Daniel Musovski, F Kwadwo Opoku

DEFENSIVE STRUGGLES
Lights FC have given up eight goals in just two games this season. They are tied with San Diego Loyal and Sporting KC II for most goals conceded in the league.

SOCCER LEGEND TURNED COACH
Las Vegas is led this season by U.S. Men’s National Team veteran Steve Cherundolo. In addition to his 87 caps for the United States (including 3 World Cup trips), Cherundolo had more than 350 appearances for Germany's Hanover 96.

LAFC PARTNERSHIP
This year, the Lights entered into a new affiliation with MLS side Los Angeles Football Club.

“Lights FC is ecstatic to partner with LAFC. To be the best you strive to work with the best & LAFC is a world-class organization,” said Lights FC Owner & C.E.O. Brett Lashbrook. “We’re incredibly proud of what Lights FC is building within the Las Vegas community and today’s announcement provides so many important new resources to accelerate our club’s growth plan.”

What You Need to Know

• Phoenix Rising is 2-0-0 at Wild Horse Pass
• Vegas is coached by former USMNT star Steve Cherundolo 
• This is Mental Health Awareness match, presented by Phoenix Children’s 

THIS WEEK
Saturday, May 22 – vs. Las Vegas at Wild Horse Pass @ 7:30 p.m.
Stream: ESPN+ (U.S. viewers), ArizonaSports.com (audio only)
TV: CW 61 Arizona
English Radio: ESPN Phoenix 620 AM, 
Spanish Radio: La Mejor 106.5 FM & 1400 AM
Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Preview
Last week, in a rematch of last season’s never-played USL Championship Final, Phoenix fell on the road to the Tampa Bay Rowdies in a heated 2-1 loss. Santi Moar notched his third goal of the season, but it was not enough to keep Rising’s perfect record alive.

Coming off that emotional match,  head coach Rick Schantz doesn’t want his team hanging its head.

“I told them it’s early, we tested ourselves, we didn’t change our tactics and we did so on purpose,” said Schantz. “We played a very good team and matched up on the road in a difficult environment. We learn from it. We move forward. It’s not like it was game 30. It was game number three. We have 29 games left .

Did I want to go undefeated? Of course, every coach wants to go undefeated, but the likelihood is not very high. Now we just have to move on and focus on getting three points to make up for the loss.”

Phoenix Rising now returns home to Wild Horse Pass to host Pacific Division opponent Las Vegas Lights FC. While Las Vegas has started off the season with two losses, Schantz is not underestimating the club and its talent. As a new affiliate team of LAFC, Las Vegas has received players on loan from the MLS side just hours before match kickoffs, which makes their starting lineup a bit tough to predict.

“We have to anticipate we’re going to play a very good team,” said Schantz. “The only thing we do know is that it’ll be a 4-3-3 and their fullbacks will stay home. Their front three will sit high. They’ll try and get you in transition. They play very similar to us. This will be an opportunity for us, at our home field, to really get after an opponent.”

As far as his club goes, Schantz hinted that we may see some changes to the starting lineup and that practices have been very competitive. Rising will look to get back in the win column back at Wild Horse Pass, which has so far been very friendly.  

PHXvLV Series

• Rising is 6-1-1 all-time vs. Vegas since 2018
• Rising has never lost to Vegas in Arizona 
• Rising has outscored Vegas 23-9 all-time

A Little Bit About Phoenix Rising  

MORE, MORE, AND MORE MOAR
Santi Moar scored the lone goal against Tampa Bay on May 15. He has now scored or assisted in every game this season. He leads the team in goals (3), assists (2), and is second in chances created (7) behind Solomon Asante (9).

ON TARGET
Phoenix leads the league in shots on target per match (6.7) and is tied for first with Tampa Bay in goals per match (2.7). Rising is putting 51.3% of its shots on target and converting 20.5% of its shots to goals, both are on pace to be new club records.

IRON MAN WATCH x2
Solomon Asante and Kevon Lambert are each a game away from tying goalkeeper Carl Woszczynski’s club record for most career appearances (91). Woszcynski spent five years with Phoenix, while Asante and Lambert are in their third and fourth seasons, respectively.

DYNAMIC DUO
Per Opta, Phoenix has two of the top five rated players in the league in Asante (4th) and Moar (5th). The two have combined for five goals, two assists, and 16 chances created.

A Little Bit About the Rowdies

LAST STARTING XI (4-3-3): GK Tomas Romero, D Álvaro Quezada, D Chinenye Uche, D Nathan Sepulveda, D Julian Gaines, M Bryce Duke, M Daniel Crisostomo, M Frank Daroma, F Cal Jennings, F Daniel Musovski, F Kwadwo Opoku

DEFENSIVE STRUGGLES
Lights FC have given up eight goals in just two games this season. They are tied with San Diego Loyal and Sporting KC II for most goals conceded in the league.

SOCCER LEGEND TURNED COACH
Las Vegas is led this season by U.S. Men’s National Team veteran Steve Cherundolo. In addition to his 87 caps for the United States (including 3 World Cup trips), Cherundolo had more than 350 appearances for Germany’s Hanover 96.

LAFC PARTNERSHIP
This year, the Lights entered into a new affiliation with MLS side Los Angeles Football Club.

“Lights FC is ecstatic to partner with LAFC. To be the best you strive to work with the best & LAFC is a world-class organization,” said Lights FC Owner & C.E.O. Brett Lashbrook. “We’re incredibly proud of what Lights FC is building within the Las Vegas community and today’s announcement provides so many important new resources to accelerate our club’s growth plan.”

When Rising needed an extra dose of bite heading into last weekend’s Western Conference Final, head coach Rick Schantz added Jordan Schweitzer into the starting 11. A defensive addition, Schweitzer wasn’t expected to produce the lone goal for Rising in the club’s eventual win in penalty kicks.

But after receiving a pass from Santi Moar, who has now been involved in all four Rising goals this postseason, Schweitzer fired a low shot from outside the box. The attempt, just his fifth shot of the season, struck an El Paso defender, looped upwards over the Locomotive FC goalkeeper, dipped just below the crossbar, and put Phoenix ahead, 1-0, in the 18th minute.

“Tenacity, hard work… Jordan is a very honest player,” said Schantz. “He’ll do whatever is asked of him. He’ll leave his heart on the field.”

That’s the type of commitment that has Rising playing for a championship in 2020. Now, according to goalkeeper Zac Lubin, who made five saves before stopping another shot in the penalty-kick shootout, focus is what’s required to bring a title back to Phoenix. 

“I’ve lost two finals now,” said Lubin. “This is my third in five years. All I am thinking about is, what is it going to take to win? Having gone through it and experienced those losses, right now, we cannot be thinking about what happens after the game or how we’ll celebrate. We need to be thinking about the first minute, what are we doing then? The 45th minute, how do we win the second half? The most important thing is to be focused now.”

In the way, Tampa Bay Rowdies present a different challenge. 

“They have a lot of experience,” said Schantz. “They play a different system, in a 3-5-2, with a lot of movement and interchange up front. Their midfield is very athletic. They can run with anybody. They’re humble and will take what you give them. They’ve very dangerous out wide on the left side. It’s going to be an exciting game with two contrasting styles. That will make it fun.”

“To start, there is going to be a ton of energy,” added Lubin. “They defend really well. They press a little bit. Their early goal helped them a ton against Louisville. Even though we’re on the road, we’re going to try and dictate the game. We’ll play the way we want to play.”

Having won a Western Conference Championship just two years ago, Rising is laser focused on taking the final step this Sunday.   

“To be here and have this opportunity, we are aware of how much work went into getting here,” said Schantz. “Two years ago, when we won the Western Conference Final, it was pure jubilation. We were so happy. It was like we were satisfied. This time was different. We celebrated, but all everyone kept saying is ‘one more to go.’

The team that is most prepared for every moment is usually the team that succeeds. When it gets to that moment when your body wants to shut down, the mental toughness of this group is hard to prepare for – you either have it or you don’t. These guys are ready.”

When Rising needed an extra dose of bite heading into last weekend’s Western Conference Final, head coach Rick Schantz added Jordan Schweitzer into the starting 11. A defensive addition, Schweitzer wasn’t expected to produce the lone goal for Rising in the club’s eventual win in penalty kicks.

But after receiving a pass from Santi Moar, who has now been involved in all four Rising goals this postseason, Schweitzer fired a low shot from outside the box. The attempt, just his fifth shot of the season, struck an El Paso defender, looped upwards over the Locomotive FC goalkeeper, dipped just below the crossbar, and put Phoenix ahead, 1-0, in the 18th minute.

“Tenacity, hard work… Jordan is a very honest player,” said Schantz. “He’ll do whatever is asked of him. He’ll leave his heart on the field.”

That’s the type of commitment that has Rising playing for a championship in 2020. Now, according to goalkeeper Zac Lubin, who made five saves before stopping another shot in the penalty-kick shootout, focus is what’s required to bring a title back to Phoenix. 

“I’ve lost two finals now,” said Lubin. “This is my third in five years. All I am thinking about is, what is it going to take to win? Having gone through it and experienced those losses, right now, we cannot be thinking about what happens after the game or how we’ll celebrate. We need to be thinking about the first minute, what are we doing then? The 45th minute, how do we win the second half? The most important thing is to be focused now.”

In the way, Tampa Bay Rowdies present a different challenge. 

“They have a lot of experience,” said Schantz. “They play a different system, in a 3-5-2, with a lot of movement and interchange up front. Their midfield is very athletic. They can run with anybody. They’re humble and will take what you give them. They’ve very dangerous out wide on the left side. It’s going to be an exciting game with two contrasting styles. That will make it fun.”

“To start, there is going to be a ton of energy,” added Lubin. “They defend really well. They press a little bit. Their early goal helped them a ton against Louisville. Even though we’re on the road, we’re going to try and dictate the game. We’ll play the way we want to play.”

Having won a Western Conference Championship just two years ago, Rising is laser focused on taking the final step this Sunday.   

“To be here and have this opportunity, we are aware of how much work went into getting here,” said Schantz. “Two years ago, when we won the Western Conference Final, it was pure jubilation. We were so happy. It was like we were satisfied. This time was different. We celebrated, but all everyone kept saying is ‘one more to go.’

The team that is most prepared for every moment is usually the team that succeeds. When it gets to that moment when your body wants to shut down, the mental toughness of this group is hard to prepare for – you either have it or you don’t. These guys are ready.”

TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League honored standout performers from the regular season on Wednesday with the announcement of the 2020 USL Championship All-League Teams.

Phoenix Rising forward Solomon Asante was named to the 2020 USL Championship All-League First Team while Rufat Dadashov earned 2020 USL Championship All-League Second Team honors.

The 2020 USL Championship All-League Team was voted on by club management and a league-wide media panel that included representation from every USL market.

The finalists for the 2020 Championship Awards will be announced on Thursday, preceding the 2020 USL Championship Final, which will air live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and SiriusXM FC in the United States on Sunday, November 1 at 8:30 p.m. ET as the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the Eastern Conference and Phoenix Rising FC of the Western Conference meet at Al Lang Stadium in St. Petersburg, Florida.

2020 USL Championship All-League First Team

GK – Ben Lundt, Louisville City FC: Lundt recorded seven shutouts and posted a 0.87 goals-against average and a save percentage of 72.5 percent as he played every minute of the regular season to help Louisville notch the best record in the Eastern Conference.

D – Forrest Lasso, Tampa Bay Rowdies: Lasso maintained his high standard at his new club recorded 25 interceptions and a league-leading 86 clearances while winning 61.6 percent of duels and 66.3 percent of aerials in the middle of the Rowdies’ back line while also remaining a threat in attack where he scored three goals.

D – Kalen Ryden, New Mexico United: A new arrival in the offseason, Ryden helped substantially improve New Mexico’s defense as he recorded 63 clearances, 78 recoveries and 26 interceptions as United conceded only 17 goals in 15 games despite playing the full campaign on the road.

D – Sean Totsch, Louisville City FC: A three-time USL Championship Final-winner previously, Totsch had the best individual season of his career so far with 29 interceptions and 105 recoveries. In his 14 appearances during the regular season, LouCity posted a goals-against average of 0.65.

D – Thomas Vancaeyezeele, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: An All-League Second Team selection in 2019, Vancaeyezeele impressed even further this year as he became the leader in the Hounds’ back line. The French Guiana international played every minute of the regular season and recorded 30 interceptions and 34 clearances as the Hounds recorded eight shutouts to tie for the league-lead.

M – Kenardo Forbes, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: Forbes continued to shine as one of the leading playmakers in the Championship with eight assists in 12 appearances. Forbes recorded a passing accuracy rate of 81.8 percent while averaging 64.3 passes per 90 minutes as he set the tempo for Pittsburgh in midfield while also recording 106 recoveries.

M – Bruno Lapa, Birmingham Legion FC: The Brazilian had a standout first professional season for Legion FC as he recorded seven goals and five assists to help the side reach the Championship Playoffs for a second consecutive year. Lapa ranked sixth in the Championship with 34 chances created and had a 79.5 percent passing accuracy rate.

M – Speedy Williams, Louisville City FC: Williams was dynamic in LouCity’s lineup as he played all-but 18 minutes of the regular season and completed the most passes of any player (831) in the Championship. The Jamaican international also finished second among outfield players in recoveries (141) and posted a passing accuracy rate of 86.4 percent.

F – Solomon Asante, Phoenix Rising FC: The Ghanaian standout became the first player in Championship history to claim the Assists Champion award with nine helpers while notching six goals for Rising FC. Asante also posted the most chances created (42) and tied for the most Big Chances Created (9) in the regular season.

F – Cameron Lancaster, Louisville City FC: Back in Louisville’s colors on loan from Major League Soccer’s Nashville SC, Lancaster recorded 10 goals and two assists as he continued to show a remarkable creativity around goal in the campaign to average 0.77 goals per 90 minutes. The English forward also provided excellent link-up play in attack and completed 70.8 percent of his passes in the regular season.

F – Augustine Williams, LA Galaxy II: Williams had a breakout campaign to help lead Los Dos into the USL Championship Playoffs for a second consecutive year as he recorded 13 goals and two assists to finish second in the race for the Championship’s Golden Boot. Williams played a key role down the stretch for the Galaxy II, scoring seven goals in the side’s final seven games of the regular season.

2020 USL Championship All-League Second Team

GK – Brandon Miller, Charlotte Independence: Miller earned the second All-League selection of his career after a stellar campaign that helped the Independence return to the USL Championship Playoffs for the first time since 2017. Miller led the league with 61 saves and recorded five shutouts with a save percentage of 73.5 percent.

D – Leland Archer, Charleston Battery: Archer’s third season with the Battery saw the Trinidad & Tobago center back produce a breakout campaign as he recorded 50 clearances and 95 recoveries while posting a passing accuracy rate of 80.1 percent in the middle of a strong Battery back line that helped the side earn its 13th consecutive postseason berth overall.

D – Alex Crognale, Birmingham Legion FC: One of Birmingham’s key offseason arrivals, Crognale was stellar in the center of the club’s defense as he finished tied for fourth in the league with 73 clearances

and also made 73 recoveries while completing the fifth-most passes in the league (757) at an accuracy rate of 85.8 percent.

D – Neveal Hackshaw, Indy Eleven: The Trinidad & Tobago international earned his second consecutive selection to the All-League Team after another strong year for Indy. Hackshaw ranked third in the league in passes completed with 791, led all outfield players with 151 recoveries and made 24 interceptions for the Boys in Blue.

D – Jordan Scarlett, Tampa Bay Rowdies: One part of the Rowdies’ defensive makeover during the offseason, Scarlett was ever-present for Tampa Bay as he made 63 clearances and 34 interceptions defensively while notching a goal and assist in attack. Scarlett also recorded four Big Chances Created as his timing in the penalty area added another weapon for the Rowdies on set pieces.

M – Christiano Francois, Reno 1868 FC: The Haiti international continued to be one of the most electrifying wingers in the league as he recorded six goals and seven assists to help Reno record the best record in the regular season. Francois notched 33 chances created and completed 31 dribbles, consistently putting opposing defenses on the back foot.

M – Kevin Partida, Reno 1868 FC: In his third season with Reno – including a stint on loan from the San Jose Earthquakes in 2019 – Partida served as the pivot in the center of midfield that helped Reno succeed. The Nevada native sported a passing accuracy rate of 82.1 percent on 51.4 passes per 90 minutes and won 61.9 percent of his duels to help 1868 FC to the best record in the Championship.

M – Chris Wehan, New Mexico United: Earning his second All-League selection of his career, Wehan was one of the key figures in New Mexico’s return to the Championship Playoffs for a second consecutive season. The attacking midfielder recorded six goals and four assists while recording 21 chances created, but came up with three game-winning goals for his side as it reached the postseason despite playing its full schedule on the road.

F – Rufat Dadashov, Phoenix Rising FC: The Azerbaijani international made a big impact in his first game for Rising FC with a hat trick and continued to find the net consistently to lead the squad to the top of Group B. Dadashov recorded 11 goals and four assists in the regular season, but was also notable in his link-up play that saw him register 21 key passes and a passing accuracy rate of 72.4 percent overall.

F – Dane Kelly, Charlotte Independence: The Championship’s all-time leading scorer produced a return to form in his first season with the Independence, scoring 11 goals to lead Charlotte back to the postseason for the first time in three seasons. Kelly also notched a pair of assists as he earned the fourth All-League selection of his career.

F – Tyler Pasher, Indy Eleven: In his second season as an out-and-out striker, the Canadian standout got out to one of the fastest starts in the Championship’s history with six goals in Indy’s first six games and finished the regular season with 10 goals and two assists while notching a passing accuracy rate of 83.5 percent to earn his first All-League selection.

TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League honored standout performers from the regular season on Wednesday with the announcement of the 2020 USL Championship All-League Teams.

Phoenix Rising forward Solomon Asante was named to the 2020 USL Championship All-League First Team while Rufat Dadashov earned 2020 USL Championship All-League Second Team honors.

The 2020 USL Championship All-League Team was voted on by club management and a league-wide media panel that included representation from every USL market.

The finalists for the 2020 Championship Awards will be announced on Thursday, preceding the 2020 USL Championship Final, which will air live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and SiriusXM FC in the United States on Sunday, November 1 at 8:30 p.m. ET as the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the Eastern Conference and Phoenix Rising FC of the Western Conference meet at Al Lang Stadium in St. Petersburg, Florida.

2020 USL Championship All-League First Team

GK – Ben Lundt, Louisville City FC: Lundt recorded seven shutouts and posted a 0.87 goals-against average and a save percentage of 72.5 percent as he played every minute of the regular season to help Louisville notch the best record in the Eastern Conference.

D – Forrest Lasso, Tampa Bay Rowdies: Lasso maintained his high standard at his new club recorded 25 interceptions and a league-leading 86 clearances while winning 61.6 percent of duels and 66.3 percent of aerials in the middle of the Rowdies’ back line while also remaining a threat in attack where he scored three goals.

D – Kalen Ryden, New Mexico United: A new arrival in the offseason, Ryden helped substantially improve New Mexico’s defense as he recorded 63 clearances, 78 recoveries and 26 interceptions as United conceded only 17 goals in 15 games despite playing the full campaign on the road.

D – Sean Totsch, Louisville City FC: A three-time USL Championship Final-winner previously, Totsch had the best individual season of his career so far with 29 interceptions and 105 recoveries. In his 14 appearances during the regular season, LouCity posted a goals-against average of 0.65.

D – Thomas Vancaeyezeele, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: An All-League Second Team selection in 2019, Vancaeyezeele impressed even further this year as he became the leader in the Hounds’ back line. The French Guiana international played every minute of the regular season and recorded 30 interceptions and 34 clearances as the Hounds recorded eight shutouts to tie for the league-lead.

M – Kenardo Forbes, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC: Forbes continued to shine as one of the leading playmakers in the Championship with eight assists in 12 appearances. Forbes recorded a passing accuracy rate of 81.8 percent while averaging 64.3 passes per 90 minutes as he set the tempo for Pittsburgh in midfield while also recording 106 recoveries.

M – Bruno Lapa, Birmingham Legion FC: The Brazilian had a standout first professional season for Legion FC as he recorded seven goals and five assists to help the side reach the Championship Playoffs for a second consecutive year. Lapa ranked sixth in the Championship with 34 chances created and had a 79.5 percent passing accuracy rate.

M – Speedy Williams, Louisville City FC: Williams was dynamic in LouCity’s lineup as he played all-but 18 minutes of the regular season and completed the most passes of any player (831) in the Championship. The Jamaican international also finished second among outfield players in recoveries (141) and posted a passing accuracy rate of 86.4 percent.

F – Solomon Asante, Phoenix Rising FC: The Ghanaian standout became the first player in Championship history to claim the Assists Champion award with nine helpers while notching six goals for Rising FC. Asante also posted the most chances created (42) and tied for the most Big Chances Created (9) in the regular season.

F – Cameron Lancaster, Louisville City FC: Back in Louisville’s colors on loan from Major League Soccer’s Nashville SC, Lancaster recorded 10 goals and two assists as he continued to show a remarkable creativity around goal in the campaign to average 0.77 goals per 90 minutes. The English forward also provided excellent link-up play in attack and completed 70.8 percent of his passes in the regular season.

F – Augustine Williams, LA Galaxy II: Williams had a breakout campaign to help lead Los Dos into the USL Championship Playoffs for a second consecutive year as he recorded 13 goals and two assists to finish second in the race for the Championship’s Golden Boot. Williams played a key role down the stretch for the Galaxy II, scoring seven goals in the side’s final seven games of the regular season.

2020 USL Championship All-League Second Team

GK – Brandon Miller, Charlotte Independence: Miller earned the second All-League selection of his career after a stellar campaign that helped the Independence return to the USL Championship Playoffs for the first time since 2017. Miller led the league with 61 saves and recorded five shutouts with a save percentage of 73.5 percent.

D – Leland Archer, Charleston Battery: Archer’s third season with the Battery saw the Trinidad & Tobago center back produce a breakout campaign as he recorded 50 clearances and 95 recoveries while posting a passing accuracy rate of 80.1 percent in the middle of a strong Battery back line that helped the side earn its 13th consecutive postseason berth overall.

D – Alex Crognale, Birmingham Legion FC: One of Birmingham’s key offseason arrivals, Crognale was stellar in the center of the club’s defense as he finished tied for fourth in the league with 73 clearances

and also made 73 recoveries while completing the fifth-most passes in the league (757) at an accuracy rate of 85.8 percent.

D – Neveal Hackshaw, Indy Eleven: The Trinidad & Tobago international earned his second consecutive selection to the All-League Team after another strong year for Indy. Hackshaw ranked third in the league in passes completed with 791, led all outfield players with 151 recoveries and made 24 interceptions for the Boys in Blue.

D – Jordan Scarlett, Tampa Bay Rowdies: One part of the Rowdies’ defensive makeover during the offseason, Scarlett was ever-present for Tampa Bay as he made 63 clearances and 34 interceptions defensively while notching a goal and assist in attack. Scarlett also recorded four Big Chances Created as his timing in the penalty area added another weapon for the Rowdies on set pieces.

M – Christiano Francois, Reno 1868 FC: The Haiti international continued to be one of the most electrifying wingers in the league as he recorded six goals and seven assists to help Reno record the best record in the regular season. Francois notched 33 chances created and completed 31 dribbles, consistently putting opposing defenses on the back foot.

M – Kevin Partida, Reno 1868 FC: In his third season with Reno – including a stint on loan from the San Jose Earthquakes in 2019 – Partida served as the pivot in the center of midfield that helped Reno succeed. The Nevada native sported a passing accuracy rate of 82.1 percent on 51.4 passes per 90 minutes and won 61.9 percent of his duels to help 1868 FC to the best record in the Championship.

M – Chris Wehan, New Mexico United: Earning his second All-League selection of his career, Wehan was one of the key figures in New Mexico’s return to the Championship Playoffs for a second consecutive season. The attacking midfielder recorded six goals and four assists while recording 21 chances created, but came up with three game-winning goals for his side as it reached the postseason despite playing its full schedule on the road.

F – Rufat Dadashov, Phoenix Rising FC: The Azerbaijani international made a big impact in his first game for Rising FC with a hat trick and continued to find the net consistently to lead the squad to the top of Group B. Dadashov recorded 11 goals and four assists in the regular season, but was also notable in his link-up play that saw him register 21 key passes and a passing accuracy rate of 72.4 percent overall.

F – Dane Kelly, Charlotte Independence: The Championship’s all-time leading scorer produced a return to form in his first season with the Independence, scoring 11 goals to lead Charlotte back to the postseason for the first time in three seasons. Kelly also notched a pair of assists as he earned the fourth All-League selection of his career.

F – Tyler Pasher, Indy Eleven: In his second season as an out-and-out striker, the Canadian standout got out to one of the fastest starts in the Championship’s history with six goals in Indy’s first six games and finished the regular season with 10 goals and two assists while notching a passing accuracy rate of 83.5 percent to earn his first All-League selection.

Down 2-0 on the road last Saturday in Reno, this Rising team appeared to have finally succumbed to the adversity of 2020 – a season interrupted by COVID, matches without fans, the loss of a Golden Boot winner, missing a coach and finally, a goalkeeping miscue that led to Reno’s first goal.

“I was so proud of Zac [Lubin],” said Rising head coach Rick Schantz. “He made a big mistake against Reno but he shrugged it off and kept going. He ended up making three of four massive saves on breakaways and then was the hero in the shootout.”

Last week Lubin personified what Rising has been the best at in the league at this season – overcoming adversity.

“For them to get the victory after all the things they’ve been through,” said Schantz. “From what I did and what Junior [Flemmings] did, those are not accurate representations of the other 23 players in that locker room. But for them to come together and play as well as they have in the last few victories… hats off to those boys.”

In each of Rising’s last three wins, the team outshot its opponent. That was certainly not the case the last time Phoenix hosted El Paso on August 1. Instead, Rising took its chances well, scoring three goals on just eight shots, all of which came in the first half. By the final whistle, Rising was outshot 23-8 and conceded the corner battle, 10-1. Lubin did not play a part in that match. Instead Eric Dick stood tall, making six saves, two of which were spectacular, in the 87th minute.

“Mark Lowery is one of the best coaches in the league,” said Schantz. “El Paso is a team that likes to keep the ball. They’ve switched into a 4-3-3 with a bit of a false nine. Aaron Gomez, Dylan Mares and Leandro Carrijó are very good, very dangerous. They have experienced players. They’re going to be a tough team to beat. Last time they were here they showed they can play extremely well against us. We got a few opportunities that game and took advantage, but I said it then, I knew we would see them again in the playoffs.”

In that match, all three opportunities converted into goals by Rising had a dash of Junior Flemmings – a pass, a quick transition and the 2020 Golden Boot Winner’s marquee goal of the season. Those three goals also accounted for three of the 14 goals El Paso gave up all season long (21%).   

For Phoenix, the difference this time around must be the man who has more than admirably filled Flemming’s place in the lineup. Santi Moar, who ironically was forced to sit out Rising’s August 1 match vs. El Paso due to his own battle with adversity – a red card picked up on July 25 vs. Orange County – has had a hand in each Rising goal scored during the run of play this postseason.  

Overcoming the adversity of waiting for his opportunity in 2020, Moar, more than anyone, personifies the transition Rising has made into a championship side this season.  

“The grit and determination of this team far outweighs our ability to play pretty, attacking football in 2019,” said Schantz. “This is the playoffs. We have to be mature and humble and recognize we’re playing very, very good teams. This is what you need to do to win championships. It doesn’t have to be pretty.”

Down 2-0 on the road last Saturday in Reno, this Rising team appeared to have finally succumbed to the adversity of 2020 – a season interrupted by COVID, matches without fans, the loss of a Golden Boot winner, missing a coach and finally, a goalkeeping miscue that led to Reno’s first goal.

“I was so proud of Zac [Lubin],” said Rising head coach Rick Schantz. “He made a big mistake against Reno but he shrugged it off and kept going. He ended up making three of four massive saves on breakaways and then was the hero in the shootout.”

Last week Lubin personified what Rising has been the best at in the league at this season – overcoming adversity.

“For them to get the victory after all the things they’ve been through,” said Schantz. “From what I did and what Junior [Flemmings] did, those are not accurate representations of the other 23 players in that locker room. But for them to come together and play as well as they have in the last few victories… hats off to those boys.”

In each of Rising’s last three wins, the team outshot its opponent. That was certainly not the case the last time Phoenix hosted El Paso on August 1. Instead, Rising took its chances well, scoring three goals on just eight shots, all of which came in the first half. By the final whistle, Rising was outshot 23-8 and conceded the corner battle, 10-1. Lubin did not play a part in that match. Instead Eric Dick stood tall, making six saves, two of which were spectacular, in the 87th minute.

“Mark Lowery is one of the best coaches in the league,” said Schantz. “El Paso is a team that likes to keep the ball. They’ve switched into a 4-3-3 with a bit of a false nine. Aaron Gomez, Dylan Mares and Leandro Carrijó are very good, very dangerous. They have experienced players. They’re going to be a tough team to beat. Last time they were here they showed they can play extremely well against us. We got a few opportunities that game and took advantage, but I said it then, I knew we would see them again in the playoffs.”

In that match, all three opportunities converted into goals by Rising had a dash of Junior Flemmings – a pass, a quick transition and the 2020 Golden Boot Winner’s marquee goal of the season. Those three goals also accounted for three of the 14 goals El Paso gave up all season long (21%).   

For Phoenix, the difference this time around must be the man who has more than admirably filled Flemming’s place in the lineup. Santi Moar, who ironically was forced to sit out Rising’s August 1 match vs. El Paso due to his own battle with adversity – a red card picked up on July 25 vs. Orange County – has had a hand in each Rising goal scored during the run of play this postseason.  

Overcoming the adversity of waiting for his opportunity in 2020, Moar, more than anyone, personifies the transition Rising has made into a championship side this season.  

“The grit and determination of this team far outweighs our ability to play pretty, attacking football in 2019,” said Schantz. “This is the playoffs. We have to be mature and humble and recognize we’re playing very, very good teams. This is what you need to do to win championships. It doesn’t have to be pretty.”

PHOENIX, Arizona (Wednesday, October 21) – Phoenix Rising FC announced today that Rick Schantz is returning as head coach effective immediately.

The move was set in motion by San Diego Loyal defender Collin Martin, who expressed his support after Schantz and Rising leadership reached out to him personally.

“Rick has apologized to me personally and I accept that apology as genuine,” said Martin. “We all come to our education on issues at different times, and he is beginning to understand the pain and disappointment he caused his team, the fans and the LGBTQ community. I see no reason not to give him my blessing and an opportunity to prove that someone can change.

The sooner Rick is back working with his team and our league, the sooner he can begin his role as an ally in advancing LGBTQ equality and acceptance in professional sports. His return is not the end of his personal growth, but rather the beginning, and he should use his position of influence now to help effect real understanding and change.”

Schantz was put on administrative leave for three matches, including two playoff games, following his reaction to an incident that took place during a September 30 match between Phoenix and San Diego. In that match, Martin accused Rising player Junior Flemmings of using an anti-gay slur against him. Schantz’s response was initially dismissive.

Following the incident, Flemmings was suspended by the league for the rest of the season, and Schantz was placed on indefinite administrative leave by the team. Schantz has since apologized for how inappropriately he handled the situation, and how his reaction has impacted his team, fans and the LGBTQ community.

“I realize how damaging my actions were not only to Collin Martin, who I have personally apologized to, but also to my team, the league and the LGBTQ community,” said Schantz. “I should have immediately acknowledged and denounced any anti-gay language. I am disappointed in myself and I’m committed to becoming a better human on this issue in the future.

I’m working with and listening to LGBTQ community and sports leaders to develop a personal growth plan, as well as team-wide inclusion programs, so I can become an active ally to the LGBTQ community. This is a long-term commitment that I take very seriously.”

Rising has also partnered with San Diego Loyal to develop a cooperative program where coaches, players, sponsors and fans from both clubs will come together to advocate for acceptance, equality and inclusion within their communities.

“During his administrative leave, Rick has dedicated himself to listening to members of the LGBTQ community and learning about the difference between tolerance and acceptance,” said Phoenix Rising FC governor Berke Bakay. “I have witnessed a sincere commitment in him to use this public platform as head coach of our club to amplify the importance of equality and inclusion in professional sports.”

Phoenix Rising FC has publicly and proudly supported LGBTQ causes and charities such as  Athlete Ally and One-N-Ten since its inception. Yesterday, Rising announced that it would relinquish its rights to host the 2020 USL Championship Title match due to the Club obtaining three of its 35 points via San Diego’s forfeiture on September 30. The club with the most points during the regular season is awarded the right to host the league final. That match will now be hosted by the winner of the Eastern Conference.

Schantz will rejoin the team this week to prepare for the Western Conference Final between Rising and El Paso Locomotive FC. That match is set to kick off at 7:30 p.m. this Saturday, October 24, at Casino Arizona Field.

In the absence of Schantz due to the team-imposed leave, Rising has won its last three matches under the direction of interim head coach Blair Gavin.

PHOENIX, Arizona (Wednesday, October 21) – Phoenix Rising FC announced today that Rick Schantz is returning as head coach effective immediately.

The move was set in motion by San Diego Loyal defender Collin Martin, who expressed his support after Schantz and Rising leadership reached out to him personally.

“Rick has apologized to me personally and I accept that apology as genuine,” said Martin. “We all come to our education on issues at different times, and he is beginning to understand the pain and disappointment he caused his team, the fans and the LGBTQ community. I see no reason not to give him my blessing and an opportunity to prove that someone can change.

The sooner Rick is back working with his team and our league, the sooner he can begin his role as an ally in advancing LGBTQ equality and acceptance in professional sports. His return is not the end of his personal growth, but rather the beginning, and he should use his position of influence now to help effect real understanding and change.”

Schantz was put on administrative leave for three matches, including two playoff games, following his reaction to an incident that took place during a September 30 match between Phoenix and San Diego. In that match, Martin accused Rising player Junior Flemmings of using an anti-gay slur against him. Schantz’s response was initially dismissive.

Following the incident, Flemmings was suspended by the league for the rest of the season, and Schantz was placed on indefinite administrative leave by the team. Schantz has since apologized for how inappropriately he handled the situation, and how his reaction has impacted his team, fans and the LGBTQ community.

“I realize how damaging my actions were not only to Collin Martin, who I have personally apologized to, but also to my team, the league and the LGBTQ community,” said Schantz. “I should have immediately acknowledged and denounced any anti-gay language. I am disappointed in myself and I’m committed to becoming a better human on this issue in the future.

I’m working with and listening to LGBTQ community and sports leaders to develop a personal growth plan, as well as team-wide inclusion programs, so I can become an active ally to the LGBTQ community. This is a long-term commitment that I take very seriously.”

Rising has also partnered with San Diego Loyal to develop a cooperative program where coaches, players, sponsors and fans from both clubs will come together to advocate for acceptance, equality and inclusion within their communities.

“During his administrative leave, Rick has dedicated himself to listening to members of the LGBTQ community and learning about the difference between tolerance and acceptance,” said Phoenix Rising FC governor Berke Bakay. “I have witnessed a sincere commitment in him to use this public platform as head coach of our club to amplify the importance of equality and inclusion in professional sports.”

Phoenix Rising FC has publicly and proudly supported LGBTQ causes and charities such as  Athlete Ally and One-N-Ten since its inception. Yesterday, Rising announced that it would relinquish its rights to host the 2020 USL Championship Title match due to the Club obtaining three of its 35 points via San Diego’s forfeiture on September 30. The club with the most points during the regular season is awarded the right to host the league final. That match will now be hosted by the winner of the Eastern Conference.

Schantz will rejoin the team this week to prepare for the Western Conference Final between Rising and El Paso Locomotive FC. That match is set to kick off at 7:30 p.m. this Saturday, October 24, at Casino Arizona Field.

In the absence of Schantz due to the team-imposed leave, Rising has won its last three matches under the direction of interim head coach Blair Gavin.

PHOENIX, Arizona – The USL Championship announced the Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio for Week 15 of the 2020 regular season on Tuesday.

Phoenix midfielder Sam Stanton earned a spot on the Team of the Week with his two-goal match, lifting Rising to a 4-1 win against LA Galaxy II. Stanton also completed 27 of 33 passes and recorded four interceptions.

The Championship’s Player of the Week is selected by the USL National Media Panel, which is made up of representatives from each media market in the Championship.

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 15

GK – Rafael Diaz, Sacramento Republic FC: Diaz recorded an eight-save shutout as Republic FC took a 4-0 victory against the Portland Timbers 2 on Saturday night to close the club’s regular season at Papa Murphy’s Park.

D – Yuma, El Paso Locomotive FC: The Spaniard helped Locomotive FC record two shutouts over the week, winning 12 of 16 duels and four interceptions while completing 132 of 135 passes as El Paso claimed first place in Group C.

D – Duke Lacroix, Charlotte Independence: Lacroix put in a strong shift as the Independence shut out North Carolina FC to clinch first place in Group G with a 1-0 win, winning 7 of 9 duels and 2 of 2 tackles, while completing 46 of 51 passes.

D – Danny Reynolds, Tacoma Defiance: Reynolds recorded two assists across two games, won 9 of 13 duels and made 10 clearances as Tacoma faced Sacramento Republic FC and Reno 1868 FC to conclude its regular season.

M – Kembo Kibato, Rio Grande Valley FC: Kibato recorded a pair of assists and completed 22 of 24 passes overall while winning 5 of 8 duels and 2 of 2 tackles in the Toros’ 4-2 victory against OKC Energy FC to close the regular season.

M – Sam Stanton, Phoenix Rising FC: Stanton scored twice as Rising FC ended its regular season with a 4-1 win against the LA Galaxy II, and also completed 27 of 33 passes and recorded four interceptions.

M – Dariusz Formella, Sacramento Republic FC: Formella had two goals and one assist as Republic FC scored four goals in the opening 25 minutes against the Portland Timbers 2 on Saturday night at Papa Murphy’s Park.

M – Sebastian Velasquez, Miami FC: Velasquez had two goals and one assist across two games as Miami wrapped up the season with wins against the Charleston Battery and Atlanta United 2, while completing 30 of 38 passes overall.

F – Cal Jennings, Memphis 901 FC: Jennings capped his first professional season with a hat trick against Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday night, while recording four shots on goal and completing 2 of 3 dribbles.

F – Chandler Hoffman, Orange County SC: Hoffman recorded his second hat trick in the Championship as Orange County SC took a 4-2 victory against Las Vegas Lights FC, while also completing 12 of 14 passes and recording four shots overall.

F – Augustine Williams, LA Galaxy II: Williams scored three goals across two games, including a pair of tallies as Los Dos clinched a place in the 2020 Championship Playoffs with victory against Orange County SC, and completed 29 of 35 passes for the week.

Bench: Brandon Miller (CLT), Rodrigo Da Costa (TUL), Wal Fall (STL), Ema Twumasi (ATX), Fredlin Mompremier (SKC), Stavros Zarokostas (CHS), Tobenna Uzo (TUL)

PHOENIX, Arizona – The USL Championship announced the Team of the Week Presented by Cleer Audio for Week 15 of the 2020 regular season on Tuesday.

Phoenix midfielder Sam Stanton earned a spot on the Team of the Week with his two-goal match, lifting Rising to a 4-1 win against LA Galaxy II. Stanton also completed 27 of 33 passes and recorded four interceptions.

The Championship’s Player of the Week is selected by the USL National Media Panel, which is made up of representatives from each media market in the Championship.

USL Championship Team of the Week – Week 15

GK – Rafael Diaz, Sacramento Republic FC: Diaz recorded an eight-save shutout as Republic FC took a 4-0 victory against the Portland Timbers 2 on Saturday night to close the club’s regular season at Papa Murphy’s Park.

D – Yuma, El Paso Locomotive FC: The Spaniard helped Locomotive FC record two shutouts over the week, winning 12 of 16 duels and four interceptions while completing 132 of 135 passes as El Paso claimed first place in Group C.

D – Duke Lacroix, Charlotte Independence: Lacroix put in a strong shift as the Independence shut out North Carolina FC to clinch first place in Group G with a 1-0 win, winning 7 of 9 duels and 2 of 2 tackles, while completing 46 of 51 passes.

D – Danny Reynolds, Tacoma Defiance: Reynolds recorded two assists across two games, won 9 of 13 duels and made 10 clearances as Tacoma faced Sacramento Republic FC and Reno 1868 FC to conclude its regular season.

M – Kembo Kibato, Rio Grande Valley FC: Kibato recorded a pair of assists and completed 22 of 24 passes overall while winning 5 of 8 duels and 2 of 2 tackles in the Toros’ 4-2 victory against OKC Energy FC to close the regular season.

M – Sam Stanton, Phoenix Rising FC: Stanton scored twice as Rising FC ended its regular season with a 4-1 win against the LA Galaxy II, and also completed 27 of 33 passes and recorded four interceptions.

M – Dariusz Formella, Sacramento Republic FC: Formella had two goals and one assist as Republic FC scored four goals in the opening 25 minutes against the Portland Timbers 2 on Saturday night at Papa Murphy’s Park.

M – Sebastian Velasquez, Miami FC: Velasquez had two goals and one assist across two games as Miami wrapped up the season with wins against the Charleston Battery and Atlanta United 2, while completing 30 of 38 passes overall.

F – Cal Jennings, Memphis 901 FC: Jennings capped his first professional season with a hat trick against Birmingham Legion FC on Saturday night, while recording four shots on goal and completing 2 of 3 dribbles.

F – Chandler Hoffman, Orange County SC: Hoffman recorded his second hat trick in the Championship as Orange County SC took a 4-2 victory against Las Vegas Lights FC, while also completing 12 of 14 passes and recording four shots overall.

F – Augustine Williams, LA Galaxy II: Williams scored three goals across two games, including a pair of tallies as Los Dos clinched a place in the 2020 Championship Playoffs with victory against Orange County SC, and completed 29 of 35 passes for the week.

Bench: Brandon Miller (CLT), Rodrigo Da Costa (TUL), Wal Fall (STL), Ema Twumasi (ATX), Fredlin Mompremier (SKC), Stavros Zarokostas (CHS), Tobenna Uzo (TUL)

PHOENIX, Arizona (Tuesday, October 6) – The USL Championship announced today, it has issued a six-game suspension and an undisclosed fine to Phoenix Rising FC midfielder Junior Flemmings for the use of foul and abusive language during the club’s contest against San Diego Loyal SC on September 30. 

“Phoenix Rising accepts and supports the results of this investigation,” said Phoenix Rising FC General Manager Bobby Dulle. “These actions could not be more contrary to the core values of our organization, and we apologize to all who were affected.”

In addition to serving the suspension imposed by USL, Flemmings will remain on administrative leave for the remainder of his existing contract term with Phoenix Rising which concludes November 30, 2020. The team will provide Flemmings with the resources he needs to learn and grow from this, so that he may become a model for change in our sport. 

“We will use this as an opportunity to learn, grow and be a force for change, as we work towards eradicating bias from our sport and our community,” said Dulle.

Flemmings’ suspension began with this past Saturday’s contest vs. LA Galaxy II and covers the entirety of the 2020 USL Championship Playoffs.

Phoenix Rising and San Diego Loyal together, released a statement on Saturday, October 3, announcing a joint effort to work toward the eradication of racist and homophobic speech in professional soccer.

PHOENIX, Arizona (Tuesday, October 6) – The USL Championship announced today, it has issued a six-game suspension and an undisclosed fine to Phoenix Rising FC midfielder Junior Flemmings for the use of foul and abusive language during the club’s contest against San Diego Loyal SC on September 30. 

“Phoenix Rising accepts and supports the results of this investigation,” said Phoenix Rising FC General Manager Bobby Dulle. “These actions could not be more contrary to the core values of our organization, and we apologize to all who were affected.”

In addition to serving the suspension imposed by USL, Flemmings will remain on administrative leave for the remainder of his existing contract term with Phoenix Rising which concludes November 30, 2020. The team will provide Flemmings with the resources he needs to learn and grow from this, so that he may become a model for change in our sport. 

“We will use this as an opportunity to learn, grow and be a force for change, as we work towards eradicating bias from our sport and our community,” said Dulle.

Flemmings’ suspension began with this past Saturday’s contest vs. LA Galaxy II and covers the entirety of the 2020 USL Championship Playoffs.

Phoenix Rising and San Diego Loyal together, released a statement on Saturday, October 3, announcing a joint effort to work toward the eradication of racist and homophobic speech in professional soccer.

PHOENIX, Arizona (Saturday, September 26) – Rufat Dadashov scored his 11th goal and Rising’s defense limited its opponents to just three shots on goal as the team secured a playoff spot via a 1-0 win vs. Orange County tonight at Casino Arizona Field. 

Zac Lubin was forced to make a save in just the second minute of the match, when Orange County’s Nathan Smith got the ball to Darwin Jones near midfield, right on the touch line. Jones darted down the right flank and got a hard shot off from just outside the area. Fortunately for Rising, Lubin was alert. The goalkeeper came off his line to cut down the striker’s angle and blocked the shot with his chest, sending the attempt out of Phoenix’s defensive third of the pitch.

Jones looked to be leading another counterattack for Orange County in the 17th minute after switching from the right flank to the left. The forward skipped by one defender but put his next touch too far out in front and Rising’s newest signing, center back Damion Lowe made him pay. Lowe slid in and cleared the ball away from danger with a resounding tackle.

Lowe won a ball back and ignited a quick counter in the 26th minute. The interception and pass forward went to Solomon Asante and last year’s MVP unleashed a hard shot towards the front post. Orange County goalkeeper Frederick Due made himself as large as possible and punched away the chance to keep the match level, 0-0.

Rising took a 1-0 lead in the 37th minute when a free kick from near midfield was lobbed into the box. Dadashov won the header at the back post, redirecting a shot on goal. Due blocked the initial attempt and a follow-up but Dadashov put away the third rebound attempt from very close range to make it, 1-0. 

Seconds later, Rising nearly had a two-goal lead, but Due got his fingertips to a chip shot from inside the box by Jose Aguinaga. Dadashov set up the attempt after Asante played a cross into the area from the right side. 

Lowe was just as sharp in the second half, taking a great scoring opportunity off the foot of Orange County striker Sean Okoli in the 62nd minute. That was as close as the visitors would get to pulling level with Phoenix as the match was well managed and salted away defensively by Lowe, Lubin, Kevon Lambert, Joey Farrell,  Darnell King and Corey Whelan.

Rising returns to action next Wednesday, September 30, when the team travels to San Diego to take on Loyal SC. Kickoff for that match has been rescheduled to 7 p.m.

Scoring Summary:
PHX – Rufat Dadashov 37

Lineups:

Phoenix – Eric Dick, Darnell King, Joey Farrell, Damion Lowe, Corey Whelan, Jose Aguinaga (Sam Stanton 76), Kevon Lambert, Jon Bakero (Jordan Schweitzer 76), Junior Flemmings (Joey Calistri 88), Rufat Dadashov, Solomon Asante (Santi Moar 88). 

Substitutes not used: Eric Dick, Jack Barmby, Santi Moar, AJ Cochran, Jordan Schweitzer, Sam Stanton, Joey Calistri.

Orange County SC – Frederick Due, Kevin Alston, Darwin Jones, Brian Iloski (Cammy Palmer 76), Daneil Crisostomo (Chandler Hoffman 85), Seth Casiple (Kevin Coleman 66), Aodhan Quinn, Nathan Smith, Rob Kiernan, Sean Okoli (Ronald Cerritos 77), Michael Orozco. 

Substitutes not used: Aaron Cervantes, Francis Jacobs. 

Misconduct Summary:
PHX – Kevon Lambert (caution) 45+2
PHX – Junior Flemmings (caution) 60
OC – Kevon Alston (caution) 83
PHX – Rufat Dadashov (caution) 84
OC – Aodhan Quinn (caution) 89

Referees:

REF: Isaiah Vlad
AR1: Nicholas Gastelum
AR2: Kevin Sanchez
4TH: Alan Rios

Weather: Clear, 93

PHOENIX, Arizona (Saturday, September 26) – Rufat Dadashov scored his 11th goal and Rising’s defense limited its opponents to just three shots on goal as the team secured a playoff spot via a 1-0 win vs. Orange County tonight at Casino Arizona Field. 

Zac Lubin was forced to make a save in just the second minute of the match, when Orange County’s Nathan Smith got the ball to Darwin Jones near midfield, right on the touch line. Jones darted down the right flank and got a hard shot off from just outside the area. Fortunately for Rising, Lubin was alert. The goalkeeper came off his line to cut down the striker’s angle and blocked the shot with his chest, sending the attempt out of Phoenix’s defensive third of the pitch.

Jones looked to be leading another counterattack for Orange County in the 17th minute after switching from the right flank to the left. The forward skipped by one defender but put his next touch too far out in front and Rising’s newest signing, center back Damion Lowe made him pay. Lowe slid in and cleared the ball away from danger with a resounding tackle.

Lowe won a ball back and ignited a quick counter in the 26th minute. The interception and pass forward went to Solomon Asante and last year’s MVP unleashed a hard shot towards the front post. Orange County goalkeeper Frederick Due made himself as large as possible and punched away the chance to keep the match level, 0-0.

Rising took a 1-0 lead in the 37th minute when a free kick from near midfield was lobbed into the box. Dadashov won the header at the back post, redirecting a shot on goal. Due blocked the initial attempt and a follow-up but Dadashov put away the third rebound attempt from very close range to make it, 1-0. 

Seconds later, Rising nearly had a two-goal lead, but Due got his fingertips to a chip shot from inside the box by Jose Aguinaga. Dadashov set up the attempt after Asante played a cross into the area from the right side. 

Lowe was just as sharp in the second half, taking a great scoring opportunity off the foot of Orange County striker Sean Okoli in the 62nd minute. That was as close as the visitors would get to pulling level with Phoenix as the match was well managed and salted away defensively by Lowe, Lubin, Kevon Lambert, Joey Farrell,  Darnell King and Corey Whelan.

Rising returns to action next Wednesday, September 30, when the team travels to San Diego to take on Loyal SC. Kickoff for that match has been rescheduled to 7 p.m.

Scoring Summary:
PHX – Rufat Dadashov 37

Lineups:

Phoenix – Eric Dick, Darnell King, Joey Farrell, Damion Lowe, Corey Whelan, Jose Aguinaga (Sam Stanton 76), Kevon Lambert, Jon Bakero (Jordan Schweitzer 76), Junior Flemmings (Joey Calistri 88), Rufat Dadashov, Solomon Asante (Santi Moar 88). 

Substitutes not used: Eric Dick, Jack Barmby, Santi Moar, AJ Cochran, Jordan Schweitzer, Sam Stanton, Joey Calistri.

Orange County SC – Frederick Due, Kevin Alston, Darwin Jones, Brian Iloski (Cammy Palmer 76), Daneil Crisostomo (Chandler Hoffman 85), Seth Casiple (Kevin Coleman 66), Aodhan Quinn, Nathan Smith, Rob Kiernan, Sean Okoli (Ronald Cerritos 77), Michael Orozco. 

Substitutes not used: Aaron Cervantes, Francis Jacobs. 

Misconduct Summary:
PHX – Kevon Lambert (caution) 45+2
PHX – Junior Flemmings (caution) 60
OC – Kevon Alston (caution) 83
PHX – Rufat Dadashov (caution) 84
OC – Aodhan Quinn (caution) 89

Referees:

REF: Isaiah Vlad
AR1: Nicholas Gastelum
AR2: Kevin Sanchez
4TH: Alan Rios

Weather: Clear, 93