Match Recap

PHOENIX (June 6, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC ended its three-match road trip with a 3-2 loss to Oklahoma City Energy FC. Defender J.J. Greer and midfielder Eder Arreola scored their first goals of the season in the loss. The club will return home this Saturday, June 10, to take on Whitecaps FC 2. That match kicks off at 7:30 p.m.

Energy FC jumped out to a 1-0 lead by sneaking a goal in before the end of the first half. Wojciech Wojcik’s power header hit the back of the net during stoppage time of the first half.

Phoenix Rising wouldn’t be down for long. In the 47th minute, Eric Avila’s corner kick was deflected into the air by defender Kody Wakasa. Greer got on the end of the volley and hammered his header passed the goalkeeper to equalize 1-1.

But Oklahoma City responded with two more goals. In the 56th minute, Kyle Hyland hit a rocket into the far right corner of the net off a high volley to make it 2-1. In the 69th minute, Wojcik struck again, this time tapping in a rebound after an impressive save from goalkeeper Carl Woszcznski to make it 3-1.

Arreola brought the club back to within one in the 83rd minute. He got the ball out on the left side of the box, cut back to his right, and then fired a well-placed shot into the low right corner of the net to make it 3-2.

Phoenix Rising FC returns home to play at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex on Satruday, June 6, against Whitecaps FC 2. The match kicks off at 7:30 p.m. It will also be the debut for international soccer superstar Didier Drogba. Tickets are limited but still available by going to the club website at www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

 

Match: Phoenix Rising FC at OKC Energy FC
Date: June 6, 2017
Location: Taft Stadium | Oklahoma City, OK
 

OKC ENERGY FC 3-2 PHOENIX RISING FC

Scoring Summary:
OKC: 45+’, 28-Wojciech Wojcik (19-Michael Harris)
PHX: 47’, 34-J.J. Greer (3-Kody Wakasa)
OKC: 56’, 3-Kyle Hyland (20-Daniel Jackson)
OKC: 69’, 28-Wojciech Wojcik
PHX: 83’, 13-Eder Arreola (4-Blair Gavin)

Disciplinary Summary:
OKC: 40’, 8-Juan Pablo Guzman (yellow)
OKC: 72’, 28-Wojciech Wojcik (yellow)
PHX: 85’, 8-Matt Watson (yellow)
PHX: 90+’, 34-J.J. Greer (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 1-Carl Woszczynski; 25-Victor Vasquez, 2-Uchenna Uzo, 34-J.J. Greer 3-Kody Wakasa; 20-Romilio Hernandez (70’, 23-Matt Hurlow-Paonessa), 4-Blair Gavin (85’, 8-Matt Watson), 7-Chris Cortez, 30-Eric Avila, 24-A.J. Gray; 12-Mike Seth (75’, 13-Eder Arreola)

Substitutions Not Used: 18-Josh Cohen, 6-Miguel Timm, 33-Jordan Stewart, 16-Brock Granger

PHOENIX (June 6, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC ended its three-match road trip with a 3-2 loss to Oklahoma City Energy FC. Defender J.J. Greer and midfielder Eder Arreola scored their first goals of the season in the loss. The club will return home this Saturday, June 10, to take on Whitecaps FC 2. That match kicks off at 7:30 p.m.

Energy FC jumped out to a 1-0 lead by sneaking a goal in before the end of the first half. Wojciech Wojcik’s power header hit the back of the net during stoppage time of the first half.

Phoenix Rising wouldn’t be down for long. In the 47th minute, Eric Avila’s corner kick was deflected into the air by defender Kody Wakasa. Greer got on the end of the volley and hammered his header passed the goalkeeper to equalize 1-1.

But Oklahoma City responded with two more goals. In the 56th minute, Kyle Hyland hit a rocket into the far right corner of the net off a high volley to make it 2-1. In the 69th minute, Wojcik struck again, this time tapping in a rebound after an impressive save from goalkeeper Carl Woszcznski to make it 3-1.

Arreola brought the club back to within one in the 83rd minute. He got the ball out on the left side of the box, cut back to his right, and then fired a well-placed shot into the low right corner of the net to make it 3-2.

Phoenix Rising FC returns home to play at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex on Satruday, June 6, against Whitecaps FC 2. The match kicks off at 7:30 p.m. It will also be the debut for international soccer superstar Didier Drogba. Tickets are limited but still available by going to the club website at www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

 

Match: Phoenix Rising FC at OKC Energy FC
Date: June 6, 2017
Location: Taft Stadium | Oklahoma City, OK
 

OKC ENERGY FC 3-2 PHOENIX RISING FC

Scoring Summary:
OKC: 45+’, 28-Wojciech Wojcik (19-Michael Harris)
PHX: 47’, 34-J.J. Greer (3-Kody Wakasa)
OKC: 56’, 3-Kyle Hyland (20-Daniel Jackson)
OKC: 69’, 28-Wojciech Wojcik
PHX: 83’, 13-Eder Arreola (4-Blair Gavin)

Disciplinary Summary:
OKC: 40’, 8-Juan Pablo Guzman (yellow)
OKC: 72’, 28-Wojciech Wojcik (yellow)
PHX: 85’, 8-Matt Watson (yellow)
PHX: 90+’, 34-J.J. Greer (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 1-Carl Woszczynski; 25-Victor Vasquez, 2-Uchenna Uzo, 34-J.J. Greer 3-Kody Wakasa; 20-Romilio Hernandez (70’, 23-Matt Hurlow-Paonessa), 4-Blair Gavin (85’, 8-Matt Watson), 7-Chris Cortez, 30-Eric Avila, 24-A.J. Gray; 12-Mike Seth (75’, 13-Eder Arreola)

Substitutions Not Used: 18-Josh Cohen, 6-Miguel Timm, 33-Jordan Stewart, 16-Brock Granger

PHOENIX (May 31, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC forward Omar Bravo netted his first competitive goal, but the club still fell to the San Francisco Deltas, 2-1, after giving up a late stoppage time tally. The cub's run in the U.S. Open Cup ends in the third round.

“We were trying to wind down the clock, I think, trying to slow down the game,” said midfielder Miguel Timm. “I thought we had it in the bag but like I said an unfortunate mistake like that. I don’t think it was good enough as a team and hopefully that doesn’t happen again.”

All three goals came in the last 20 minutes of the match. San Francisco’s Kyle Bekker opened the scoring in the 82nd minute when his free kick took a deflection off a Phoenix Rising defender and beat goalkeeper Josh Cohen.

Four minutes later, in the 86th minute, the club had its chance to equalize. Bravo sent a dangerous free kick into the box that was heading for defender Peter Ramage. But a Deltas player brought him down, giving Phoenix Rising a penalty kick. Bravo converted the kick to make it 1-1 and bring the home crowd to its feet.

But San Francisco ensured the match would end in regulation. A botched cross from the right side of the pitch managed to get through three different player before falling at the feet of the Deltas’ Tommy Heinemann. He easily tapped in his shot for the game-winning goal.

“We talked about a counter attack and how dangerous they would be if we lose possession and get caught high,” said Phoenix Rising FC assistant coach Rick Schantz. “And you know it happened at the worst possible moment.”

Phoenix Rising FC jumps back into league play next Tuesday, June 6, at OKC Energy FC. The match will kickoff at 5:30 p.m. Fans can watch the match three ways: at the club’s official watch party at Thirsty Lion in Tempe Marketplace, on YurView Arizona (Cox channels 7&1007), or online at www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. San Francisco Deltas
Date: May 31, 2017
Location: Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex | Scottsdale, AZ
Attendance: 5,532

PHOENIX RISING FC 1-2 SAN FRANCISCO DELTAS

Scoring Summary:
SF: 82’, 10-Kyle Bekker
PHX: 86’, 9-Omar Bravo (PK)
SF: 90+’, 9-Tommy Heinemann

Disciplinary Summary:
PHX: 40’, 34-J.J. Greer (yellow)
PHX: 45+’, 6-Miguel Timm (yellow)
SF: 49’, 3-Nana Attakora (yellow)
SF: 84’, 5-Kenny Tejisse (yellow)
SF: 86’, 30-Michael Stephens (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 13-Eder Arreola, 34-J.J. Greer, 5-Peter Ramage, 3-Kody Wakasa, 6-Miguel Timm (90+’, 12-Mike Seth), 8-Matt Watson, 14-Jason Johnson, 30-Eric Avila, 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips (70’, 24-A.J. Gray), 9-Omar Bravo

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 2-Uchenna Uzo, 4-Blair Gavin, 25-Matt Hurlow-Paonessa, 33-Jordan Stewart

PHOENIX (May 31, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC forward Omar Bravo netted his first competitive goal, but the club still fell to the San Francisco Deltas, 2-1, after giving up a late stoppage time tally. The cub’s run in the U.S. Open Cup ends in the third round.

“We were trying to wind down the clock, I think, trying to slow down the game,” said midfielder Miguel Timm. “I thought we had it in the bag but like I said an unfortunate mistake like that. I don’t think it was good enough as a team and hopefully that doesn’t happen again.”

All three goals came in the last 20 minutes of the match. San Francisco’s Kyle Bekker opened the scoring in the 82nd minute when his free kick took a deflection off a Phoenix Rising defender and beat goalkeeper Josh Cohen.

Four minutes later, in the 86th minute, the club had its chance to equalize. Bravo sent a dangerous free kick into the box that was heading for defender Peter Ramage. But a Deltas player brought him down, giving Phoenix Rising a penalty kick. Bravo converted the kick to make it 1-1 and bring the home crowd to its feet.

But San Francisco ensured the match would end in regulation. A botched cross from the right side of the pitch managed to get through three different player before falling at the feet of the Deltas’ Tommy Heinemann. He easily tapped in his shot for the game-winning goal.

“We talked about a counter attack and how dangerous they would be if we lose possession and get caught high,” said Phoenix Rising FC assistant coach Rick Schantz. “And you know it happened at the worst possible moment.”

Phoenix Rising FC jumps back into league play next Tuesday, June 6, at OKC Energy FC. The match will kickoff at 5:30 p.m. Fans can watch the match three ways: at the club’s official watch party at Thirsty Lion in Tempe Marketplace, on YurView Arizona (Cox channels 7&1007), or online at www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. San Francisco Deltas
Date: May 31, 2017
Location: Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex | Scottsdale, AZ
Attendance: 5,532

PHOENIX RISING FC 1-2 SAN FRANCISCO DELTAS

Scoring Summary:
SF: 82’, 10-Kyle Bekker
PHX: 86’, 9-Omar Bravo (PK)
SF: 90+’, 9-Tommy Heinemann

Disciplinary Summary:
PHX: 40’, 34-J.J. Greer (yellow)
PHX: 45+’, 6-Miguel Timm (yellow)
SF: 49’, 3-Nana Attakora (yellow)
SF: 84’, 5-Kenny Tejisse (yellow)
SF: 86’, 30-Michael Stephens (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 13-Eder Arreola, 34-J.J. Greer, 5-Peter Ramage, 3-Kody Wakasa, 6-Miguel Timm (90+’, 12-Mike Seth), 8-Matt Watson, 14-Jason Johnson, 30-Eric Avila, 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips (70’, 24-A.J. Gray), 9-Omar Bravo

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 2-Uchenna Uzo, 4-Blair Gavin, 25-Matt Hurlow-Paonessa, 33-Jordan Stewart

PHOENIX (May 27, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC forward Jason Johnson contributed to both goals in the club’s 2-1 win over LA Galaxy II in Carson, CA. It’s the first league road win of the season for the club.

Rising FC fell behind early in the match. In the 13th minute, LA’s Ariel Lassiter rushed in behind the defense as his teammate, Ethan Zubak, slipped a pass from the endline and through the defense. Lassiter got to the ball and fired a shot to beat the goalkeeper to make it 1-0. It was Lassiter’s fourth career goal against Phoenix Rising.

Phoenix Rising FC would equalize in the 31st minute. Midfielder Shaun Wright-Phillips gained possession of a loose ball near the top of the box, then pulled back to shake off the defense and sent a pass wide to midfielder Eric Avila. Avila took a touch, then slid a pass to Johnson on the left side of the pitch before he rushed into the box. After a quick touch, Johnson sent the ball toward the net where Avila was there to finish the goal.

In the 61st minute, it was Avila and Johnson again contributing to a goal. This time Avila drew a foul in the box to give Phoenix Rising a penalty kick. Johnson stepped up to the spot and beat the goalkeeper to the left side to make it 2-1

Phoenix Rising FC will take a quick break from league play to participate in the third round of the U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, May 31, against the San Francisco Deltas. The match will take place at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex and all tickets are just $10 and can be purchased at www.www.phxrisingfc.com. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC at LA Galaxy II
Date: May 27, 2017
Location: StubHub Center Track and Field Stadium | Carson, CA

LA GALAXY II 1-2 PHOENIX RISING FC

Scoring Summary:
LA: 13’, 15-Ariel Lassiter (51-Ethan Zubak)
PHX: 31’, 30-Eric Avila (14-Jason Johnson)
PHX: 61’, 14-Jason Johnson (PK)

Disciplinary Summary:
LA: 22’, 21-Hugo Arellano (yellow)
PHX: 30’, 6-Miguel Timm (yellow)
PHX: 64’, 8-Matt Watson (yellow)
PHX: 75’, 24-A.J. Gray (yellow)
LA: 86’, 68-Andre Ulrich Zanga (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez, 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage, 15-Jordan Gibbons (45+1’, 3-Kody Wakasa); 6-Miguel Timm (90+, 34-J.J. Greer), 8-Matt Watson, 14-Jason Johnson, 30-Eric Avila (67’, 24-A.J. Gray), 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips, 7-Chris Cortez

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 4-Blair Gavin, 9-Omar Bravo, 12-Mike Seth  

 

PHOENIX (May 27, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC forward Jason Johnson contributed to both goals in the club’s 2-1 win over LA Galaxy II in Carson, CA. It’s the first league road win of the season for the club.

Rising FC fell behind early in the match. In the 13th minute, LA’s Ariel Lassiter rushed in behind the defense as his teammate, Ethan Zubak, slipped a pass from the endline and through the defense. Lassiter got to the ball and fired a shot to beat the goalkeeper to make it 1-0. It was Lassiter’s fourth career goal against Phoenix Rising.

Phoenix Rising FC would equalize in the 31st minute. Midfielder Shaun Wright-Phillips gained possession of a loose ball near the top of the box, then pulled back to shake off the defense and sent a pass wide to midfielder Eric Avila. Avila took a touch, then slid a pass to Johnson on the left side of the pitch before he rushed into the box. After a quick touch, Johnson sent the ball toward the net where Avila was there to finish the goal.

In the 61st minute, it was Avila and Johnson again contributing to a goal. This time Avila drew a foul in the box to give Phoenix Rising a penalty kick. Johnson stepped up to the spot and beat the goalkeeper to the left side to make it 2-1

Phoenix Rising FC will take a quick break from league play to participate in the third round of the U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, May 31, against the San Francisco Deltas. The match will take place at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex and all tickets are just $10 and can be purchased at www.www.phxrisingfc.com. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC at LA Galaxy II
Date: May 27, 2017
Location: StubHub Center Track and Field Stadium | Carson, CA

LA GALAXY II 1-2 PHOENIX RISING FC

Scoring Summary:
LA: 13’, 15-Ariel Lassiter (51-Ethan Zubak)
PHX: 31’, 30-Eric Avila (14-Jason Johnson)
PHX: 61’, 14-Jason Johnson (PK)

Disciplinary Summary:
LA: 22’, 21-Hugo Arellano (yellow)
PHX: 30’, 6-Miguel Timm (yellow)
PHX: 64’, 8-Matt Watson (yellow)
PHX: 75’, 24-A.J. Gray (yellow)
LA: 86’, 68-Andre Ulrich Zanga (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez, 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage, 15-Jordan Gibbons (45+1’, 3-Kody Wakasa); 6-Miguel Timm (90+, 34-J.J. Greer), 8-Matt Watson, 14-Jason Johnson, 30-Eric Avila (67’, 24-A.J. Gray), 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips, 7-Chris Cortez

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 4-Blair Gavin, 9-Omar Bravo, 12-Mike Seth  

 

PHOENIX (May 20, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC fell 1-0, in a tightly contested match with league-leading San Antonio FC.

The club was the better team for the first ten minutes of the match and in the 7th minute, forward Chris Cortez redirected a centering pass on target. But the San Antonio goalkeeper dove on the ball before it reached the line.

In the 12th minute San Antonio (8-0-2) took advantage of a midfield turnover and then struck on a counter attack. Kris Tyrpak got behind the defense and slotted a centering pass to A.J. Ajeakwa, who beat the goalkeeper for the game-winning goal.

Phoenix Rising FC (3-4-0) had several chances the rest of the match. In the 42nd minute, Cortez attempted a shot from distance, but was off target. In the 85th minute, Jason Johnson got the ball at the top of the box and took a shot, but he missed just wide left. And in the 89th minute, Eric Avila attempted a shot off a volley, but missed high.

Phoenix Rising FC heads back on the road on Saturday, May 27, against LA Galaxy II. The match will kickoff at 7:30 pm. Fans can head to the club’s official watch party at the Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill in Tempe Marketplace (2000 East Rio Salado Parkway #1041, Tempe, AZ 85281). They can also watch on YurView Arizona, Cox channels 7 & 1007 (HD) or online at www.phxrisingfc.com

Match: Phoenix Rising FC at San Antonio FC
Date: May 20, 2017
Location: Toyota Field | San Antonio, TX

SAN ANTONIO FC 1-0 PHOENIX RISING FC

Scoring Summary:
SA: 12’, 14-A.J. Ajeakwa (19-Kris Tyrpak)

Disciplinary Summary:
PHX: 39’, 3-Kody Wakasa (yellow)
PHX: 73’, 9-Omar Bravo (yellow)
SA: 90+’, 15-Stephen McCarthy (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez, 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage, 3-Kody Wakasa (74’, 15-Jordan Gibbons); 6-Miguel Timm (62’, 30-Eric Avila), 8-Matt Watson, 7-Chris Cortez (82’, 12-Mike Seth), 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips, 9-Omar Bravo; 14-Jason Johnson

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 4-Blair Gavin, 34-J.J. Greer

 

PHOENIX (May 20, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC fell 1-0, in a tightly contested match with league-leading San Antonio FC.

The club was the better team for the first ten minutes of the match and in the 7th minute, forward Chris Cortez redirected a centering pass on target. But the San Antonio goalkeeper dove on the ball before it reached the line.

In the 12th minute San Antonio (8-0-2) took advantage of a midfield turnover and then struck on a counter attack. Kris Tyrpak got behind the defense and slotted a centering pass to A.J. Ajeakwa, who beat the goalkeeper for the game-winning goal.

Phoenix Rising FC (3-4-0) had several chances the rest of the match. In the 42nd minute, Cortez attempted a shot from distance, but was off target. In the 85th minute, Jason Johnson got the ball at the top of the box and took a shot, but he missed just wide left. And in the 89th minute, Eric Avila attempted a shot off a volley, but missed high.

Phoenix Rising FC heads back on the road on Saturday, May 27, against LA Galaxy II. The match will kickoff at 7:30 pm. Fans can head to the club’s official watch party at the Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill in Tempe Marketplace (2000 East Rio Salado Parkway #1041, Tempe, AZ 85281). They can also watch on YurView Arizona, Cox channels 7 & 1007 (HD) or online at www.phxrisingfc.com

Match: Phoenix Rising FC at San Antonio FC
Date: May 20, 2017
Location: Toyota Field | San Antonio, TX

SAN ANTONIO FC 1-0 PHOENIX RISING FC

Scoring Summary:
SA: 12’, 14-A.J. Ajeakwa (19-Kris Tyrpak)

Disciplinary Summary:
PHX: 39’, 3-Kody Wakasa (yellow)
PHX: 73’, 9-Omar Bravo (yellow)
SA: 90+’, 15-Stephen McCarthy (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez, 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage, 3-Kody Wakasa (74’, 15-Jordan Gibbons); 6-Miguel Timm (62’, 30-Eric Avila), 8-Matt Watson, 7-Chris Cortez (82’, 12-Mike Seth), 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips, 9-Omar Bravo; 14-Jason Johnson

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 4-Blair Gavin, 34-J.J. Greer

 

FRESNO, Calif. (May 17, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC remained undefeated against Premier Development League (PDL) teams in the US. Open Cup following a 3-1 road win over Fresno Fuego FC. The club will now host North American Soccer League (NASL) side San Francisco Deltas in the third round of the tournament on May 31. Information regarding tickets will be released shortly.

“It’s huge for us role players and guys who haven’t gotten as many minutes, to get those minutes, win in a tough environment and help the other guys get some rest and really push on these hard road games coming up,” said midfielder Blair Gavin. “This is a great team result, top to bottom. I’m happy for all the guys.”

Following a scoreless half hour, Phoenix Rising broke through in the 33rd minute when Kody Wakasa got on the end of a corner kick to beat the keeper to the near left post. One minute later, following a Fresno giveaway in midfield, Mike Seth sent a cross into the box and found Eric Avila, who buried his shot to make it 2-0.

After halftime, the club tacked on its third and final goal. In the 54th minute, Matthew Hurlow-Paonessa came down the left flank with the ball and into the box. Just before his defender could make a move, Hurlow-Paonessa slotted a pass into the center of the box, giving Seth an easy tap in to make it 3-0.

Fresno’s Felipe Souza made it 3-1 in the 59th minute, but it would be the only threat for the rest of the match.

“It was a very professional job.,” said Phoenix Rising FC Interim Head Coach Rick Schantz. “I’m proud of the guys. This is another group, they stepped up and did a good job. I’m lucky to be in this position.”

Phoenix Rising FC returns to USL play this Saturday, May 20, in San Antonio to take on San Antonio FC. The match kicks off at 5:30 p.m. Arizona time and can be watched locally on YurView Arizona, Cox Channels 7 & 1007 (HD) or online at www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

 

Match: Phoenix Rising FC at Fresno Fuego
Date: May 17, 2017
Location: Fresno State Soccer Stadium | Fresno, CA

FRESNO FUEGO FC 1-3 PHOENIX RISING FC

Scoring Summary:
PHX: 54', 12-Mike Seth (23-Matthew
PHX: 34’, 30-Eric Avila (12-Mike Seth)
PHX: 33’, 3-Kody Wakasa Hurlow-Paonessa)
FRE:  59', 11-Felipe Souza (29-Bruno Brumanti)

Disciplinary Summary:
PHX: 46', 34-J.J. Greer Jr (yellow)
PHX: 76', 15-Jordan Gibbons (yellow)
FRE: 83', 5-Abraham Campos (red)
FRE: 90+', 2-Sergio Casanova (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 13-Eder Arreola, 34-J.J. Greer Jr., 3-Kody Wakasa, 15-Jordan Gibbons; 14-Jason Johnson (90+, 9-Omar Bravo), 20-Romilio Hernandez, 4-Blair Gavin, 12-Mike Seth (88', 7-Chris Cortez), 30-Eric Avila, 23-Matt Hurlow-Paonessa (72', 24-A.J. Gray)

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 6-Miguel Timm, 5-Peter Ramage, 2-Uchenna Uzo 

FRESNO, Calif. (May 17, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC remained undefeated against Premier Development League (PDL) teams in the US. Open Cup following a 3-1 road win over Fresno Fuego FC. The club will now host North American Soccer League (NASL) side San Francisco Deltas in the third round of the tournament on May 31. Information regarding tickets will be released shortly.

“It’s huge for us role players and guys who haven’t gotten as many minutes, to get those minutes, win in a tough environment and help the other guys get some rest and really push on these hard road games coming up,” said midfielder Blair Gavin. “This is a great team result, top to bottom. I’m happy for all the guys.”

Following a scoreless half hour, Phoenix Rising broke through in the 33rd minute when Kody Wakasa got on the end of a corner kick to beat the keeper to the near left post. One minute later, following a Fresno giveaway in midfield, Mike Seth sent a cross into the box and found Eric Avila, who buried his shot to make it 2-0.

After halftime, the club tacked on its third and final goal. In the 54th minute, Matthew Hurlow-Paonessa came down the left flank with the ball and into the box. Just before his defender could make a move, Hurlow-Paonessa slotted a pass into the center of the box, giving Seth an easy tap in to make it 3-0.

Fresno’s Felipe Souza made it 3-1 in the 59th minute, but it would be the only threat for the rest of the match.

“It was a very professional job.,” said Phoenix Rising FC Interim Head Coach Rick Schantz. “I’m proud of the guys. This is another group, they stepped up and did a good job. I’m lucky to be in this position.”

Phoenix Rising FC returns to USL play this Saturday, May 20, in San Antonio to take on San Antonio FC. The match kicks off at 5:30 p.m. Arizona time and can be watched locally on YurView Arizona, Cox Channels 7 & 1007 (HD) or online at www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

 

Match: Phoenix Rising FC at Fresno Fuego
Date: May 17, 2017
Location: Fresno State Soccer Stadium | Fresno, CA

FRESNO FUEGO FC 1-3 PHOENIX RISING FC

Scoring Summary:
PHX: 54′, 12-Mike Seth (23-Matthew
PHX: 34’, 30-Eric Avila (12-Mike Seth)
PHX: 33’, 3-Kody Wakasa Hurlow-Paonessa)
FRE:  59′, 11-Felipe Souza (29-Bruno Brumanti)

Disciplinary Summary:
PHX: 46′, 34-J.J. Greer Jr (yellow)
PHX: 76′, 15-Jordan Gibbons (yellow)
FRE: 83′, 5-Abraham Campos (red)
FRE: 90+’, 2-Sergio Casanova (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 13-Eder Arreola, 34-J.J. Greer Jr., 3-Kody Wakasa, 15-Jordan Gibbons; 14-Jason Johnson (90+, 9-Omar Bravo), 20-Romilio Hernandez, 4-Blair Gavin, 12-Mike Seth (88′, 7-Chris Cortez), 30-Eric Avila, 23-Matt Hurlow-Paonessa (72′, 24-A.J. Gray)

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 6-Miguel Timm, 5-Peter Ramage, 2-Uchenna Uzo 

PHOENIX (May 13, 2017) — With stoppage time winding down and Phoenix Rising FC headed for a disappointing draw, midfielder Shaun Wright-Phillips received a pass near the top of the box, took a light touch to his right, and then fired the final shot of the match into the back of the net to send the crowd of 6,259 fans into a frenzy.

“I was so fortunate to be where I was sitting because I could see (the shot) perfect and I’ve seen him do that many times in training and many times in the EPL,” sad Interim Head Coach Rick Schantz.

Prior to the final 2-1 score, Phoenix Rising FC appeared headed for a deflating draw. Clinging to a 1-0 lead, defender JJ Greer Jr was called for a penalty, extending a much-needed life line for Energy FC.  Kyle Hyland buried the shot from the spot to equalize at 1-1. One minute later, Wright-Phillips sent the capacity crowd home with smiles on their faces

“Since I was a kid, Kevin Keegan…always said to me shoot across the face of the goal because if the keeper saves it he parries it into someone’s path so when I’m when that side I always go back across,” Wright-Phillips said. “I don’t think he saw it which benefited me, so he just stood still which is perfect for us in the dying seconds.”

Phoenix Rising went up 1-0 in the 50th minute of the match. Forward Jason Johnson, who was subbed into the match for an injured Alessandro Riggi, received the ball in the right half of the box then cut to his left before burying his shot into the far left side of the net.

“I knew they would come out and it would be a different performance this week because there’s a lot of pride in there,” Schantz said. “Some of these guys didn’t make it to the level that they played at without that kind of commitment and pride and it really showed tonight and I’m very proud of the guys.”

Phoenix Rising FC has a quick turnaround before its second-round U.S. Open Cup match against Premier Development League side Fresno Fuego on Wednesday, May 17. Kickoff will be at 7:00 p.m.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. OKC Energy FC
Date: May 13, 2017
Location: Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex | Scottsdale, AZ

PHOENIX RISING FC 2-1 OKC ENERGY FC

Scoring Summary:
PHX: 50’, 14-Jason Johnson (3-Kody Wakasa)
OKC: 90+2’, 3-Kyle Hyland (PK)
PHX: 90+3’, 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips (7-Chris Cortez)

Disciplinary Summary:
PHX: 48’, 7-Chris Cortez (yellow)
PHX: 86’, 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips (yellow)
PHX: 87’, 8-Juan Pablo Guzman (yellow)
PHX: 90+’, 34-J.J. Greer Jr. (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez, 33-Jordan Stewart (69', 34-J.J. Greer Jr.), 5-Peter Ramage, 3-Kody Wakasa; 8-Matt Watson, 17-Alessandro Riggi (30’ — 14-Jason Johnson), 10-Luke Rooney (26’, 6-Miguel Timm), 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips; 11-Chris Cortez, 9-Omar Bravo.

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 8-Blair Gavin, 15-Jordan Gibbons, 30-Eric Avila

PHOENIX (May 13, 2017) — With stoppage time winding down and Phoenix Rising FC headed for a disappointing draw, midfielder Shaun Wright-Phillips received a pass near the top of the box, took a light touch to his right, and then fired the final shot of the match into the back of the net to send the crowd of 6,259 fans into a frenzy.

“I was so fortunate to be where I was sitting because I could see (the shot) perfect and I’ve seen him do that many times in training and many times in the EPL,” sad Interim Head Coach Rick Schantz.

Prior to the final 2-1 score, Phoenix Rising FC appeared headed for a deflating draw. Clinging to a 1-0 lead, defender JJ Greer Jr was called for a penalty, extending a much-needed life line for Energy FC.  Kyle Hyland buried the shot from the spot to equalize at 1-1. One minute later, Wright-Phillips sent the capacity crowd home with smiles on their faces

“Since I was a kid, Kevin Keegan…always said to me shoot across the face of the goal because if the keeper saves it he parries it into someone’s path so when I’m when that side I always go back across,” Wright-Phillips said. “I don’t think he saw it which benefited me, so he just stood still which is perfect for us in the dying seconds.”

Phoenix Rising went up 1-0 in the 50th minute of the match. Forward Jason Johnson, who was subbed into the match for an injured Alessandro Riggi, received the ball in the right half of the box then cut to his left before burying his shot into the far left side of the net.

“I knew they would come out and it would be a different performance this week because there’s a lot of pride in there,” Schantz said. “Some of these guys didn’t make it to the level that they played at without that kind of commitment and pride and it really showed tonight and I’m very proud of the guys.”

Phoenix Rising FC has a quick turnaround before its second-round U.S. Open Cup match against Premier Development League side Fresno Fuego on Wednesday, May 17. Kickoff will be at 7:00 p.m.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. OKC Energy FC
Date: May 13, 2017
Location: Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex | Scottsdale, AZ

PHOENIX RISING FC 2-1 OKC ENERGY FC

Scoring Summary:
PHX: 50’, 14-Jason Johnson (3-Kody Wakasa)
OKC: 90+2’, 3-Kyle Hyland (PK)
PHX: 90+3’, 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips (7-Chris Cortez)

Disciplinary Summary:
PHX: 48’, 7-Chris Cortez (yellow)
PHX: 86’, 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips (yellow)
PHX: 87’, 8-Juan Pablo Guzman (yellow)
PHX: 90+’, 34-J.J. Greer Jr. (yellow)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez, 33-Jordan Stewart (69′, 34-J.J. Greer Jr.), 5-Peter Ramage, 3-Kody Wakasa; 8-Matt Watson, 17-Alessandro Riggi (30’ — 14-Jason Johnson), 10-Luke Rooney (26’, 6-Miguel Timm), 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips; 11-Chris Cortez, 9-Omar Bravo.

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 8-Blair Gavin, 15-Jordan Gibbons, 30-Eric Avila

PHOENIX (May 6, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC fell to Reno 1868 FC, 4-0, in front of 6,067 fans at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex. It was the first win in club history for Reno.

“You make two bad mistakes in the first seven or eight minutes in and you know it’s tough,” said Interim Head Coach Rick Schantz. “Then you get stretched (and) you got to chase the game and that’s not the type of team that we are.”

Phoenix Rising fell behind early when Reno’s Dane Kelly scored his first goal of the evening in just the 2nd minute. Four minutes later, Kelly bagged his second goal to make it 2-0, Reno. But Phoenix Rising recovered to create chances of their own.

Forward Chris Cortez had an opportunity to cut the lead in half in the 8th minute, but his free kick destined for the upper right corner of the net was punched away by Reno goalkeeper Matt Bersano. Cortez had a second opportunity in the 17th minute on a mostly-open net, but his shot sailed over the target.

The last major chance of the first half came in the 39th minute when Alessandro Riggi blasted a shot from five yards outside of the box. But Bersano came up with another great save to keep it 2-0 going into the half.

“Our own performance wasn’t there,” defender Peter Ramage said. “We weren’t at it from start to finish and that’s disappointing but like I said you know we’ll rally around together.”

Kelly put the match away with his third goal of the evening in the 66th minute and Chris Wehan added insurance with the final goal of the match in the 77th minute.

“The fans have been unbelievable tonight, Ramage said. “We’ve got to thank them for sticking with us because it was a horrible night for them to witness what we put on.”

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. Reno 1868 FC
Date: April 6, 2017
Location: Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex | Scottsdale, AZ

PHOENIX RISING FC 0-4 RENO 1868 FC

Scoring Summary:
RNO:2’, 9-Dane Kelly (14-Chris Wehan)
RNO: 6’, 9-Dane Kelly (99-Brian Brown)
RNO: 66’, 9-Dane Kelly (17-Lindo Nfeka)
RNO: 77’, 14-Chris Wehan (17-Lindo Nfeka)

Disciplinary Summary:
RNO: 66’, 9-Dane Kelly (yellow)
RNO: 74’, 17-Lindo Nfeka (yellow)
 

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez, 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage, 24-A.J. Gray (73’, 14-Jason Johnson); 8-Matt Watson, 17-Alessandro Riggi, 10-Luke Rooney (60’, 30-Eric Avila), 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips; 11-Chris Cortez (78’, 12-Mike Seth), 9-Omar Bravo.

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 16-Brock Granger, 34-J.J. Greer Jr., 20-Romilio Hernandez

PHOENIX (May 6, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC fell to Reno 1868 FC, 4-0, in front of 6,067 fans at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex. It was the first win in club history for Reno.

“You make two bad mistakes in the first seven or eight minutes in and you know it’s tough,” said Interim Head Coach Rick Schantz. “Then you get stretched (and) you got to chase the game and that’s not the type of team that we are.”

Phoenix Rising fell behind early when Reno’s Dane Kelly scored his first goal of the evening in just the 2nd minute. Four minutes later, Kelly bagged his second goal to make it 2-0, Reno. But Phoenix Rising recovered to create chances of their own.

Forward Chris Cortez had an opportunity to cut the lead in half in the 8th minute, but his free kick destined for the upper right corner of the net was punched away by Reno goalkeeper Matt Bersano. Cortez had a second opportunity in the 17th minute on a mostly-open net, but his shot sailed over the target.

The last major chance of the first half came in the 39th minute when Alessandro Riggi blasted a shot from five yards outside of the box. But Bersano came up with another great save to keep it 2-0 going into the half.

“Our own performance wasn’t there,” defender Peter Ramage said. “We weren’t at it from start to finish and that’s disappointing but like I said you know we’ll rally around together.”

Kelly put the match away with his third goal of the evening in the 66th minute and Chris Wehan added insurance with the final goal of the match in the 77th minute.

“The fans have been unbelievable tonight, Ramage said. “We’ve got to thank them for sticking with us because it was a horrible night for them to witness what we put on.”

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. Reno 1868 FC
Date: April 6, 2017
Location: Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex | Scottsdale, AZ

PHOENIX RISING FC 0-4 RENO 1868 FC

Scoring Summary:
RNO:2’, 9-Dane Kelly (14-Chris Wehan)
RNO: 6’, 9-Dane Kelly (99-Brian Brown)
RNO: 66’, 9-Dane Kelly (17-Lindo Nfeka)
RNO: 77’, 14-Chris Wehan (17-Lindo Nfeka)

Disciplinary Summary:
RNO: 66’, 9-Dane Kelly (yellow)
RNO: 74’, 17-Lindo Nfeka (yellow)
 

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez, 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage, 24-A.J. Gray (73’, 14-Jason Johnson); 8-Matt Watson, 17-Alessandro Riggi, 10-Luke Rooney (60’, 30-Eric Avila), 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips; 11-Chris Cortez (78’, 12-Mike Seth), 9-Omar Bravo.

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 16-Brock Granger, 34-J.J. Greer Jr., 20-Romilio Hernandez

PHOENIX (April 29, 2017) — In front of a record-breaking preseason crowd in Tucson, Phoenix Rising FC squared off against Premier Development League side FC Tucson and the University of Arizona Men’s Soccer Team in a 1-1 draw.

“What an environment and I was just glad to be a part of it again,” said interim head coach Rick Schantz. “To bring the team down and get a good exercise in tonight and have a really good environment. It keeps them sharp and ready to go for next week.”

Phoenix Rising FC got on the board early after forward Omar Bravo was taken down in the box for a penalty. Bravo took the kick from the spot and beat the goalkeeper to make it 1-0. Six minutes after Phoenix Rising FC’s starters came out of the match, FC Tucson equalized when Gio Vazquez found the back of the net from a Robert Acosta corner.

After taking on FC Tucson in the first half, Phoenix Rising FC battled with the University of Arizona in the second half. Forward Mike Seth had a standout performance, getting his head on the ball three separate times in the box. His most dangerous opportunity came in the 62nd minute, when he smashed a point-blank header on target. Only a great reaction save from the goalkeeper prevented a goal.

“The number one thing tonight: nobody got hurt,” Schantz said. “The starters got their 30 minutes in and the second group got a lot of minutes.”

Phoenix Rising FC heads back to the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex on Saturday, May 6, against Reno 1868 FC. The match will kickoff at 7:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased by going to www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. FC Tucson/Arizona Men’s Soccer
Date: April 29, 2017
Location: Kino Sports Complex North | Tucson, AZ

PHOENIX RISING FC 1-1 FC TUCSON/ARIZONA MEN’S SOCCER

Scoring Summary:
PHX: 9’ — 9-Omar Bravo (PK)
FCT: 36’ — 13, Gio Vasquez (25 Robert Acosta)

Disciplinary Summary:


PRFC Starting XI: 1-Carl Woszczynski; 13-Eder Arreola, 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage,34-J.J. Greer, Jr.; 8-Matt Watson, 17-Alessandro Riggi, 10-Luke Rooney, 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips; 7-Chris Cortez, 9-Omar Bravo

30’ subs: 12-Mike Seth, 14-Jason Johnson, 3-Kody Wakasa, 24-A.J. Gray, 2-Uchenna Uzo, 20-Romilio Hernandez, 6-Miguel Timm, 13-Eder Arreola, 30-Eric Avila,

75’ sub: 25-Matthew Hurlow-Paonessa

PHOENIX (April 29, 2017) — In front of a record-breaking preseason crowd in Tucson, Phoenix Rising FC squared off against Premier Development League side FC Tucson and the University of Arizona Men’s Soccer Team in a 1-1 draw.

“What an environment and I was just glad to be a part of it again,” said interim head coach Rick Schantz. “To bring the team down and get a good exercise in tonight and have a really good environment. It keeps them sharp and ready to go for next week.”

Phoenix Rising FC got on the board early after forward Omar Bravo was taken down in the box for a penalty. Bravo took the kick from the spot and beat the goalkeeper to make it 1-0. Six minutes after Phoenix Rising FC’s starters came out of the match, FC Tucson equalized when Gio Vazquez found the back of the net from a Robert Acosta corner.

After taking on FC Tucson in the first half, Phoenix Rising FC battled with the University of Arizona in the second half. Forward Mike Seth had a standout performance, getting his head on the ball three separate times in the box. His most dangerous opportunity came in the 62nd minute, when he smashed a point-blank header on target. Only a great reaction save from the goalkeeper prevented a goal.

“The number one thing tonight: nobody got hurt,” Schantz said. “The starters got their 30 minutes in and the second group got a lot of minutes.”

Phoenix Rising FC heads back to the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex on Saturday, May 6, against Reno 1868 FC. The match will kickoff at 7:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased by going to www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. FC Tucson/Arizona Men’s Soccer
Date: April 29, 2017
Location: Kino Sports Complex North | Tucson, AZ

PHOENIX RISING FC 1-1 FC TUCSON/ARIZONA MEN’S SOCCER

Scoring Summary:
PHX: 9’ — 9-Omar Bravo (PK)
FCT: 36’ — 13, Gio Vasquez (25 Robert Acosta)

Disciplinary Summary:


PRFC Starting XI: 1-Carl Woszczynski; 13-Eder Arreola, 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage,34-J.J. Greer, Jr.; 8-Matt Watson, 17-Alessandro Riggi, 10-Luke Rooney, 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips; 7-Chris Cortez, 9-Omar Bravo

30’ subs: 12-Mike Seth, 14-Jason Johnson, 3-Kody Wakasa, 24-A.J. Gray, 2-Uchenna Uzo, 20-Romilio Hernandez, 6-Miguel Timm, 13-Eder Arreola, 30-Eric Avila,

75’ sub: 25-Matthew Hurlow-Paonessa

PHOENIX (April 23, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC (2-2-0) handed Swope Park Rangers their first loss of the season, 4-3, in front of a record-breaking crowd of 7,162 fans at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex. It’s the third straight sell out crowd for the club and the second straight win at home. The Rangers fall to 3-1-0.

“I think I explained after the first couple games, we weren’t ready to play to be honest,” said Phonix Rising FC Head Coach Frank Yallop. A lot of our guys were in different wave lengths, and I hadn’t figured out the system. The system we play now is excellent.”

Phoenix Rising FC jumped out to a 3-0 lead to head into halftime. Midfielder Alessandro Riggi opened the scoring in the 22nd-minute, curling a shot around Swope Park goalkeeper David Greczek from the edge of the box to make it 1-0.

Rising soon doubled its lead after midfielder Luke Rooney scored off a penalty kick, his third overall goal of the season. Forward Chris Cortez found the back of the net just two minutes later directing a low shot around Greczek and into the bottom left corner of the net.

The scoring continued in the second half for Phoenix Rising FC when defender Peter Ramage got his head on the end of a Rooney corner kick to make it 4-0 in the 47th minute.

But Swope Park Rangers managed a furious comeback in the match’s last 25 minutes. In the 79th minute, Kevin Oliveira converted a penalty to make it 4-1. Oliveira tallied his second goal of the night in the 90th minute, beating goalkeeper Josh Cohen with a shot from inside of the box to make it 4-2. Then Swope Park’s Christian Duke converted an unassisted goal to make it 4-3 and end their attempted comeback.

“They scored three very, very good goals,” Yallop said. “You know we could have scored more. We had a couple on the break where we should have done better. … Anyway (it’s) stuff we can look at and work on, but at the end of the day it’s about three points and we got them.”

Phoenix Rising FC has a week off before coming back to the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex on Saturday, May 6, against Reno 1868 FC. The match will kickoff at 7:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased by going to www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. Swope Park Rangers
Date: April 23, 2017
Location: Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex | Scottsdale, AZ

PHOENIX RISING FC 4-3 SWOPE PARK RANGERS

Scoring Summary:
PHX: 22’, 17-Alessandro Riggi
PHX: 25’, 10-Luke Rooney (PK)
PHX: 27’, 11-Chris Cortez (3-Kody Wakasa)
PHX: 47’, 5-Peter Ramage (10-Luke Rooney)
SPR: 79’, 88-Kevin Oliveira (PK)
SPR: 90’, 88-Kevin Oliveira (23-Colton Storm)
SPR: 90+3’, 32-Christian Duke

Disciplinary Summary:
PHX: 78’, 3-Kody Wakasa (Red)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez, 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage, 3-Kody Wakasa; 8-Matt Watson, 17-Alessandro Riggi (73’, 23-Matthew Hurlow-Paonessa), 10-Luke Rooney (73’, 4-Blair Gavin), 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips; 11-Chris Cortez, 9-Omar Bravo (82’, 24-A.J. Gray).

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 12-Mike Seth, 14-Jason Johnson, 34-J.J. Greer Jr.

PHOENIX (April 23, 2017) — Phoenix Rising FC (2-2-0) handed Swope Park Rangers their first loss of the season, 4-3, in front of a record-breaking crowd of 7,162 fans at the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex. It’s the third straight sell out crowd for the club and the second straight win at home. The Rangers fall to 3-1-0.

“I think I explained after the first couple games, we weren’t ready to play to be honest,” said Phonix Rising FC Head Coach Frank Yallop. A lot of our guys were in different wave lengths, and I hadn’t figured out the system. The system we play now is excellent.”

Phoenix Rising FC jumped out to a 3-0 lead to head into halftime. Midfielder Alessandro Riggi opened the scoring in the 22nd-minute, curling a shot around Swope Park goalkeeper David Greczek from the edge of the box to make it 1-0.

Rising soon doubled its lead after midfielder Luke Rooney scored off a penalty kick, his third overall goal of the season. Forward Chris Cortez found the back of the net just two minutes later directing a low shot around Greczek and into the bottom left corner of the net.

The scoring continued in the second half for Phoenix Rising FC when defender Peter Ramage got his head on the end of a Rooney corner kick to make it 4-0 in the 47th minute.

But Swope Park Rangers managed a furious comeback in the match’s last 25 minutes. In the 79th minute, Kevin Oliveira converted a penalty to make it 4-1. Oliveira tallied his second goal of the night in the 90th minute, beating goalkeeper Josh Cohen with a shot from inside of the box to make it 4-2. Then Swope Park’s Christian Duke converted an unassisted goal to make it 4-3 and end their attempted comeback.

“They scored three very, very good goals,” Yallop said. “You know we could have scored more. We had a couple on the break where we should have done better. … Anyway (it’s) stuff we can look at and work on, but at the end of the day it’s about three points and we got them.”

Phoenix Rising FC has a week off before coming back to the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex on Saturday, May 6, against Reno 1868 FC. The match will kickoff at 7:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased by going to www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. Swope Park Rangers
Date: April 23, 2017
Location: Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex | Scottsdale, AZ

PHOENIX RISING FC 4-3 SWOPE PARK RANGERS

Scoring Summary:
PHX: 22’, 17-Alessandro Riggi
PHX: 25’, 10-Luke Rooney (PK)
PHX: 27’, 11-Chris Cortez (3-Kody Wakasa)
PHX: 47’, 5-Peter Ramage (10-Luke Rooney)
SPR: 79’, 88-Kevin Oliveira (PK)
SPR: 90’, 88-Kevin Oliveira (23-Colton Storm)
SPR: 90+3’, 32-Christian Duke

Disciplinary Summary:
PHX: 78’, 3-Kody Wakasa (Red)

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez, 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage, 3-Kody Wakasa; 8-Matt Watson, 17-Alessandro Riggi (73’, 23-Matthew Hurlow-Paonessa), 10-Luke Rooney (73’, 4-Blair Gavin), 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips; 11-Chris Cortez, 9-Omar Bravo (82’, 24-A.J. Gray).

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 12-Mike Seth, 14-Jason Johnson, 34-J.J. Greer Jr.

PHOENIX (April 8, 2017) — Phoenix Rising Football Club made club history in front of 6,330 fans with a 2-1 win over LA Galaxy II. Powered by two goals from midfielder Luke Rooney, the win is the club’s first since its 2016 rebrand.

“Really proud of the guys,” said Phoenix Rising FC Head Coach Frank Yallop. “I thought they really stuck together well, didn’t get on each other’s backs, kept playing, and in the end got what they deserved.”

Phoenix Rising FC had several excruciatingly-close chances in the first half, but couldn’t break through. The best chance came in the 22nd minute. With space around him and dribbling about 25-yards from the net, midfielder Shaun Wright-Phillips ripped a rocket toward the net that had the goalkeeper beat. But his shot smacked the post and bounced harmlessly out of danger. The teams entered the half tied 0-0.

“I thought the first thirty minutes was really a joy to watch,” Yallop said. “I mean, really, we could have scored four or five to be honest.”

The second half began with another chance denied for Phoenix Rising FC. Midfielder Alessandro Riggi took a shot from the left-outside edge of the box and forced LA’s Jon Kempin to make a diving save to keep it scoreless.

Three minutes later, Los Dos benefited from a bad bounce to score the match’s first goal. Defender Jordan Stewart attempted to intercept a pass into the box, but the ball took an awkward bounce off his foot and fell to the feet of LA’s Adonis Amaya. The forward buried his opportunity to make it 1-0, Los Dos.

But Phoenix Rising FC’s sustained attack led to its first goal of the match. Omar Bravo forced an LA defender to bring him down in the box, giving Phoenix Rising FC a penalty kick. Rooney stepped to the spot and calmly buried his penalty to equalize 1-1.

Rooney put the match away in the 71st minute. Off a throw in, forward Jason Johnson slotted a pass to Bravo on the left side of the box. Bravo then left the ball off for Rooney at the top of the box. After a swift touch, Rooney wound up and took a shot, beating the goalkeeper to his left for a 2-1 lead and the win.

"I don’t get as much satisfaction in setting up goals," Roney said. "I tried to send Omar in a couple times in the first half (and) had a couple shots myself. One thing that Frank (Yallop) said to me last year, when I first came here, was to take more shots and I had a few tonight and managed to get a couple of goals so that’s always good."

Phoenix Rising FC has a week off before coming back to the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex on Sunday, April 23, against Swope Park Rangers. The match will kickoff at 7:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased by going to www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. LA Galaxy II                       
Date: April 8, 2017
Location: Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex | Scottsdale, AZ

PHOENIX RISING FC 2-1 LA GALAXY II

Scoring Summary:
LA: 52’, 73-Adonis Amaya
PHX: 61’, 10-Luke Rooney (PK)
PHX: 78’, 10-Luke Rooney (9-Omar Bravo)

Disciplinary Summary:
LA: 60’, 22-Jon Kempin (yellow)
LA: 80’, 69-Andre Zanga (yellow)
 

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez (90’+, 23-Matthew Hurlow-Paonessa), 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage, 3-Kody Wakasa; 8-Matt Watson, 17-Alessandro Riggi (75’, 14-Jason Johnson), 10-Luke Rooney, 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips; 11-Chris Cortez, 9-Omar Bravo (80’, 4-Blair Gavin).

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 12-Mike Seth, 16-Brock Granger, 34-J.J. Greer Jr.

Postgame notes:

• Phoenix Rising FC snaps a three-match losing streak to LA Galaxy II
• Luke Rooney becomes the first player to score a goal for the club in 2017.
• Midfielder Alessandro Riggi made his first start with the club.

PHOENIX (April 8, 2017) — Phoenix Rising Football Club made club history in front of 6,330 fans with a 2-1 win over LA Galaxy II. Powered by two goals from midfielder Luke Rooney, the win is the club’s first since its 2016 rebrand.

“Really proud of the guys,” said Phoenix Rising FC Head Coach Frank Yallop. “I thought they really stuck together well, didn’t get on each other’s backs, kept playing, and in the end got what they deserved.”

Phoenix Rising FC had several excruciatingly-close chances in the first half, but couldn’t break through. The best chance came in the 22nd minute. With space around him and dribbling about 25-yards from the net, midfielder Shaun Wright-Phillips ripped a rocket toward the net that had the goalkeeper beat. But his shot smacked the post and bounced harmlessly out of danger. The teams entered the half tied 0-0.

“I thought the first thirty minutes was really a joy to watch,” Yallop said. “I mean, really, we could have scored four or five to be honest.”

The second half began with another chance denied for Phoenix Rising FC. Midfielder Alessandro Riggi took a shot from the left-outside edge of the box and forced LA’s Jon Kempin to make a diving save to keep it scoreless.

Three minutes later, Los Dos benefited from a bad bounce to score the match’s first goal. Defender Jordan Stewart attempted to intercept a pass into the box, but the ball took an awkward bounce off his foot and fell to the feet of LA’s Adonis Amaya. The forward buried his opportunity to make it 1-0, Los Dos.

But Phoenix Rising FC’s sustained attack led to its first goal of the match. Omar Bravo forced an LA defender to bring him down in the box, giving Phoenix Rising FC a penalty kick. Rooney stepped to the spot and calmly buried his penalty to equalize 1-1.

Rooney put the match away in the 71st minute. Off a throw in, forward Jason Johnson slotted a pass to Bravo on the left side of the box. Bravo then left the ball off for Rooney at the top of the box. After a swift touch, Rooney wound up and took a shot, beating the goalkeeper to his left for a 2-1 lead and the win.

“I don’t get as much satisfaction in setting up goals,” Roney said. “I tried to send Omar in a couple times in the first half (and) had a couple shots myself. One thing that Frank (Yallop) said to me last year, when I first came here, was to take more shots and I had a few tonight and managed to get a couple of goals so that’s always good.”

Phoenix Rising FC has a week off before coming back to the Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex on Sunday, April 23, against Swope Park Rangers. The match will kickoff at 7:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased by going to www.www.phxrisingfc.com.

Match: Phoenix Rising FC vs. LA Galaxy II                       
Date: April 8, 2017
Location: Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex | Scottsdale, AZ

PHOENIX RISING FC 2-1 LA GALAXY II

Scoring Summary:
LA: 52’, 73-Adonis Amaya
PHX: 61’, 10-Luke Rooney (PK)
PHX: 78’, 10-Luke Rooney (9-Omar Bravo)

Disciplinary Summary:
LA: 60’, 22-Jon Kempin (yellow)
LA: 80’, 69-Andre Zanga (yellow)
 

PRFC Starting XI: 18-Josh Cohen; 25-Victor Vasquez (90’+, 23-Matthew Hurlow-Paonessa), 33-Jordan Stewart, 5-Peter Ramage, 3-Kody Wakasa; 8-Matt Watson, 17-Alessandro Riggi (75’, 14-Jason Johnson), 10-Luke Rooney, 29-Shaun Wright-Phillips; 11-Chris Cortez, 9-Omar Bravo (80’, 4-Blair Gavin).

Substitutions Not Used: 1-Carl Woszczynski, 12-Mike Seth, 16-Brock Granger, 34-J.J. Greer Jr.

Postgame notes:

• Phoenix Rising FC snaps a three-match losing streak to LA Galaxy II
• Luke Rooney becomes the first player to score a goal for the club in 2017.
• Midfielder Alessandro Riggi made his first start with the club.