August 24, 2022 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – North Carolina FC News Release
MADISON, WI – North Carolina FC drew with Forward Madison on the road on Wednesday night at Breese Stevens Field, wrapping up their six-day road trip. Will Pulisic recorded the clean sheet, putting up a solid performance between the posts and making several impressive saves. Seven yellow cards were administered amongst the two sides throughout the match, indicative of the overall physicality of the competition. Despite their tenacity in hunting for the match winner, NCFC were unable to find the back of the net as the tilt concluded in a scoreless tie, bringing the season series to 1-0-1.
Following a first half oriented by counterattacks, the two sides concluded the first 45 minutes deadlocked at 0-0. Forward Madison began their offensive push early, earning a number of corner kicks in quick succession to challenge the NCFC defensive line. Weathering the attack, however, were centerbacks Jordan Skelton and Gustavo Fernandes, who strung together several key plays to deny Madison a clear shot on goal. As the first half wore on, the North Carolina side were able to create a handful of chances, relying on quick interplay from Garrett McLaughlin, Jaden Servania, Showkat Tahir and Shak Adams in transition.
Both sides carried their first half momentum well into the second, a very physical latter half of the match ensuing. The Flamingoes created several dangerous chances, forcing goalkeeper Pulisic to make several key saves to preserve the clean sheet, including denying Mikey Maldonado’s near-chance at a go-ahead goal in the 52nd minute.
NCFC found their form late in the second half, making a final push for the game-winner. A series of corner kicks drawn by the combined efforts of McLaughlin and Christian Lue Young tested the Forward Madison goalkeeper, who was twice required to make a stop within the six yard box to keep NCFC off of the scoreboard. As the final minutes ticked away, the points were shared as neither side were able to convert the difference maker.
Up Next: North Carolina FC will return to their home stadium to face FC Tucson on Saturday, August 27 at 7 p.m. ET. Tickets are available here, and the match will be available to stream on ESPN+.
Box Score:
NCFC (3-4-3): Will Pulisic, Christian Lue Young, Jordan Skelton, Gustavo Fernandes, Max Flick, Raheem Somersall (Nelson Martinez – 86′), Luis Arriaga, Showkat Tahir (Nicolás Molina – 90+1′), Jaden Servania, Garrett…