May 16, 2023 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – North Carolina FC News Release
CARY, N.C. – North Carolina FC looks to bounce back as they host the Richmond Kickers at WakeMed Soccer Park on Wednesday, May 17, at 7:00 p.m. ET. North Carolina had their stretch of six straight unbeaten snapped last weekend in a loss to Forward Madison, but still heads into a mid-week game atop the USL League One rankings. The Kickers are unbeaten in their last four league matches and sit sixth in the league.
Scouting Richmond Kickers
The Richmond Kickers sit in the middle of the USL League One standings this season. After a draw against Greenville, they will push to keep their four-game unbeaten streak alive, with a record of 2-1-4. Their singular loss came against the Charlotte Independence, 2-1, earlier in the season on April 1.
Players to Watch
North Carolina FC – Midfielder Mikey Maldonado
The only NCFC outfield player to play every minute of the league season, Mikey Maldonado is imperative in the midfield for North Carolina FC. The grounding support from Maldonado shows throughout the season from moving the ball through the midfield and winning tackles in the middle third. Having played every minute of the league season, there is a connection with every player on the field. He is hardly not involved in a play whether that is defensively or offensively. Although he earned two assists on the season, he leads the team in number of defensive clears and tackles.
Forward Madison FC -Defender Nathan Aune
Aune has been a key player for Richmond this season in both an offensive and defensive position. The defender has won 39 duels and had 38 clearances. He also is putting himself in positions to score points for the Kickers, as he has two goals on the season keeping them to only one loss earlier in April.
Next Up
North Carolina FC with travel to home state rivals, Charlotte Independence this Sunday, May 21, at 2:00 PM ET. The match will stream live on ESPN+ and updates before, during and after the match will on North Carolina FC social platforms (@NorthCarolinaFC).
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