Orange County SC announced that Richard Chaplow will be the club’s permanent head coach moving forward after being in the interim role since mid-August. Chaplow was first elevated to the interim position after former head coach Braeden Cloutier was relieved of his duties. Effective immediately, Chaplow will be the seventh head coach in club history. 

“We have been very impressed with Richard’s leadership and professionalism since taking over as interim coach,” President of Soccer Operations, Oliver Wyss said. “Richard has been a true winner throughout his entire playing career, and I am convinced he will continue his successful ways as our head coach. Richard is fully aligned with the goals and expectations of our club and we are looking forward to seeing him lead our team for years to come.”

Under Chaplow, OCSC went 8-3-2 boosting their overall record to 15-10-7 in the 2021 USL Championship regular season which resulted in a second place finish in the Pacific Division that allowed OCSC to host a home playoff game in the 2021 USL Championship Playoff.

“I am honored to be named head coach of Orange County SC and would like to thank the management for the faith they have shown in me,” Richard Chaplow said. “Having grown with the club over the years I understand the expectations and I am excited to lead us forward. My staff and I will do everything we can to put a team on the field that Orange County can be proud of.”

Chaplow and his staff guided OCSC to the midseason turnaround beginning with a come-from-behind road win in San Diego and ending the regular season on a five-match winning streak while going undefeated at home in six of seven matches. OCSC continued their current run of form into the playoffs by defeating Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine in the Western Conference Quarterfinal on Saturday, November 6.

Before being promoted to interim head coach, Chaplow was OCSC’s first assistant coach since the 2019 USL Championship regular season following his retirement as a player. This was Chaplow’s third season as a coach and sixth overall with OCSC.

The former central midfielder from Accrington, England, arrived in Orange County during the 2016 USL season, a year before OC Blues FC rebranded to OCSC. In three seasons, Chaplow made 57 appearances across all competitions and scored four goals along with four assists. He captained OCSC to the Western Conference regular season title during the 2018 USL season before hanging up the cleats after a 16-year professional playing career.

Prior to playing for OCSC, Chaplow played 13 years in the top flights of English football notably with Burnley, West Bromwich Albion and Southampton. Chaplow helped the 2011-2012 Southampton squad gain promotion to the Premier League after a seven-year absence. Throughout his extensive playing career across two countries, Chaplow made 400-plus appearances scoring 36 goals and adding 23 assists. He represented the England U-19, U-20 and U-21 men’s national teams in international competitions.

Orange County SC announced that Richard Chaplow will be the club’s permanent head coach moving forward after being in the interim role since mid-August. Chaplow was first elevated to the interim position after former head coach Braeden Cloutier was relieved of his duties. Effective immediately, Chaplow will be the seventh head coach in club history. 

“We have been very impressed with Richard’s leadership and professionalism since taking over as interim coach,” President of Soccer Operations, Oliver Wyss said. “Richard has been a true winner throughout his entire playing career, and I am convinced he will continue his successful ways as our head coach. Richard is fully aligned with the goals and expectations of our club and we are looking forward to seeing him lead our team for years to come.”

Under Chaplow, OCSC went 8-3-2 boosting their overall record to 15-10-7 in the 2021 USL Championship regular season which resulted in a second place finish in the Pacific Division that allowed OCSC to host a home playoff game in the 2021 USL Championship Playoff.

“I am honored to be named head coach of Orange County SC and would like to thank the management for the faith they have shown in me,” Richard Chaplow said. “Having grown with the club over the years I understand the expectations and I am excited to lead us forward. My staff and I will do everything we can to put a team on the field that Orange County can be proud of.”

Chaplow and his staff guided OCSC to the midseason turnaround beginning with a come-from-behind road win in San Diego and ending the regular season on a five-match winning streak while going undefeated at home in six of seven matches. OCSC continued their current run of form into the playoffs by defeating Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine in the Western Conference Quarterfinal on Saturday, November 6.

Before being promoted to interim head coach, Chaplow was OCSC’s first assistant coach since the 2019 USL Championship regular season following his retirement as a player. This was Chaplow’s third season as a coach and sixth overall with OCSC.

The former central midfielder from Accrington, England, arrived in Orange County during the 2016 USL season, a year before OC Blues FC rebranded to OCSC. In three seasons, Chaplow made 57 appearances across all competitions and scored four goals along with four assists. He captained OCSC to the Western Conference regular season title during the 2018 USL season before hanging up the cleats after a 16-year professional playing career.

Prior to playing for OCSC, Chaplow played 13 years in the top flights of English football notably with Burnley, West Bromwich Albion and Southampton. Chaplow helped the 2011-2012 Southampton squad gain promotion to the Premier League after a seven-year absence. Throughout his extensive playing career across two countries, Chaplow made 400-plus appearances scoring 36 goals and adding 23 assists. He represented the England U-19, U-20 and U-21 men’s national teams in international competitions.

At 17-years-old, defender Kobi Henry made himself a defensive presence on an experienced Orange County SC with the likes of veterans Michael Orozco, Robbie Kiernan, and Kevin Alston during the 2021 USL Championship regular season. The young stalwart was a key starter in OCSC’s five-match winning streak that saw the defense give up just one goal in that stretch to close the season. 

Henry, in his second professional season, made 18 appearances with almost all from being in the starting lineup for OCSC. He notched 53 clearances, 26 interceptions and 15 blocks for the OCSC backline while scoring his first career goal with a glancing header. Henry’s youthful presence and impact for Orange County this season led him to be called up to the United States U-20 Men’s National Team for the Revelations Cup in Celaya, Mexico to be held from November 9 to November 17. 

“It’s an honor to be called up to the U-20 national team,” Henry said. “I look forward to going out and playing well. I’ve been working hard for this opportunity and I’m just grateful to finally achieve it.”

Having already represented the U.S. U-17 MNT in the UEFA Development Tournament in February 2020, Henry moves up in the national team ranks while being one of the youngest players on the roster after his success and continued growth with OCSC.

“We are very proud of Kobi’s well-deserved U-20 MNT call up,” OCSC President of Soccer Operations Oliver Wyss said. “Kobi’s ongoing development in our professional structure and his contributions for our Championship team this season have been remarkable.” 

The Florida native signed with OCSC during the 2020 USL Championship season from the Inter Miami CF Academy in June 2020. Henry, then 16-years-old, made his professional and OCSC debut a couple of months later against LA Galaxy II. He totaled four appearances during the rest of the season giving him a launch pad heading into his first full professional season.

“I give all my thanks to the coaching staff and to all the guys at OCSC who helped me and pushed me throughout this season,” Henry said. “Especially Michael Orozco, Robbie Kiernan and guys like that.”

At OCSC, Henry finds himself training and playing alongside veterans that boast experience from both the domestic and international levels. It allows him to learn and develop traits in a professional atmosphere that will carry on even when not on a soccer pitch.

“He’s [Kobi] been working extremely hard,” Orozco said. “And, being next to him, mentoring him every day on the pitch, outside the pitch, to make him a strong mental player. All the sacrifice he has put into the sport, that hard work pays off. Kobi is a product of that.”

Henry does not turn 18-years-old until April 2022, though it has not stopped him from passing down the knowledge he has been taught to the next generations of youth soccer players from Orange County. He has lent his skills and participated in coaching of attendees at the OCSCxRangers Camp in July 2021. The campers not only learned skills to use on the pitch, but also how to carry a professional and humble attitude similar to what Henry displays with OCSC. 

Along with his defensive merits and character, Henry heads down with the U-20 team to face Mexico, Colombia and Brazil ready to continue his journey on the pathway to professional and follow in the footsteps of his teammate that scored a big goal in a big stadium in Mexico while donning the stars and stripes. 

“Even like Michael Orozco, being a USA veteran really helps me push to be excellent and to achieve what he has achieved in the past,” Henry said.

At 17-years-old, defender Kobi Henry made himself a defensive presence on an experienced Orange County SC with the likes of veterans Michael Orozco, Robbie Kiernan, and Kevin Alston during the 2021 USL Championship regular season. The young stalwart was a key starter in OCSC’s five-match winning streak that saw the defense give up just one goal in that stretch to close the season. 

Henry, in his second professional season, made 18 appearances with almost all from being in the starting lineup for OCSC. He notched 53 clearances, 26 interceptions and 15 blocks for the OCSC backline while scoring his first career goal with a glancing header. Henry’s youthful presence and impact for Orange County this season led him to be called up to the United States U-20 Men’s National Team for the Revelations Cup in Celaya, Mexico to be held from November 9 to November 17. 

“It’s an honor to be called up to the U-20 national team,” Henry said. “I look forward to going out and playing well. I’ve been working hard for this opportunity and I’m just grateful to finally achieve it.”

Having already represented the U.S. U-17 MNT in the UEFA Development Tournament in February 2020, Henry moves up in the national team ranks while being one of the youngest players on the roster after his success and continued growth with OCSC.

“We are very proud of Kobi’s well-deserved U-20 MNT call up,” OCSC President of Soccer Operations Oliver Wyss said. “Kobi’s ongoing development in our professional structure and his contributions for our Championship team this season have been remarkable.” 

The Florida native signed with OCSC during the 2020 USL Championship season from the Inter Miami CF Academy in June 2020. Henry, then 16-years-old, made his professional and OCSC debut a couple of months later against LA Galaxy II. He totaled four appearances during the rest of the season giving him a launch pad heading into his first full professional season.

“I give all my thanks to the coaching staff and to all the guys at OCSC who helped me and pushed me throughout this season,” Henry said. “Especially Michael Orozco, Robbie Kiernan and guys like that.”

At OCSC, Henry finds himself training and playing alongside veterans that boast experience from both the domestic and international levels. It allows him to learn and develop traits in a professional atmosphere that will carry on even when not on a soccer pitch.

“He’s [Kobi] been working extremely hard,” Orozco said. “And, being next to him, mentoring him every day on the pitch, outside the pitch, to make him a strong mental player. All the sacrifice he has put into the sport, that hard work pays off. Kobi is a product of that.”

Henry does not turn 18-years-old until April 2022, though it has not stopped him from passing down the knowledge he has been taught to the next generations of youth soccer players from Orange County. He has lent his skills and participated in coaching of attendees at the OCSCxRangers Camp in July 2021. The campers not only learned skills to use on the pitch, but also how to carry a professional and humble attitude similar to what Henry displays with OCSC. 

Along with his defensive merits and character, Henry heads down with the U-20 team to face Mexico, Colombia and Brazil ready to continue his journey on the pathway to professional and follow in the footsteps of his teammate that scored a big goal in a big stadium in Mexico while donning the stars and stripes. 

“Even like Michael Orozco, being a USA veteran really helps me push to be excellent and to achieve what he has achieved in the past,” Henry said.

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REVELATIONS CUP SCHEDULE

 

All matches will be broadcasted on TUDN.

Wednesday, Nov. 10 – USA vs. Brazil – 6 p.m. ET

Saturday, Nov. 13 – USA vs. Colombia – 4:30 p.m. ET
Tuesday, Nov. 16 – USA vs. Mexico – 6 p.m. ET

REVELATIONS CUP SCHEDULE

 

All matches will be broadcasted on TUDN.

Wednesday, Nov. 10 – USA vs. Brazil – 6 p.m. ET

Saturday, Nov. 13 – USA vs. Colombia – 4:30 p.m. ET
Tuesday, Nov. 16 – USA vs. Mexico – 6 p.m. ET

Down a man for 60-plus minutes, Orange County SC got a first-half stoppage time Ronaldo Damus goal along with another clean sheet to defeat Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, 1-0, in the 2021 USL Championship Playoffs, presented by TwinSpires: Western Conference Quarterfinals on Saturday, November 6 at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine. OCSC will host Oakland Roots SC in the Western Conference Semifinal next week.

In their first home playoff game since the 2018 season, OCSC prepared to fend off the newly minted 2021 USL Championship Golden Boot winner Hadji Barry and the rest of Colorado’s offense. However, OCSC had to adjust their defensive and matchup strategies 30 minutes into the first half after a straight red card for defender Robbie Kiernan. OCSC was never shown a red card during the regular season.

Interim head coach Richard Chaplow called on 17-year-old defender Kobi Henry, who was just named to the U.S. U-20 Men’s National Team, to keep four defenders in the back for OCSC. Midfielder Mikko Kuningas, who received a yellow card, was subbed off and OCSC played with 10 men the rest of the way.

Despite being a man down, OCSC did not let up on offense and pressured the Colorado defense. Off of a long throw-in from Brent Richards, the ball ricocheted inside the box before sneaking out of the penalty area. The ball landed to midfielder Thomas McCabe who sent a bouncing ball back into the box where Damus took it on his right foot, created space and shot the ball high into the back of the net with his left foot. Championship Soccer Stadium erupted into cheers and OCSC went into halftime with a 1-0 lead.

In the second half, OCSC remained strong in the defensive third of the pitch and still looked to add to their lead. The defense, led by Michael Orozco and Kevin Alston, kept Barry at bay and allowed goalkeeper Patrick Rakovsky to cover any loose balls in the penalty box. As a team, OCSC had 27 clearances to Colorado’s 13 clearances. 

With their fifth clean sheet in their last six matches, OCSC earned a spot in the Western Conference Semifinal against Pacific Division rivals Oakland Roots SC on Saturday, November 13 at 7pm at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine. Tickets can be purchased https://www.orangecountysoccer.com/playoffs.

Down a man for 60-plus minutes, Orange County SC got a first-half stoppage time Ronaldo Damus goal along with another clean sheet to defeat Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, 1-0, in the 2021 USL Championship Playoffs, presented by TwinSpires: Western Conference Quarterfinals on Saturday, November 6 at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine. OCSC will host Oakland Roots SC in the Western Conference Semifinal next week.

In their first home playoff game since the 2018 season, OCSC prepared to fend off the newly minted 2021 USL Championship Golden Boot winner Hadji Barry and the rest of Colorado’s offense. However, OCSC had to adjust their defensive and matchup strategies 30 minutes into the first half after a straight red card for defender Robbie Kiernan. OCSC was never shown a red card during the regular season.

Interim head coach Richard Chaplow called on 17-year-old defender Kobi Henry, who was just named to the U.S. U-20 Men’s National Team, to keep four defenders in the back for OCSC. Midfielder Mikko Kuningas, who received a yellow card, was subbed off and OCSC played with 10 men the rest of the way.

Despite being a man down, OCSC did not let up on offense and pressured the Colorado defense. Off of a long throw-in from Brent Richards, the ball ricocheted inside the box before sneaking out of the penalty area. The ball landed to midfielder Thomas McCabe who sent a bouncing ball back into the box where Damus took it on his right foot, created space and shot the ball high into the back of the net with his left foot. Championship Soccer Stadium erupted into cheers and OCSC went into halftime with a 1-0 lead.

In the second half, OCSC remained strong in the defensive third of the pitch and still looked to add to their lead. The defense, led by Michael Orozco and Kevin Alston, kept Barry at bay and allowed goalkeeper Patrick Rakovsky to cover any loose balls in the penalty box. As a team, OCSC had 27 clearances to Colorado’s 13 clearances. 

With their fifth clean sheet in their last six matches, OCSC earned a spot in the Western Conference Semifinal against Pacific Division rivals Oakland Roots SC on Saturday, November 13 at 7pm at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine. Tickets can be purchased https://www.orangecountysoccer.com/playoffs.

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Orange County SC vs Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC

2021 USL Championship Playoffs, presented by TwinSpires | Western Conference Quarterfinal

Date: November 06, 2021

Kickoff: 7:00 PM PDT

Venue: Championship Soccer Stadium (Irvine, CA)

Weather: Foggy with a shade of orange.

 

SCORING SUMMARY:

OCSC: Ronaldo Damus 45+1’

 

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY:

ORANGE COUNTY SC

20’ Mikko Kuningas

31’ Robbie Kiernan (RED)

51’ Michael Orozco

53’ Ronaldo Damus

90+6’ Abraham Romero

COLORADO SPRINGS SWITCHBACKS FC

27’ Jimmy Ockford

66’ Deshane Beckford

85’ Tristan Hodge

 

ORANGE COUNTY SC LINEUP:

Patrick Rakovsky (GK), Kevin Alston, Dillon Powers, Robbie Kiernan, Michael Orozco (

C ), Brian Iloski, Ronaldo Damus, Thomas McCabe (75’ Seth Casiple), Eric Calvillo, Brent Richards, Mikko Kuningas (33’ Kobi Henry)

Unused subs: Abraham Romero (GK), Thomas Enevoldsen, Darwin Jones, Ugo Okoli, Nate Smith

Head Coach: Richard Chaplow (Interim)

Possession: 37.8% | Shots: 8 | Shots On Goal: 2 | Corners: 2 | Fouls: 10 | Offsides: 1 |

 

COLORADO SPRINGS SWITCHBACKS FC LINEUP:

Sean Melvin (GK), Matthew Mahoney, Jose Torres (11’ Andre Lewis), Zachary Zandi, Thomas Amang, Hadji Barry, Jimmy Ockford ( C ), Beverly Makangila (74’ Dantouma Toure), Dillon Serna, Sebastian Anderson (62’ Deshane Beckford), Tristan Hodge

Unused subs: Abraham Rodriguez (GK), Rony Arqueta, Steven Echeverria, Michael Edwards

Head Coach: Brendan Burke

Possession: 62.2% | Shots: 20 | Shots On Goal: 5 | Corners: 8 | Fouls: 20 | Offsides: 3 |

Orange County SC vs Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC

2021 USL Championship Playoffs, presented by TwinSpires | Western Conference Quarterfinal

Date: November 06, 2021

Kickoff: 7:00 PM PDT

Venue: Championship Soccer Stadium (Irvine, CA)

Weather: Foggy with a shade of orange.

 

SCORING SUMMARY:

OCSC: Ronaldo Damus 45+1’

 

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY:

ORANGE COUNTY SC

20’ Mikko Kuningas

31’ Robbie Kiernan (RED)

51’ Michael Orozco

53’ Ronaldo Damus

90+6’ Abraham Romero

COLORADO SPRINGS SWITCHBACKS FC

27’ Jimmy Ockford

66’ Deshane Beckford

85’ Tristan Hodge

 

ORANGE COUNTY SC LINEUP:

Patrick Rakovsky (GK), Kevin Alston, Dillon Powers, Robbie Kiernan, Michael Orozco (

C ), Brian Iloski, Ronaldo Damus, Thomas McCabe (75’ Seth Casiple), Eric Calvillo, Brent Richards, Mikko Kuningas (33’ Kobi Henry)

Unused subs: Abraham Romero (GK), Thomas Enevoldsen, Darwin Jones, Ugo Okoli, Nate Smith

Head Coach: Richard Chaplow (Interim)

Possession: 37.8% | Shots: 8 | Shots On Goal: 2 | Corners: 2 | Fouls: 10 | Offsides: 1 |

 

COLORADO SPRINGS SWITCHBACKS FC LINEUP:

Sean Melvin (GK), Matthew Mahoney, Jose Torres (11’ Andre Lewis), Zachary Zandi, Thomas Amang, Hadji Barry, Jimmy Ockford ( C ), Beverly Makangila (74’ Dantouma Toure), Dillon Serna, Sebastian Anderson (62’ Deshane Beckford), Tristan Hodge

Unused subs: Abraham Rodriguez (GK), Rony Arqueta, Steven Echeverria, Michael Edwards

Head Coach: Brendan Burke

Possession: 62.2% | Shots: 20 | Shots On Goal: 5 | Corners: 8 | Fouls: 20 | Offsides: 3 |

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Orange County SC defender Kobi Henry has been called up to the U-20 USMNT for the Revelations Cup in Mexico from November 7th through November 17th, 2021.  

Henry’s stellar form this season has led him to be called up to the U-20 USMNT. The 17-year-old central defender has started in 16 matches (18 appearances) for Orange County SC this season and has been an integral part of Orange County’s success this year. Henry’s five most recent starts have helped lead the club to a season-high five-game winning streak, including four shutouts, which propelled OCSC to finish second in the Pacific Division, USL Championship. 

Henry has already represented his country at the U-17 level, when he was called up to the UEFA Development Tournament at St. George’s Park, England in February 2020. Henry went on to start against England and Denmark during the tournament.  

“We are very proud of Kobi’s well-deserved U-20 MNT call-up,” said OCSC President of Soccer Operations Oliver Wyss. “Kobi’s ongoing development in our professional structure and his contributions for our Championship team this season have been remarkable. This call-up is a fitting testament to the high standards our coaching staff is demanding from our players in our training environment that Kobi is excelling in on and off the field!” 

Henry is one of the youngest players on the U-20 USMNT roster traveling to Mexico for the Revelations Cup. During his time in Mexico, Henry will have the opportunity to play in games against Brazil, Columbia, and Mexico. 

 

For more information visit – ussoccer.com/teams/u-20-mens-national-team or https://www.revelationscup.com/  

Orange County SC defender Kobi Henry has been called up to the U-20 USMNT for the Revelations Cup in Mexico from November 7th through November 17th, 2021.  

Henry’s stellar form this season has led him to be called up to the U-20 USMNT. The 17-year-old central defender has started in 16 matches (18 appearances) for Orange County SC this season and has been an integral part of Orange County’s success this year. Henry’s five most recent starts have helped lead the club to a season-high five-game winning streak, including four shutouts, which propelled OCSC to finish second in the Pacific Division, USL Championship. 

Henry has already represented his country at the U-17 level, when he was called up to the UEFA Development Tournament at St. George’s Park, England in February 2020. Henry went on to start against England and Denmark during the tournament.  

“We are very proud of Kobi’s well-deserved U-20 MNT call-up,” said OCSC President of Soccer Operations Oliver Wyss. “Kobi’s ongoing development in our professional structure and his contributions for our Championship team this season have been remarkable. This call-up is a fitting testament to the high standards our coaching staff is demanding from our players in our training environment that Kobi is excelling in on and off the field!” 

Henry is one of the youngest players on the U-20 USMNT roster traveling to Mexico for the Revelations Cup. During his time in Mexico, Henry will have the opportunity to play in games against Brazil, Columbia, and Mexico. 

 

For more information visit – ussoccer.com/teams/u-20-mens-national-team or https://www.revelationscup.com/  

WHEN AND WHERE:

Kickoff is at 7:00 p.m. PT on Saturday, November 6th at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine, CA

WHERE TO WATCH:

ESPN+

COX Yurview: Live stream only available in Orange County, Palos Verdes & Santa Barbara

Youtube: Live stream only available Internationally

WHERE TO LISTEN:

Tu Liga Radio 1220 AM

2021 RECORDS AND STANDINGS:

Orange County: 15-10-7 (52 points, 2nd Pacific), Colorado Springs: 13-9-10 (49 points, 3rd Mountain) 

FORM GUIDE (MOST RECENT FIRST):

Orange County: WWWWW, Colorado Springs: LDWLD

MATCH THEME:

PLAYOFFS

WHEN AND WHERE:

Kickoff is at 7:00 p.m. PT on Saturday, November 6th at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine, CA

WHERE TO WATCH:

ESPN+

COX Yurview: Live stream only available in Orange County, Palos Verdes & Santa Barbara

Youtube: Live stream only available Internationally

WHERE TO LISTEN:

Tu Liga Radio 1220 AM

2021 RECORDS AND STANDINGS:

Orange County: 15-10-7 (52 points, 2nd Pacific), Colorado Springs: 13-9-10 (49 points, 3rd Mountain) 

FORM GUIDE (MOST RECENT FIRST):

Orange County: WWWWW, Colorado Springs: LDWLD

MATCH THEME:

PLAYOFFS

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It is playoff time for the Pacific Division No. 2-seed Orange County SC as they open their quest for the club’s first USL Championship against the Mountain Division No. 3-seed Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in the 2021 USL Championship Playoffs, presented by TwinSpires: Western Conference Quarterfinals on Saturday, November 6 at 7 pm at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine. This is OCSC’s first home playoff game since the 2018 USL Cup Playoffs Western Conference Final.

 

REGULAR SEASON BY THE NUMBERS

Orange County SC and interim head coach Richard Chaplow clinched second place in the Pacific Division and the right to host a home playoff game in their 1-0 win against LA Galaxy II on the final day of the regular season. 

• 2021 Record: 15-10-7 (8-3-2 under Chaplow)

  • Goals Scored: 44 | Goals Conceded: 37

  • Clean Sheets: 12

  • Leading Scorer: Ronaldo Damus (14)

• 2021 Home: 7-5-4 (5-1-1 under Chaplow)

  • Goals Scored: 21 | Goals Conceded: 20 

  • Clean Sheets: 6

• 2021 Away: 8-5-3 (3-2-1 under Chaplow)

  • Goals Scored: 23 | Goals Conceded: 17

  • Clean Sheets: 6

• Historical Playoff Record: 2-6-1 (2-2-0 at Home)

 

FIVE STRAIGHT AND COUNTING

With five wins in their last five games, OCSC flies into the playoffs as one of the more in-form squads. 

• Last Five: Results

  • 10/13: 1-0 win vs Phoenix Rising FC | 10/16: 1-0 win @ Oakland Roots SC | 10/20: 1-0 win vs San Diego Loyal SC | 10/23: 2-1 win vs Las Vegas Lights FC | 10/30: 1-0 win @ LA Galaxy II

• Last Five: Player Stats 

  • Goalscorers: Ben Mines (2), Eric Calvillo (1), Ronaldo Damus (1), Thomas Enevoldsen (1)

  • Assists: Ronaldo Damus (2), Darwin Jones (1), Ugo Okoli (1)

  • Saves: Patrick Rakovsky (15)

• Last Five: Team Stats

  • Goals Scored: 6 | Goals Conceded: 1

  • Clean Sheets: 4

 

THE ADVERSARY

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC comes to OC as the Mountain Division No. 3-seed along with the league’s leading goalscorer. 

• Season Overview

  • Record: 13-9-10 (Away: 4-6-5)

  • Goals Scored: 60 | Goals Conceded: 50

  • Clean Sheets: 5

• Player to Watch

  • #10 Hadji Barry

  • 2021 USL Championship Golden Boot Winner (25 Goals)

 

SOME BACKSTORY

OCSC is a USL original team and has played in the postseason seven out of their 11 years in the league. For Colorado, this is their first appearance in the playoffs since the 2016 season when they were only in their second year of existence. The two teams have never played each other in the playoffs, but have squared off in the regular season.

• All-time record

  • OCSC leads COS with 6-4-1 record (4-2-0 at Home)

• Last Meeting – 2021 USL Championship Regular Season Week 11 

  • OCSC beat COS, 2-0, at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs on Thursday, July 1

  • Forward Eero Markkanen and midfielder Eric Calvillo scored the two OC goals

  • Goalkeeper Abraham Romero earned a clean sheet for OC

• Fun Fact

  • OCSC and Colorado Springs met in the preseason back in April as part of their new Weidner Field’s soft opening. OCSC came back from an early deficit to draw with COS, 2-2.

 

SCENARIOS

By the time OCSC and the Switchbacks kick-off, their next-round opponent will already have been decided as the Mountain Division No. 1-seed El Paso Locomotive FC host the Pacific Division No. 4-seed Oakland Roots SC on Friday, November 5.

• IF OCSC win AND El Paso beat Oakland, then OCSC will travel to Southwest University Park in El Paso for the Western Conference Semifinal. OCSC and ELP played to a 2-2 draw in September at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine.

• IF OCSC win AND Oakland beat El Paso, then OCSC will host Oakland for the Western Conference Semifinal. OCSC swept the season series against Oakland and only gave up one goal in four matches.

It is playoff time for the Pacific Division No. 2-seed Orange County SC as they open their quest for the club’s first USL Championship against the Mountain Division No. 3-seed Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in the 2021 USL Championship Playoffs, presented by TwinSpires: Western Conference Quarterfinals on Saturday, November 6 at 7 pm at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine. This is OCSC’s first home playoff game since the 2018 USL Cup Playoffs Western Conference Final.

 

REGULAR SEASON BY THE NUMBERS

Orange County SC and interim head coach Richard Chaplow clinched second place in the Pacific Division and the right to host a home playoff game in their 1-0 win against LA Galaxy II on the final day of the regular season. 

• 2021 Record: 15-10-7 (8-3-2 under Chaplow)

  • Goals Scored: 44 | Goals Conceded: 37

  • Clean Sheets: 12

  • Leading Scorer: Ronaldo Damus (14)

• 2021 Home: 7-5-4 (5-1-1 under Chaplow)

  • Goals Scored: 21 | Goals Conceded: 20 

  • Clean Sheets: 6

• 2021 Away: 8-5-3 (3-2-1 under Chaplow)

  • Goals Scored: 23 | Goals Conceded: 17

  • Clean Sheets: 6

• Historical Playoff Record: 2-6-1 (2-2-0 at Home)

 

FIVE STRAIGHT AND COUNTING

With five wins in their last five games, OCSC flies into the playoffs as one of the more in-form squads. 

• Last Five: Results

  • 10/13: 1-0 win vs Phoenix Rising FC | 10/16: 1-0 win @ Oakland Roots SC | 10/20: 1-0 win vs San Diego Loyal SC | 10/23: 2-1 win vs Las Vegas Lights FC | 10/30: 1-0 win @ LA Galaxy II

• Last Five: Player Stats 

  • Goalscorers: Ben Mines (2), Eric Calvillo (1), Ronaldo Damus (1), Thomas Enevoldsen (1)

  • Assists: Ronaldo Damus (2), Darwin Jones (1), Ugo Okoli (1)

  • Saves: Patrick Rakovsky (15)

• Last Five: Team Stats

  • Goals Scored: 6 | Goals Conceded: 1

  • Clean Sheets: 4

 

THE ADVERSARY

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC comes to OC as the Mountain Division No. 3-seed along with the league’s leading goalscorer. 

• Season Overview

  • Record: 13-9-10 (Away: 4-6-5)

  • Goals Scored: 60 | Goals Conceded: 50

  • Clean Sheets: 5

• Player to Watch

  • #10 Hadji Barry

  • 2021 USL Championship Golden Boot Winner (25 Goals)

 

SOME BACKSTORY

OCSC is a USL original team and has played in the postseason seven out of their 11 years in the league. For Colorado, this is their first appearance in the playoffs since the 2016 season when they were only in their second year of existence. The two teams have never played each other in the playoffs, but have squared off in the regular season.

• All-time record

  • OCSC leads COS with 6-4-1 record (4-2-0 at Home)

• Last Meeting – 2021 USL Championship Regular Season Week 11 

  • OCSC beat COS, 2-0, at Weidner Field in Colorado Springs on Thursday, July 1

  • Forward Eero Markkanen and midfielder Eric Calvillo scored the two OC goals

  • Goalkeeper Abraham Romero earned a clean sheet for OC

• Fun Fact

  • OCSC and Colorado Springs met in the preseason back in April as part of their new Weidner Field’s soft opening. OCSC came back from an early deficit to draw with COS, 2-2.

 

SCENARIOS

By the time OCSC and the Switchbacks kick-off, their next-round opponent will already have been decided as the Mountain Division No. 1-seed El Paso Locomotive FC host the Pacific Division No. 4-seed Oakland Roots SC on Friday, November 5.

• IF OCSC win AND El Paso beat Oakland, then OCSC will travel to Southwest University Park in El Paso for the Western Conference Semifinal. OCSC and ELP played to a 2-2 draw in September at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine.

• IF OCSC win AND Oakland beat El Paso, then OCSC will host Oakland for the Western Conference Semifinal. OCSC swept the season series against Oakland and only gave up one goal in four matches.

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Orange County SC used their fifth consecutive victory, 1-0, over LA Galaxy II to clinch second place in the Pacific Division on Saturday, October 30 at Dignity Health Sports Park Track & Field Stadium giving OCSC the right to host a first round USL Championship Playoff match. LA2 will miss the playoffs.

With playoff berths and seeding on the line, the two rivals had different approaches to the way they started the match. OCSC held onto the ball and built up a good string of passes before making their attack on goal. LA2, knowing this was a must-win match, pressured the OC defense into precarious positions in front of goal. 

OCSC goalkeeper Patrick Rakovsky was called into action several times during the opening 45’ having to push out LA2’s shots. Rakovsky made three saves off each LA2’s shots on goal. OCSC as a team made eight clearances before the halftime whistle sounded.

The second half offered as much tension and drama as each side worked towards their desired result. OCSC continued to string along spells of possession and made their move on goal. Forwards Ronaldo Damus, Brian Iloski and Ugo Okoli flirted with a goal, but were unable to put the ball into the back of the net. 

The OCSC defense managed to successfully deny more LA2 chances on goal. OCSC was also helped by the crossbar and a disallowed goal. Though, it was Rakovsky who made the save of the night minutes before full-time. A shot rifled from the top of the box by LA2 looked destined for goal until Rakovsky lunged to his left and directed the ball out of play to keep the match scoreless. 

In the five minutes of stoppage time, OCSC sat back and defended their goal looking to preserve the draw which was enough to remain in second place in the Pacific Division. Instead, LA2 needed to score to keep their season alive and clinch their playoff spot. 

LA2 sent everyone forward on a free kick in their attacking half, but it was blocked and OCSC sprung on a counterattack. Damus controlled a bouncing ball fighting off a defender along the way and found his fellow forward Thomas Enevoldsen one-on-two with a defender and goalkeeper in front of the goal. Enevoldsen received the pass and slotted the ball into the net for the game’s only and winning goal. 

With the result, OCSC hosts Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC—the Mountain Division’s third-place team—on Saturday, November 6 at 7 pm at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine.

Playoff tickets can be purchased at https://www.orangecountysoccer.com/playoffs.

Orange County SC used their fifth consecutive victory, 1-0, over LA Galaxy II to clinch second place in the Pacific Division on Saturday, October 30 at Dignity Health Sports Park Track & Field Stadium giving OCSC the right to host a first round USL Championship Playoff match. LA2 will miss the playoffs.

With playoff berths and seeding on the line, the two rivals had different approaches to the way they started the match. OCSC held onto the ball and built up a good string of passes before making their attack on goal. LA2, knowing this was a must-win match, pressured the OC defense into precarious positions in front of goal. 

OCSC goalkeeper Patrick Rakovsky was called into action several times during the opening 45’ having to push out LA2’s shots. Rakovsky made three saves off each LA2’s shots on goal. OCSC as a team made eight clearances before the halftime whistle sounded.

The second half offered as much tension and drama as each side worked towards their desired result. OCSC continued to string along spells of possession and made their move on goal. Forwards Ronaldo Damus, Brian Iloski and Ugo Okoli flirted with a goal, but were unable to put the ball into the back of the net. 

The OCSC defense managed to successfully deny more LA2 chances on goal. OCSC was also helped by the crossbar and a disallowed goal. Though, it was Rakovsky who made the save of the night minutes before full-time. A shot rifled from the top of the box by LA2 looked destined for goal until Rakovsky lunged to his left and directed the ball out of play to keep the match scoreless. 

In the five minutes of stoppage time, OCSC sat back and defended their goal looking to preserve the draw which was enough to remain in second place in the Pacific Division. Instead, LA2 needed to score to keep their season alive and clinch their playoff spot. 

LA2 sent everyone forward on a free kick in their attacking half, but it was blocked and OCSC sprung on a counterattack. Damus controlled a bouncing ball fighting off a defender along the way and found his fellow forward Thomas Enevoldsen one-on-two with a defender and goalkeeper in front of the goal. Enevoldsen received the pass and slotted the ball into the net for the game’s only and winning goal. 

With the result, OCSC hosts Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC—the Mountain Division’s third-place team—on Saturday, November 6 at 7 pm at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine.

Playoff tickets can be purchased at https://www.orangecountysoccer.com/playoffs.

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Orange County SC vs LA Galaxy II

USL Championship | October 30, 2021

Venue: Dignity Health Sports Park Track & Field Stadium (Carson, CA)

Kickoff: 7:30 PM PDT

Weather: Spooky.

 

SCORING SUMMARY:

OCSC: Thomas Enevoldsen 90+4’

 

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY:

ORANGE COUNTY SC

30’ Robbie Kiernan

77’ Seth Casiple

90’ Ronaldo Damus

LA GALAXY II

74’ Preston Judd

 

ORANGE COUNTY SC LINEUP:

Patrick Rakovsky (GK), Kevin Alston, Dillon Powers, Robbie Kiernan, Michael Orozco (

C ), Brian Iloski, Ronaldo Damus, Eric Calvillo, Ugo Okoli (67’ Thomas Enevoldsen), Kobi Henry (60’ Brent Richards), Mikko Kuningas (45’ Seth Casiple) (85’ Thomas McCabe)

Unused subs: Abraham Romero (GK), Darwin Jones, Nate Smith

Head Coach: Richard Chaplow (Interim)

Possession: 44.6% | Shots: 11 | Shots On Goal: 2 | Corners: 2 | Fouls: 14 | Offsides: 3 |

 

LA GALAXY II LINEUP:

Justin vom Steeg (GK), Cameron Dunbar (72’ Remi Cabral), Carlos Harvey, Preston Judd, Taylor Davila, Jesus Vazquez ( C ), Jorge Hernandez, Daniel Aguirre (72’ Adrian Gonzalez), Jalen Neal, Jonathan Perez, Marcus Ferkranus (87’ Juan Calderon)

Unused subs: Eric Lopez (GK), Axel Essengue, Gerson Chavez, Victor Valdez

Head Coach: Junior Gonzalez

Possession: 55.4% | Shots: 20 | Shots On Goal: 5 | Corners: 9 | Fouls: 8 | Offsides: 0 |

Orange County SC vs LA Galaxy II

USL Championship | October 30, 2021

Venue: Dignity Health Sports Park Track & Field Stadium (Carson, CA)

Kickoff: 7:30 PM PDT

Weather: Spooky.

 

SCORING SUMMARY:

OCSC: Thomas Enevoldsen 90+4’

 

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY:

ORANGE COUNTY SC

30’ Robbie Kiernan

77’ Seth Casiple

90’ Ronaldo Damus

LA GALAXY II

74’ Preston Judd

 

ORANGE COUNTY SC LINEUP:

Patrick Rakovsky (GK), Kevin Alston, Dillon Powers, Robbie Kiernan, Michael Orozco (

C ), Brian Iloski, Ronaldo Damus, Eric Calvillo, Ugo Okoli (67’ Thomas Enevoldsen), Kobi Henry (60’ Brent Richards), Mikko Kuningas (45’ Seth Casiple) (85’ Thomas McCabe)

Unused subs: Abraham Romero (GK), Darwin Jones, Nate Smith

Head Coach: Richard Chaplow (Interim)

Possession: 44.6% | Shots: 11 | Shots On Goal: 2 | Corners: 2 | Fouls: 14 | Offsides: 3 |

 

LA GALAXY II LINEUP:

Justin vom Steeg (GK), Cameron Dunbar (72’ Remi Cabral), Carlos Harvey, Preston Judd, Taylor Davila, Jesus Vazquez ( C ), Jorge Hernandez, Daniel Aguirre (72’ Adrian Gonzalez), Jalen Neal, Jonathan Perez, Marcus Ferkranus (87’ Juan Calderon)

Unused subs: Eric Lopez (GK), Axel Essengue, Gerson Chavez, Victor Valdez

Head Coach: Junior Gonzalez

Possession: 55.4% | Shots: 20 | Shots On Goal: 5 | Corners: 9 | Fouls: 8 | Offsides: 0 |

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Orange County SC will have a Watch Party at Left Coast Brewing Co. in Irvine on Saturday, October 30 to view OCSC’s final regular-season away game with major playoff implications against local rivals LA Galaxy II at 7:30 pm on ESPN+.

Currently, OCSC (49 pts) stands in second place with a two-point lead over San Diego Loyal SC (47 pts). 

Should OCSC draw or win against Los Dos, then OCSC finishes in second place in the division and will host a first-round USL Championship Playoff match on Saturday, November 6 at 7 pm. OCSC would welcome the third-place team from the Mountain Division, either San Antonio FC or Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.

Should OCSC fail to grab any points on Saturday, then they will need SD to either tie or lose to hold on to the coveted second-place position. OCSC holds the tiebreaker with SD—head-to-head points earned. 

On the other side, Los Dos (39 pts) will need a win or draw (plus other results) to remain in fourth place with Oakland Roots SC (38 pts, vs. SKC II) and Tacoma Defiance (38 pts, @ PHX) knocking on their door.

Orange County SC will have a Watch Party at Left Coast Brewing Co. in Irvine on Saturday, October 30 to view OCSC’s final regular-season away game with major playoff implications against local rivals LA Galaxy II at 7:30 pm on ESPN+.

Currently, OCSC (49 pts) stands in second place with a two-point lead over San Diego Loyal SC (47 pts). 

Should OCSC draw or win against Los Dos, then OCSC finishes in second place in the division and will host a first-round USL Championship Playoff match on Saturday, November 6 at 7 pm. OCSC would welcome the third-place team from the Mountain Division, either San Antonio FC or Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC.

Should OCSC fail to grab any points on Saturday, then they will need SD to either tie or lose to hold on to the coveted second-place position. OCSC holds the tiebreaker with SD—head-to-head points earned. 

On the other side, Los Dos (39 pts) will need a win or draw (plus other results) to remain in fourth place with Oakland Roots SC (38 pts, vs. SKC II) and Tacoma Defiance (38 pts, @ PHX) knocking on their door.

WHEN AND WHERE:

Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, October 30th at Cal State Dominguez Hills Toro Stadium in Carson, CA

WHERE TO WATCH:

The match will be streamed on ESPN+

2021 RECORDS AND STANDINGS:

Orange County: 14-10-7 (49 points, 2nd Pacific), LA: 11-14-6 (39 points, 4th Pacific) 

FORM GUIDE (MOST RECENT FIRST):

Orange County: WWWWL, LA: LLWDW

WHEN AND WHERE:

Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, October 30th at Cal State Dominguez Hills Toro Stadium in Carson, CA

WHERE TO WATCH:

The match will be streamed on ESPN+

2021 RECORDS AND STANDINGS:

Orange County: 14-10-7 (49 points, 2nd Pacific), LA: 11-14-6 (39 points, 4th Pacific) 

FORM GUIDE (MOST RECENT FIRST):

Orange County: WWWWL, LA: LLWDW

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THIS IS OC

Orange County SC’s 2021 USL Championship regular season concludes against LA Galaxy II, or Los Dos, up the 405 North in Carson at Cal State Dominguez Hills Toro Stadium on Saturday, October 30 at 7:30 pm. A draw or win means that OCSC secures second place in the Pacific Division and hosts a first-round USL Playoff match against the third-place team in the Mountain Division at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine.

SOMEBODY SAY STAKES?

Because of the results from this past Sunday, this game will be of importance to every team in the Pacific Division except Las Vegas Lights FC and Sacramento FC, who have been eliminated from playoff contention. The result of this edition of the 405 Derby will have implications of who finishes in second place between OCSC and San Diego Loyal SC and who will clinch the fourth and final playoff spot between Los Dos, Tacoma Defiance, and Oakland Roots SC.

A HOME PLAYOFF MATCH (?)

OCSC is on the cusp of hosting their first USL Championship Playoff match since 2018. Here’s why: OCSC clinched their berth on October 20 against San Diego Loyal which brought them within a point of second place in the Pacific Division. Three days later, OCSC beat Las Vegas Lights FC which saw OC leapfrog SD in the standings by two points. The next day, SD dropped a seven-goal thriller against Oakland Roots SC giving OCSC a clear path to clinching second place on the final matchday. No matter what the final standings end up looking like, OCSC will play either San Antonio FC or Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in the first round.

OCSC’S FOUR FOR FOUR

After dropping their first two matches of October, OCSC has hit their stride when it mattered most by going on a season-high four-game winning streak and it was not easy. Three clean sheets against three playoff-caliber teams not only brought OCSC back into the playoffs but also in the mix for a home playoff match. The fourth victory against LV Lights FC was secured by Ronaldo Damus’s stoppage-time winner after OCSC conceded their first goal in 360-plus minutes to put the team into the coveted second-place Pacific Division slot and in the driver’s seat heading into the final matchday.

WATCH PARTY AT LEFT COAST BREWING CO.

Come through and hang out at the official viewing party of the OCSC-Los Dos match in the comfort of the Left Coast Brewing Co. in Irvine. The match kicks off at 7:30 pm so get there early to grab some food and drinks and cheer on the boys! Fans will also have the opportunity to win free OCSC swag and more! 

THIS IS OC

Orange County SC’s 2021 USL Championship regular season concludes against LA Galaxy II, or Los Dos, up the 405 North in Carson at Cal State Dominguez Hills Toro Stadium on Saturday, October 30 at 7:30 pm. A draw or win means that OCSC secures second place in the Pacific Division and hosts a first-round USL Playoff match against the third-place team in the Mountain Division at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine.

SOMEBODY SAY STAKES?

Because of the results from this past Sunday, this game will be of importance to every team in the Pacific Division except Las Vegas Lights FC and Sacramento FC, who have been eliminated from playoff contention. The result of this edition of the 405 Derby will have implications of who finishes in second place between OCSC and San Diego Loyal SC and who will clinch the fourth and final playoff spot between Los Dos, Tacoma Defiance, and Oakland Roots SC.

A HOME PLAYOFF MATCH (?)

OCSC is on the cusp of hosting their first USL Championship Playoff match since 2018. Here’s why: OCSC clinched their berth on October 20 against San Diego Loyal which brought them within a point of second place in the Pacific Division. Three days later, OCSC beat Las Vegas Lights FC which saw OC leapfrog SD in the standings by two points. The next day, SD dropped a seven-goal thriller against Oakland Roots SC giving OCSC a clear path to clinching second place on the final matchday. No matter what the final standings end up looking like, OCSC will play either San Antonio FC or Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in the first round.

OCSC’S FOUR FOR FOUR

After dropping their first two matches of October, OCSC has hit their stride when it mattered most by going on a season-high four-game winning streak and it was not easy. Three clean sheets against three playoff-caliber teams not only brought OCSC back into the playoffs but also in the mix for a home playoff match. The fourth victory against LV Lights FC was secured by Ronaldo Damus’s stoppage-time winner after OCSC conceded their first goal in 360-plus minutes to put the team into the coveted second-place Pacific Division slot and in the driver’s seat heading into the final matchday.

WATCH PARTY AT LEFT COAST BREWING CO.

Come through and hang out at the official viewing party of the OCSC-Los Dos match in the comfort of the Left Coast Brewing Co. in Irvine. The match kicks off at 7:30 pm so get there early to grab some food and drinks and cheer on the boys! Fans will also have the opportunity to win free OCSC swag and more! 

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Leading scorer Ronaldo Damus in the 90+4’ broke a six-game scoring drought to lift Orange County SC to a 2-1 victory over Las Vegas Lights FC on Scotoberfest and Fan Appreciation Night on Saturday, October 23 at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine. With a playoff berth clinched during the midweek, OCSC needed a draw or a win to keep their hopes of hosting a first round USL Championship Playoff match alive by moving into second place in the Pacific Division. 

Las Vegas, who are at the bottom of the division and eliminated from playoff contention, almost played spoiler with a little late game drama in front of nearly 5,000 supporters in the OC. In the first of two minutes in stoppage time, 10-man Las Vegas scored an equalizing goal thanks to forward Danny Trejo that sucked the energy out of the stadium.

The Las Vegas celebration took long enough for a little extra time to be added, giving OCSC at least one more crack on goal. Rando slipped on a free kick try and the ball landed right with OCSC who immediately pushed forward ready to capitalize with the open goal and out-of-position keeper. Forward Darwin Jones sprinted with the ball into the penalty box and tapped it right to Damus who finally got his 14th goal of the season and the game-winner on the last kick of the game.

Damus almost had that 14th goal a few times in the match. OCSC’s first goal of the game was ruled an own goal, but was created by a shot from Damus that was blocked by one Vegas defender with the ball ricocheting off another Vegas defender into his own net in the 65’. The unfortunate deflection came off Dekel Keinen, who was eventually sent off 11 minutes later after receiving his second yellow card of the match. 

OCSC Patrick Rakovsky gave up his first goal in nearly 360-plus minutes and was on the verge of notching his fourth consecutive clean sheet in OCSC’s home finale.

OCSC concludes the 2021 USL Championship regular season on the road up the 405 North at Dignity Health Sports Park against LA Galaxy II on Saturday, October 30 at 7:30pm. After the 405 Derby, OCSC looks towards the 2021 USL Championship Western Conference Quarterfinal playoff to be held either on November 6 or 7.

Leading scorer Ronaldo Damus in the 90+4’ broke a six-game scoring drought to lift Orange County SC to a 2-1 victory over Las Vegas Lights FC on Scotoberfest and Fan Appreciation Night on Saturday, October 23 at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine. With a playoff berth clinched during the midweek, OCSC needed a draw or a win to keep their hopes of hosting a first round USL Championship Playoff match alive by moving into second place in the Pacific Division. 

Las Vegas, who are at the bottom of the division and eliminated from playoff contention, almost played spoiler with a little late game drama in front of nearly 5,000 supporters in the OC. In the first of two minutes in stoppage time, 10-man Las Vegas scored an equalizing goal thanks to forward Danny Trejo that sucked the energy out of the stadium.

The Las Vegas celebration took long enough for a little extra time to be added, giving OCSC at least one more crack on goal. Rando slipped on a free kick try and the ball landed right with OCSC who immediately pushed forward ready to capitalize with the open goal and out-of-position keeper. Forward Darwin Jones sprinted with the ball into the penalty box and tapped it right to Damus who finally got his 14th goal of the season and the game-winner on the last kick of the game.

Damus almost had that 14th goal a few times in the match. OCSC’s first goal of the game was ruled an own goal, but was created by a shot from Damus that was blocked by one Vegas defender with the ball ricocheting off another Vegas defender into his own net in the 65’. The unfortunate deflection came off Dekel Keinen, who was eventually sent off 11 minutes later after receiving his second yellow card of the match. 

OCSC Patrick Rakovsky gave up his first goal in nearly 360-plus minutes and was on the verge of notching his fourth consecutive clean sheet in OCSC’s home finale.

OCSC concludes the 2021 USL Championship regular season on the road up the 405 North at Dignity Health Sports Park against LA Galaxy II on Saturday, October 30 at 7:30pm. After the 405 Derby, OCSC looks towards the 2021 USL Championship Western Conference Quarterfinal playoff to be held either on November 6 or 7.

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Orange County SC vs Las Vegas Lights FC

USL Championship | October 23, 2021

Venue: Championship Soccer Stadium (Irvine, CA)

Kickoff: 7:00 PM PDT

Weather: Stunning.

 

SCORING SUMMARY:

OCSC – 65’ Keinan (Own Goal)

Las Vegas – 90+1' Trejo

OCSC – 90+4' Damus

 

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY:

ORANGE COUNTY SC

30' Kuningas

46' Henry

LAS VEGAS LIGHTS FC

12', 76' Keinan

86' Daroma

 

ORANGE COUNTY SC LINEUP:

Patrick Rakovsky (GK), Nathan Smith, Kevin Alston, Kobi Henry, Michael Orozco (C ), Thomas McCabe, Sean Okoli, Eric Calvillo, Mikko Kuningas, Brian Iloski, Ronaldo Damus

Subs: Abraham Romero (GK), Brent Richards, Seth Casiple, Francis Jacobs, Aidan Apodaca, Thomas Enevoldsen, Darwin Jones

Head Coach: Richard Chaplow (Interim)

Possession: 58% | Shots: 27 | Shots On Goal: 12 | Corners: 7 | Fouls: 14 | Offsides: 3 |

 

LAS VEGAS LIGHTS FC LINEUP:

Alex Rando (GK), Dylan Presto, Eric Iloski, Dekel Keinan (C), Antonio Leone, Frank Daroma, Nathan Sepulveda, Tristan Weber, Daniel Trejo, Roberto Molina, Julian Vázquez

Subs: Donovan Palomares, Mohamed Traore, Chinenye Uche, Christopher Jaime, Michael Yeboah, Bruce El Mesmari

Head Coach: Steven Cherundolo

Possession: 42% | Shots: 7 | Shots On Goal: 1 | Corners: 2 | Fouls: 11 | Offsides: 1|

Orange County SC vs Las Vegas Lights FC

USL Championship | October 23, 2021

Venue: Championship Soccer Stadium (Irvine, CA)

Kickoff: 7:00 PM PDT

Weather: Stunning.

 

SCORING SUMMARY:

OCSC – 65’ Keinan (Own Goal)

Las Vegas – 90+1′ Trejo

OCSC – 90+4′ Damus

 

DISCIPLINE SUMMARY:

ORANGE COUNTY SC

30′ Kuningas

46′ Henry

LAS VEGAS LIGHTS FC

12′, 76′ Keinan

86′ Daroma

 

ORANGE COUNTY SC LINEUP:

Patrick Rakovsky (GK), Nathan Smith, Kevin Alston, Kobi Henry, Michael Orozco (C ), Thomas McCabe, Sean Okoli, Eric Calvillo, Mikko Kuningas, Brian Iloski, Ronaldo Damus

Subs: Abraham Romero (GK), Brent Richards, Seth Casiple, Francis Jacobs, Aidan Apodaca, Thomas Enevoldsen, Darwin Jones

Head Coach: Richard Chaplow (Interim)

Possession: 58% | Shots: 27 | Shots On Goal: 12 | Corners: 7 | Fouls: 14 | Offsides: 3 |

 

LAS VEGAS LIGHTS FC LINEUP:

Alex Rando (GK), Dylan Presto, Eric Iloski, Dekel Keinan (C), Antonio Leone, Frank Daroma, Nathan Sepulveda, Tristan Weber, Daniel Trejo, Roberto Molina, Julian Vázquez

Subs: Donovan Palomares, Mohamed Traore, Chinenye Uche, Christopher Jaime, Michael Yeboah, Bruce El Mesmari

Head Coach: Steven Cherundolo

Possession: 42% | Shots: 7 | Shots On Goal: 1 | Corners: 2 | Fouls: 11 | Offsides: 1|

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