The 105th edition of the Open Cup began today on a field that is normally reserved for high school competitions and high level amateur fixtures. In a setting unknown to the Miami FC organization, FC Miami City found comfort on their home pitch. Perhaps just a bit too much comfort.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. The fans are a drinking, the balls are a curling, the strikers are score-ing, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. See what I did there? Perhaps I will leave the song writing to Andy Williams, but the U.S. Open Cup tournament is upon us. FC Miami City and The Miami FC 2 are raring to go.
The NPSL has proven to be a tough league to understand in the early stages of the 2018 season. Sure, we may have fond memories of the NASL and the whole “division two” thing, but it’s time to accept that those days are long gone. Miami versus Jacksonville was the showing that, no matter what competition these two clubs find themselves in, there is still very little love lost between both sides.
The Miami FC 2 are hosting Jacksonville Armada in the first game against both teams since the loss of the NPSL.
If you expected the #MagicCityClasico to produce your rough and tumble derby, it was a disappointment. If you are into the “bad blood” storyline and enjoy when the beautiful game is played with an edge, this will be the fixture for you. Miami FC 2 host their comrades in exile, Jacksonville Armada in a match where both teams seek validity.
The Miami FC 2 bolstered its attack Friday, signing Kris Tyrpak from San Antonio FC of the United Soccer League.
Before San Antonio, Tyrpak played professionally for Swope Park Rangers (USL) in 2016, San Antonio Scorpions (North American Soccer League) in 2015 and Chivas USA (Major League Soccer) in 2014.
In 2012, 2013 and 2015 Tyrpak played for Austin Aztex of the Premier Development League, which might better explain the signing. It was in those seasons where Tyrpak played for Paul Dalglish, who now manages Miami FC 2.
Tyrpak was named as the USL PDL MVP after scoring nine goals in 14 games while also recording one assist as the Aztex won the USL PDL title in 2013.
Image Courtesy of The Miami FC 2
Act Two of the #MagicCityClasico did not go as planned for anyone involved. What should have been a coronation for one of these clubs ended in carnage and disappointment for everyone involved. However, the city showed up for the intense second match and Bobcat field was just as vibrant, if not more so, than Riccardo Silva Stadium.
Looking back at Act One of the #MagicCityClasico, I want to apologize for sounding like a complete idiot regarding the match preview. Miami FC 2 stumbled out of the gates and Miami United looked to be the team that was full of professional experience. Perhaps things will change Saturday as MFC 2 host United at St. Thomas University. Let’s take a look at what both teams need to do in Act Two in order to walk away with all of the points.
Former captain of The Miami FC, Michael Lahoud, confirmed on social media Thursday night that he would be signing to play with Fußball Club Cincinnati of the United Soccer League for the 2018 season. The news was first reported by Cincinnati Soccer Talk.
Michael Lahoud, the Sierra Leonean footballer who came to The Miami FC in May 2016 as a stabilizing force for a foundering side and became its captain, announced Tuesday night that he is leaving the club.