2006 NEWS ARCHIVE

CITY ISLANDERS TO PLAY ROCHESTER IN EXHIBITION

Match to be played at Manheim Township High School

(Harrisburg, PA, September 12, 2006) – The Harrisburg City Islanders will face the Rochester Raging Rhinos of the USL First Division in an exhibition match that will take place on Saturday, September 16, at Manheim Township High School in Lancaster, PA..

The match will kick off at 5:00 p.m.   The fee at the gate will be $5 for adults and $2 for students.  The Pro Exhibition will be followed by the Wilson High School vs Manheim Township High School Boys Varsity Match at 7:00pm.  Admission includes entrance to both matches.

“The City Islanders are proud to bring another great soccer event to the Midstate,” said City Islanders General Manager Joe Sierko. “We’re thrilled that Rochester has chosen the Islanders for this match and we look forward to showcasing professional soccer in Lancaster County .”

Harrisburg players will dust off their boots which have been idle since August 11 when the Islanders 2006 season came to an end with a 3-1 win over the New Hampshire Phantoms.  Unfortunately, the victory which was witnessed by a sell-out crowd of 2,522 was not enough to qualify for post-season play.

Rochester, who has qualified for the USL-1 post-season, has just completed a successful 2006 regular season campaign finishing second in the League with a record of 13-4-11.  They have a bye during the first round of playoff action and will take on the winner of the Charleston Battery – Puerto Rico Islanders series at home on September 22.

The Harrisburg City Islanders have completed three seasons of play in the United Soccer Leagues Second Division.  More information about the Club is available at www.cityislanders.com or by calling (717) 441-4625.

--- CITY ISLANDERS ---

City Isles End Season With Impressive Win
Four players score in 4-2 triumph over New Hampshire

(Harrisburg, PA, August 11, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders ended their season with a lights-out performance on Friday night, doubling up the New Hampshire Phantoms 4-2 in front of a sellout crowd of 2,522 at Skyline Sports Complex. Four different players scored for the City Islanders, who finish their campaign with an 8-9-3 mark (27 points). Dave Kern did not have to make a save in goal for the win.

Harrisburg jumped out to an early lead, as Frank Caruso notched his second goal of the year in just the fourth minute. The ball was fed from the left wing to Sumed Ibrahim in the center of the attacking third, and Sumed turned and nimbly lifted it over the New Hampshire backline to Caruso. The Lancaster Catholic High School took a couple of touches before tucking a shot past losing keeper T.J. Tomasso (three saves).

The Phantoms had a quick answer, however. In the 15th minute, with City Islander center back J.T. Dorsey on the sideline getting treatment for a facial injury, Narciso Fernandes exploited the middle of Harrisburg’s defense and found his strike partner Almir Barbosa for a one-time finish and a 1-1 tie.

Sumed put Harrisburg up 2-1 in the 30th minute, when he popped home a ball from Dustin Bixler inside the penalty area. The assist was the first point for Bixler, a stay-at-home defensive standout, in 37 games over two years with Harrisburg. The City Islanders led 2-1 at the break.

The City Islanders continued to press, relying on quick, smart ball movement to hold a big, explosive Phantoms side in check. It paid off in the first minute of the second half, when Sumed played a dart from the left flank to Mo Oduor at the top of the area. Oduor’s clever back heel put Derek Potteiger through on goal, and Harrisburg’s team captain applied a perfect left-footed finish for a 3-1 advantage.

Again, the Phantoms had a response, as Tony D’Angelo found Fernandes at the far post in the 52nd minute for a 3-2 score.

But Harrisburg would not be denied on this night. In the 87th minute, Matt Tanzini whistled a low corner kick towards Chris Morman at the top right side of the area. Morman took a few steps, planted, and met the ball perfectly, sending a low blast through New Hampshire’s defense and Tomasso for the final 4-2 score.

Notes: The City Islanders’ third sellout of the year bumped their average attendance at Skyline to 1,781 for the season, an increase of 577 per game (the largest in the league) over a year ago. Included in that 48% attendance bump is a regular-season record crowd of 3,189 on April 29 against Cincinnati. Not included is the throng of 5,133—a club record—who attended “Clash of the Capitals II” with D.C. United at Cumberland Valley High School on May 9…The teams combined for six cautions in the match. Three players—New Hampshire’s Val Teixeira and Ollie Harker-Smith and Harrisburg’s Haven Bruce—were ejected after a stoppage time scuffle in the Phantoms’ penalty area.

Harrisburg 4, New Hampshire 2
New Hampshire 1-1=2
Harrisburg 2-2=4
Scoring: HAR Frank Caruso 2 (Sumed Ibrahim) 4’, NH Almir Barbosa 10 (Narciso Fernandes) 15’, HAR Sumed Ibrahim 3 (Dustin Bixler) 30’, HAR Derek Potteiger 1 (Mo Oduor) 46’, NH Fernandes 5 (Tony D’Angelo) 52’, HAR Chris Morman 2 (Matt Tanzini) 87’
Shots: NH 9, HAR 11
Corners: NH 4, HAR 7
Fouls: NH 19, HAR 10
Cautions: HAR Morman 16’, HAR Tommy Rutter 28’, NH Ricky Charles 45’, HAR Adam Clay 77’, NH Barbosa 81’, NH Jason Karalexis 84’, NH Val Teixeira (ejection) 90’, HAR Haven Bruce (ejection) 90’, NH Ollie Harker-Smith 90’
Goalkeepers: NH T.J. Tomasso L, 3-4-1 (3 saves), HAR Dave Kern W, 6-7-2 (0 saves)
Lineups: HAR Dave Kern, Ryan O’Neill, Dustin Bixler, J.T. Dorsey, Tommy Rutter (Matt Tanzini 68), David Schofield (David McClellan 84), Chris Morman, Mo Oduor (Steve Fisher 71), Derek Potteiger, Sumed Ibrahim (Haven Bruce 87), Frank Caruso (Adam Clay 59), NH T.J. Tomasso, Jason Karalexis, Marc Hubbard, Ollie Harker-Smith, Tyler Jackson (David Evans), Val Teixeira, Tom Heimreid, Tony D’Angelo (Manny Brito 61), Ricky Charles, Narciso Fernandes, Almir Barbosa
Attendance: 2,522

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, August 7, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
With a 1-0 loss to the Cincinnati Kings on Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex, the Harrisburg City Islanders were eliminated from playoff contention. A crowd of 2,483 – the club’s second-largest at Skyline this year – was on hand.

Cincinnati defender Sam Fiore accounted for the game’s lone goal in the third minute. Harrisburg keeper Dave Kern made three saves in the loss; his counterpart Jordan James finished with eight stops. The City Islanders failed to solve James and the Kings’ defense despite outshooting Cincinnati 14-10.

The City Islanders (now 7-9-3, 24 points) lost their season series with Cincinnati, 1-3-0.

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:
Tues., August 8, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Wed., August 9, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Thurs., August 10, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Fri., August 11, Kickaround, Skyline Sports Complex, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
City Islanders vs. New Hampshire Phantoms, Skyline Sports Complex, 7:05 p.m.

The City Islanders wrap up their 2006 season this Friday, August 11, against the New Hampshire Phantoms. Kickoff at Skyline Sports Complex will be 7:05 p.m.

Harrisburg has dropped its only previous match with the Phantoms this year, falling 2-1 in New Hampshire on June 9. Jamel Mitchell scored the City Islanders’ goal in that match, and Sam Bishop made five saves in goal. New Hampshire’s Tomas Sczypiorski scored the game-winner with 10 minutes left.

Friday is Patriot-News Fan Appreciation Night at Skyline. Free copies of the Patriot-News and a 2006 Team Picture will be distributed, and the City Islanders will remain on the field following the game for a special autograph session.

Fans may present any unused 2006 ticket at the box office on match day and receive any available ticket for Friday’s game.

City Isles Eliminated From Playoff Contention
Harrisburg falls 1-0 to Cincinnati at Skyline

(Harrisburg, PA, August 5, 2006) - With a 1-0 loss to the Cincinnati Kings in front of a sellout crowd of 2,483 at Skyline Sports Complex on Saturday night, the Harrisburg City Islanders were eliminated from USL Second Division playoff contention for the first time in their brief existence. Harrisburg, now 7-9-3 (24 points), will close out its regular season next Friday, August 11, at Skyline against the New Hampshire Phantoms (7:05 p.m. kickoff).

Cincinnati defender Sam Fiore accounted for the game’s lone goal in just the third minute, heading a Trey Alexander free kick service from the left wing past losing keeper Dave Kern (3 saves).

Though the Kings grabbed the edge early, the City Islanders were hardly ready to surrender their playoff hopes without a fight. Through the first 20 minutes, Harrisburg earned six corner kicks, three of which led to legitimate scoring chances. In the fifth minute, Derek Potteiger pounded a shot high from the top of the penalty area, and almost scored on a virtually identical play two minutes later, but his drive was saved by Cincy keeper Jordan James (who made 8 saves for his league-leading eighth shutout). In the 17th minute, Chad Severs had his initial shot turned aside by James, and Chris Morman whistled his rebound attempt inches high and wide.

Cincinnati nearly took a 2-0 lead in the 31st minute on another Fiore header, but Morman was there to nod the ball off the goal line. The Kings had an even better chance, though, in the 45th minute, when they were awarded a penalty kick after Harrisburg defender Tommy Rutter held Nowaf Jaman to prevent a clean shot at goal. Alexander’s p.k. rang off the right post and Kern sprawled to save the rebound effort of Mike McGinlay, and Harrisburg carried that momentum into halftime.

But despite pushing forward in numbers and pressuring all over the field, the City Islanders simply couldn’t solve the Kings’ defense or James. Harrisburg’s best second-half chance came in the 74th minute, when Matt Tanzini’s right-footed pop was held by James at the near post.

The City Islanders could come no closer as their 2006 playoff hopes faded away; the Kings, who improve to 9-6-3 (30 points), inched closer to their first-ever playoff berth.

Notes: City Islanders rookie Justin Sadler (Cumberland Valley High School) left in the 15th minute with an apparent ankle injury…Harrisburg midfielder Adam Clay sat out a second consecutive game for accumulated caution points. He served a one-game suspension in Charlotte last Saturday after being red-carded on Friday in Wilmington…The City Islanders lost the season series with Cincinnati 3-1-0.

Cincinnati 1, Harrisburg 0
Cincinnati 1-0=1
Harrisburg 0-0=0
Scoring: CIN Sam Fiore 1 (Trey Alexander) 3’
Shots: CIN 10, HAR 14
Corners: CIN 2, HAR 6
Fouls: CIN 20, HAR 22
Cautions: HAR Mo Oduor 45’, CIN Trey Alexander 52’, HAR Matt Tanzini 75’, HAR Tommy Rutter 90’
Goalkeepers: CIN Jordan James W, 9-5-3 (8 saves); HAR Dave Kern L, 5-7-2 (3 saves)
Lineups: CIN Jordan James, Tiest Sondaal, Sam Fiore, Derek Smith, Steven Kehoe (Bret Jones 44), Jon Caldwell (Kevin McCloskey 85), Nowaf Jaman (Thies Hermann 76), Josh Barton, Trey Alexander, Mike McGinlay, John Krause, HAR Dave Kern, Justin Sadler (Tommy Rutter 15), J.T. Dorsey (Matt Tanzini 59), Dustin Bixler, Ryan O’Neill, David Schofield (Haven Bruce 85), Chris Morman, Mo Oduor (Jamel Mitchell 59), Derek Potteiger (Frank Caruso 70), Sumed Ibrahim, Chad Severs
Attendance: 2,483

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, July 31, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders split a pair of games on their weekend trip to North Carolina, defeating the Wilmington Hammerheads 2-1 on Friday night and falling 3-2 to the Charlotte Eagles on Saturday.

On Friday, Matt Tanzini’s goal in stoppage time propelled the City Islanders to their first-ever win in Wilmington. Chris Morman (his first of the year) also scored for the City Islanders and Dave Kern made three saves in goal. Both clubs had goals waived off due to offsides in stoppage time before Tanzini’s strike; Harrisburg’s Chad Severs also had a goal called back midway through the second half. Defender Kevin Nylen scored Wilmington’s goal.

Harrisburg fought hard on Saturday but a goal from Adam Ruud with 12 minutes left gave the Eagles the win. Severs converted a penalty kick in the 40th minute (his fourth goal in as many games since joining the club on loan on July 13) and Frank Caruso, a Northern Lebanon High School product, put home his first goal in a Harrisburg uniform in the 68th minute. Tanzini recorded the assist on Caruso’s goal.

The City Islanders finish the road portion of the schedule with a 4-5-1 record. They went 3-2-4 away from home in 2005 and 3-5-2 in 2004.

SCHOFIELD, TANZINI ON TEAM OF THE WEEK:
David Schofield and Matt Tanzini were named to the USL Second Division Team of the Week for Week 15 on Monday.

Schofield recorded assists on both of Harrisburg’s goals in Friday’s win at Wilmington, finding Chris Morman on a free kick in the 39th minute, then racing down the wing and setting up Tanzini at the near post for the game-winner in stoppage time. Schofield, an All-League Second Team selection last year, has now notched four assists this season, tied for the team lead. This is his first weekly honor of 2006.

Tanzini followed his dramatic game-winner on Friday with a clutch assist on Saturday against Charlotte, when he pushed the ball down the left flank and slid the ball to Frank Caruso for the tying goal (2-2) in the 68th minute. Tanzini has now scored seven points over his last six games, moving him into second place on the team with 12 points this year. Monday’s honor is Tanzini’s team-leading fourth of the season (May 17, June 5, July 17).

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:
Tues., August 1, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Wed., August 2, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Thurs., August 3, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Fri., August 4, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Sat., August 5, City Islanders vs. Cincinnati Kings, Skyline Sports Complex, 7:05 p.m.

A crucial game awaits the City Islanders this Saturday, August 5, when the third-place Cincinnati Kings (8-5-3, 27 points) visit Skyline Sports Complex for a 7:05 p.m. kickoff. Saturday’s game holds massive playoff implications for both clubs, especially Harrisburg (see below).

Saturday’s match will be the fourth and final between these clubs this year. Harrisburg has gone 1-2-0 against the Kings this year, losing 2-0 at home on April 29 and 3-2 in Cincinnati on July 23. Their victory came to the tune of a 5-1 romp in Cincinnati on July 2.

Saturday is Youth Soccer Night at Skyline, with FREE youth tickets available through the club’s “Mind, Body, Soccer” program. A pregame Pro Legends Match will also take place before the game at 5:00 p.m. (gates open at 4:30 p.m.).

The Legends Match will feature former players from the City Islanders and the area’s previous pro soccer teams, the Hershey Impact, Harrisburg Heat, and Hershey Wildcats. Among those scheduled to take the field are: Danny Kelly (Heat, current head coach of the MISL champion Baltimore Blast); Lee Tschantret (Heat, Wildcats); Richard Chinapoo (Heat); Mike Henning (Heat, Wildcats, and City Isles); David Bascome (Heat, still playing for the Blast); and Mark Pulisic (Heat). Pulisic, a City Islanders Assistant Coach in 2004 and 2005, will enter his first season as Head Coach of the MISL’s Detroit Ignition this Fall. City Islanders Head Coach Bill Becher is also set to take the field.

THE PLAYOFF PICTURE:
A number of possibilities remain as the USL-2 playoff picture rounds into shape, but for the City Islanders the task is clear: they must win their final two games to have a chance at the playoffs.

With their win over Harrisburg on Saturday, Charlotte became the second team to clinch a USL Second Division playoff berth, joining the league-leading Richmond Kickers. The City Islanders are one of the handful of teams still alive for the remaining two playoff spots.

The two clubs in the best position are arguably Cincinnati and New Hampshire. The Kings sit in third place with 27 points and, with four games remaining, can top out at 39. The Phantoms, who also have four games remaining, entered the week in a three-way tie with Harrisburg and Pittsburgh for fourth place. All three clubs have 24 points. The Western Mass Pioneers (21 points, three games left) are also in the hunt.

Cincinnati and the Phantoms meet Wednesday in New Hampshire before the Kings visit Skyline on Saturday, when Pittsburgh also visits Wilmington for a crucial match.

The USL Second Division’s standings tiebreakers are as follows:

1) Head-to-head record based on total points in league games.
2) Total wins in league games.
3) Goal difference in league games.
4) Goals scored in league games.

City Islanders Battle But Fall in Charlotte
Severs, Caruso score in 3-2 defeat

(Charlotte, NC, July 29, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders nearly returned undefeated from their weekend swing to North Carolina, but a late goal sent the club to a 3-2 loss against the Charlotte Eagles at Waddell High School Stadium on Saturday. Chad Severs and Frank Caruso scored for Harrisburg, and Dave Kern made four saves in goal.

The City Islanders fall to 7-8-3 and find themselves in a three-way tie for the USL Second Division’s fourth and final playoff spot with New Hampshire and Pittsburgh (the Phantoms beat Pittsburgh 2-1 on Saturday). All three clubs are knotted up at 24 points. Harrisburg and Pittsburgh both have two games remaining while New Hampshire has four – including Harrisburg’s regular season finale on August 11 at Skyline Sports Complex.

Slow to find their legs after a demanding 2-1 win in Wilmington on Friday followed by a four-hour bus ride, the City Islanders found themselves in a hole midway through the first half thanks to a pair of rapid fire goals from forward Patrick Daka.

In the 22nd minute, Daka put home the rebound of a restart that caromed off Harrisburg’s wall at the right side of the penalty area. Daka struck again in the 25th minute, heading home a service from Greg Schroeder, and the City Islanders trailed 2-0.

But the City Islanders weren’t quite ready to call it a weekend. In the 40th minute, following a Charlotte handball in the area, Chad Severs converted a penalty kick for his fourth goal in as many games since joining Harrisburg on loan July 13. Charlotte’s lead was 2-1 at the half.

The City Isles continued to press while keeping a dangerous Charlotte attack in check. In the 68th minute, Matt Tanzini, who scored the game-winner in stoppage time on Friday, came up big once again. Tanzini careened down the left wing on the dribble all the way to the near post before slipping the ball across the goalmouth to Frank Caruso (right), where the Northern Lebanon High School product slotted it home for his first goal in a Harrisburg uniform and a 2-2 tie.

In the end, though, Charlotte’s fresher legs and deep bench proved the difference. In the 78th minute, Adam Ruud – who had entered the game just a minute prior – notched the game-winner, with the assist to Joseph Kabwe. The Eagles held on from there for the 3-2 win.

Notes: Harrisburg was without midfielder Adam Clay, serving a one-game suspension after receiving a red card on Friday…The City Islanders remain winless (0-3-0 regular season) all-time in Charlotte…Harrisburg’s final two regular season games will come on Saturday, August 5, versus Cincinnati, and Friday, August 11, against New Hampshire. Both games kick off at 7:05 p.m. at Skyline Sports Complex.    

Charlotte 3, Harrisburg 2
Harrisburg 1-1=2
Charlotte 2-1=3
Scoring: CHE Patrick Daka 3 22’, CHE Daka 4 (Greg Schroeder) 25’, HAR Chad Severs 4 (penalty kick) 40’, HAR Frank Caruso 1 (Matt Tanzini) 68’, CHE Adam Ruud 4 (Joseph Kabwe) 78’
Shots: HAR 13, CHE 12
Corners: HAR 2, CHE 5
Fouls: HAR 24, CHE 13
Cautions: HAR Dustin Bixler 24’, HAR David Schofield 38’, HAR Frank Caruso 80’, CHE Ben Meek 75’
Goalkeepers: HAR Dave Kern, 5-6-2 (4 saves); CHE Dan Benton W, 3-1-3 (7 saves)
Lineups: HAR Dave Kern, Justin Sadler, J.T. Dorsey (Matt Tanzini 45), Dustin Bixler, Ryan O’Neill, David Schofield, Chris Morman, Mo Oduor (Jamel Mitchell 60), David McClellan (Derek Potteiger 45), Sumed Ibrahim (Frank Caruso 65), Chad Severs, CHE Dan Benton, Josh Rife, Ben Meek, Aaron Faro, Casey Barton, Greg Schroeder, Dustin Swinehart, Joseph Kabwe, Patrick Daka (Chris Lemons 84), Andriy Budnyy (Andy Guastaferro 70), Jacob Coggins (Adam Ruud 77)
Attendance: 847

City Isles Win Behind Stoppage Time Tally
Tanzini's goal lifts Harrisburg into fourth-place tie

(Wilmington, NC, July 28, 2006) - Matt Tanzini’s goal in second-half stoppage time capped a thrilling match and lifted the Harrisburg City Islanders to a 2-1 win over the Wilmington Hammerheads (4-7-6, 18 points) at Legion Sports Complex on Friday night.

With the win – their first ever in Wilmington – the City Islanders improve to 7-7-3 (24 points) and slide into a fourth place tie with Pittsburgh (who lost 2-0 to Western Mass on Friday) in the USL Second Division table. Harrisburg’s Dave Kern made three saves in goal.

Tanzini’s decisive strike came with two minutes left out of a whopping seven stoppage time minutes, as David Schofield blew down the wing before finding “Taz” at the near post for his fourth goal of the year. It also came after both teams had goals called back in stoppage time due to offsides.

Chris Morman’s first goal of the year gave Harrisburg the lead in the 39^th minute, as the veteran midfielder cashed in a Schofield free kick service from the right side of the penalty area.

The City Islanders held that edge for the next 40 minutes (and had an evident Chad Severs score waived off due to offsides in roughly the 65^th minute), before Hammerheads defender Kevin Nylen knotted the score with his first tally of the season at the 79-minute mark.

From there, the stage was set for Tanzini’s heroics.

“It may not have been the best game we’ve played,” said City Islanders Head Coach Bill Becher, “but this was the most exciting game we’ve been a part of in our three years in the league.”

Notes: The City Islanders complete their North Carolina road trip tomorrow in Charlotte against the Eagles. Kickoff will be 7:30 p.m…Harrisburg’s Adam Clay and Wilmington’s Kevin Nylen were both ejected due to a post game altercation; Clay must sit out tomorrow’s match…Harrisburg’s final two regular season games will come on Saturday, August 5, versus Cincinnati, and Friday, August 11, against New Hampshire. Both games kick off at 7:05 p.m. at Skyline Sports

Harrisburg 2, Wilmington 1
Harrisburg 1-1=2
Wilmington 0-1=1
Scoring: HAR Chris Morman 1 (David Schofield) 40’, WLM Kevin Nylen 1 79’, HAR Matt Tanzini 4 (David Schofield) 90’
Shots: HAR 10, WLM 14
Corners: HAR 3, WLM 14
Fouls: HAR 16, WLM 13
Cautions: HAR Adam Clay 66’, WLM Kevin Nylen 67’, WLM Ryan Miller 74’, HAR Matt Tanzini 85’, WLM Kevin Nylen (ejection) 90’, HAR Adam Clay (ejection) 90’
Goalkeepers: HAR Dave Kern W, 5-5-2 (3 saves), WLM Bart Creasman L, 6-7-3 (4 saves)
Lineups: HAR Dave Kern, Justin Sadler, Dustin Bixler, J.T. Dorsey, Ryan O’Neill, David Schofield (David McClellan 89), Mo Oduor (Jamel Mitchell 79), Chris Morman, Derek Potteiger (Haven Bruce 75), Sumed Ibrahim (Adam Clay 65), Chad Severs (Matt Tanzini 81), WLM Bart Creasman, Chad Crandell, Martyn Lancaster, Kevin Nylen, Paul Chase, Boyzzz Khumalo (Kenny Bundy 71), Derek Popovich (Phil Hufstader 65), George Corrie, Junior Zarate, Anthony Maher (Ryan Miller 59), Chris Bagley
Attendance: 3,275

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, July 24, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders dropped a 3-2 decision to the Cincinnati Kings at Xavier University Soccer Complex on Sunday afternoon. Chad Severs scored both of Harrisburg’s goals (15’ and 86’), but three unanswered Cincinnati scores – including two in the first eight minutes of the second half – proved Harrisburg’s undoing. Dave Kern made eight saves (a personal season high) in goal for the City Islanders.

Harrisburg (6-7-3, 21 points) is now tied with the New Hampshire Phantoms for fifth place in the USL Second Division.

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:
Tues., July 25, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Wed., July 26, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Thurs., July 27, Travel Day
Fri., July 28, City Islanders at Wilmington Hammerheads, Legion Sports Complex, 7:30 p.m.
Sat., July 29, City Islanders at Charlotte Eagles, Waddell High School Stadium, 7:30 p.m.

The City Islanders face a grueling North Carolina road trip this weekend, with stops in Wilmington to take on the Hammerheads (Friday, July 28, 7:30 p.m.) and in Charlotte against the second-place Eagles (Saturday, July 29, 7:30 p.m.). Harrisburg has never won in either city.

The City Islanders have lost their two previous regular season meetings in Charlotte, 1-0 on April 30, 2004, and 5-0 exactly one year later. The City Islanders also fell 4-1 in overtime last August 21, the second and final leg of their 2005 playoff set with the Eagles. In their previous 2006 meeting, on June 21 at Skyline, Harrisburg defeated the Eagles (7-3-7, 28) by the score of 3-1.

Harrisburg is also winless in Wilmington (3-6-6, 15), having earned a 1-1 tie on May 1, 2004, and losing 2-1 last April 29. The clubs battled to a 2-2 draw in their first 2006 clash, on June 18 at Skyline.

The City Islanders then gear up for their final two regular season contests, on Saturday, August 5, versus Cincinnati and Friday, August 11, against New Hampshire. Both games will kick off at 7:05 p.m. at Skyline.

City Islanders Fall 3-2 in Cincinnati
Severs' brace not enough in Harrisburg defeat

(Cincinnati, OH, July 23, 2006) - Despite a Chad Severs brace, the Harrisburg City Islanders dropped a 3-2 decision to the Cincinnati Kings at Xavier University Soccer Complex on Sunday afternoon, falling to 6-7-3 (21 points) on the season.

The City Islanders find themselves tied with the New Hampshire Phantoms (7-7-1, 21; the club has been penalized a point for using an ineligible player in a match) for fifth place in the USL Second Division, while Cincinnati (7-5-3, 24) moves into a third-place tie with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.

The City Islanders grabbed an early lead in the 15^th minute, when Chad Severs found the net for the second time since returning to Harrisburg on loan from Rochester of the USL First Division on July 13.

The Kings fought back and managed to tie the match up shortly before the half as midfielder Trey Alexander successfully converted a penalty kick in the 44th minute.

Cincinnati, likely eager to avenge a 5-1 loss to Harrisburg here on July 2, took firm control of the match with two scores in the first eight minutes of the second half, and Michael McGinlay was involved in both. McGinlay scored his third goal of the year in the 46^th minute, and set up Derek Smith’s score in the 54^th minute. The Kings led 3-1.

Harrisburg got one back in the 86^th minute when Severs struck again, but it was too late as the City Islanders fell to 1-2-0 against the Kings this season.

Notes: The City Islanders remain on the road next weekend, facing the Wilmington Hammerheads (Fri., July 28, 7:30 p.m.) and Charlotte Eagles (Sat., July 29, 7:30 p.m.) in a North Carolina trip. Harrisburg’s final two games, both at home, will come on Saturday, August 5, versus Cincinnati and Friday, August 11, against New Hampshire. Both games will kick off at 7:05 p.m. at Skyline Sports Complex.

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, July 17, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders defeated the Pittsburgh Riverhounds 2-0 on Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex behind goals from Chad Severs (acquired on loan from USL First Division side Rochester last Thursday) and Matt Tanzini. Dave Kern made five stops, the biggest of which was a second-half kick save on Riverhounds midfielder Leon Browne, in his second shutout of the season.

Severs scored in the 57th minute, when he beat Pittsburgh keeper Terry McNelis to a long left-wing service from Tanzini and chipped it home. Tanzini added his score in second-half stoppage time, blasting home an Adam Clay feed.

The victory improved Harrisburg’s record to 6-6-3 (21 points) and moved the club into a tie with the Riverhounds (5-3-6, 21) for third place in the USL Second Division. Additionally, the season series between the City Islanders and Riverhounds ended tied at 1-1-2, and (thanks to Tanzini’s late strike) the clubs were deadlocked in head-to-head goals, 4-4. Thus, a tie in the standings between the clubs would come down to the next tiebreaker, overall league wins, an advantage which Harrisburg currently holds.

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:
Tues., July 18, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Wed., July 19, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Thurs., July 20, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Fri., July 21, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Sat., July 22, Travel day
Sun., July 23, City Islanders at Cincinnati Kings, Xavier University, 5:00 p.m.

The City Islanders begin a three-game road swing this Sunday, July 23, in Cincinnati against the Kings. Game time at Xavier University Soccer Complex will be 5:00 p.m.

Entering the week, the City Islanders are three points ahead of the Kings (5-5-3, 18) in the USL-2 table. The clubs will meet once more this season after Sunday, on Friday, August 5, at Skyline.

Harrisburg has gone 1-1-0 against Cincinnati this year, losing 2-0 in their season opener at home on April 29 and throttling the Kings 5-1 in their most recent visit to Ohio, on July 2. Jeff Hughes scored twice for the Kings in the April 29 meeting; Jim Stevens, Adam Clay, Justin Sadler, David McClellan, and Jamel Mitchell all scored for Harrisburg in the second match.

The City Islanders will remain on the road to end the month, with stops in Wilmington (Friday, July 28, 7:30 p.m.) and Charlotte (Saturday, July 29, 7:30 p.m.). Harrisburg’s final two regular season games will be on Saturday, August 5, against Cincinnati and versus New Hampshire on Friday, August 11. Both games will kick off at 7:05 p.m. at Skyline Sports Complex.

THREE CITY ISLANDERS ON TEAM OF THE WEEK:
The City Islanders placed three players on the USL-2 Team of the Week for Week 13, announced on Monday: goalkeeper Kern, thanks to his superb five-save effort; forward Severs, for his game-winning goal and typical hard-working night; and midfielder Tanzini, for his game-changing spark off the bench in the second half.

It is the first such honor of the year for both Kern and Severs (who was named to the Team of the Week a club record six times last year), and the third for Tanzini, tying him with David McClellan for the most weekly accolades by a City Islander this season.

ODDS AND ENDS:
- Team captain Derek Potteiger missed Saturday’s match as his wife Jen gave birth to their first child, daughter Alexis Marie. Potteiger had started 26 consecutive regular season games for the City Islanders.

- The City Islanders have released midfielder Teofore Bennett so the Jamaican international can pursue an opportunity in the Swedish First Division. Bennett scored a goal and assisted on three others in nine games (six starts) with Harrisburg.

- Harrisburg is now 5-1-1 when scoring the first goal this season and 1-5-1 when the opponent scores first.

- The City Islanders honored three Central Pennsylvania soccer pioneers in a halftime ceremony on Saturday: John Paine, a National USSF Referee Assessor who has been instrumental in the development of local referees since 1983; Jeff Rowe, whose innovative leadership has helped the Lower Dauphin Soccer Association evolve into one of the area’s best; and Mike Miller, the founder of the Central Penn Soccer League in 1962 and one of the original investors in the area’s first pro team, the Hershey Impact, in 1988.

City Islanders Battle for 2-0 Home Win
Severs, Tanzini score to put Harrisburg in third-place tie

(Harrisburg, PA, July 15, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders received goals from newly re-acquired Chad Severs and veteran Matt Tanzini and a solid effort from goalkeeper Dave Kern and his defense en route to a 2-0 win over the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in front of 2,033 at Skyline Sports Complex on Saturday night.

The victory improves Harrisburg’s record to 6-6-3 (21 points) and moves the club into a tie with the Riverhounds (5-3-6, 21) for third place in the USL Second Division. Additionally, the season series between the City Islanders and Riverhounds finishes tied at 1-1-2, and the clubs are deadlocked in head-to-head goals (4-4). Thus, a tie in the standings between the clubs would come down to the next tiebreaker, overall league wins, an advantage which Harrisburg currently holds.

The Riverhounds were rejected by the woodwork twice in the game’s first 20 minutes, in the 10th minute when Matthew Mehler kissed the crossbar from 30 yards out, and in the 16th when a Gabe Bernstein header hit the left post. But after a Romain Cheurlin effort from the top of the area trickled into Kern’s arms, the City Islanders settled down and controlled the remainder of the half.

Severs (right), who won the 2005 USL-2 Rookie of the Year Award with Harrisburg and was acquired on loan from First Division side Rochester this week, started up front and made his presence felt early on. In the 23rd minute, he fed David McClellan after a surging run down the left wing, but McClellan volleyed it high and wide. After Mo Oduor had a slow roller from inside the area cleared away by Mehler (24’), and Sumed Ibrahim’s clever back heel skipped wide of the mark (25’), Severs nearly struck twice. In the 32nd minute, he sent a McClellan service wide, and in stoppage time he put a shot right on keeper Terry McNelis (2 saves). The game was scoreless at the half.

In the 57th minute, Harrisburg broke through. From the left wing, halftime sub Matt Tanzini sent a twisting ball over the top of Pittsburgh’s defense, forcing McNelis to come off his line. Severs was a step quicker, reaching the ball just outside the area and chipping over McNelis for a 1-0 Harrisburg lead.

With the lead in hand, Kern and the defense stepped to the fore. The third-year keeper made a brilliant kick save on Leon Browne’s right wing rip in the 63rd minute, and stood his ground during a 79th-minute flurry that produced close efforts by Derek MacKenzie and Nathan Salsi.

When Kern wasn’t making spectacular stops, the defense was. In the 77th minute, J.T. Dorsey and Chris Morman combined to clear Browne’s header out of the goalmouth, and Adam Clay threw his body into the fray to keep out a point blank shot during the scrum two minutes later.

In stoppage time, Clay contributed at the other end, breaking through the middle and spraying a ball down the left channel for Tanzini, who turned on the burners and unleashed a perfect low drive from the top left side of the area. McNelis stretched but was unable to reach it.

Successfully protecting a 1-0 lead would have been enough to send the City Isles home happy, but Tanzini’s strike, which  sealed the night’s final score and tied the season series, added to the night’s significance.

Notes: Harrisburg captain Derek Potteiger missed the match as his wife Jen gave birth to their first child, daughter Alexis Marie…The City Islanders hit the road to end the month of July, beginning next Sunday, July 23, in Cincinnati (5:00 p.m.). The club also heads to Wilmington (Friday, July 28, 7:30 p.m.) and Charlotte (Saturday, July 29, 7:30 p.m.). Harrisburg’s final two regular season matches are both at home, on Saturday, August 5, against Cincinnati (7:05 p.m.) and Friday, August 11 against New Hampshire (7:05 p.m.).

Harrisburg 2, Pittsburgh 0
Pittsburgh 0-0=0
Harrisburg 0-2=2
Scoring: HAR Chad Severs 1 (Matt Tanzini) 57’, HAR Tanzini 3 (Adam Clay) 90’
Shots: PIT 11, HAR 8
Corners: PIT 5, HAR 3
Fouls: PIT 7, HAR 12
Cautions: HAR Mo Oduor 27’, PIT Gabe Bernstein 30;, HAR Dustin Bixler 34’, HAR Justin Sadler 49’, PIT Matthew Mehler 60’, HAR Sumed Ibrahim 76’, PIT Cody Bragg (ejection) 90’
Goalkeepers: PIT Terry McNelis, 4-2-3 (3 saves); HAR Dave Kern W, 4-4-2 (5 saves)
Lineups: PIT Terry McNelis, Greg Chevalier, Nathan Salsi, Cody Bragg, Matthew Mehler, Jason Kutney (Jerome Robens 89), Gabe Bernstein, Stephen Mellor (Derek MacKenzie 72), Dan Hartung (Greg Victor 66), David Flavius (Leon Browne 60), Romain Cheurlin (Michael Apple 84); HAR Dave Kern, Justin Sadler, J.T. Dorsey, Dustin Bixler, John Lapore (Matt Tanzini 56), David Schofield, Chris Morman, Mo Oduor (Adam Clay 52), David McClellan (Jamel Mitchell 56), Sumed Ibrahim, Chad Severs (Haven Bruce 89)
Attendance: 2,033

 City Islanders Welcome Back Chad Severs
High-scoring striker returns on loan; club also adds keeper, coach

(Harrisburg, PA, July 13, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders announced on Thursday that the club has acquired forward Chad Severs, the Penn State product who won the USL Second Division Rookie of the Year Award and was an All-League Second Team selection with Harrisburg in 2005, on loan from the Rochester Raging Rhinos of the USL First Division.

Severs has joined the City Islanders for training and is expected to be in uniform when Harrisburg hosts the Pittsburgh Riverhounds this Saturday, July 15, at Skyline Sports Complex (7:05 p.m.).

Severs, 23, set Harrisburg records with 13 goals and 31 points a year ago, placing second in the league in both categories. He was also tied for fourth with five assists. Over his final 15 regular season games, Severs scored 12 goals and 29 points, including 20 points over his last eight matches.

The native of Vineland, NJ, led the team in games played (19), was tied for first with 18 starts, and tied for fourth with 1,480 minutes played. He posted a streak of 720 consecutive minutes played from June 18 through July 23. Severs was named to the Second Division Team of the Week a club record six times and was tabbed Player of the Week on July 19.

Severs led the Nittany Lions in scoring for three straight years (2002-2004) and totaled 38 goals and 90 points in 85 games over his college career. He was a three-time All-Big Ten pick and the conference’s Rookie of the Year in 2001, when he played with current City Islanders captain Derek Potteiger. Severs has been a member of the Region 1 Olympic Development Program, the Adidas Elite Soccer Program, and the U-20 National Team Pool.

The City Islanders have also announced the signing of goalkeeper Dustin Henry, a 5-10, 170-pound native of Bernville. Henry is a product of Tulpehocken High School and a 2003 graduate of Bloomsburg University.

Additionally, the club announced the addition of Mike Corney to the coaching staff for the remainder of the season. Corney has been a fixture of Central Pennsylvania soccer for over a decade. The graduate of Lock Haven University was a member of the coaching staff for the Hershey Wildcats of the A-League (now the USL First Division) and held the title of Director of Scouting for the City Islanders in 2004 and 2005.

After hosting the Riverhounds this Saturday, the City Islanders will hit the road to end the month, with games in Cincinnati (Sun., July 23, 5:00 p.m.), Wilmington (Fri., July 28, 7:30 p.m.), and Charlotte (Sat., July 29, 7:30 p.m.). Harrisburg’s final two regular season games will come on Sat., Aug. 5, against Cincinnati and on Fri., Aug. 11, versus New Hampshire. Those two matches will both kick off at 7:05 p.m. at Skyline Sports Complex.

Halftime Ceremony Scheduled for Saturday

As part of the City Islanders’ theme for 2006, “The Tradition Continues,” the club will hold a special ceremony at halftime of Saturday’s match to honor a trio of local soccer pioneers: Mike Miller, who was one of the original investors in the indoor Hershey Impact (1988-91) and began the Central Penn Soccer League in 1964; Jeff Rowe, the long-time president of Lower Dauphin Soccer Association, the first youth soccer association in the area to utilize professional coaches and develop premier level teams; and John Paine, a National Referee Assessor who has played a large role in the development of soccer referees in the region.  Others who have been in the forefront of soccer development in the area will be honored at remaining games.

In addition, the City Islanders will be hosting a Professional Legends Match prior to their game on August 5. All former Hershey Impact, Harrisburg Heat, Hershey Wildcats and Harrisburg City Islanders players are invited to attend. The match will begin at 5:00 p.m. Ice bags and crutches will distributed at 6:00 p.m.

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, July 10, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders fell to the league-leading Richmond Kickers 5-0 on Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex, the worst home defeat in team history. The City Islanders enter the week tied with Cincinnati for fifth place in the USL Second Division table.

The Kickers (10-2-2, 32) only outshot Harrisburg 12-10 but were deadly efficient on the attack all night. Midfielder Sascha Gorres scored twice, forward Robert Ssejjemba (the league’s leading scorer) added a goal, and midfielder Chris Carrieri bagged a goal and three assists.

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:
Tues., July 11, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Wed., July 12, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Thurs., July 13, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Fri., July 14, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Sat., July 15, City Islanders vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Skyline Sports Complex, 7:05 p.m.

The City Islanders have an ideal chance to recover from Saturday’s loss this week, hosting their cross state rival Pittsburgh Riverhounds this Saturday, July 15, at Skyline Sports Complex. Kickoff will be 7:05 p.m.

Harrisburg has gone 0-1-2 against the ‘Hounds this year. The most recent match between the clubs, on June 30 in Pittsburgh, resulted in a 2-0 Riverhounds win.

After Saturday, Harrisburg will hit the road to end the month, with stops in Cincinnati (Sun., July 23, 5:00 p.m.), Wilmington (Fri., July 28, 7:30 p.m.), and Charlotte (Sat., July 29, 7:30 p.m.). They will then close out their regular season with home games against Cincinnati (Sat., Aug. 5, 7:05 p.m.) and New Hampshire (Fri., Aug. 11, 7:05 p.m.).

City Islanders Tumble at Home
Harrisburg falls 5-0 to league-leading Richmond

(Harrisburg, PA, July 8, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders fell to the league-leading Richmond Kickers 5-0 on Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex. The City Islanders drop to 5-6-3 (18 points) with the worst home defeat in their history.

The Kickers (10-2-2, 32) were deadly efficient in their attack all night (and in fact only outshot Harrisburg 12-10). In just the second minute, the league’s leading scorer, forward Robert Ssejjemba, broke in from the right wing and rolled the ball into the slot for a simple Chris Carrieri tap-in and an instant 1-0 lead.

In the 15th minute, a seemingly innocuous situation turned into Richmond’s second goal, when Carrieri played the ball from the left wing back towards the middle, where Sascha Gorres promptly arced a gorgeous 35-yard shot over unsuspecting Harrisburg keeper Dave Kern (2 saves). The Kickers had scored on their first two shots of the game.

For the next 40 minutes, the City Islanders showed every sign of getting themselves back into the match, putting the clamps on Richmond’s attack and finding some chances of their own. The best of those came from captain Derek Potteiger, who poked a shot wide from the top of the area in the 34th minute and beat screened Richmond keeper Ronnie Pascale with a beautiful left-footed drive in the 35th minute only to have it ring off the left post. It was 2-0 at the half.

Harrisburg carried their new-found intensity over into the second stanza, and halftime sub Sumed Ibrahim was involved in two chances right off the whistle: in the 46th minute he pushed a David Schofield cross wide, and in the 49th minute he chested the ball down for Derek Potteiger, who sent his volley high. After Jamel Mitchell headed high a long Justin Sadler service in the 54th minute, Richmond struck again.

The Kickers unleashed another clinical counterattack, once again finding Carrieri down the left wing. Carrieri found Ssejjemba in the middle of the area, and the lethal finisher made one move before slotting the ball away for a 3-0 lead.

Four minutes later, Gorres bagged his second goal of the evening, once again courtesy of Carrieri (who finished his night with five points). Michael Burke put the finishing touch on Richmond’s win with the evening’s final goal, in the 74th minute.

Notes: The City Islanders are back home to face the Pittsburgh Riverhounds next Saturday, July 15. Kickoff at Skyline will be 7:05 p.m.

Richmond 5, Harrisburg 0
Richmond 2-3=5
Harrisburg 0-0=0
Scoring: RIC Chris Carrieri 3 (Robert Ssejjemba) 2’, RIC Sascha Gorres 1 (Carrieri) 15’, RIC Ssejjemba 11 (Carrieri), RIC Gorres 2 (Carrieri) 58’, RIC Michael Burke 6 (Matt Watson) 74’
Shots: RIC 12, HAR 10
Corners: RIC 2, HAR 2
Fouls: RIC 20, HAR 15
Cautions: HAR Mo Oduor 17’, HAR J.T. Dorsey 85’
Goalkeepers: RIC Ronnie Pascale W, 9-2-2 (2 saves); HAR Dave Kern L, 3-4-2 (2 saves)
Lineups: RIC Ronnie Pascale (Steve Ankiel 84), Kevin Jones, Trevor McEachron, Tony Williams, Kevin Knight, Ray Goodlet (Steven Wolfe 64), Matt Watson (Brian Morris 75), Michael Burke (Cecil Lewis 75), Sascha Gorres, Chris Carrieri, Robert Ssejjemba (Cristian Neagu 55), HAR Dave Kern, Justin Sadler (Haven Bruce 77), J.T. Dorsey, Dustin Bixler, David Schofield, David McClellan (Matt Tanzini 55), Chris Morman, Mo Oduor (Sumed Ibrahim 45), Adam Clay (Jamel Mitchell 45), Derek Potteiger, Jim Stevens (Steve Fisher 66)
Attendance: 1,237

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, July 3, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders split a pair of road games over the weekend, falling 2-0 to the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Friday night and blasting the Cincinnati Kings 5-1 on Sunday afternoon.

Harrisburg’s offense struggled against the ‘Hounds on Friday, and goals from David Flavius and Jason Kutney proved plenty enough for a Pittsburgh win. The City Islanders fell to 0-1-2 against Pittsburgh this year.

But the City Islanders were simply brilliant on Sunday against the Kings, getting goals from five different players in their highest-scoring performance since last July 30. Jim Stevens, the 6’7” rookie out of Lehigh making his first start, scored in just the second minute, and Adam Clay, Justin Sadler, David McClellan, and Jamel Mitchell followed with strikes of their own. Cincinnati’s lone goal came in the 45th minute, when Clay inadvertently played the ball into his own net.

MCCLELLAN, SADLER NAMED TO TEAM OF THE WEEK:
Two City Islanders rookies – forward David McClellan and defender Justin Sadler – were named to the USL-2 Team of the Week for Week 11, the league announced on Monday.

McClellan (top right) earns his third weekly nod (including a Player of the Week award on June 5) after recording a goal and an assist in just 23 minutes of action on Sunday against the Kings. After replacing fellow rookie Stevens in the 67th minute, the reigning Division III Player of the Year out of Messiah scored in the 75th and set up Jamel Mitchell for the final goal of the day just a minute later. McClellan ranks second on the team with 4 goals and 9 points.

Sadler (bottom right) is on his second Team of the Week this season. Not only did he play solid defense at the left back position in both games, the former Cumberland Valley High School star also converted a penalty kick against the Kings for his first pro goal. Sadler has now started seven of Harrisburg’s last eight games.

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:
Tues., July 4, Off
Wed., July 5, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Thurs., July 6, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Fri., July 7, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Sat., July 8, City Islanders vs. Richmond Kickers, Skyline Sports Complex, 7:05 p.m.

The City Islanders return home this Saturday, July 8, to host the league-leading Richmond Kickers (9-2-2, 29 points). Game time at Skyline Sports Complex will be 7:05 p.m.

The Kickers – finalists in the USL First Division a year ago – took the first meeting between these two teams in Richmond on May 14 by a 5-2 score. Five different players scored for the Kickers in the game, while Harrisburg got goals from Jamel Mitchell and Matt Tanzini. Richmond is coming off a 3-0 loss in Wilmington on July 1, a defeat that snapped the team’s 11-game unbeaten streak. This will be the final meeting of the season between the clubs.

The City Islanders will host the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday, July 15 (7:05 p.m.) before embarking on a three-game road trip to end the month.

City Islanders Win Big in Cincinnati
Five different players score in 5-1 Harrisburg victory

(Cincinnati, OH, July 2, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders wrapped up their weekend road trip with their most impressive win of the season, overwhelming the Cincinnati Kings 5-1 on Sunday afternoon at Xavier University Soccer Complex.

Five different players scored for Harrisburg and Dave Kern made five saves for the win in goal.

With their highest offensive output since last July 30, the City Islanders improve to 5-5-3 (18 points) and slide past both Cincinnati (4-5-3, 15) and Pittsburgh (4-2-5, 17) into fourth place in the USL Second Division standings. The win sets the stage for a big match against the league-leading Richmond Kickers (9-2-2, 29) at Skyline Sports Complex this Saturday, July 8 (7:05 p.m.)

Eager to redeem themselves after a disappointing 2-0 loss in Pittsburgh on Friday night, the City Islanders took a 1-0 lead in just the second minute of the match when Jim Stevens, a 6’7” rookie forward out of Lehigh (right) making his first pro start, headed home a Ryan O’Neill service.

Midfielder Adam Clay gave Harrisburg a 2-0 lead in the 39th minute, converting a Derek Potteiger feed, but also factored in Cincinnati’s lone goal of the afternoon in the 45th minute, when he inadvertently put the ball past his own keeper for a 2-1 score.

Harrisburg continued to pour on the goals in the second half, beginning in the 52nd minute when Justin Sadler (the former Cumberland Valley High School star, below right) converted a penalty kick for his first pro goal.

The City Islanders put the finishing touches on the game with a two-minute, two-goal flurry revolving around rookie forward David McClellan, who replaced Stevens in the 67th minute. At the 75-minute mark, McClellan scored his fourth goal of the season, and just one minute later, the Messiah grad fed Jamel Mitchell for the day’s final goal.

Notes: Harrisburg had scored five or more goals in a game five times previously, the most recent being a 7-0 thrashing of Northern Virginia on July 30, 2005…Cincinnati outshot Harrisburg 20-13, including 10-5 in the first half…The City Islanders were without midfielder Teofore Bennett, who has traveled to Sweden for a tryout with a First Division club.

Harrisburg 5, Cincinnati 1
Harrisburg 2-3=5
Cincinnati 1-0=1
Scoring: HAR Jim Stevens 2 (Ryan O’Neill) 2’, HAR Adam Clay 2 (Derek Potteiger) 39’, CIN Own goal 45’, HAR Justin Sadler 1 (penalty kick) 54’, HAR David McClellan 4 (Matt Tanzini) 75’, HAR Jamel Mitchell 6 (David McClellan) 76’
Shots: HAR 13, CIN 20
Corners: HAR 1, CIN 6
Fouls: HAR 15, CIN 16
Cautions: HAR Dave Kern 22’, HAR J.T. Dorsey 40’, CIN Jordan James 52’, HAR Dustin Bixler 57’, CIN Tiest Sondaal 72’
Goalkeepers: HAR Dave Kern W, 3-3-2 (5 saves); CIN Jordan James L, 4-4-3 (7 saves)
Lineups: HAR Dave Kern, Justin Sadler, J.T. Dorsey (Mo Oduor 77), Dustin Bixler, Ryan O’Neill, Steve Fisher, Chris Morman, Derek Potteiger, Adam Clay (Haven Bruce 79), Carlos Morales (Jamel Mitchell 38), Jim Stevens (David McClellan 67); CIN Jordan James, Jon Pickup (Travis Sobers 80), Josh Barton, Tiest Sondaal, Derek Smith (Wes Schulte 33), Jeff Hughes (Jack Cummings 61), John Caldwell (Sam Fiore 75), Trey Alexander, Kevin McCloskey, Mike McGinlay, Nowaf Jaman
Attendance: 961

City Islanders Fall 2-0 in Pittsburgh
Four-game unbeaten streak ends; Harrisburg at Cincinnati on Sunday

(Washington, PA, June 30, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders dropped a 2-0 decision to the Pittsburgh Riverhounds at Falconi Field on Friday night, falling to 4-5-3 (15 points) on the season. The loss also put an end to the team’s four-game unbeaten streak.

The Riverhounds (3-2-5, 14 points) took a 1-0 lead in the fifth minute when David Flavius deposited a Cody Bragg corner kick past losing keeper Dave Kern (4 saves).

Unable to crack an efficient Pittsburgh defense and goalkeeper Terry McNelis (2 saves), Harrisburg tried to find a way back into the game for the next 70 minutes. But the hosts sealed the win in the 73rd minute on a rocket from midfielder Jason Kutney.

The City Islanders complete their two-game weekend road trip on Sunday, July 2, in Cincinnati against the Kings. Kickoff at Xavier University will be 5:00 p.m.

Notes: City Islanders midfielder and Jamaican National Team member Teofore Bennett will depart for Sweden to try out with a First Division club on Sunday and will not travel with the team to Cincinnati…The Riverhounds took the lead in the season series with Harrisburg; the clubs had tied in both of their previous matches this year.

Pittsburgh 2, Harrisburg 0
Harrisburg 0-0=0
Pittsburgh 1-1=2
Scoring: PIT David Flavius 2 (Cody Bragg) 5’, PIT Jason Kutney 2 (Leon Browne) 73’
Shots: HAR 12, PIT 15
Corners: HAR 4, PIT 2
Fouls: HAR 11, PIT 12
Cautions: PIT Jason Kutney 30’, PIT Dan Hartung 45’, PIT Romain Cherulin 66’, HAR J.T. Dorsey 74’
Goalkeepers: HAR Dave Kern L, 2-3-2 (4 saves); PIT Terry McNelis W, 2-3-1 (2 saves)
Lineups: HAR Dave Kern, Justin Sadler, Dustin Bixler, J.T. Dorsey (Haven Bruce 76), Ryan O’Neill, Matt Tanzini, Chris Morman, Derek Potteiger (Adam Clay 76), Jamel Mitchell, Sumed Ibrahim (Steve Fisher 64), David McClellan (Teofore Bennett 41), PIT Terry McNelis, Matt Mehler, Cody Bragg, Nathan Salsi, Greg Chevalier, Jason Kutney (Derek MacKenzie 76), Gabe Bernstein, Steve Mellor (Tyler Suffron 83), Dan Hartung, David Flavius (Leon Browne 69), Mike Apple (Romain Cherulin 60)
Attendance: 2,058

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, June 26, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
Last week, the Harrisburg City Islanders posted consecutive wins for the first time this season, defeating the defending champion Charlotte Eagles 3-1 on Wednesday, June 21, at Skyline Sports Complex and earning a 1-0 road win over the Long Island Rough Riders on Saturday, June 24.

As a result, Harrisburg enters the week with a 4-4-3 record (15 points), tied for fourth place in the USL Second Division. The City Islanders are unbeaten in four games (2-0-2).

Last Wednesday, the City Islanders scored three unanswered goals en route to their win over Charlotte. Sumed Ibrahim, Adam Clay, and a Charlotte own goal were enough for Dave Kern (three saves) to record his first win of the year in net.

Jamel Mitchell scored the only goal of the game on Saturday night and Kern made a pair of saves for his first shutout. The win was Harrisburg’s second straight on the road.

The goal was the fifth of the year for Mitchell, who is now tied for second in the league in that category. He is also the circuit’s third-leading scorer with 11 points.

BIXLER NAMED TO TEAM OF THE WEEK:
On Monday, the league announced that defender Dustin Bixler had been named to the USL-2 Team of the Week for his defensive efforts in Harrisburg’s two wins last week.

It is the second weekly honor of the month for Bixler, a second-year starter out of local Red Land High School and Lock Haven University who was also named to the Team on June 12.

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:
Tues., June 27, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Wed., June 28, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Thurs., June 29, Travel day
Fri., June 30, City Islanders at Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Falconi Field, 7:05 p.m.
Sat., June 1, Travel day
Sun., June 2, City Islanders at Cincinnati Kings, Xavier University, 5:00 p.m.

A pair of significant road games await the City Islanders this weekend. On Friday, June 30, they head to Falconi Field in Washington, PA, to face the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, and on Sunday, July 2, they square off against the Cincinnati Kings – with whom they are tied in the standings – at Xavier University.

The City Islanders and Riverhounds battled to a 2-2 tie at Falconi Field on May 5. After falling behind 2-0, Teofore Bennett and Jamel Mitchell posted second-half goals to lead the City Islanders back. On May 27, Harrisburg keeper Sam Bishop recorded his first pro shutout as the clubs played to a 0-0 tie at Skyline.

Pittsburgh enters the week at 2-2-5 (11 points), four points behind the City Islanders in the standings. The clubs will meet once more following Friday’s match, on July 15 at Skyline.

The Kings (4-3-3, 15) ruined Harrisburg’s home opener on Saturday, April 29, winning 2-0 behind a pair of goals from midfielder Jeff Hughes. Though after Saturday the clubs will play twice more, (July 23 in Cincinnati, August 5 at Skyline), the City Islanders would clearly prefer not to fall behind 2-0 in this potentially vital season series.

City Islanders Win Second Straight in Long Island
Jamel Mitchell scores lone goal in 1-0 Harrisburg win

(Harrisburg, PA, June 24, 2006) - Jamel Mitchell scored the only goal of the night and Dave Kern posted his first shutout of the year as the Harrisburg City Islanders earned their second straight win on Saturday night, downing the Long Island Rough Riders 1-0.

The City Islanders, now unbeaten in their last four games (2-0-2), improve to 4-4-3 overall.

Mitchell's fifth goal of the season - unassisted in the 74th minute - was all the scoring Harrisburg would need, thanks to another solid defensive outing.

The City Islanders remain on the road for their next two games: at Pittsburgh on Friday, June 30 (7:05 p.m.), and at Cincinnati on Sunday, July 2 (5:00 p.m.). Harrisburg’s next home game will be on Saturday, July 8, against Richmond (7:05 p.m.).

Harrisburg 1, Long Island 0
Harrisburg 0-1=1
Long Island 0-0=0
Scoring: HAR Jamel Mitchell 5 (UA) 74’
Shots: HAR 13; LI 8
Corners: HAR 5; LI 2
Fouls: HAR 15; LI 15
Cautions: LI Gary Sullivan 32’, Fausto Klinger 72, Matt Tanzini 80’, Justin Sadler 85’, Ruben Diaz 90’
Goalkeepers: HAR Dave Kern W, 2-2-2 (2 saves); LI Eric Masters L, 0-4-2 (7 saves)
Lineups: HAR Dave Kern, Dustin Bixler, Justin Sadler, David Schofield (Jim Stevens 89), J.T. Dorsey, Steve Fisher (Jamel Mitchell 45), Chris Morman, Matt Tanzini, Derek Potteiger (Mo Oduor 88), Adam Clay (Teofore Bennett 62), Sumed Ibrahim (David McClellan 80); LI Eric Masters, Rich Bradley, Gary Sullivan, Paul Robson, Ruben Diaz, Lee Snodin (Fabio Bianchi 64), Anthony Barbiero (Ricardo Ordain 56), Douglas Narvaez (Darrell Etienne 69), Fausto Klinger, Moussa Sy, Chris Megaloutis (Derrick Etienne 73)
Attendance: 1,947

City Islanders Top Defending Champs
Harrisburg downs Charlotte 3-1 at Skyline

(Harrisburg, PA, June 21, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders (3-4-3, 12 points) scored three unanswered goals en route to a 3-1 win over the defending USL-2 champion Charlotte Eagles in front of 1,247 fans at Skyline Sports Complex on Wednesday night. Sumed Ibrahim and Adam Clay scored for the City Islanders (who also received a Charlotte own goal), and Dave Kern made three saves in goal for the win.

A fantastic all-around effort eventually carried Harrisburg to a well-deserved win, but early on the Eagles were in control. In just the 6th minute of the match, midfielder Adam Ruud gave the Eagles a 1-0 lead, taking a Chris Klotz feed and popping the ball over Kern from the left wing.

With a deliberate, measured passing game, the Eagles (4-3-4, 16) proceeded to frustrate the City Islanders for much of the next half hour. Charlotte could have taken a 2-0 lead in the 21st minute, but Kern got his hands up to make a fine save on a Casey Barton header which followed a corner kick scramble.

Close to the 40-minute mark, though, the City Islanders began to click. In the 37th minute, a David Schofield cross found the Sumed’s head at the left post, but keeper Dan Benton (3 saves) was there to tip it high. Just two minutes later, following some more Harrisburg pressure in the offensive third, the game was tied thanks to a Charlotte miscue. A Schofield corner sailed across the goalmouth and onto the head of defender Aaron Faro, who inadvertently put the ball into his own net, and the City Islanders officially had new life.

The second-half deployment of leading scorer Jamel Mitchell on the right wing (coupled with the shift of Schofield, normally a flanking midfielder, to the back) added to Harrisburg’s rising energy level. Still, disregarding a Matt Tanzini volley which whistled high in the 46th minute, it was the Eagles who had the best chances to take the lead right after the break. They could have done so three times: in the 49th minute, a Clay Roberts effort hit the crossbar and bounced out; in the 50th minute, Dustin Swinehart missed high on a quality look at the right side of the box; and at the 52-minute mark, Kern came up huge to parry a Swinehart blast from the right wing.

The City Islanders’ re-tooled right wing created Harrisburg’s second goal in the 57th minute. Schofield and Mitchell worked a give-and-go that sprang Mitchell into space, and the veteran speedster played a low cross that found its way to Tanzini, who quickly launched a big left-footed drive. Sumed was on the spot in the goalmouth to put it away, and Harrisburg led 2-1.

Charlotte’s final dangerous chance came in the 62nd minute, when Taurai Daka worked his way around Kern and squeezed off a shot, only to be denied by the tandem of J.T. Dorsey and Dustin Bixler, both of whom were protecting the vacant goalmouth.

After Mitchell had a near-post blast saved by Benton in the 73rd minute, Clay put the game out of reach. The second-year Bloomsburg man, being used as a forward for the first time, capped off a hard working night by grabbing an Eagles turnover, pushing his way around the onrushing Benton, and trickling a shot into the lower right corner of the net for his first goal of the year.

Notes: Kern’s win is his first of the season…Midfielder Steve Fisher, who has been sidelined by an ankle injury, made his first appearance since May 20…The City Islanders are on the road for their next three games: this Saturday, June 24, at Long Island (7:30 p.m.); Friday, June 30, at Pittsburgh; and Sunday, July 2, at Cincinnati (5:00 p.m.). The team’s next home game will be on Saturday, July 8, against Richmond (7:05 p.m.).

Harrisburg 3, Charlotte 1
Charlotte 1-0=1
Harrisburg 1-2=3
Scoring: CHE Adam Ruud 2 (Chris Klotz) 6’, HAR Own goal 38’, HAR Sumed Ibrahim 2 (Matt Tanzini) 57’, HAR Adam Clay 1 (UA) 76’
Shots: CHE 13, HAR 14
Corners: CHE 6, HAR 3
Fouls: CHE 10, HAR 17
Cautions: CHE Casey Barton 8’, HAR Chris Morman 48’
Goalkeepers: CHE Dan Benton L, 1-1-0 (3 saves); HAR Dave Kern W, 1-2-2 (3 saves)
Lineups: CHE Dan Benton, Aaron Faro (Ben Johnson 62), Gregg Schroeder, Casey Barton (Sam Casey 73), Ben Meek, Clay Roberts, Joseph Kabwe, Adam Ruud (Andy Guastaferro 65), Chris Klotz (Ross Spencer 65), Dustin Swinehart (Chris Lemons 75), Taurai Daka; HAR Dave Kern, Justin Sadler, J.T. Dorsey, Dustin Bixler, John Lapore (Jamel Mitchell 45), Matt Tanzini (Carlos Morales 78), Chris Morman, Derek Potteiger, David Schofield, Sumed Ibrahim (Steve Fisher 69), Adam Clay
Attendance: 1,247

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, June 19, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders (2-4-3, 9 points) fought the Wilmington Hammerheads to a 2-2 tie at scorching Skyline Sports Complex on Sunday afternoon. Rookies David McClellan (Messiah) and Jim Stevens (Lehigh) scored for Harrisburg, and Dave Kern made six saves in goal.

McClellan gave the City Islanders an early 1-0 lead with his third goal of the season in the 19th minute. Just three minutes later, Wilmington’s Martyn Lancaster answered for a 1-1 tie. Over 50 minutes elapsed before Harrisburg reclaimed the lead, with Stevens notching his first pro goal in the 75th minute. The Hammerheads – down to nine men after the ejections of two players – got the tying goal with five minutes left in regulation, courtesy of Thabiso “Boyzzz” Khumalo.

On Monday, McClellan (right) was named to the USL Second Division Team of the Week for his typically blue collar effort. In addition to his goal, he was involved in both of Wilmington’s ejections: he was pulled down by Paul Chase on an apparent breakaway in the 50th minute, and cleated in the face by Devlin Barnes in the 70th. This is the second weekly nod of the season for McClellan, who won Player of the Week on June 5.

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:

Tues., June 20, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Wed., June 21, City Islanders vs. Charlotte Eagles, Skyline Sports Complex, 7:05 p.m.
Thurs., June 22, Training, “In The Net,” 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Fri., June 23, Travel day
Sat., June 24, City Islanders at Long Island Rough Riders, Mitchel Athletic Complex, 7:30 p.m.

The City Islanders face a busy week, beginning with a rare Wednesday night match at Skyline against the defending USL-2 champion Charlotte Eagles (4-2-4, 16 points). Kickoff will be 7:05 p.m.

The Eagles and City Islanders will be meeting for the first time this year. Harrisburg dropped both regular season games against the Eagles in 2005 (5-0 in Charlotte on April 30 and 3-1 at home on May 7). Charlotte then knocked the City Islanders out of the USL-2 playoffs in a two-leg, aggregate score series, recovering from a thrilling 1-0 Harrisburg victory at Skyline in Game One to take Game Two 4-1 in overtime.

The City Islanders then head to Long Island to face the Rough Riders (0-5-3, 3 points) this Saturday, June 24 at 7:30 p.m. Harrisburg earned its first win of the season against the Rough Riders on June 3, rolling to a 3-0 victory at Skyline. Saturday’s match will conclude the season series between the clubs.

City Islanders, Wilmington Tie at Skyline
McClellan and Stevens score for Harrisburg

(Harrisburg, PA, June 18, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders fought the Wilmington Hammerheads to a 2-2 tie at scorching Skyline Sports Complex on Sunday afternoon. With the tie, the City Islanders move to 2-4-3 (9 points) on the season. Rookies David McClellan (Messiah) and Jim Stevens (Lehigh) scored for Harrisburg, and Dave Kern made six saves in goal.

The afternoon started well for Harrisburg, as the hosts took a 1-0 lead in just the 19th minute. Defender Dustin Bixler sailed a ball over the middle of Wilmington’s defense looking for a running David Schofield, and goalkeeper Bart Creasman (2 saves) was forced to leave his line to make the clearance. Fortunately for Harrisburg, the ball fell squarely on the right foot of McClellan (top right); the rookie out of Messiah rolled the ball into an empty net from 25 yards out.

The Hammerheads (2-3-4, 10 points) were quick to respond. A hard tackle from Harrisburg’s Chris Morman in the 22nd minute resulted in a yellow card for Morman and a dangerous free kick for Wilmington, some 30 yards out on the left wing. Defender Paul Chase bent the ball onto the head of Martyn Lancaster, who whistled it past Kern for a 1-1 tie.

The score stayed tied for over 50 minutes as the clubs battled each other and a heat index that soared near 100. Before halftime, Harrisburg nearly reclaimed the lead twice: in the 29th minute when Morman popped a Schofield free kick wide, and in the 45th minute when both McClellan and Sumed Ibrahim had close shots blocked by Hammers defenders.

In the 50th minute, Chase pulled down McClellan as he started on a breakaway, drawing a red card and leaving Wilmington a man down. With the advantage, Harrisburg looked to press the attack, but aside from a give-and-go between Teofore Bennett and John Lapore that yielded a high shot in the 59th minute, Wilmington had the better of the chances. One of them – a 66th-minute effort from the right flank by Thabiso “Boyzzz” Khumalo – forced Kern, making his first start since May 20, to make a sprawling save.

The City Islanders found themselves up two men in the 70th minute, when defender Devlin Barnes was sent off for going in with his cleats up and catching McClellan in the face. The additional space paid dividends for Harrisburg in the 75th minute, when Jamel Mitchell ran under a long clearance down the right wing, turned on the afterburners, and came free before sliding the ball across for Stevens (bottom right), who calmly slotted home his first professional goal for a 2-1 lead.

But even with only nine men, the Hammerheads had enough gas left in the tank for a late goal. In the 85th minute, forward Jodie Hughes sprang Khumalo down the left, and Khumalo found himself enough room to fire off a drive that eluded Kern and tied the match.

Harrisburg had one final chance in stoppage time, when Mitchell got his head on a Schofield corner kick, but the ball landed safely in Creasman’s gloves.

Notes: The City Islanders return to action on Wednesday, June 21, against the defending champion Charlotte Eagles. Kickoff at Skyline will be 7:05 p.m.

Harrisburg 2, Wilmington 2
Wilmington 1-1=2
Harrisburg 1-1=2
Scoring: HAR David McClellan 3 (UA) 19’, WLM Martyn Lancaster 1 (Paul Chase) 22’, HAR Jim Stevens 1 (Jamel Mitchell) 75’, WLM Thabiso Khumalo 1 (Jodie Hughes) 85’
Shots: WLM 12, HAR 12
Corners: WLM 3, HAR 4
Fouls: WLM 10, HAR 10
Cautions: HAR Chris Morman 22’, WLM Montae Seabrook 49’, WLM Paul Chase (ejection) 50’, WLM Brady Bryant 61’, WLM Devlin Barnes (ejection) 70’, WLM Thabiso Khumalo 85’
Goalkeepers: WLM Bart Creasman T, 2-3-4 (2 saves); HAR Dave Kern T, 0-2-2 (6 saves)
Lineups: WLM Bart Creasman, Devlin Barnes, Brady Bryant, Kevin Nylen (Montae Seabrook 45), Paul Chase, Thabiso Khumalo, Kenny Bundy, Martyn Lancaster, Derek Popovich (Chris Riley 78), Junior Zarate (Jodie Hughes 54), Phil Hufstader (John Krause 65); HAR Dave Kern, Matt Tanzini (Justin Sadler 60), J.T. Dorsey, Dustin Bixler, John Lapore, David Schofield, Chris Morman (Jamel Mitchell 63), Derek Potteiger (Mo Oduor 85), Teofore Bennett (Haven Bruce 67), Sumed Ibrahim, David McClellan (Jim Stevens 72)
Attendance: 822

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, June 12, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders (2-4-2, 8 points) split a pair of road games over the weekend, dropping a 2-1 decision to the New Hampshire Phantoms on Friday night and prevailing 1-0 over the Western Mass Pioneers on Saturday.

On Friday, Jamel Mitchell’s goal in the 74th minute tied the contest at 1-1, but Phantoms forward Tomas Sczypiorski put his team back in front to stay just six minutes later. Tom McNeil accounted for New Hampshire’s first score. Sam Bishop took the loss in goal for Harrisburg, making five saves. The Pioneers will make their lone visit to Skyline Sports Complex this year on August 11, Harrisburg’s regular season finale.

Rookie midfielder Carlos Morales scored the City Islanders’ lone goal on Saturday, lifting the club to a much-needed victory over the Pioneers. Morales’ score came in the 36th minute. Bishop made six saves en route to his third shutout in four starts.

BIXLER, MORALES ON TEAM OF THE WEEK:
Two City Islanders – defender Dustin Bixler (left) and midfielder Carlos Morales (right) – are included in the USL-2 Team of the Week for Week 8, it was announced on Monday. It is the first such honor of the year for both players.

Bixler, a former star at Red Land High School and Lock Haven University, was solid in both weekend contests. The 23-year-old, who won a starting job as a rookie last year, has been a large factor in the recent success of a Harrisburg defense that has posted shutouts in three of four games.

Morales, 23, marked his first professional start with the game-winning goal on Saturday night, allowing the City Islanders to return home with three crucial points.

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:
Tues., June 13, Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Wed., June 14, Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Thurs., June 15, Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Fri., June 16, Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Sat., June 17, Training TBA
Sun., June 18, City Islanders vs. Wilmington Hammerheads
Skyline Sports Complex, 3:05 p.m.

The seventh-place City Islanders return home for a meaningful matinee this Sunday, June 18, against the sixth-place Wilmington Hammerheads (2-3-3, 9 points). Kickoff will be 3:05 p.m.

Harrisburg went 1-1-0 against the Hammerheads in 2005, dropping a 2-1 decision on April 29 in Wilmington and earned a 2-0 win at Skyline on July 9. The clubs will meet in Wilmington on July 28.

The City Islanders remain at home to host the Charlotte Eagles next Wednesday, June 21. Kickoff is set for 7:05 p.m.

ODDS AND ENDS:
- Midfielder Adam Clay was red-carded in the 85th minute on Saturday night; he will miss this Sunday’s game.

- Jamel Mitchell scored his fourth goal of the year on Friday night. The veteran is now tied for second in the league in goals and tied for fifth with eight points.

- Midfielder David Schofield, a Second Team All-League pick last season, recorded his first point of the year with an assist on Mitchell’s goal on Friday. Schofield, who has battled injury this summer, made his first start on Saturday.

- Rookie Justin Sadler, a Cumberland Valley High School product, notched his first professional point with an assist on Morales’ goal against Western Mass. Sadler has started and played every minute of the club’s last three games.

- Sam Bishop is now tied for third in the league with three shutouts.

City Islanders Down Western Mass, 1-0
First pro goal from Carlos Morales lifts Harrisburg to road win

(Ludlow, MA, June 10, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders completed their weekend road trip in winning fashion, defeating the Western Mass Pioneers by the score of 1-0 behind a first-half goal from rookie Carlos Morales and a six-save shutout from goalkeeper Sam Bishop at Lusitano Stadium.

With their first road win of the year, the City Islanders improve to 2-4-2 (8 points).

The 23-year-old Morales (pictured), making his first start, produced his first professional goal in the 36th minute. Fellow rookie Justin Sadler, a Cumberland Valley High School product in the starting eleven for the third straight outing, also recorded his first pro point on the score, providing the assist.

Bishop and the Harrisburg defense did the rest, recording their third shutout in four games despite being outshot 15-9 by the Pioneers (including 7-2 in the second half).

Notes:City Islanders midfielder Adam Clay received his second yellow card and was ejected in the 85th minute. Dustin Bixler, John Lapore, and Derek Potteiger also received yellows in a physical game that produced a combined 33 fouls…The City Islanders return home to host the Wilmington Hammerheads this Sunday, June 18, at Skyline Sports Complex (3:05 p.m. kickoff). Harrisburg will then entertain the Charlotte Eagles next Wednesday, June 21 (7:05 p.m.).

Harrisburg 1, Western Mass 0
Harrisburg 1-0=1
Western Mass 0-0=0
Scoring: HAR Carlos Morales 1 (Justin Sadler) 36’
Shots: HAR 9, WMA 15
Corners: HAR 2, WMA 2
Fouls: HAR 18, WMA 15
Cautions: HAR Dustin Bixler 8’, HAR Adam Clay 40’, HAR John Lapore 53’, HAR Derek Potteiger 66’, WMA Frederico Molinari 85’, HAR Adam Clay (ejection) 85’
Goalkeepers: HAR Sam Bishop W, 2-2-1 (6 saves); WMA Josh Cole L, 2-4-1 (4 saves)
Lineups: HAR Sam Bishop, Dustin Bixler, J.T. Dorsey, John Lapore, Justin Sadler, David Schofield (Jim Stevens 73), Derek Potteiger (Chris Morman 80), Adam Clay, Teofore Bennett (Haven Bruce 85), Carlos Morales (Matt Tanzini 60), David McClellan (Jamel Mitchell 89); WMA Josh Cole, Frederico Molinari, John Cook, Tony Fernandes, Jay Willis, Anthony Augustine, Everson Maciel, Dennis Fenemore (Jeff Deren 54), Omar McFarlane (Vadim Ivanyuschenko), Kyle Teixeira, Neil Krause

City Islanders Fall 2-1 in New Hampshire
Club wraps up road trip tomorrow against Western Mass

(Manchester, NH, June 9, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders dropped the first leg of their two-game weekend road trip on Friday, losing to the New Hampshire Phantoms by the score of 2-1 at Larkin Field on the campus of Southern New Hampshire University.

Jamel Mitchell scored Harrisburg’s goal, and Sam Bishop (5 saves) took the loss in net. The City Islanders, who now head to Ludlow, MA, to face the Western Mass Pioneers (Saturday, 7:30 p.m.), fall to 1-4-2 (5 points) on the season.

After a scoreless first half, New Hampshire’s Tom McNeil (unassisted) accounted for the game’s first goal, giving the Phantoms the lead in the 59th minute.

Mitchell (below right) tied the contest in the 74th minute with his team-leading fourth goal. The veteran striker, who had missed a penalty kick in the 52nd minute, put home a David Schofield service.

But just six minutes later, the Phantoms snagged the game-winner, as second-half sub Tomas Sczypiorski beat Bishop for the night’s final goal.

Notes: Schofield, a Second Team All-League selection in 2005, recorded his first point of the year when he set up Mitchell’s goal…Midfielder Teofore Bennett, who appeared for the Jamaican National Team in a friendly against England on June 3, returned to Harrisburg’s lineup, replacing Sumed Ibrahim in the second half.

New Hampshire 2, Harrisburg 1
Harrisburg 0-1=1
New Hampshire 1-1=2
Scoring: NH Tom McNeil 1 59’, HAR Jamel Mitchell 4 (David Schofield) 74’, NH Tomas Sczypiorski 1 (Val Teixeira) 80
Shots: HAR 8, NH 6
Corners: HAR 4, NH 3
Fouls: HAR 16, NH 16
Cautions: NH Almir Barbosa 55’, NH Narciso Fernandes 57’, NH Greg Stewart 73’, NH Greg Stewart (ejection) 88’
Goalkeepers: HAR Sam Bishop L, 1-2-1 (5 saves); NH Matt Parsons W, 4-1-0 (4 saves)
Lineups: HAR Sam Bishop, Justin Sadler, J.T. Dorsey (Jim Stevens 81), Dustin Bixler, John Lapore, Matt Tanzini, Chris Morman (Adam Clay 63), Derek Potteiger, Jamel Mitchell, Sumed Ibrahim (Teofore Bennett 63), David McClellan (David Schofield 45); NH Matt Parsons, Dave Evans, Marc Hubbard, Jason Karalexis, Greg Stewart, Manny Brito (Tyler Jackson 70), Tom Heimreid (Tony D’Angelo 70), Romelle Burgess, Tom McNeil (Nick Tornaritis 82), Almir Barbosa (Val Teixeira 31), Narciso Fernandes (Tomas Sczypiorski 82)
Attendance: 315

City Islanders Team Up with Deloitte to Make Impact

(Harrisburg, PA, June 8, 2006) – Several Harrisburg City Islanders players will participate in “IMPACT Day,” a national day of community service conducted by Deloitte & Touche USA LLP this Friday, June 9.

City Islander players will join Deloitte employees as they work to enhance and beautify areas of City Island by painting and staining decks and railings, cleaning bleachers, clearing weeds, and general cleanup. The event will take place, rain or shine, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. City Islanders will attend from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

IMPACT Day encourages all of Deloitte’s 34,000 employees to set aside work to participate in more than 500 hands-on projects in 140 locations. In Harrisburg, Deloitte is helping non-profits and the City of Harrisburg “nail down” pressing needs otherwise difficult to fund.  Employees will ‘adopt a lot’ as part of Pennsylvania’s Weed and Seed Project, package and distribute meat products with Central Pennsylvania Food Bank and train as future disaster volunteers under the Red Cross program Ready When the Time Comes.  Services will also be provided to Caitlin’s Smiles, the Humane Society, and the Tri-County Association for the Blind.

“The City Islanders are thrilled to be able to help in this worthy cause,” said City Islanders General Manager Joe Sierko. “We are proud to have Deloitte as part of our family of corporate partners; on Friday, we will be proud to act with them as partners in our community.”

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, June 5, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders (1-3-2, 5 points) earned their first win of the season on Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex, downing the Long Island Rough Riders 3-0. Rookie forward David McClellan (Messiah) scored a goal and assisted on another, and Matt Tanzini and Jamel Mitchell added goals for Harrisburg. Goalkeeper Sam Bishop made three saves en route to his second straight shutout.

In just a 20-minute span (beginning with McClellan’s strike at the 17-minute mark), Harrisburg set a season high for goals scored.

MCCLELLAN NAMED PLAYER OF THE WEEK; SADLER, TANZINI ALSO RECOGNIZED:
David McClellan was named the USL Second Division Player of the Week for Week 7, the league announced on Monday. He is the first City Islander to earn the honor in 2006.

The rookie McClellan (pictured), who won the Division III Player of the Year Award while leading Messiah College to a national title last season, scored Harrisburg’s first goal on Saturday and later set up Jamel Mitchell for the team’s final score. McClellan is now tied for second on the team with five points (two goals, assist).

McClellan is joined on the Team of the Week by Justin Sadler and Matt Tanzini. Sadler made his first pro start on Saturday at left back and helped spearhead a defensive effort that resulted in Harrisburg’s second straight shutout. The former Cumberland Valley High School star also factored into the attack on more than one occasion, including a scintillating 64th-minute run out of the back that resulted in a shot just wide from the top of the box.

Tanzini celebrated his 30th birthday on Saturday with a vicious free kick goal in the 25th minute. His dipping blast from 30 yards out squirted through Long Island goalkeeper Michael Behonick, giving Harrisburg a 2-0 lead. It was the second goal of the year for Tanzini.

THIS WEEK'S SCHEDULE:
Tues., June 6, Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Wed., June 7, Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Thurs., June 8, Travel day (10:00 a.m. departure)
Fri., June 9, City Islanders at New Hampshire Phantoms
Larkin Field (Southern New Hampshire University), Manchester, NH, 7:30 p.m.
Travel after game
Sat., June 10, City Islanders at Western Mass Pioneers
Lusitano Stadium, Ludlow, MA, 7:30 p.m.

The City Islanders hope to continue their winning ways on a two-game road trip this weekend. This Friday, June 9, Harrisburg faces the New Hampshire Phantoms in Manchester, NH. The club then travels to Ludlow, MA, to face the Western Mass Pioneers at Lusitano Stadium on Saturday, June 10. Both games kick off at 7:30 p.m.

The Phantoms, who finished in eighth place with a 6-11-3 record in 2005, have rebounded to start 3-2-1 (10 points) this year. Harrisburg tied the Phantoms twice last year: 1-1 in New Hampshire on July 16 and 2-2 on July 23 at Skyline Sports Complex. The clubs will meet again in Harrisburg on August 11.

The Pioneers, who lost the 2005 USL-2 Championship Game to Charlotte in penalty kicks, enter the week with a 2-3-1 mark. One of those two wins came on May 20 in Harrisburg, when Everson Maciel converted a penalty kick in the 85th minute to give Western Mass a 3-2 victory. The City Islanders wasted a 2-0 lead, built on goals from McClellan and Sumed Ibrahim over the first 25 minutes of the game.

Following this weekend, Harrisburg returns to Skyline for a brief homestand that will feature visits from the Wilmington Hammerheads (Sunday, June 18, 3:05 p.m.) and Charlotte Eagles (Wednesday, June 21, 7:05 p.m.).

ODDS AND ENDS:
- City Islanders midfielder Teofore Bennett took the field for the Jamaican National Team on Saturday, playing the final 16 minutes of the Reggae Boyz’ 6-0 loss to England.

- Jim Stevens, a 6-7 rookie forward out of Lehigh, made his City Islanders debut in the 78th minute on Saturday.

- Mitchell, who assumed Harrisburg’s scoring lead, is now tied for second in the league with three goals and tied for fifth with six points.

- With the win, the City Islanders snapped a franchise record three-game home losing streak.

City Islanders Roll to First Win of Season
McClellan records goal, assist; Bishop posts second straight shutout

(Harrisburg, PA, June 3, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders (1-3-2, 5 points) earned their first win of the season in decisive fashion on Saturday night, blanking the Long Island Rough Riders (0-4-1, 1 point) 3-0 in front of a crowd of 2,046 at Skyline Sports Complex. David McClellan, a rookie out of Messiah College, registered a goal and an assist, while Matt Tanzini and Jamel Mitchell added scores for Harrisburg. Sam Bishop made three saves en route to his second straight shutout in goal.

McClellan (below right) bagged his second goal of the year in the 17th minute. Sumed Ibrahim surged forward on the dribble before neatly slipping the ball through Long Island’s backline to McClellan, who corralled it near the top of the penalty area before chipping with his left foot over losing goalkeeper Michael Behonick.

Behonick, acquired by Long Island on loan from MLS’ New York Red Bulls, is a familiar face to City Islanders fans: he played seven games for Harrisburg in 2004 while on loan from the Charleston Battery (USL-1).

Just eight minutes later, Tanzini ripped a free kick from 30 yards out straight on. The ball sailed past the Rough Riders’ wall and knuckled on Behonick, who was unable to keep it from squirming past him at the left post. Harrisburg led 2-0.

Long Island saw two quality chances go by the wayside shortly thereafter: Douglas Narvaez sent a half-volley high from the goalmouth in the 31st minute, and Bishop stood strong to smother a close Chris Megaloutis effort in the 34th minute.

Behonick was tested in the 35th minute and pushed a Derek Potteiger header wide, but he could do little to prevent Harrisburg’s third score at the 37-minute mark. Sumed worked the ball loose from a Long Island defender on the right side of the box and sent it to the middle for McClellan. McClellan turned and laid the ball off for a rushing Mitchell, and the veteran point producer hammered a left-footed shot over Behonick for his third goal of the year and a 3-0 lead.

Harrisburg’s defensive posture kept Long Island in check after the break, even after the Rough Riders threw virtually everyone into the attack. From the 44th minute (when a Ricardo Ordain header missed wide) until the 73rd minute (when Megaloutis took a pop from the 20 yards out that Bishop handled), the City Islanders held Long Island without a shot.

Notes:Rookie Justin Sadler, a product of Cumberland Valley High School, made his first pro start at left back for Harrisburg…Rookie forward Jim Stevens (Lehigh) made his City Islanders debut in the 78th minute…Long Island’s Paul Robson was red carded in the 86th minute…City Islanders midfielder Teofore Bennett played the final 14 minutes for the Jamaican National Team in the Reggae Boyz’ 6-0 friendly loss to England on Saturday; he is expected to return to the club next week…The City Islanders embark on a northern road trip next weekend, with stops in New Hampshire (Friday, June 9) and Western Mass (Saturday, June 10). Both games kick off at 7:30 p.m…Harrisburg’s next home games will be on Sunday, June 18, versus Wilmington (3:05 p.m.) and Wednesday, June 21, against Charlotte (7:05 p.m.).

Harrisburg 3, Long Island 0
Harrisburg 3-0=3
Long Island 0-0=0
Scoring: HAR David McClellan 2 (Sumed Ibrahim) 17’, HAR Matt Tanzini 2 (UA); HAR Jamel Mitchell 3 (David McClellan) 37’
Shots: LI 6, HAR 13
Corners: LI 4, HAR 7
Fouls: LI 10, HAR 12
Cautions: LI Ruben Diaz 25’, HAR Adam Clay 32’, HAR Sam Bishop 45’, LI Paul Robson (ejection) 86’
Goalkeepers: LI Michael Behonick L, 0-1-0 (4 saves); HAR Sam Bishop W, 1-1-1 (3 saves)
Lineups: LI Michael Behonick, Gary Sullivan (Darryl Etienne 66), Ruben Diaz, Paul Robson, Rob Fucci (Derrick Etienne), Fauston Klinger (Shaun Higgins 72), Rich Bradley, Douglas Narvaez, Ricardo Ordain (Frederico Bianchi 55), Moussa Sy (Anthony Barberio), Chris Megaloutis, HAR Sam Bishop, Justin Sadler, J.T. Dorsey, Dustin Bixler, John Lapore, Matt Tanzini (Jim Stevens 78), Adam Clay (Chris Morman 66), Derek Potteiger (Francesco Caruso 82), Jamel Mitchell, Sumed Ibrahim (Carlos Morales 74), David McClellan (David Schofield 62)
Attendance: 2,046

City Isles, Pittsburgh Battle to Scoreless Draw
Bishop records first pro shutout

(Harrisburg, PA, May 27, 2006) - Thanks to a tight defensive effort and a fine outing from goalkeeper Sam Bishop (below right), the Harrisburg City Islanders (0-3-2, 2 points) earned a hard-fought point with a scoreless tie against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex.

Bishop made four saves, all in the first half, to record his first pro clean sheet. The second-year man out of Lehigh benefited from a nice team defensive performance, with the backline quartet of Ryan O’Neill, Dustin Bixler, J.T. Dorsey, and John Lapore leading the way in shutting down a capable Pittsburgh attack.

Rookie midfielder Justin Sadler (Cumberland Valley High School) made his regular season debut for Harrisburg, replacing David McClellan for the final 31 minutes. Carlos Morales, another rookie midfielder, also took the field for the first time. Francesco Caruso (Lancaster Catholic High) appeared at Skyline for the first time.

The City Islanders complete wrap up a three-game homestand next Saturday, June 3 against the Long Island Rough Riders (0-3-1, 1). Kickoff at Skyline Sports Complex will be 7:05 p.m.

Harrisburg 0, Pittsburgh 0
Harrisburg 0-0=0
Western Mass 0-0=0
Scoring: None
Shots: PIT 8, HAR 8
Corners: PIT 3, HAR 2
Fouls: PIT 10, HAR 13
Cautions: HAR Mo Oduor 13’, PIT Nathan Salsi 49’, PIT Matthew Mehler 84’
Goalkeepers: PIT Chris Robinson T, 0-0-1 (3 saves), HAR Sam Bishop T, 0-1-1 (4 saves)
Lineups: PIT Chris Robinson, Anthony Calvano, Matthew Mehler, Bryan Monka (Gabe Bernstein 60), Nathan Salsi, Cody Bragg, Dan Hartung, Stephen Mellor (Derek MacKenzie 76), Tyler Suffron, Leon Browne (Jean Jerome 66), David Flavius; HAR Sam Bishop, Ryan O’Neill, Dustin Bixler, J.T. Dorsey, John Lapore, Matt Tanzini (Adam Clay 67), Mo Oduor, Derek Potteiger, Jamel Mitchell (Francesco Caruso 79), Sumed Ibrahim (Carlos Morales 87), David McClellan (Justin Sadler 59)
Attendance: 1,088

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, May 22, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders dropped a 3-2 decision to the Western Mass Pioneers on Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex, falling to 0-3-1 on the season. Harrisburg assumed a 2-0 lead on the first pro goal from Messiah College product David McClellan (in the second minute, the quickest goal in team history) and the first strike of the year from Sumed Ibrahim (25^th minute). Both goals were created by Jamaican international Teofore Bennett.

The Pioneers went on to nab three unanswered scores, including two in the first half (Omar McFarlane 26’, Vadim Ivanyushenko 33’). The game-winner, a successful penalty kick from midfielder Everson Maciel with just five minutes left in regulation, came after losing goalkeeper Dave Kern (two saves) clipped Western Mass midfielder Kyle Teixeira in the penalty area.

THIS WEEK'S SCHEDULE:
Tues., May 23 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Wed., May 24 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Thurs., May 25 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 am
Fri., May 26 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 am
Sat., May 27 - Kickaround, Skyline Sports Complex, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
City Islanders vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Skyline Sports Complex, 7:05 p.m.

The cross state rival Pittsburgh Riverhounds make their first visit of the season to Skyline Sports Complex this Saturday, May 27. Kickoff will be 7:05 p.m.

U.S. OPEN CUP UPDATE:
With Saturday’s loss, the City Islanders were officially eliminated from qualifying contention for the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup for the third straight year. The league’s top five teams based on point percentage (points earned divided by maximum possible points) from games played through May 28 qualify for the tournament. Saturday’s results allowed the Richmond Kickers, Cincinnati Kings, and New Hampshire Phantoms to clinch Open Cup berths. Harrisburg earned a 2-2 tie in the first meeting of the year between the clubs, on May 5 in Pittsburgh. Bennett and Jamel Mitchell scored second-half goals in that match to lead the City Islanders from behind. After Saturday, the teams will meet twice more this year: on June 30 in Pittsburgh and July 15 at Skyline.

The Charlotte Eagles receive an automatic berth as defending league champs. Charlotte and the top three qualifiers enter the tourney in the second (beginning June 28) while the bottom two qualifiers enter in the first round (beginning June 14). The reigning Open Cup champs are the Los Angeles Galaxy of Major League Soccer.

For complete info on the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, including qualifying standings, visit www.usopencup.com.

BENNETT EARNS TEAM OF THE WEEK NOD, HEADS FOR ENGLAND:
City Islanders midfielder/forward Teofore Bennett was included in the USL Second Division Team of the Week for Week 5, announced on Monday. It is the first Team of the Week selection this year for Bennett, who recorded assists on both of Harrisburg’s goals on Saturday against Western Mass.

Bennett, the team’s leading scorer with five points (goal, three assists) through four games, will now travel to England with the Jamaican National Team. The “Reggae Boyz” will face England’s World Cup Team in a friendly on June 3. The 25-year-old Bennett scored in his last National Team appearance, against the U.S. on April 11. He is expected to return to Harrisburg after the friendly.

City Islanders Defeated 3-2 by Western Mass
Pioneers score three unanswered goals at Skyline

(Harrisburg, PA, May 20, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders built a quick 2-0 lead but fell victim to a torrid Western Mass comeback, falling to the Pioneers 3-2 on Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex. The City Islanders remain winless on the year (0-3-1, 1 point), while Western Mass improves to 2-2-1 (7 points). David McClellan and Sumed Ibrahim found the net for Harrisburg, and goalkeeper Dave Kern made two saves in the losing effort.

To say the least, it was a promising start to the night for Harrisburg. In just the second minute of the match, Jamaican international Teofore Bennett – a terror along the right flank for much of the night – blew down the wing and scorched a low cross towards the slot. When Western Mass keeper Josh Cole had trouble handling the ball, McClellan (pictured) fought for it and shoved home his first pro goal, the quickest in team history.

Pioneers midfielder Jeff Deren had a decent chance in the eighth minute, but his 25-yard chip of a loose punch from Kern went high. Then, in the 25th minute, Bennett created another score. In familiar fashion, he exploded down the right side and skimmed in a cross. Again, the ball squirmed through Cole’s arms, and this time the beneficiary was Sumed, who nudged it into the net for his first strike of the year.

Western Mass’ comeback began immediately thereafter. In the 26th minute, midfielder Vadim Ivanyushenko worked the ball into the area and Omar McFarlane got enough of it to put it past Kern.

In the 28th minute, defender John Lapore nearly gave Harrisburg a 3-1 lead, but his left-footed drive after a Matt Tanzini corner kick missed high. In the 33rd minute, Western Mass tied the match when Ivanyushenko bagged a goal of his own, making a left-wing run, taking a flick from a posted-up Neil Krause, and popping it home from the left side of the box. At the half, the score was 2-2.

The pace of the game slowed considerably in the second half, and the Pioneers largely had the better of play. Kern made a big stop in the 59th minute when he stifled McFarlane, who had cut inside from the right wing and ripped a left-footed shot from 20 yards out. Kern made another significant play in the 84th minute, when he stretched to tip a wind-aided corner kick from Everson Maciel over the bar.

In the 85th minute, Western Mass put the game away. Second-half sub Kyle Teixeira took a high ball out of midfield, kept control as he raced down the right wing, and cut towards the middle of the area. Kern rushed off his line to cut down Teixeira’s angle, but instead clipped him and was charged with a foul. Maciel put the ensuing penalty kick away for the final score.

Notes:Bennett played his final game with Harrisburg before he departs for England with the Jamaican National Team; the Reggae Boyz will face England’s World Cup Team in a June 3 friendly, and Bennett is expected to return to Harrisburg the following week…The teams combined for 41 fouls and six cautions…The City Islanders remain at home to host the Pittsburgh Riverhounds next Saturday, May 27. Kickoff at Skyline Sports Complex will be 7:05 p.m.

Western Mass 3, Harrisburg 2
Harrisburg 2-0=2
Western Mass 2-1=3
Scoring: HAR David McClellan 1 (Teofore Bennett) 2’, HAR Sumed Ibrahim 1 (Bennett), WMA Omar McFarlane 2 (Vadim Ivanyushenko) 26’, WMA Ivanyushenko 1 (Neil Krause) 33’, WMA Everson Maciel 1 (penalty kick) 85’
Shots: WMA 9, HAR 6
Corners: WMA 12, HAR 3
Fouls: WMA 19, HAR 22
Cautions: WMA Anthony Augustine 9’, WMA Rodrigo Marion 27’, HAR Mo Oduor 56’, WMA Omar McFarlane 60’, WMA Jay Willis 71’, HAR Steve Fisher 90’
Goalkeepers: WMA Josh Cole W, 2-1-1 (2 saves), HAR Dave Kern L, 0-2-1 (2 saves)
Lineups: WMA Josh Cole, Tony Fernandes, Jay Willis, Rodrigo Marion (Denis Fenemore 31), John Cook, Anthony Augustine, Everson Maciel, Vadim Ivanyushenko, Jeff Deren (Kyle Teixeira 68), Neil Krause, Omar McFarlane (Chris Mogavero 89), HAR Dave Kern, Ryan O’Neill, J.T. Dorsey (Adam Clay 86), Dustin Bixler, John Lapore, Matt Tanzini, Mo Oduor, Derek Potteiger, Teofore Bennett, Sumed Ibrahim (Jamel Mitchell 68), David McClellan (Steve Fisher 65)
Attendance: 1,142

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, May 15, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders dropped a 5-2 decision to the red-hot Richmond Kickers (3-1-0) on Sunday afternoon at University of Richmond Stadium, falling to 0-2-1 on the season. Jamel Mitchell and Matt Tanzini scored Harrisburg’s goals, and keeper Sam Bishop took the loss in his first pro start.

Richmond built a 4-0 lead on goals from Matt Watson (18’), Robert Ssejjemba (25’), and Mike Burke (48’), plus an own goal shortly before Burke’s tally. Mitchell got Harrisburg on the board in the 52^nd minute (assisted by Teofore Bennett), but Richmond responded with a Chris Carrieri strike 16 minutes later. Tanzini completed the day’s scoring in the 89^th minute, with an assist from Ryan O’Neill.

THIS WEEK S SCHEDULE:
Tues., May 16 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Wed., May 17 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Thurs., May 18 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 am
Fri., May 19 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 am
Sat., May 20 - Kickaround, Skyline Sports Complex, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
City Islanders vs. Western Mass Pioneers, Skyline Sports Complex, 7:05 p.m.

The City Islanders return home this Saturday, May 20, to face the Western Mass Pioneers. Kickoff at Skyline Sports Complex will be 7:05 p.m.

Harrisburg won both regular season contests against the Pioneers in 2005, capturing a 3-2 win at home on June 18 and a 4-2 triumph in Ludlow, Mass., on July 15. The Pioneers (currently 1-2-1) fell in penalty kicks to the Charlotte Eagles in the 2005 USL-2 Championship Game.

The City Islanders are home for their following two games: on Saturday, May 27, versus Pittsburgh, and Saturday, June 3, against Long Island. Both games kick off at 7:05 p.m. at Skyline Sports Complex.

U.S. OPEN CUP UPDATE:
Harrisburg’s Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup chances took a hit with Sunday’s loss. Entering the week, the City Islanders have earned 1 of a possible 9 points (11%) in qualifying matches, placing them seventh out of eight teams. Immediately ahead of Harrisburg are the Wilmington Hammerheads (2/9, 22%) and the Western Mass Pioneers (4/12, 33%). The City Islanders’ point percentage can now top out at 47%. Harrisburg’s next two games will stand as the club’s final qualifiers.

The league’s top five teams based on point percentage (points earned divided by maximum possible points) from games played through May 28 qualify for the tournament.

The Charlotte Eagles receive an automatic berth as defending league champs. Charlotte and the top three qualifiers enter the tourney in the second (beginning June 28) while the bottom two qualifiers enter in the first round (beginning June 14). The reigning Open Cup champs are the Los Angeles Galaxy of Major League Soccer.

For complete info on the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, including qualifying standings, visit www.usopencup.com.

City Islanders Fall 5-2 in Richmond
Harrisburg looks to rebound with home match on Saturday

(Richmond, VA, May 14, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders dropped a 5-2 decision to the red-hot Richmond Kickers (3-1-0) on Sunday afternoon at University of Richmond Stadium, falling to 0-2-1 on the season. Jamel Mitchell and Matt Tanzini scored Harrisburg’s goals, and keeper Sam Bishop took the loss in his first pro start.

Fresh off a solid performance in a 2-1 exhibition loss to D.C. United last Tuesday, the City Islanders had hoped for a better result. But Richmond, USL First Division Finalists a year ago, had other ideas. The Kickers, who have scored 14 goals in their last three games, were on top of things from start to finish.

Richmond was up 2-0 at halftime thanks to goals from Matt Watson (18th minute) and Ugandan international Robert Ssejjemba (25’). The Kickers then broke the game wide open in the 48th minute, when a Harrisburg defender put the ball into his own net and Mike Burke popped home a Ssejjemba feed for a 4-0 lead.

Four minutes later, Mitchell (right) scored Harrisburg’s first goal, assisted by Teofore Bennett. Richmond wasn’t done, adding a Chris Carrieri strike at the 68-minute mark to make it 5-1. Tanzini’s score in the 89th minute rounded out the day’s scoring.

Notes: The City Islanders return home this Saturday, May 20, to face the Western Mass Pioneers. Kickoff at Skyline Sports Complex will be 7:05 p.m.

Richmond 5, Harrisburg 2
Harrisburg 0-2=2
Richmond 2-3=5
Scoring: RIC Matt Watson 3 (Chris Carrieri) 18’, RIC Robert Ssejjemba 4 (Anthony Williams) 25’, RIC Own Goal 48’, RIC Mike Burke 1 (Robert Ssejjemba) 48’, HAR Jamel Mitchell 2 (Teofore Bennett) 52’, RIC Chris Carrieri 2 (Cristian Neagu) 68’, HAR Matt Tanzini 1 89’
Shots: HAR 10, RIC 11
Corners: HAR 6, RIC 6
Fouls: HAR 12, RIC 11
Cautions: HAR Mo Oduor 38’
Goalkeepers: HAR Sam Bishop, L 0-1-0 (1 save); RIC Ronnie Pascale W, 3-1-0 (2 saves)
Lineups: HAR Sam Bishop, Ryan O’Neill, Derek Potteiger, Jeff Pearce, Chris Morman (J.T. Dorsey 59), Matt Tanzini, Mo Oduor, Sumed Ibrahim (David McClellan 69), Adam Clay (Steve Fisher 69), Jamel Mitchell (Francesco Caruso 69), Teofore Bennett (John Lapore 73), RIC Ronnie Pascale, Kevin Knight, Kelvin Jones, Tony Williams (Trevor McEachron 76), Ray Goodlett (Ed Hayden 76), Matt Watson (Cecil Lewis 76), Tim Brown, Sascha Gorres (Kofi Nti 59), Mike Burke, Robert Ssejjemba (Cristian Neagu 59), Chris Carrieri
Attendance: 894

Harrisburg's Bennett Called to Play for Jamaica
Dynamic forward will face England's World Cup Team on June 3

(Harrisburg, PA, May 12, 2006) - Harrisburg City Islanders forward Teofore Bennett has been invited to return to Jamaica on May 23 and travel with the Jamaican Men’s National Team to England on May 24. The “Reggae Boyz” are scheduled to play a friendly against England’s World Cup Team on Saturday, June 3. He is expected to return to Harrisburg on June 6.

“The City Islanders are extremely happy for Teofore,” said City Islanders Head Coach Bill Becher. “In his brief time with us, he’s already shown how exciting and talented a player he is. Facing one of the world’s best teams will be a great test for him. We have no doubt he’ll show well in England.”

“This is a great opportunity for others to step up in his absence,” Becher added.

Bennett, 25, has been a regular for the National Team over the past several years. In a friendly against the United States on April 17, he scored in just the fourth minute of the match. He scored his first regular season goal as a City Islander on May 5 in Pittsburgh, and accounted for the team’s lone goal in a 2-1 exhibition loss to D.C. United this past Tuesday.

 City Islanders Fall 2-1 in "Clash of the Capitals II"
Franchise record crowd of 5,133 turns out for match versus D.C. United

(Mechanicsburg, PA, May 9, 2006) - A franchise record crowd of 5,133 was on hand Tuesday night to see the Harrisburg City Islanders drop a tight 2-1 decision to D.C. United in “Clash of the Capitals II” at Cumberland Valley High School. Lucio Filomeno and Rod Dyachenko scored United’s goals, and Teofore Bennett bagged Harrisburg’s strike.

The record throng was buzzing even before kickoff, thanks to the inclusion of phenom Freddy Adu in United’s starting lineup and a special pregame ceremony honoring the three former Cumberland Valley stars in uniform – United’s Josh Gros and Harrisburg’s Derek Potteiger and Justin Sadler. All three played.

United then quickly went to work. In the eighth minute, Dyachenko slipped a ball from the left wing to Filomeno at the top of the penalty area, and the Argentine striker caught City Islanders keeper Dave Kern off guard by rolling home a far post shot.

D.C. proceeded to keep Harrisburg at bay with a deliberate, possession-oriented flow, clogging up the middle of the field. But in the 23rd minute, Mo Oduor broke out of the midfield down the right wing and chipped a ball to Bennett at the edge of the box. The ever-dangerous Jamaican international (right) cracked a tight angle shot over winning keeper Ryan McIntosh (five saves) for a tie score.

A left-wing free kick from Potteiger was slightly off target in the 34th minute, and the clubs were tied at the half.

In the 62nd minute, Dyachenko accounted for the game’s final goal, as the midfielder found a loose ball in the goalmouth following a corner kick and pounded it past keeper Sam Bishop, who replaced Kern at the half, for a 2-1 lead. Not long after, Jamel Mitchell found the ball at his feet at the top of the box with some room, turned, and put it high. United then seemed resolved to play solid defense and look for counterattacking opportunities.

Still, Harrisburg had other chances to tie, especially after sending everyone on the attack over the final quarter of an hour. In the 76th minute, defender Jeff Pearce put Bennett through on goal, but his near-post stab was turned aside by McIntosh. And a great opportunity for Sadler went by the wayside in the 86th minute – the midfielder snuck in at the far post and got a clean header on a Chris Morman cross, but the attempt roared wide.

Notes:Adu, who did not take the field in last year’s “Clash,” played the first 59 minutes, Gros the final 31…Potteiger went the distance for Harrisburg, while Sadler played the final 14 minutes…The City Islanders resume regular season play this Sunday, May 14, in Richmond against the Kickers. Game time is 4:00 p.m…Pearce made his City Islanders debut as a central defender…Harrisburg’s previous single-game attendance record was 4,000, set when D.C. visited for the first “Clash of the Capitals” last August 16.

D.C. United 2, Harrisburg 1
D.C. United 1-1=2
Harrisburg 1-0=1
Scoring: DC Lucio Filomeno (Rod Dyachenko) 8’, HAR Teofore Bennett (Mo Oduor) 23’, DC Rod Dyachenko (UA) 62’
Shots: DC 6, HAR 9
Corners: DC 9, HAR 4
Fouls: DC 13, HAR 10
Cautions: HAR Jeff Pearce 64’, HAR Ryan O’Neill 72’
Goalkeepers: DC Ryan McIntosh W (5 saves); HAR Dave Kern (0 saves), Sam Bishop L (2 saves)
Lineups: DC Ryan McIntosh, Domenic Mediate (Josh Gros 59), John Wilson, Devon McTavish, Justin Moose, Freddy Adu (Stephen Deroux 59), Rod Dyachenko, Matt Nickell, Jeff Carroll, Lucio Filomeno, Andy Metcalf, HAR Dave Kern (Sam Bishop 45), Ryan O’Neill, Derek Potteiger, Jeff Pearce, Chris Morman, Matt Tanzini (Justin Sadler 76), Mo Oduor (John Lapore 76), Sumed Ibrahim (Steve Fisher 63), Adam Clay (Francesco Caruso 72), Teofore Bennett, Jamel Mitchell (David McClellan 63)
Attendance: 5,133

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, May 8, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders earned their first point of the season on Friday, May 5, tying the Pittsburgh Riverhounds 2-2 at Falconi Field in Washington, PA. Teofore Bennett (penalty kick, 53’) and Jamel Mitchell (76’) scored in the second half as the City Islanders recovered from a 2-0 halftime deficit.

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:
Tues., May 9 - City Islanders vs. D.C. United, Cumberland Valley High School, 7:05 p.m.

Wed., May 10- Off

Thurs., May 11 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 am

Fri., May 12 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 am

Sat., May 13 - Travel to Richmond

Sun., May 14 - City Islanders at Richmond Kickers, University of Richmond Stadium, 4:00 p.m.

A busy week for the City Islanders begins on Tuesday night, with “Clash of the Capitals II” against D.C. United. Kickoff at Cumberland Valley High School will be 7:05 p.m. Tickets ($10 in advance, $15 on Match Day) remain available, and may be purchased by calling 717-441-GOAL or by by clicking here.

Note: Media should bring proper credentials/identification for admission to the match.

On Sunday, May 14, Harrisburg will face the Richmond Kickers for the first time. The Kickers are in their first year in the USL Second Division after nine solid seasons (1997-2005) in the First Division. Richmond lost the First Division Championship Game to the Seattle Sounders in penalty kicks last year.

The City Islanders then return home for their next games: on Saturday, May 20, against the Western Mass Pioneers, and on Saturday, May 27, versus Pittsburgh. Both games kick off at 7:05 p.m. at Skyline Sports Complex.

U.S. OPEN CUP UPDATE:
The City Islanders enter the week ranked seventh out of eight teams in USL Second Division qualifying for the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The league’s top five teams based on point percentage (points earned divided by maximum possible points) from games played through May 28 qualify for the tournament. The Charlotte Eagles receive an automatic berth as defending league champs. Charlotte and the top three qualifiers enter the tourney in the second (beginning June 28) while the bottom two qualifiers enter in the first round (beginning June 14).

The City Islanders have earned one of a possible six points (16%) through their first two games. The club’s next three regular season games (May 14, 20, and 27) are all qualifiers, meaning Harrisburg’s point percentage could go as high as 67%. All three of those games are against teams ahead of the City Islanders in the Open Cup table (Richmond, Western Mass, and Long Island, respectively).

The reigning Open Cup champs are the Los Angeles Galaxy of Major League Soccer.

For complete info on the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, including qualifying standings, visit www.usopencup.com

City Islanders Fight Back, Tie Riverhounds
Harrisburg earns first point of year with 2-2 draw

(Washington, PA, May 5, 2006) - Teofore Bennett and Jamel Mitchell scored during a second-half rally to lead the Harrisburg City Islanders (0-1-1) to a 2-2 tie with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (0-0-1) on Friday night at Falconi Field.

Facing a wound-up Riverhounds side eager to impress over 3,000 fans in their season opener, the City Islanders found themselves trailing almost immediately. Midfielder Dan Hartung got the hosts on the board in just the third minute, popping home a David Flavius feed.

Though the City Islanders settled down quickly, they were unable to find an equalizer, and when Flavius grabbed a loose ball in the midfield, blew up the middle, and beat Harrisburg keeper Dave Kern (two saves) in the 38th minute, things seemed dire.

Facing a 2-0 halftime deficit, City Islanders Head Coach Bill Becher opted to use four of the team’s five possible substitutions. Shortly after the break, one of those subs – All-League midfielder David Schofield – was forced out of the game with a leg injury. The men on the pitch would have to go the distance.

Undaunted, Harrisburg’s shuffled lineup quickly began to turn things around. In the 53rd minute, Harrisburg’s buzzing offense was awarded a penalty kick. Bennett (top right), the Jamaican international, promptly converted it, and the City Islanders were back in the game.

At the 76-minute mark, Mitchell (bottom right) came up big. The former Hershey Wildcat beat a stunned defense and helpless goalkeeper Chris Robinson (three saves) with a bending 25-yard blast, tying the score at 2-2. It remained that way until the final whistle blew.

“Considering the halftime score, we have to be satisfied with the point,” said Becher. “Once again, we played very well in the second half – we were good enough that we could have scored a third goal. But we have to find a way to get better in the first half. You can’t get away with slow starts in this league.”

Notes:Next up for the City Islanders is their premier exhibition against D.C. United on Tuesday, May 9. “Clash of the Capitals II” will kick off at 7:05 p.m. at Cumberland Valley High School…Harrisburg and Pittsburgh next meet on Saturday, May 27, at Skyline Sports Complex…Midfielder Sumed Ibrahim, a 2005 First Team All-League pick, made his season debut as a halftime sub, as did Schofield…Forward Francesco Caruso, a product of Northern Lebanon High School, made his first start for Harrisburg…The City Islanders are back on the road for their next regular season game, against the Richmond Kickers on Sunday, May 14 (4:00 p.m.).

Harrisburg 2, Pittsburgh 2
Harrisburg 0-2=2
Pittsburgh 2-0=2
Scoring: PIT Dan Hartung 1 (David Flavius) 4’, PIT David Flavius 1 (Greg Victor) 39&rsquo, HAR Teofore Bennett 1 (penalty kick) 53’, HAR Jamel Mitchell 1 (UA) 76’
Shots: HAR 10, PIT 13
Corners: HAR 0, PIT 8
Fouls: HAR 10, PIT 14
Cautions: HAR John Lapore 13’, HAR Adam Clay 71’, HAR Matt Tanzini 84’, PIT Anthony Calvano 90’
Goalkeepers: HAR Dave Kern T, 0-1-1 (2 saves); PIT Chris Robinson T, 0-0-1 (3 saves)
Lineups: HAR Dave Kern, Chris Morman, John Lapore (Sumed Ibrahim 45), Dustin Bixler, Tommy Rutter (David Schofield 45, Adam Clay 49), Ryan O’Neill, Mo Oduor, Derek Potteiger, Steve Fisher (Matt Tanzini 45), Teofore Bennett, Francesco Caruso (Jamel Mitchell 45), PIT Chris Robinson, Jason Kutney, Nathan Salsi, Cody Bragg, Anthony Calvano, Matt Mehler (Tyler Suffron 74), Gabe Bernstein (Bryan Monka 36), Steve Mellor (Edward Child 85), Dan Hartung, David Flavius, Greg Victor
Attendance: 3,111

City Islanders Weekly
Monday, May 1, 2006

THE WEEK THAT WAS:
The Harrisburg City Islanders dropped their 2006 season opener by the score of 2-0 to the Cincinnati Kings (2-1-0, 6 points) on Saturday night, much to the disappointment of the regular season record crowd of 3,189 that filled Skyline Sports Complex. Jeff Hughes scored twice for the Kings, who also received a tremendous 10-save performance by keeper Jordan James.

Hughes struck in the 14th minute (whistling a 20-yard free kick under Harrisburg’s wall) and again in the 35th (controlling a feed from midfielder Nowaf Jaman and rolling home a shot from the top of the box).

The City Islanders had several chances to find the net before the night was out, but James and a stout Kings defense held tight.

Harrisburg’s previous regular season attendance high was 3,127, set last June 4, also against Cincinnati. The club drew 4,000 to Skyline for the first “Clash of the Capitals” with D.C. United last August 16.

THIS WEEK’S SCHEDULE:
Tues., May 2 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 am
Wed., May 3 - Training, “In The Net,” 9:00 – 11:00 am
Thurs., May 4 - Travel to Pittsburgh
Fri., May 5 - City Islanders at Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Falconi Field, 7:05 p.m.

The City Islanders hit the road this week, heading west to take on the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on Friday night (7:05 p.m.) at Falconi Field in Washington, PA.

Harrisburg went 3-0-1 against the ‘Hounds in 2005, defeating Pittsburgh twice at Skyline (1-0 on April 23, 2-0 on August 13) and earning a win and a draw in Pittsburgh (1-0 on June 22, 1-1 on June 24). In 2004, the City Islanders went 1-0-1 versus Pittsburgh during the regular season before getting bounced out of the playoffs in the first round by the Riverhounds.

The City Islanders then prepare for “Clash of the Capitals II,” a premier exhibition match against D.C. United of Major League Soccer, on Tuesday, May 9, at Cumberland Valley High School in Mechanicsburg, PA (7:05 pm). Tickets ($10 in advance, $15 on Match Day) may be purchased by calling 717-441-GOAL or by clicking here.

Harrisburg is on the road once again on Sunday, May 14, against the Richmond Kickers (4:00 p.m.) before the club’s next game at Skyline on Saturday, May 20, against the Western Mass Pioneers (7:05 p.m.).

CITY ISLANDERS ALUMNI UPDATE:
Three former City Islanders opened the season with USL First Division teams.

Forward Chad Severs, who scored 13 goals and 31 points en route to the USL-2 Rookie of the Year Award in 2005, is with the Rochester Raging Rhinos. Defender Shane Crawford, the Jamaican international who was named to the All-League First Team a year ago, has earned a spot on the Charleston Battery’s backline. And midfielder Art Bartholomew is with First Division expansion side Miami FC.

Goalkeeper Michael Behonick, who posted a 1.11 goals against average in seven games on loan from Charleston in 2004, opened the summer with the New York Red Bulls of Major League Soccer.

City Isles Drop Opener in Front of Record Crowd
Kings top Harrisburg 2-0 before 3,189 fans at Skyline

(Harrisburg, PA, April 29, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders dropped their 2006 season opener by the score of 2-0 to the Cincinnati Kings on Saturday night, much to the disappointment of the regular season record crowd of 3,189 that filled Skyline Sports Complex.

Jeff Hughes scored twice for the Kings, who also received a tremendous 10-save performance by keeper Jordan James.

Cincinnati (2-1-0, 6 points) struck early, while the City Islanders were finding a rhythm. In the 14th minute, Hughes whistled a free kick from 20 yards out under Harrisburg’s wall past screened goalkeeper Dave Kern (two saves).

The City Islanders began to find a tempo shortly thereafter. Team captain Derek Potteiger arced a free kick from the left wing around the Kings’ wall but hit the outside of the net in the 31st minute. Teofore Bennett, the Jamaican international, hit the right post in the 33rd minute after twisting his way through the midfield.

But the Kings regained control when Hughes struck again in the 35th minute, controlling a feed from fellow midfielder Nowaf Jaman, working towards the top of the penalty area, and rolling a shot past Kern to make it 2-0. The night’s scoring was completed, but plenty of chances awaited.

Cincinnati could have scored twice more before the first half was out, but Josh Barton’s point blank effort in the 38th minute was blocked by Harrisburg defender J.T. Dorsey, and a header from Barton at the 42-minute mark hit the crossbar. Steve Fisher nearly got one back for the City Isles just before half, breaking in from the left wing and sending a low drive to the near post, but James was there to handle it.

In the second half, Harrisburg’s full-bore offensive effort was consistently frustrated by a composed Kings backline and occasionally spectacular work by James. A close Potteiger blast was blocked in the slot just after the break and the post denied a Jamel Mitchell effort in the 55th minute. Halftime sub Matt Tanzini was then thwarted by James twice, first on a powerful free kick in the 61st minute, and again in the 64th, when James denied his near-post try. Shortly after Kern rejected Cincy’s Hughes with a diving save in the 66th minute, Mitchell had perhaps Harrisburg’s best chance of the night when Bennett threaded the ball to him in the middle of the area. But James was quick to smother the chance.

Bennett continued creating, splitting a couple of Kings defenders on the dribble and forcing James to make a save in the 71st minute, and hitting the outside of the net with a left-wing blast a minute later.

Cincinnati’s win was sealed when tries by David Schofield (77th) and David McClellan (90th) both went high.

Notes:The City Islanders hit the road for their next two regular season games: Friday, May 5, at Pittsburgh (7:05 p.m.) and Sunday, May 14, at Richmond (4:00 p.m.)…In between those two contests will be the City Islanders’ exhibition against D.C. United – “Clash of the Capitals II” – at Cumberland Valley High School on Tuesday, May 9 (7:05 p.m.)….Harrisburg’s 15-game regular season unbeaten streak (dating back to May 7, 2005) was snapped with the loss.

Cincinnati 2, Harrisburg 0
Cincinnati 2-0=2
Harrisburg 0-0=0
Scoring: CIN Jeff Hughes 1 (UA) 14’, CIN Jeff Hughes 2 (Nowaf Jaman) 35’
Shots: CIN 14, HAR 23
Corners: CIN 6, HAR 5
Fouls: CIN 17, HAR 9
Cautions: CIN Trey Alexander 27’, CIN Sam Fiore 44’, HAR David Schofield 52’, CIN Josh Barton 60’
Goalkeepers: CIN Jordan James W, 2-1-0 (10 saves); HAR Dave Kern L, 0-1-0 (2 saves)
Lineups: CIN Jordan James, Trey Alexander, Tiest Sondaal, Derek Smith, Sam Fiore, John Liersemann (John Caldwell 78), Jeff Hughes, Josh Barton (Bret Jones 69), Kevin McCloskey, Nowaf Jaman, Jack Cummings (Mike McGinlay 73); HAR Dave Kern, Chris Morman, J.T. Dorsey, Dustin Bixler, Tommy Rutter (Adam Clay 69), Ryan O’Neill (David Schofield 45), Mo Oduor (David McClellan 78), Derek Potteiger, Steve Fisher (Matt Tanzini 57), Haven Bruce (Jamel Mitchell 45), Teofore Bennett
Attendance: 3,189

City Islanders Set for Season Opener
Heat Hall of Fame Inductions at halftime; Stroehmann T-Shirt giveaway

(Harrisburg, PA, April 27, 2006) – The Harrisburg City Islanders kick off their 2006 regular season this Saturday, April 29, against the Cincinnati Kings. Game time at Skyline Sports Complex will be 7:05 p.m. A limited number of fans will receive a free T-Shirt, courtesy of Stroehmann’s.

The club is very close to selling out of Skyline’s 2,000 bleacher seats, but “Bring Your Own Chair” (BYOC) and Standing Room Only tickets will be sold through the start of the match.

At halftime of the match, five greats from the Harrisburg Heat, the city’s Major Indoor Soccer League franchise from 1991-2003, will be inducted into the Heat Hall of Fame: current City Islanders Head Coach Bill Becher, midfielder David Bascome, forward Gino DiFlorio, goalkeeper Doug Petras, and head coach Jim Pollihan.

CITY ISLES FILL OUT ROSTER WITH PAIR OF SIGNINGS:
The City Islanders also announced on Thursday the signings of two players, both pending US Soccer and United Soccer Leagues approval: forward Francesco Caruso (pictured) and defender Jeff Pearce.

A local product out of Lancaster Catholic High School, Caruso burst onto the scene in training camp with two goals in his first appearance, on April 12 against Saint Francis, and two goals and two assists in his next game, against Village United FC on April 17. He graduated from San Diego State and has played professionally in New Zealand.

Pearce caught the eye of the City Islanders’ coaching staff in the April 17 match. The 20-year-old defender has played for both Village United and Waterhouse of the Wray & Nephew National Premier League in Jamaica.

City Islanders Complete Perfect Preseason
Club downs Penn State behind goals from Teofore Bennett, Jamel Mitchell

(Mill Hall, PA, April 21, 2006) – The Harrisburg City Islanders finished their preseason with a spotless 8-0 record, thanks to a 2-0 win over Penn State University at Central Mountain High School on Friday night. Teofore Bennett (pictured) and Jamel Mitchell scored for Harrisburg.

The City Islanders now prepare for their 2006 season opener, on Saturday, April 29, against the Cincinnati Kings at Skyline Sports Complex. Kickoff will be 7:05 p.m.

Bennett’s goal, a penalty kick, came roughly 10 minutes into the match, after a Penn State defender committed an intentional hand ball on a Ryan O'Neill shot. O'Neill's effort went in but the p.k. was awarded nonetheless, and Bennett, the Jamaican international, made no mistake with it.

Mitchell completed the night's scoring with approximately 10 minutes left to play, converting a David McClellan feed.

Dave Kern made the start in goal for Harrisburg but left at the 15-minute mark, shortly after a collision with a PSU player. Sam Bishop finished up in net.

Notes: The City Islanders outscored their opposition 24-1 during the preseason.

City Islanders Grab 2-0 Preseason Win
Steve Fisher, Jim Stevens score for Harrisburg; final preseason game tomorrow

(Harrisburg, PA, April 20, 2006) – The Harrisburg City Islanders improved to 7-0 in preseason play with a 2-0 win over Towson University on Thursday night at Hersheypark Stadium. Steve Fisher and Jim Stevens scored goals for the City Islanders, who wrap up their preseason schedule tomorrow night in Mill Hall, PA, at Central Park High School against Penn State University (7:00 p.m.).

Harrisburg's 2006 season opener is just nine days away, as the Cincinnati Kings visit Skyline Sports Complex on Saturday, April 29 (7:05 p.m.)

Fisher scored in the 23^rd minute after some nice midfield build-up from trialist Franco Caruso and Bernie Showers. After a Towson turnover, Caruso back-heeled the ball to Showers along the left wing. Showers turned inside and sent an angled to the right slot, where Fisher ran onto it and skimmed a shot under the keeper.

Eight minutes later, John Lapore sent a free kick sailing into the penalty area, where the 6-7 Stevens skied above a crowd of defenders and flicked it home.

Sam Bishop went the distance in goal for Harrisburg, making a handful of saves, including a couple of nice leaping efforts on long free kicks in the 27^th and 54^th minutes.

Notes: The City Islanders complete their preseason schedule tomorrow night in Mill Hall, PA, against Penn State University. Kickoff at Central Mountain High School will be 7:00 p.m.

Unofficial Box Score
Towson 0-0=0
Harrisburg 2-0=2
Scoring: HAR Steve Fisher (Bernie Showers) 23', HAR Jim Stevens (John Lapore) 31'
Harrisburg Goalkeepers: Sam Bishop
Harrisburg Starters: Sam Bishop, Chris Morman. J.T. Dorsey, John Lapore, Kevin Blair, Jim Stevens, Adam Clay, Steve Fisher, David McClellan, Franco Caruso, Bernie Showers
Harrisburg Substitutes: Teofore Bennett, Dustin Bixler, Mo Oduor, Ryan O’Neill, Jamel Mitchell, Carlos Morales, Jeff Pearce, Tommy Rutter

City Islanders Unveil 2006 Roster, Jerseys
Harrisburg's third season kicks off in nine days

(Harrisburg, PA, April 20, 2006) - The Harrisburg City Islanders introduced the majority of their roster and unveiled their 2006 uniforms in a press conference on Thursday morning at the Capital BlueCross Headquarters Building in Harrisburg. Capital BlueCross, a presenting sponsor of the City Islanders, hosted the event for the third straight year.

Players sported the club’s 2006 home uniforms, supplied by JAKO USA, Inc., the club's Official Uniform Supplier since its inception. This year's edition features the Capital BlueCross logo prominently across the chest. Aside from the JAKO mark, the corporate images of three other Presenting Sponsors are featured on the jerseys: SNICKERS; the Dauphin County Executive Commission on Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco (DCDAT); and the Brenner Family of Dealerships.

"The City Islanders once again thank Capital BlueCross for hosting what has become a great annual event for us," said City Islanders President Eric D. Pettis. "We are proud to officially kick off what should be another exciting summer with this opportunity to introduce our players, unveil our jerseys, and express our appreciation for our family of corporate partners."

"In the team's brief history, the City Islanders have performed as champions on the field by playing excellent soccer, and they have championed causes off the field, touching many lives in the community," said Anita M. Smith, President & CEO of Capital BlueCross. "This is the type of organization that Capital BlueCross looks to support in our efforts to promote good health and the quality of life in the communities we serve."

"We are excited about sponsoring the City Islanders Academy and Mind, Body Soccer programs. Both initiatives promote fitness, good health and education to area youth -- all winning ingredients for a winning team."

Capital BlueCross is the presenting sponsor of the Mind, Body, Soccer program, an initiative where up to 5,000 local youth can earn a free ticket to a City Islanders home game by completing tasks or assignments based in the categories of Reading, Healthy Living, Fitness and Nutrition. In addition to being the presenting sponsor of the entire Mind, Body, Soccer program Capital BlueCross is also sponsoring the Fitness category.

Mind, Body, Soccer is promoted through schools and various youth organizations. Anyone wishing to participate in this program should contact Kierstin Rowe at the City Islanders office by calling 717-441-4625.

Capital BlueCross is also a sponsor of the City Islanders Academy program, which is dedicated to improving youth soccer in central Pennsylvania. The program benefits more than 3,000 area youth soccer players by offering them professional training, high-level competition and exposure to other players with similar skill sets.

Harrisburg's roster as of Thursday’s event featured 23 players, 15 of which return from the 2005 squad that finished 12-3-5 and posted a 15-game unbeaten streak to end the regular season. The returning players are: goalkeepers Sam Bishop and Dave Kern; defenders Dustin Bixler, J.T. Dorsey, and Tommy Rutter; midfielders Adam Clay, Steve Fisher, Sumed Ibrahim, John Lapore, Mo Oduor, Ryan O'Neill, Derek Potteiger, and David Schofield; and forwards Bernie Showers and Matt Tanzini. Schofield was an All-League Second Team selection a year ago.

The signings of Sumed (an All-League First Team pick in 2005), rookie midfielders Carlos Morales (Catonsville Community College) and Justin Sadler (a former Cumberland Valley High School star), and forward Haven Bruce (formerly of the Wilmington Hammerheads) are all pending United Soccer Leagues and US Soccer approval.

Accomplished veterans Jamel Mitchell (forward) and Chris Morman (defender) were added in mid-March. Earlier this week, the City Islanders announced the signings of forwards Teofore Bennett - a regular for the Jamaican National Team - and rookies David McClellan (midfielder, Messiah) and Jim Stevens (forward, Lehigh).

"There is certainly a great deal of talent on this roster," said City Islanders Head Coach Bill Becher, the reigning USL-2 Coach of the Year. "We feel like we did a good job keeping the core of last year’s group together while making some notable additions. We have every reason to be confident heading into the season, but we also recognize that the league will be much more competitive this year than it's been since we joined. We look forward to the challenge."

The City Islanders complete their preseason schedule with a game tonight at Hersheypark Stadium against Towson University (7:00 p.m.) and tomorrow night at Central Mountain High School in Mill Hall, PA, against Penn State (7:00 p.m.). Harrisburg’s 2006 season opener will be Saturday, April 29, against the Cincinnati Kings, with a 7:05 p.m. kickoff at Skyline Sports Complex.

City Islanders Cruise Past Village United
Jamaica's Village United FC visits on Monday