Soccer in Raleigh had a big week.

No, soccer in Raleigh had a massive week.

One charity event, seven soccer games, and a MLS Rally. Momentum is at an all time high, and that only means good things for the area. How did the week go? I’m glad you asked. We’ll start at the beginning, July 15th.

Saturday, July 15th

The soccer week started at 4pm. The NC Courage took on the Portland Thorns in Cascadia and lost 1–0. It was the Game of the Week on Lifetime, so we got to take in the game on the big screen. A loss, but it was a start to a week full of wins.

Afterwards, at 7pm, the USMNT played their second game of the Gold Cup, claiming a convincing 3–0 win vs. Nicaragua.

At the same time the USA was playing in Cleveland, NCFC was taking on Puerto Rico FC at 7:30pm. NCFC won it at the death 2–1 with a Matt Fondy penalty. Two out of three games is not bad.

Sunday, July 16th

A different kind of soccer started our Sunday. The First Annual Oak City Classic at Raleighwood, OCCR, kicked off at London Bridge Pub! Think of it as putt-putt and foot golf all in one. Fans and NCFC players joined together to play nine holes of crazy holes for a good charity, Oak City Soccer.

Founded by NCFC player Connor Tobin and former Railhawks player Neil Hlavaty, OCCR took 27 teams of four on a tour of downtown Raleigh, starting at London Bridge Pub, before heading to Boxcar, then Isaac Hunter’s and Coglin’s, before heading back to London Bridge Pub for the 9th and final hole.

NASL’s leading assist man Nazmi Albadawi even came to help out at the final hole, serving as a celebrity substitute kicker for the right price! A full day of drinking and soccer on a Sunday Funday is always a win to the average fan!

Tuesday, July 18th

It was time to shift our focus to the NCFC #919toMLS Raleigh Rally! MLS executives were coming to town, and OCS’s dream of marching to the Rally was being more of a reality with each passing moment. Meetings were held, fans prepared themselves, and the city watched as Charlotte’s rally was… less than impressive.

Wednesday, July 19th

The energy at London Bridge Pub was palpable. Stadium renderings were released around 11am, and people were excited.

People spilled out onto the street at 4:30 because London Bridge Pub was so full. NCFC and NC Courage players mingled among fans ready to march with the masses. #919toMLS scarves were high in the air, and flags were waving.

After a quick march through Moore Square Park, we were soon at City Market, still making noise and the energy level was still at an all-time high. Dean Linke, Steve Malik, and Mark Abbott got on the mic, and it was a true party.

Not a lot was said, and they only talked for maybe 30 minutes total, but the point was made by them and us, Raleigh is ready for MLS.

After the Rally, it was time to switch to our USA gear, because the USA played in their Gold Cup quarterfinal game against El Salvador. The USA definitely looked like the better team, and left Philly with a 2–0 win.

Saturday, July 22nd

Swansea was in town, and they were ready to take on NCFC. Beer and pizza flowed at the OCS tailgate, and the tunes were loud and bumping. Seasoned fans welcomed the newcomers, and everyone got ready to take on a second EPL team in as many years.

With a full and loud supporter’s section, and a mix of veteran and rookie on the field, Swansea was held to a 0–0 draw.

That was just the beginning. The NC Courage kicked off at 9pm against Kansas City, but the game was quickly postponed due to storms.

A quick wardrobe change had us ready to watch USA vs. Costa Rica in the Gold Cup semifinal.

With London Bridge Pub full of fans, AO watched the USA win 2–0 to set up a trip to the final in California.