Match Preview-Phoenix Rising FC v Toronto FC ll

When-7:30pm Saturday, March 25th

Where-Phoenix Rising Soccer Complex, located near the intersection of the 101 and 202 highways, north of the 202 loop and east of McClintock Drive in South Scottsdale.

Tickets-www.phoenixrisingfc.com

This will be the first regular season match for the Rising FC. Not much is left from the previous roster so chemistry will likely be a challenge early in the year. Head coach Frank Yallop has brought in several high-profile players to bolster a roster that missed the playoffs in 2016. Forward Chris Cortez, Captain/midfielder Blair Gavin, defender Peter Ramage, midfielder Luke Rooney and keeper Carl Woszczynski are the most familiar hold-overs and provide a solid nucleus.

Much has been made about two of the new faces brought in.

-Omar Bravo-2013-2016-37 year old striker, Appeared in 84 matches for Liga MX Side Chivas, scoring 24 goals.

-Shaun Wright-Phillips-2015-2016: Appeared in 19 matches for MLS side New York Red Bulls.

Toronto FC ll
-First match of the 2017 regular season

-TFC II went 2-1-0 in preseason action this year. The team defeated both Guelph University and Ottawa Fury FC, before falling to the Rochester Rhinos 3-1 last weekend.

-TFC II could be without some key squad members for Saturday’s opener. A number of players were with Toronto FC III participating in the Viareggio Tournament and may not be available for the trip to Arizona.