The Richmond Kickers were back in action Saturday night at UR Stadium to host the Real Maryland Monarchs in the regular season finale. The match marked the fourth meeting between the two clubs. The first three were played across two weeks to open the season; two ended in Richmond’s favor, the other in a draw—and the fourth meeting would end just the same as the clubs placed the final stamp on the series this summer in a 1-1 draw. The third
The Bermuda Hogges and Western Mass Pioneers have announced that they will be playing in the PDL next season. Both played in the USL’s Second Division last season. Perhaps this is the first of many moves caused by the USL/NASL dispute. The good news is that the USL-2 home openers have been announced and there are some exciting matchups.
Multiple sources suggest that the sale of the City Stars will be official sometime next week. We were told that it is “now in the hands of the lawyers” and should be wrapped up soon. Officials with the United Soccer Leagues declined to make specific comments on the matter, but did say an important update on the City Stars would be made available next week. Past comments from the club suggest the franchise will remain in the USL in some capacity. The City Stars have
It appears that the rumor about the Battery moving to USL-2 is true after all. We heard this news several months back, but thought it was just that, a rumor. The Battery’s website mentions that only five clubs are now in USL-1 and Cleveland was not mentioned as one of those clubs. We have asked for clarification from the league office regarding this matter.
Several outlets are reporting that TOA members have been meeting with MLS executives regarding a Second Division for MLS. Our source reports that another level for MLS is not happening any time soon. Here is a comment from that source close to the situation: “Major League Soccer has had conversations with TOA clubs (including the Vancouver Whitecaps) but no arrangement is on the table.”
Our sources continue to provide us with information about the possible sale of the Cleveland City Stars. It doesn’t appear that an announcement is coming anytime before Monday. We were initially told by multiple sources that the sale would be finalized by this Friday (9/18) or Monday (9/21). Other agencies suggest that a group from Canada or Kenya might be in the running to purchase the franchise. We have heard that a group from New York had expressed interest during the preliminary