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BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 31, 2021) – On a wet night in Birmingham, Legion FC versus Atlanta United 2 ended in a draw, 2-2, after second half goals from Neco Brett and Junior Flemmings for the home side were cancelled out by an ATL goal in the 96th minute.

Birmingham created a few more chances in the first half than the visitors, finishing the half with an advantage in shots (6-4), but could not find the back of the net, and Atlanta made Legion FC pay with a goal from forward Aidan McFadden in the 35th minute when he cut inside the right side of the box and found the top left corner of the net.  

Legion FC Head Coach Tommy Soehn made two attacking subs early in the second half, Flemmings and forward JJ Williams, that paid dividends almost immediately. After subbing on in the 66th minute, Williams got into the box and was fouled from behind, earning the penalty that Brett buried. Atlanta goalkeeper Rios Novo just saved a penalty kick in his team’s game on Wednesday night by diving to his left, and tonight Brett beat him to his right-hand side by perfectly picking out the bottom corner.

As soon as play restarted, Legion were back on the offensive, and Brett’s fellow Jamaican Flemmings, fresh off national team duty with his country, scored his first goal in the Black and Gold in the 69th minute. Midfielder Mikey Lopez crossed the ball over to Flemmings in the top left corner of the Atlanta box, Flemmings took a touch to settle, and from a stand still put a pinpoint shot into the top right corner. The assist was also Lopez’s first of the season.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 31, 2021) – On a wet night in Birmingham, Legion FC versus Atlanta United 2 ended in a draw, 2-2, after second half goals from Neco Brett and Junior Flemmings for the home side were cancelled out by an ATL goal in the 96th minute.

Birmingham created a few more chances in the first half than the visitors, finishing the half with an advantage in shots (6-4), but could not find the back of the net, and Atlanta made Legion FC pay with a goal from forward Aidan McFadden in the 35th minute when he cut inside the right side of the box and found the top left corner of the net.  

Legion FC Head Coach Tommy Soehn made two attacking subs early in the second half, Flemmings and forward JJ Williams, that paid dividends almost immediately. After subbing on in the 66th minute, Williams got into the box and was fouled from behind, earning the penalty that Brett buried. Atlanta goalkeeper Rios Novo just saved a penalty kick in his team’s game on Wednesday night by diving to his left, and tonight Brett beat him to his right-hand side by perfectly picking out the bottom corner.

As soon as play restarted, Legion were back on the offensive, and Brett’s fellow Jamaican Flemmings, fresh off national team duty with his country, scored his first goal in the Black and Gold in the 69th minute. Midfielder Mikey Lopez crossed the ball over to Flemmings in the top left corner of the Atlanta box, Flemmings took a touch to settle, and from a stand still put a pinpoint shot into the top right corner. The assist was also Lopez’s first of the season.

Birmingham squandered a few chances to put the game away late on, and Atlanta kept pressing. After earning a couple of late corner kicks, the visitors swung in a dangerous cross in the sixth minute of added time, and the rebound off a Legion player was rifled in by substitute forward Darwin Matheus for the equalizer to salvage a point for United 2.

“I think we did a good job of addressing what we needed to change at half time,” said Soehn. “Obviously, we created two goals, but I think we could’ve put the game away. Once we got the lead, I think we took our foot off of the gas and played different, and that’s something we have to change because it happened a little bit in Indy as well. We have to learn how to not change when we get up. So, it’s disappointing because it feels like a loss, but our guys had to come back, and you still have to credit them for coming back and taking the lead, but we also gotta learn to finish those games off.”

Midfielder Prosper Kasim when asked about the quick turnaround to play ATL2 again on Wednesday:
“You don’t know what’s going to happen in the next game, so you just prepare yourself mentally and then make sure you win every battle because since you’ve played them once, the next game is going to be tough. You just have to make sure you have a positive mentality and that we beat them.”

Box Score:

	1st Half	2nd Half
BHM	0	2
ATL	1	1

Goals:
ATL – 35’ – #2 Aiden McFadden (assisted by #7 Amadou Diop)
BHM – 66’ – #11 Neco Brett (P)
BHM – 69’ – #77 Junior Flemmings (assisted by #5 Mikey Lopez)
ATL – 90+6’ – #10 Darwin Matheus)

Starting Lineups:
BHM – 4-3-3 – #1 Matt VanOekel; #24 Jonny Dean, #21 Alex Crognale, #3 Phanuel Kavita ©, #7 Ryan James; #27 Thomas Vancaeyezeele, #6 Anderson Asiedu (86’ – #12 Eli Crognale), #5 Mikey Lopez; #10 Prosper Kasim (63’ – #23 JJ Williams), #11 Neco Brett (79’ – #20 Zach Herivaux), #17 Jaden Servania (63’ – #77 Junior Flemmings)

ATL – 4-3-3 – #1 Rocco Rios Novo; #27 Bryce Washington, #24 Josh Bauer, #6 Bradley Kamdem-Fewo © (86’ – #15 Alex Garuba), #13 Caleb Wiley; #8 Chris Allan (77’ – #34 Brendan Lambe), #37 Ajani Fortune (56’ – #5 Abdoulaye Diop), #14 Robbie Mertz; #11 Connor Stanley (77’ – #10 Darwin Matheus), #7 Amadou Diop (56’ – #9 Phillip Goodrum), #2 Aiden McFadden

Stats: Legion FC Match Center

Legion FC will be back at BBVA Field on Wednesday, August 4, at 7:00PM (get your tickets HERE), and Everybody Wins on Wednesdays with Legion FC! Join us for one-dollar hotdogs, two-dollar beers, and a post-game firework show. Contact the Legion FC Ticket Office at 205-600-4635 or tickets@https://www.bhmlegion.com with any questions.

For all club news and updates, be sure to follow @bhmlegion on social media and keep an eye on https://www.bhmlegion.com and the Legion FC app. Download the Legion FC app today on Apple or Android, and save the full 2021 schedule straight to your calendar HERE.

Birmingham squandered a few chances to put the game away late on, and Atlanta kept pressing. After earning a couple of late corner kicks, the visitors swung in a dangerous cross in the sixth minute of added time, and the rebound off a Legion player was rifled in by substitute forward Darwin Matheus for the equalizer to salvage a point for United 2.

“I think we did a good job of addressing what we needed to change at half time,” said Soehn. “Obviously, we created two goals, but I think we could’ve put the game away. Once we got the lead, I think we took our foot off of the gas and played different, and that’s something we have to change because it happened a little bit in Indy as well. We have to learn how to not change when we get up. So, it’s disappointing because it feels like a loss, but our guys had to come back, and you still have to credit them for coming back and taking the lead, but we also gotta learn to finish those games off.”

Midfielder Prosper Kasim when asked about the quick turnaround to play ATL2 again on Wednesday:
“You don’t know what’s going to happen in the next game, so you just prepare yourself mentally and then make sure you win every battle because since you’ve played them once, the next game is going to be tough. You just have to make sure you have a positive mentality and that we beat them.”

Box Score:

	1st Half	2nd Half
BHM	0	2
ATL	1	1

Goals:
ATL – 35’ – #2 Aiden McFadden (assisted by #7 Amadou Diop)
BHM – 66’ – #11 Neco Brett (P)
BHM – 69’ – #77 Junior Flemmings (assisted by #5 Mikey Lopez)
ATL – 90+6’ – #10 Darwin Matheus)

Starting Lineups:
BHM – 4-3-3 – #1 Matt VanOekel; #24 Jonny Dean, #21 Alex Crognale, #3 Phanuel Kavita ©, #7 Ryan James; #27 Thomas Vancaeyezeele, #6 Anderson Asiedu (86’ – #12 Eli Crognale), #5 Mikey Lopez; #10 Prosper Kasim (63’ – #23 JJ Williams), #11 Neco Brett (79’ – #20 Zach Herivaux), #17 Jaden Servania (63’ – #77 Junior Flemmings)

ATL – 4-3-3 – #1 Rocco Rios Novo; #27 Bryce Washington, #24 Josh Bauer, #6 Bradley Kamdem-Fewo © (86’ – #15 Alex Garuba), #13 Caleb Wiley; #8 Chris Allan (77’ – #34 Brendan Lambe), #37 Ajani Fortune (56’ – #5 Abdoulaye Diop), #14 Robbie Mertz; #11 Connor Stanley (77’ – #10 Darwin Matheus), #7 Amadou Diop (56’ – #9 Phillip Goodrum), #2 Aiden McFadden

Stats: Legion FC Match Center

Legion FC will be back at BBVA Field on Wednesday, August 4, at 7:00PM (get your tickets HERE), and Everybody Wins on Wednesdays with Legion FC! Join us for one-dollar hotdogs, two-dollar beers, and a post-game firework show. Contact the Legion FC Ticket Office at 205-600-4635 or tickets@https://www.bhmlegion.com with any questions.

For all club news and updates, be sure to follow @bhmlegion on social media and keep an eye on https://www.bhmlegion.com and the Legion FC app. Download the Legion FC app today on Apple or Android, and save the full 2021 schedule straight to your calendar HERE.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 24, 2021) – Legion FC pull off the road sweep over Central Division foes Indy Eleven with a 2-1 win thanks to a stoppage-time goal by right back Jonny Dean, who also assisted the other second half goal, scored by midfielder Prosper Kasim in the 54th minute.

After a bye week and some well-deserved time off, Legion FC came out pressing the issue in the first half, finishing off the half that Head Coach Tommy Soehn called “one of the best we’ve played” with an edge in possession, and eight to one lead in shots, and general control of the match despite, the 0-0 score line.

Prosper Kasim, who finished the game with the most shots by a player on either team with five, opened the scoring early in the second half with a left-footed strike that found the bottom corner of the net in the 54th minute. Dean got to the edge of the box on the right and slipped a pass to Kasim at the top of the area where the Ghanaian opened up and set himself up perfectly with a first touch that erased a defender before burying the shot.

Indy took the majority of possession for the rest of the contest, probing for an equalizer, and found one in the 77th minute when midfielder Ayoze swung in a cross from the left that found substitute forward Jordan Hamilton. Unfortunately for Legion FC defender Phanuel Kavita and goalkeeper Trevor Spangenberg, who seemed to have that far post covered, the header from Hamilton skipped off of Kavita and in for an own goal. In his first start of the season, Spangenberg ended the match with three saves, including one huge, diving save late in the second half.

Legion FC continued pressing into extra time, when substitute forward Neco Brett got onto the ball in the box and had a shot that was blocked. Dean then pounced on the rebound and unleashed a missile first time into the back of the net to earn his side the victory.

“I think I was able to bring attacking moments tonight because we played well in possession as a team which allowed me time to get in higher positions,” said Dean. “I picked my moments to go and fortunately tonight it paid off. The goal happened pretty fast to be honest, I was in the right spot and laid it off to Neco [Brett] and then fortunately it popped back out to me and in my head, I said ‘I’m going to hit this’ and luckily I struck it well and it went in.”

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (July 24, 2021) – Legion FC pull off the road sweep over Central Division foes Indy Eleven with a 2-1 win thanks to a stoppage-time goal by right back Jonny Dean, who also assisted the other second half goal, scored by midfielder Prosper Kasim in the 54th minute.

After a bye week and some well-deserved time off, Legion FC came out pressing the issue in the first half, finishing off the half that Head Coach Tommy Soehn called “one of the best we’ve played” with an edge in possession, and eight to one lead in shots, and general control of the match despite, the 0-0 score line.

Prosper Kasim, who finished the game with the most shots by a player on either team with five, opened the scoring early in the second half with a left-footed strike that found the bottom corner of the net in the 54th minute. Dean got to the edge of the box on the right and slipped a pass to Kasim at the top of the area where the Ghanaian opened up and set himself up perfectly with a first touch that erased a defender before burying the shot.

Indy took the majority of possession for the rest of the contest, probing for an equalizer, and found one in the 77th minute when midfielder Ayoze swung in a cross from the left that found substitute forward Jordan Hamilton. Unfortunately for Legion FC defender Phanuel Kavita and goalkeeper Trevor Spangenberg, who seemed to have that far post covered, the header from Hamilton skipped off of Kavita and in for an own goal. In his first start of the season, Spangenberg ended the match with three saves, including one huge, diving save late in the second half.

Legion FC continued pressing into extra time, when substitute forward Neco Brett got onto the ball in the box and had a shot that was blocked. Dean then pounced on the rebound and unleashed a missile first time into the back of the net to earn his side the victory.

“I think I was able to bring attacking moments tonight because we played well in possession as a team which allowed me time to get in higher positions,” said Dean. “I picked my moments to go and fortunately tonight it paid off. The goal happened pretty fast to be honest, I was in the right spot and laid it off to Neco [Brett] and then fortunately it popped back out to me and in my head, I said ‘I’m going to hit this’ and luckily I struck it well and it went in.”

Coach Soehn was pleased with his team’s performance, and glad the effort shown throughout lead to the three points earned at the end.

“I think it’s just more of the same, and make sure we don’t change what were doing,” said Soehn when asked about the message at halftime. “I think the guys did a pretty good job up until the first goal, and then we put so much into getting the goal that it kind of felt like we lost our legs a little bit and they [Indy Eleven] started to take more control. But this group can grind, and when it’s time, they stepped it up again, got one back, and grabbed a really important three points to follow up a really good performance.

“Today was the usual Jonny [Dean], putting in the effort. He’s never short on that. Today, the way the system went, he was able to come from deeper spots and run at people, and that’s when Jonny’s at his best. Credit to him, he was able to put a name on one, and finished off the other one.”

Box Score:

	1st Half	2nd Half
IND	0	1
BHM	0	2

Goals:
BHM –54’ – #10 Prosper Kasim (assisted by #24 Jonny Dean)
IND – 77’ – OG (Phanuel Kavita)
BHM – 90+1’ – #24 Jonny Dean

Starting Lineups:
IND – 4-2-3-1 – #13 Eric Dick; #19 Rece Buckmaster (63’ – #10 Gordon Wild), #20 Karl Ouimette, #3 AJ Cochran, #2 Patrick Seagrist; #6 Jeremiah Gutjahr (63’ – #22 Jordan Hamilton), #5 Jared Timmer; #17 Nick Moon, #27 Nicky Law, #7 Ayoze © (86’ – #98 Peter-Lee Vassell); #29 Manuel Arteaga

BHM – 4-4-2 – #18 Trevor Spangenberg; #24 Jonny Dean, #21 Alex Crognale, #3 Phanuel Kavita ©, #7 Ryan James; #27 Thomas Vancaeyezeele, #6 Anderson Asiedu, #5 Mikey Lopez, #10 Prosper Kasim (60’ – #12 Eli Crognale); #23 JJ Williams, #17 Jaden Servania (73’ – #11 Neco Brett)

Stats: Legion FC Match Center

Legion FC will be back at BBVA Field next weekend to face Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, July 31 at 6:30PM (get your tickets HERE), and then back again midweek on Wednesday, August 4, at 7:00PM (get your tickets HERE).

Everybody Wins on Wednesdays with Legion FC, and that includes on August 4th! Join us for one-dollar hotdogs, two-dollar beers, and a post-game firework show. Contact the Legion FC Ticket Office at 205-600-4635 or tickets@https://www.bhmlegion.com with any questions.

For all club news and updates, be sure to follow @bhmlegion on social media and keep an eye on https://www.bhmlegion.com and the Legion FC app. Download the Legion FC app today on Apple or Android, and save the full 2021 schedule straight to your calendar HERE.

Coach Soehn was pleased with his team’s performance, and glad the effort shown throughout lead to the three points earned at the end.

“I think it’s just more of the same, and make sure we don’t change what were doing,” said Soehn when asked about the message at halftime. “I think the guys did a pretty good job up until the first goal, and then we put so much into getting the goal that it kind of felt like we lost our legs a little bit and they [Indy Eleven] started to take more control. But this group can grind, and when it’s time, they stepped it up again, got one back, and grabbed a really important three points to follow up a really good performance.

“Today was the usual Jonny [Dean], putting in the effort. He’s never short on that. Today, the way the system went, he was able to come from deeper spots and run at people, and that’s when Jonny’s at his best. Credit to him, he was able to put a name on one, and finished off the other one.”

Box Score:

	1st Half	2nd Half
IND	0	1
BHM	0	2

Goals:
BHM –54’ – #10 Prosper Kasim (assisted by #24 Jonny Dean)
IND – 77’ – OG (Phanuel Kavita)
BHM – 90+1’ – #24 Jonny Dean

Starting Lineups:
IND – 4-2-3-1 – #13 Eric Dick; #19 Rece Buckmaster (63’ – #10 Gordon Wild), #20 Karl Ouimette, #3 AJ Cochran, #2 Patrick Seagrist; #6 Jeremiah Gutjahr (63’ – #22 Jordan Hamilton), #5 Jared Timmer; #17 Nick Moon, #27 Nicky Law, #7 Ayoze © (86’ – #98 Peter-Lee Vassell); #29 Manuel Arteaga

BHM – 4-4-2 – #18 Trevor Spangenberg; #24 Jonny Dean, #21 Alex Crognale, #3 Phanuel Kavita ©, #7 Ryan James; #27 Thomas Vancaeyezeele, #6 Anderson Asiedu, #5 Mikey Lopez, #10 Prosper Kasim (60’ – #12 Eli Crognale); #23 JJ Williams, #17 Jaden Servania (73’ – #11 Neco Brett)

Stats: Legion FC Match Center

Legion FC will be back at BBVA Field next weekend to face Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, July 31 at 6:30PM (get your tickets HERE), and then back again midweek on Wednesday, August 4, at 7:00PM (get your tickets HERE).

Everybody Wins on Wednesdays with Legion FC, and that includes on August 4th! Join us for one-dollar hotdogs, two-dollar beers, and a post-game firework show. Contact the Legion FC Ticket Office at 205-600-4635 or tickets@https://www.bhmlegion.com with any questions.

For all club news and updates, be sure to follow @bhmlegion on social media and keep an eye on https://www.bhmlegion.com and the Legion FC app. Download the Legion FC app today on Apple or Android, and save the full 2021 schedule straight to your calendar HERE.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 23, 2021) – Ahead of Legion FC’s trip to Indianapolis to take on Indy Eleven on Saturday, defender Jonny Dean called in to chat about soccer, life, and a lot in between.

Question (Q): How are things going so far in year two for you? Year two as a pro and year two in Birmingham?

Jonny Dean (JD): It’s been good! It’s a lot different than the first year, because of COVID, right, where there was a real bubble for us, essecntially just play and go home, and that it. Now we’re able to get out a little bit more, tour the city of Birmingham itself. As for the group we have this year, I mean, we have a really good squad. Majority of the guys are pretty personable, a lot of the new guys and guys that are returning, so I’m excited about this team.

Q: Who are the funny guys on the team or who kind of leads the way off the field for this group?

JD: I’d say some of the older guys, you know, Phanny [Kavita], Matt [VanOekel], and those guys. Even Trev [Spangenberg]… Trev is a funny guy, man. Yeah, he’s got some good comments, I’ll give him that.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 23, 2021) – Ahead of Legion FC’s trip to Indianapolis to take on Indy Eleven on Saturday, defender Jonny Dean called in to chat about soccer, life, and a lot in between.

Question (Q): How are things going so far in year two for you? Year two as a pro and year two in Birmingham?

Jonny Dean (JD): It’s been good! It’s a lot different than the first year, because of COVID, right, where there was a real bubble for us, essecntially just play and go home, and that it. Now we’re able to get out a little bit more, tour the city of Birmingham itself. As for the group we have this year, I mean, we have a really good squad. Majority of the guys are pretty personable, a lot of the new guys and guys that are returning, so I’m excited about this team.

Q: Who are the funny guys on the team or who kind of leads the way off the field for this group?

JD: I’d say some of the older guys, you know, Phanny [Kavita], Matt [VanOekel], and those guys. Even Trev [Spangenberg]… Trev is a funny guy, man. Yeah, he’s got some good comments, I’ll give him that.

Q: You said you’ve gotten to see a bit more of Birmingham this year. When you’re not training or travelling what do you like to do on your off days?

JD: I like the outdoors areas around here, especially with my dog [a German Shepherd named Nina]. We go on a lot of hikes, and now we’ve been going to a dog park around Highland Park. I do that most days, let here run around and play with other dogs. It’s good for her.

There’s also a lot of good spots to go out and eat now – starting to do that a lot more now. My favorite as of now is El Barrio. Big fan, not gonna lie. I like Real and Rosemary too, a little simpler, and a nice place I’ve been trying to go with the family is Helen. Heard a lot of good things. We have family friends from back home who are related to the owner, so I’ve got to check it out. Just got to get your reservation in way in advance! Chez Fonfon is also on the list as well.

Q: Speaking of food, I’ve got good intel that you’re a big Chick-fil-A guy, as am I. I’m a spicy chicken sandwich guy, but, lay it out for me – what’s your go to order?

JD: So, it depends on how hungry I am, and if I’m feeling guilty about just eating fried food or not. But usually, it’s a number one large meal, with a sweet tea, and another sandwich on the side. Love the sandwich, and I’m a big sweet tea guy.

Q: Red Diamond will be glad to hear you’re a big sweet tea guy. We’ll have to hook you up. I also have heard, speaking of Red Diamond, that you’re a big coffee guy, too, and that the pregame ritual is a double espresso?! When did you start doing that?

JD: Yeah man! Big coffee guy. The espresso started back in college [at the University of Central Florida]. I’ve always tried to go towards the more natural energy drink, and other drinks are too much liquid, like a full cup of coffee is too heavy on the stomach when you’re running, so I’ve always gone espresso. We had a really great café in college that was a 30 second walk from our locker room, and it kind of stuck.

Q: While at UCF what’d you study? What did you want to be growing up, and what do you think you’d be doing if you weren’t playing?

JD: So, I graduated in December 2019 with a major in Communications, and then had an extra year of eligibility, so I got a master’s in criminal justice, and finished that last December. So, to go off of that, something like going into the FBI, CIA would be cool, or I could go back to law school after I’m done playing.

Q: You said you’ve gotten to see a bit more of Birmingham this year. When you’re not training or travelling what do you like to do on your off days?

JD: I like the outdoors areas around here, especially with my dog [a German Shepherd named Nina]. We go on a lot of hikes, and now we’ve been going to a dog park around Highland Park. I do that most days, let here run around and play with other dogs. It’s good for her.

There’s also a lot of good spots to go out and eat now – starting to do that a lot more now. My favorite as of now is El Barrio. Big fan, not gonna lie. I like Real and Rosemary too, a little simpler, and a nice place I’ve been trying to go with the family is Helen. Heard a lot of good things. We have family friends from back home who are related to the owner, so I’ve got to check it out. Just got to get your reservation in way in advance! Chez Fonfon is also on the list as well.

Q: Speaking of food, I’ve got good intel that you’re a big Chick-fil-A guy, as am I. I’m a spicy chicken sandwich guy, but, lay it out for me – what’s your go to order?

JD: So, it depends on how hungry I am, and if I’m feeling guilty about just eating fried food or not. But usually, it’s a number one large meal, with a sweet tea, and another sandwich on the side. Love the sandwich, and I’m a big sweet tea guy.

Q: Red Diamond will be glad to hear you’re a big sweet tea guy. We’ll have to hook you up. I also have heard, speaking of Red Diamond, that you’re a big coffee guy, too, and that the pregame ritual is a double espresso?! When did you start doing that?

JD: Yeah man! Big coffee guy. The espresso started back in college [at the University of Central Florida]. I’ve always tried to go towards the more natural energy drink, and other drinks are too much liquid, like a full cup of coffee is too heavy on the stomach when you’re running, so I’ve always gone espresso. We had a really great café in college that was a 30 second walk from our locker room, and it kind of stuck.

Q: While at UCF what’d you study? What did you want to be growing up, and what do you think you’d be doing if you weren’t playing?

JD: So, I graduated in December 2019 with a major in Communications, and then had an extra year of eligibility, so I got a master’s in criminal justice, and finished that last December. So, to go off of that, something like going into the FBI, CIA would be cool, or I could go back to law school after I’m done playing.

Q: Very cool, man. Impressive. So, you grew up in the South, in Macon, GA, and we’ve got SEC Media Days going on right now, so I’ve got to ask about college football. You a Georgia fan? Looking forward to the season?

JD: Nah I’m actually an Alabama fan! My grandmother went to Alabama, as well as my uncle and my sister, so it’s not just a bandwagon thing, there are some ties. My dad grew up going to games, they were big Bama fans, when Bear Bryant was the coach, so I got it through there. And I used to be a big Clemson fan because my cousin, Jad Dean, kicked for them [from 2004-2006]. Growing up I’d follow them because he was kicking, so I cheered for him there, but I love college football. More of a college football guy than an NFL guy.

Q: A lot of our fans will be glad to hear you’re a Bama fan. I was going to ask then how you thought the season would go, but we already know, with Alabama.

JD: [Laughs] That’s the plan, man, win the whole thing. Hey and I’m pulling for UCF too. Gotta support the alma mater.

Q: Of course. And we’ll have to get you out to a UAB game. They always have a good squad… but I’ll wrap it up with a highly anticipated question – maybe the most important one. I’ve heard the team calling you ‘Hotlinks,’ which is an amazing nickname. Where did that come from?!

JD: Yes! I think it’s awesome. K-dawg [Legion FC’s 2020 Equipment Manager] gave it to me last year when he was here, off of Jimmy Dean I guess, but I’m glad that it has stuck.

Catch Hotlinks and the rest of the #ThreeSparks in action tomorrow night as they head to Indiana to take on Indy Eleven at 6PM CT, live on My68 or ESPN+!

Legion FC will be back at BBVA Field next weekend to face Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, July 31 at 6:30PM (get your tickets HERE), and then again on Wednesday, August 4, at 7:00PM (get your tickets HERE).

The Wednesday night game is the rescheduled match that was rained out on June 30, and anyone with previously purchased tickets to the June 30 match can use that ticket on August 4. Please email tickets@https://www.bhmlegion.com with any questions or issues. Everybody Wins on Wednesday’s with Legion FC, so join us on Wednesday the fourth for one dollar hotdogs, two dollar beers, and a post-game firework show!

Q: Very cool, man. Impressive. So, you grew up in the South, in Macon, GA, and we’ve got SEC Media Days going on right now, so I’ve got to ask about college football. You a Georgia fan? Looking forward to the season?

JD: Nah I’m actually an Alabama fan! My grandmother went to Alabama, as well as my uncle and my sister, so it’s not just a bandwagon thing, there are some ties. My dad grew up going to games, they were big Bama fans, when Bear Bryant was the coach, so I got it through there. And I used to be a big Clemson fan because my cousin, Jad Dean, kicked for them [from 2004-2006]. Growing up I’d follow them because he was kicking, so I cheered for him there, but I love college football. More of a college football guy than an NFL guy.

Q: A lot of our fans will be glad to hear you’re a Bama fan. I was going to ask then how you thought the season would go, but we already know, with Alabama.

JD: [Laughs] That’s the plan, man, win the whole thing. Hey and I’m pulling for UCF too. Gotta support the alma mater.

Q: Of course. And we’ll have to get you out to a UAB game. They always have a good squad… but I’ll wrap it up with a highly anticipated question – maybe the most important one. I’ve heard the team calling you ‘Hotlinks,’ which is an amazing nickname. Where did that come from?!

JD: Yes! I think it’s awesome. K-dawg [Legion FC’s 2020 Equipment Manager] gave it to me last year when he was here, off of Jimmy Dean I guess, but I’m glad that it has stuck.

Catch Hotlinks and the rest of the #ThreeSparks in action tomorrow night as they head to Indiana to take on Indy Eleven at 6PM CT, live on My68 or ESPN+!

Legion FC will be back at BBVA Field next weekend to face Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, July 31 at 6:30PM (get your tickets HERE), and then again on Wednesday, August 4, at 7:00PM (get your tickets HERE).

The Wednesday night game is the rescheduled match that was rained out on June 30, and anyone with previously purchased tickets to the June 30 match can use that ticket on August 4. Please email tickets@https://www.bhmlegion.com with any questions or issues. Everybody Wins on Wednesday’s with Legion FC, so join us on Wednesday the fourth for one dollar hotdogs, two dollar beers, and a post-game firework show!

Jaden Servania bounced around elite MLS Academy programs and committed to Wake Forrest University before finding his place at Birmingham Legion FC. A native of Birmingham, Servania has excelled with his hometown club over the past few seasons. From signing a USL Academy contract in 2019 to inking a professional deal a season later, Servania has proven himself a valuable asset for the club at just 20 years old. 

Servania sat down to chat about his soccer journey leading him home to Birmingham and how it has felt to represent the Puerto Rican National Team as they compete to play at the FIFA World Cup. 

Question (Q): Why did you leave an established MLS academy to join a USL academy?

Jaden Servania (JS): I was originally going to school at Wake but then my COVID year hit and that got in the way of a lot of things so I wasn't sure if there was going to be a season. I decided to train with Legion for a little bit and then they had invited me to sign an academy contract there, and I thought that was a great opportunity because I knew they were playing for sure that season. And then things went pretty well for me, I'd say. Pretty good season and I signed my first professional contract so I was really excited.

Q: Was it a difficult decision to pass up playing college and going to college to play pro?

JS: It was difficult but at the same time it was easy. All my life I've been dreaming of being a professional soccer player so it's something I've learned as a little kid. It wasn't too tough for me but I still want to get my degree, someday. 

Jaden Servania bounced around elite MLS Academy programs and committed to Wake Forrest University before finding his place at Birmingham Legion FC. A native of Birmingham, Servania has excelled with his hometown club over the past few seasons. From signing a USL Academy contract in 2019 to inking a professional deal a season later, Servania has proven himself a valuable asset for the club at just 20 years old. 

Servania sat down to chat about his soccer journey leading him home to Birmingham and how it has felt to represent the Puerto Rican National Team as they compete to play at the FIFA World Cup. 

Question (Q): Why did you leave an established MLS academy to join a USL academy?

Jaden Servania (JS): I was originally going to school at Wake but then my COVID year hit and that got in the way of a lot of things so I wasn’t sure if there was going to be a season. I decided to train with Legion for a little bit and then they had invited me to sign an academy contract there, and I thought that was a great opportunity because I knew they were playing for sure that season. And then things went pretty well for me, I’d say. Pretty good season and I signed my first professional contract so I was really excited.

Q: Was it a difficult decision to pass up playing college and going to college to play pro?

JS: It was difficult but at the same time it was easy. All my life I’ve been dreaming of being a professional soccer player so it’s something I’ve learned as a little kid. It wasn’t too tough for me but I still want to get my degree, someday. 

Q: How does it feel to play for your hometown team?

JS: It feels great. I get to see a lot of people I grew up with actually being home is a great feeling because both my parents had me and my brother here, so we grew up here. I lived here until I was 14 when we moved to Dallas. So getting to represent the state, it's a great feeling.

Q: What did you like most about the USL Academy system?

JS: It was a big thing because when I had decided not to go to Wake, I signed the academy contract, and that still gave me eligibility to go back to school. So that was a big thing for me because I was still up in the air of whether I'm going to go to school. If I signed a contract, and I had a really good season so I ended up saying.

Q: How has Birmingham helped you develop on and off the field?

JS: The first thing is they're really welcoming. So, when you first get there it's not really intimidating, but training is tougher than in the academy. The speed of play, it's a lot more difficult. It's a group of really good guys and the staff is really good to help you get adjusted really quickly so I think the people around you help you grow a lot. It’s really only been up from there. 

Q: Have there been any specific players that have taught you a lot during your time at Birmingham?

JS: There's been a couple of players, the whole team actually. I don't want to single anyone out because a lot of the guys I'm really close with. But there everyone has made some sort of impact whether on or off the field.

Q: How does it feel to play for your hometown team?

JS: It feels great. I get to see a lot of people I grew up with actually being home is a great feeling because both my parents had me and my brother here, so we grew up here. I lived here until I was 14 when we moved to Dallas. So getting to represent the state, it’s a great feeling.

Q: What did you like most about the USL Academy system?

JS: It was a big thing because when I had decided not to go to Wake, I signed the academy contract, and that still gave me eligibility to go back to school. So that was a big thing for me because I was still up in the air of whether I’m going to go to school. If I signed a contract, and I had a really good season so I ended up saying.

Q: How has Birmingham helped you develop on and off the field?

JS: The first thing is they’re really welcoming. So, when you first get there it’s not really intimidating, but training is tougher than in the academy. The speed of play, it’s a lot more difficult. It’s a group of really good guys and the staff is really good to help you get adjusted really quickly so I think the people around you help you grow a lot. It’s really only been up from there. 

Q: Have there been any specific players that have taught you a lot during your time at Birmingham?

JS: There’s been a couple of players, the whole team actually. I don’t want to single anyone out because a lot of the guys I’m really close with. But there everyone has made some sort of impact whether on or off the field.

Q: What have you learned from your brother’s path and other players from Alabama that we now see in the pro ranks?

JS: Growing up, it was always competitive but that helped a lot. Being able to compete against my brother gave me an edge when competing against kids my age. I was able to learn from his mistakes as he's older than me, I get to see what he's going through and he teaches me and tells me how to adjust, and it’s helped a lot.

Q: What have you learned from seeing the different pathways available?

JS: Seeing that these players have different opportunities is very promising for me. Also for the other young guys that are watching, it shows that anyone can get this opportunity and if you make the best of it and are prepared, you can make that jump quickly. So very, very exciting actually.

Q: What do you think the presence of Legion FC and its USL Academy team will mean for young Alabaman talent?

JS: I think, for these kids and local kids here, being able to have a professional team to watch and grow up and admire, gives them motivation and pushes them to be the better player. I've been helping out around with some of the local teams here and the kids are really excited. So, hope that helps them, maybe when they want to do the same thing as me.

Q: What have you been doing at the local level?

JS: Sometimes I go help out with some local clubs that I grew up playing with. I know some of the staff so I'll go and help out with trainings and say hi to the kids and just show my face to give back. I was once here and I know what that feels like. I think it's good for them, pushes them to the next level.

Q: What have you learned from your brother’s path and other players from Alabama that we now see in the pro ranks?

JS: Growing up, it was always competitive but that helped a lot. Being able to compete against my brother gave me an edge when competing against kids my age. I was able to learn from his mistakes as he’s older than me, I get to see what he’s going through and he teaches me and tells me how to adjust, and it’s helped a lot.

Q: What have you learned from seeing the different pathways available?

JS: Seeing that these players have different opportunities is very promising for me. Also for the other young guys that are watching, it shows that anyone can get this opportunity and if you make the best of it and are prepared, you can make that jump quickly. So very, very exciting actually.

Q: What do you think the presence of Legion FC and its USL Academy team will mean for young Alabaman talent?

JS: I think, for these kids and local kids here, being able to have a professional team to watch and grow up and admire, gives them motivation and pushes them to be the better player. I’ve been helping out around with some of the local teams here and the kids are really excited. So, hope that helps them, maybe when they want to do the same thing as me.

Q: What have you been doing at the local level?

JS: Sometimes I go help out with some local clubs that I grew up playing with. I know some of the staff so I’ll go and help out with trainings and say hi to the kids and just show my face to give back. I was once here and I know what that feels like. I think it’s good for them, pushes them to the next level.

Q: How does it feel to play for the Puerto Rican national team?

JS: My mom's from Puerto Rico so all her family is very excited every time I go to there to play. They always want to see what I'm doing, and they want to see me play. I played for the U17 team in Florida, when I was 17, for the U20 CONCACAF Championship. I didn't think I was going to get that call up to the men, but then two years later I did. I was able to play in the World Cup qualifiers so it means a lot to me and my mom and my family all together.

Q: What has been your favorite moment when playing with Puerto Rico?

JS: In the U20 CONCACAF Championship, we're in Florida. Our first game was against the US so I was playing against my brother. It was great for my family, who flew down to watch that game. It was a great moment I’ll never forget.

Q: What is your goal for your soccer career?

JS: For me, personally, in my career, I just want to become the best player I can. Whether I end up in MLS or Europe or stay where I am, I just want to be the best player I can. When I was little, I always wanted to be in the World Cup so hopefully that will happen soon, but right now I have to keep working and getting better at the player I am.

Q: What advice do you have to any kids making their way through the academy ranks hoping to make the jump to pro?

JS: When you go train with a first team or your USL pro team, one big thing is just have confidence in yourself. Everyone's going to mess up but have the confidence to win the ball back and do it again.

Q: How does it feel to play for the Puerto Rican national team?

JS: My mom’s from Puerto Rico so all her family is very excited every time I go to there to play. They always want to see what I’m doing, and they want to see me play. I played for the U17 team in Florida, when I was 17, for the U20 CONCACAF Championship. I didn’t think I was going to get that call up to the men, but then two years later I did. I was able to play in the World Cup qualifiers so it means a lot to me and my mom and my family all together.

Q: What has been your favorite moment when playing with Puerto Rico?

JS: In the U20 CONCACAF Championship, we’re in Florida. Our first game was against the US so I was playing against my brother. It was great for my family, who flew down to watch that game. It was a great moment I’ll never forget.

Q: What is your goal for your soccer career?

JS: For me, personally, in my career, I just want to become the best player I can. Whether I end up in MLS or Europe or stay where I am, I just want to be the best player I can. When I was little, I always wanted to be in the World Cup so hopefully that will happen soon, but right now I have to keep working and getting better at the player I am.

Q: What advice do you have to any kids making their way through the academy ranks hoping to make the jump to pro?

JS: When you go train with a first team or your USL pro team, one big thing is just have confidence in yourself. Everyone’s going to mess up but have the confidence to win the ball back and do it again.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 13, 2021) – Legion FC’s inaugural academy team played in its first-ever match on Saturday at BBVA Field versus South Georgia Tormenta and won 4-1, thanks to goals from midfielder Jackson Wrobel and defender Alan Melendez in the first half, and forwards Kaleb Jowers and Kosi Udeh in the second half.

The Young Hammers controlled possession and were the more dangerous side throughout the match, and Academy Head Coach Marcos Ugarte was pleased with his team’s performance.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Ugarte, who coaches the team while also playing for the Legion FC first team. “The boys have been training since October, so to compete now and finally have a game, I think you could tell the jitters were there to see early on, but after that first water break, they played some good soccer.

“From a club standpoint, that’s the whole reason why we’re doing this, to give players an opportunity, generate more exposure, and create a professional environment for them. So, we’re here to aide them in their development, and so far, we’re excited about what we’ve done.”

The academy team is comprised of players aged under-16 through under-19 and operates in conjunction with Legion FC-affiliated youth clubs in the Birmingham area. The purpose behind this model is to help identify and foster local talent with player development at the forefront. More information on the academy’s identity, mission, and approach, as well as all future academy updates, can be found on the Legion FC Academy page.

For any inquiries regarding the academy team, please email Coach Ugarte at mugarte@https://www.bhmlegion.com. For age groups U9 through U12, find more information about the Legion FC Development League on our D-League page. 

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 13, 2021) – Legion FC’s inaugural academy team played in its first-ever match on Saturday at BBVA Field versus South Georgia Tormenta and won 4-1, thanks to goals from midfielder Jackson Wrobel and defender Alan Melendez in the first half, and forwards Kaleb Jowers and Kosi Udeh in the second half.

The Young Hammers controlled possession and were the more dangerous side throughout the match, and Academy Head Coach Marcos Ugarte was pleased with his team’s performance.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Ugarte, who coaches the team while also playing for the Legion FC first team. “The boys have been training since October, so to compete now and finally have a game, I think you could tell the jitters were there to see early on, but after that first water break, they played some good soccer.

“From a club standpoint, that’s the whole reason why we’re doing this, to give players an opportunity, generate more exposure, and create a professional environment for them. So, we’re here to aide them in their development, and so far, we’re excited about what we’ve done.”

The academy team is comprised of players aged under-16 through under-19 and operates in conjunction with Legion FC-affiliated youth clubs in the Birmingham area. The purpose behind this model is to help identify and foster local talent with player development at the forefront. More information on the academy’s identity, mission, and approach, as well as all future academy updates, can be found on the Legion FC Academy page.

For any inquiries regarding the academy team, please email Coach Ugarte at mugarte@https://www.bhmlegion.com. For age groups U9 through U12, find more information about the Legion FC Development League on our D-League page. 

TAMPA, Fla. – Birmingham Legion FC’s Matt VanOekel has earned the USL Championship’s Fans’ Choice Save of the Month award for June as his key late save that preserved a big in-division victory against FC Tulsa claimed top spot in the online poll conducted over the past weekend.

VanOekel has been a fixture in goal for Legion FC over its first three seasons and this year is having a standout campaign, sitting tied for the league-lead with five shutouts this season. The 34-year-old produced a brilliant late save to earn Birmingham a 2-1 victory against Central Division rival on June 6, keeping out a free kick by Dario Suarez that was pegged for the top-left corner of the net.

VanOekel’s save earned 58 percent of the poll conducted at USLChampionship.com, finishing ahead of Loudoun United FC’s Jermaine Fordah, who took 23 percent for his point-blank save on Hartford Athletic’s Preston Tabort Etaka on June 19. Memphis 901 FC’s Mark Segbers finished third on 15 percent for his late save as an emergency goalkeeper that helped the hosts hold onto victory against Atlanta United 2 on June 16.

VanOekel and his teammates get a weekend off and then their next game is Saturday, July 24, at Indy Eleven. Tune in on My68 and ESPN+ to catch all the action! The team will return to BBVA Field to host Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, July 31, at 6:30 PM. Tickets are available HERE or by contacting the Legion FC Ticket Office.

For all club news and updates, be sure to follow @bhmlegion on social media and keep an eye on https://www.bhmlegion.com and the Legion FC app. Download the Legion FC app today on Apple or Android, and save the full 2021 schedule straight to your calendar HERE.

TAMPA, Fla. – Birmingham Legion FC’s Matt VanOekel has earned the USL Championship’s Fans’ Choice Save of the Month award for June as his key late save that preserved a big in-division victory against FC Tulsa claimed top spot in the online poll conducted over the past weekend.

VanOekel has been a fixture in goal for Legion FC over its first three seasons and this year is having a standout campaign, sitting tied for the league-lead with five shutouts this season. The 34-year-old produced a brilliant late save to earn Birmingham a 2-1 victory against Central Division rival on June 6, keeping out a free kick by Dario Suarez that was pegged for the top-left corner of the net.

VanOekel’s save earned 58 percent of the poll conducted at USLChampionship.com, finishing ahead of Loudoun United FC’s Jermaine Fordah, who took 23 percent for his point-blank save on Hartford Athletic’s Preston Tabort Etaka on June 19. Memphis 901 FC’s Mark Segbers finished third on 15 percent for his late save as an emergency goalkeeper that helped the hosts hold onto victory against Atlanta United 2 on June 16.

VanOekel and his teammates get a weekend off and then their next game is Saturday, July 24, at Indy Eleven. Tune in on My68 and ESPN+ to catch all the action! The team will return to BBVA Field to host Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, July 31, at 6:30 PM. Tickets are available HERE or by contacting the Legion FC Ticket Office.

For all club news and updates, be sure to follow @bhmlegion on social media and keep an eye on https://www.bhmlegion.com and the Legion FC app. Download the Legion FC app today on Apple or Android, and save the full 2021 schedule straight to your calendar HERE.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 12, 2021) – The USL Championship announced today the contest between Birmingham Legion FC and Atlanta United 2 that was abandoned at halftime on Wednesday, June 30 due to unplayable field conditions after heavy rain fall has been rescheduled.

The teams will meet on Wednesday, August 4 at 7:00PM CT at BBVA Field. Under the USL Championship’s rules, the game will be replayed in its entirety from the opening kickoff with the score line at 0-0.

All tickets purchased for the original game will be valid for the rematch, and fans can get tickets for the new date HERE. Any questions or issues can be directed to tickets@https://www.bhmlegion.com or 205-791-7145. Everybody Wins on Wednesdays with Legion FC, so join us at BBVA Field on the 4th for one dollar hotdogs, two dollar beers, and a post-game firework show!

The Black and Gold get a weekend off and then the next game is Saturday, July 24, at Indy Eleven. Tune in on My68 and ESPN+ to catch all the action! The team will return to BBVA Field to host Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, July 31, at 6:30PM. Tickets are available HERE or by contacting the Legion FC Ticket Office.

For all club news and updates, be sure to follow @bhmlegion on social media and keep an eye on https://www.bhmlegion.com and the Legion FC app. Download the Legion FC app today on Apple or Android, and save the full 2021 schedule straight to your calendar HERE.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 12, 2021) – The USL Championship announced today the contest between Birmingham Legion FC and Atlanta United 2 that was abandoned at halftime on Wednesday, June 30 due to unplayable field conditions after heavy rain fall has been rescheduled.

The teams will meet on Wednesday, August 4 at 7:00PM CT at BBVA Field. Under the USL Championship’s rules, the game will be replayed in its entirety from the opening kickoff with the score line at 0-0.

All tickets purchased for the original game will be valid for the rematch, and fans can get tickets for the new date HERE. Any questions or issues can be directed to tickets@https://www.bhmlegion.com or 205-791-7145. Everybody Wins on Wednesdays with Legion FC, so join us at BBVA Field on the 4th for one dollar hotdogs, two dollar beers, and a post-game firework show!

The Black and Gold get a weekend off and then the next game is Saturday, July 24, at Indy Eleven. Tune in on My68 and ESPN+ to catch all the action! The team will return to BBVA Field to host Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, July 31, at 6:30PM. Tickets are available HERE or by contacting the Legion FC Ticket Office.

For all club news and updates, be sure to follow @bhmlegion on social media and keep an eye on https://www.bhmlegion.com and the Legion FC app. Download the Legion FC app today on Apple or Android, and save the full 2021 schedule straight to your calendar HERE.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 10, 2021) – Birmingham Legion FC dropped a big opportunity to extend its lead at the top of the Central Division by losing 1-0 on Saturday at home versus rivals Memphis 901 FC.

Legion FC put up 17 shots in the match, to Memphis’s 11, but eight big saves by new Memphis goalkeeper Kyle Morton kept the home side from pay dirt. The visitors only managed one shot on target in the second half, but that one shot from forward Kyle Murphy found the back of the net in the 53rd minute. A Birmingham defender blocked a Memphis player’s shot in the box, but the rebound fell right to an on-running Murphy who took advantage.

Memphis came out the aggressor in the first ten minutes of the match, managing to get off a couple shots, before Birmingham worked their way in to the action and settled things down. Legion created a good number of chances in the first half, and held an edge in possession, but could not find the breakthrough. Two instances of what looked to possibly be a foul on the Memphis in their own box went uncalled as well.

After the goal early in the second half, 901 FC packed it in, conceding 72% of possession to the home team in the second half, and Legion peppered the opposing goal with 10 shots, 13 crosses from open play, and three corners, to no avail. Head Coach Tommy Soehn was disappointed in the lack of goals from his side.

“I think we were stifled,” said Soehn. “Never really got our mojo going. I thought Daigo added something to the attack, but it wasn’t our forwards best day, and you could tell, it reflected in the quality of the chances we had.

“I think that’s the discouraging thing is that we’ve really worked on our attacking patterns, and I really didn’t see them tonight. We’re going to continue to work on it and make sure that we enjoy a little break, even though it’s disappointing to head into that break with a loss. The guys have earned a break and we’ll come back and get back to work.”

Forward JJ Williams ended the match with five shots, Neco Brett had four, Prosper Kasim had three in 30 minutes of action as a sub, and right wingback Jonny Dean had six key passes on the evening. New signing Thomas Vancaeyezeele stepped right into the starting lineup after arriving in Birmingham on Thursday and ended up the three clearances, one interception, and an 84.4% pass completion rate, while Anderson Asiedu led the team in tackles with three and defender Alex Crognale was tops in clearances (four) and interceptions (three). Check out all of the stats from tonight’s match, and every match this year, in the Legion FC Match Center.

Defender Ryan James when asked about improving moving forward and the addition of Vancaeyezeele:
“I think chemistry is the biggest thing, just being on the same page. When we’re starting to connect and be on the same page with that kind of chemistry, I think more goals will come. We just have to make sure that we’re still vigilant with our defensive pieces and our defensive responsibilities throughout the whole team. Once we get that chemistry going, I think we’ll have a good flow to us and we’ll have a good back half of the season.”

“Only [talked to Vancaeyezeele] a little bit before he got here. He tried to surprise me but nope, he can never surprise me. I have eyes in the back of my head. It’s great to have him, though, great consistency in the back defensively. He’s got great technical ability and I think he’s solid on the ball. He’s a great addition, for sure.”

Box Score:

	1st Half	2nd Half
BHM	0	0
MEM	0	1

Goals:
MEM – 53’ – #9 Kyle Murphy

Starting Lineups:
BHM – 3-4-3 – #1 Matt VanOekel; #27 Thomas Vancaeyezeele, #21 Alex Crognale, #3 Phanuel Kavita ©; #24 Jonny Dean, #6 Anderson Asiedu, #5 Mikey Lopez (68’ – #16 Daigo Kobayashi), #7 Ryan James; #23 JJ Williams, #11 Neco Brett, #17 Jaden Servania (57’ – #10 Prosper Kasim)

MEM – 4-2-3-1 – #1 Kyle Morton; #8 Raul Gonzalez, #3 Zach Carroll, #50 Naill Logue, #36 Andre Reynolds (78’ – #5 Brecc Evans); #18 Dominic Oduro, #23 Leston Paul; #30 Laurent Kissiedou, #11 Michael Salazar (68’ – #10 Kadeem Dacres), #7 Mitch Guitar (82’ – #33 Skylar Thomas); #9 Kyle Murphy (78’ – #18 Rashan Dally)

The Black and Gold get a bit of a break following Saturday’s match, as the next game is not until Saturday, July 24, at Indy Eleven. Tune in on My68 and ESPN+ to catch all the action!

The team will return to BBVA Field to host Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, July 31, at 6:30 PM. Tickets are available HERE or by contacting the Legion FC Ticket Office at 205-600-4635 or tickets@https://www.bhmlegion.com.

For all club news and updates, be sure to follow @bhmlegion on social media and keep an eye on https://www.bhmlegion.com and the Legion FC app. Download the Legion FC app today on Apple or Android, and save the full 2021 schedule straight to your calendar HERE.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 10, 2021) – Birmingham Legion FC dropped a big opportunity to extend its lead at the top of the Central Division by losing 1-0 on Saturday at home versus rivals Memphis 901 FC.

Legion FC put up 17 shots in the match, to Memphis’s 11, but eight big saves by new Memphis goalkeeper Kyle Morton kept the home side from pay dirt. The visitors only managed one shot on target in the second half, but that one shot from forward Kyle Murphy found the back of the net in the 53rd minute. A Birmingham defender blocked a Memphis player’s shot in the box, but the rebound fell right to an on-running Murphy who took advantage.

Memphis came out the aggressor in the first ten minutes of the match, managing to get off a couple shots, before Birmingham worked their way in to the action and settled things down. Legion created a good number of chances in the first half, and held an edge in possession, but could not find the breakthrough. Two instances of what looked to possibly be a foul on the Memphis in their own box went uncalled as well.

After the goal early in the second half, 901 FC packed it in, conceding 72% of possession to the home team in the second half, and Legion peppered the opposing goal with 10 shots, 13 crosses from open play, and three corners, to no avail. Head Coach Tommy Soehn was disappointed in the lack of goals from his side.

“I think we were stifled,” said Soehn. “Never really got our mojo going. I thought Daigo added something to the attack, but it wasn’t our forwards best day, and you could tell, it reflected in the quality of the chances we had.

“I think that’s the discouraging thing is that we’ve really worked on our attacking patterns, and I really didn’t see them tonight. We’re going to continue to work on it and make sure that we enjoy a little break, even though it’s disappointing to head into that break with a loss. The guys have earned a break and we’ll come back and get back to work.”

Forward JJ Williams ended the match with five shots, Neco Brett had four, Prosper Kasim had three in 30 minutes of action as a sub, and right wingback Jonny Dean had six key passes on the evening. New signing Thomas Vancaeyezeele stepped right into the starting lineup after arriving in Birmingham on Thursday and ended up the three clearances, one interception, and an 84.4% pass completion rate, while Anderson Asiedu led the team in tackles with three and defender Alex Crognale was tops in clearances (four) and interceptions (three). Check out all of the stats from tonight’s match, and every match this year, in the Legion FC Match Center.

Defender Ryan James when asked about improving moving forward and the addition of Vancaeyezeele:
“I think chemistry is the biggest thing, just being on the same page. When we’re starting to connect and be on the same page with that kind of chemistry, I think more goals will come. We just have to make sure that we’re still vigilant with our defensive pieces and our defensive responsibilities throughout the whole team. Once we get that chemistry going, I think we’ll have a good flow to us and we’ll have a good back half of the season.”

“Only [talked to Vancaeyezeele] a little bit before he got here. He tried to surprise me but nope, he can never surprise me. I have eyes in the back of my head. It’s great to have him, though, great consistency in the back defensively. He’s got great technical ability and I think he’s solid on the ball. He’s a great addition, for sure.”

Box Score:

	1st Half	2nd Half
BHM	0	0
MEM	0	1

Goals:
MEM – 53’ – #9 Kyle Murphy

Starting Lineups:
BHM – 3-4-3 – #1 Matt VanOekel; #27 Thomas Vancaeyezeele, #21 Alex Crognale, #3 Phanuel Kavita ©; #24 Jonny Dean, #6 Anderson Asiedu, #5 Mikey Lopez (68’ – #16 Daigo Kobayashi), #7 Ryan James; #23 JJ Williams, #11 Neco Brett, #17 Jaden Servania (57’ – #10 Prosper Kasim)

MEM – 4-2-3-1 – #1 Kyle Morton; #8 Raul Gonzalez, #3 Zach Carroll, #50 Naill Logue, #36 Andre Reynolds (78’ – #5 Brecc Evans); #18 Dominic Oduro, #23 Leston Paul; #30 Laurent Kissiedou, #11 Michael Salazar (68’ – #10 Kadeem Dacres), #7 Mitch Guitar (82’ – #33 Skylar Thomas); #9 Kyle Murphy (78’ – #18 Rashan Dally)

The Black and Gold get a bit of a break following Saturday’s match, as the next game is not until Saturday, July 24, at Indy Eleven. Tune in on My68 and ESPN+ to catch all the action!

The team will return to BBVA Field to host Atlanta United 2 on Saturday, July 31, at 6:30 PM. Tickets are available HERE or by contacting the Legion FC Ticket Office at 205-600-4635 or tickets@https://www.bhmlegion.com.

For all club news and updates, be sure to follow @bhmlegion on social media and keep an eye on https://www.bhmlegion.com and the Legion FC app. Download the Legion FC app today on Apple or Android, and save the full 2021 schedule straight to your calendar HERE.

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 9, 2021) – Birmingham Legion FC today announced the competition schedule for the Legion FC Academy, consisting of one team that will compete in the inaugural USL Academy League starting this weekend.

The team is comprised of players aged under-16 through under-19 and operates in conjunction with Legion FC-affiliated youth clubs in the Birmingham area. The purpose behind this model is to help identify and foster local talent with player development at the forefront. More information on the academy’s identity, mission, and approach, as well as all future academy updates, can be found on the Legion FC Academy page at https://www.bhmlegion.com.

"We are excited to kick off our 2021 USL Academy season on Saturday,” said Marcos Ugarte, Legion FC Academy head coach. “We have comprised a talent-filled player pool and are excited about showcasing their abilities. We look forward to the continued growth of each player in our program as we begin our season.”

The United Soccer League launched the new USL Academy League in the spring. With the goal of providing a new professional pathway for youth players in USL communities across the country, the first-of-its-kind pre-professional league will align with the United States’ professional calendar, complement existing local youth organizations and allow players extensive access to the First Team.

Unique to any other pre-professional set-up in the United States, the model is designed to allow identification and integration of elite youth players into a pre-professional environment at a younger age, giving them exposure to a higher level of play than they would normally experience, access to the resources and teaching of USL First Teams, all the while serving as a complement to the work being done by other youth clubs in USL communities. More information on the USL Academy League can be found at USL-Academy.com.

The Inaugural Legion FC Academy Schedule:

Date	Time	Opponent	Location
Saturday, July 10	3:00PM	South Georgia Tormenta FC	BBVA Field
Sunday, July 25	11:00AM	South Carolina United	SportsBlast
Saturday, July 31	3:00PM	Southern Soccer Academy	BBVA Field
Wednesday, August 11	3:00PM	Peachtree City MOBA	BBVA Field
Saturday, August 14	11:00AM	East Atlanta FC	SportsBlast

For any inquiries regarding the academy team, please email Academy Head Coach Marcos Ugarte at mugarte@https://www.bhmlegion.com. For age groups U9 through U12, find more information about the Legion FC Development League on our D-League page. 

BIRMINGHAM, AL (July 9, 2021) – Birmingham Legion FC today announced the competition schedule for the Legion FC Academy, consisting of one team that will compete in the inaugural USL Academy League starting this weekend.

The team is comprised of players aged under-16 through under-19 and operates in conjunction with Legion FC-affiliated youth clubs in the Birmingham area. The purpose behind this model is to help identify and foster local talent with player development at the forefront. More information on the academy’s identity, mission, and approach, as well as all future academy updates, can be found on the Legion FC Academy page at https://www.bhmlegion.com.

“We are excited to kick off our 2021 USL Academy season on Saturday,” said Marcos Ugarte, Legion FC Academy head coach. “We have comprised a talent-filled player pool and are excited about showcasing their abilities. We look forward to the continued growth of each player in our program as we begin our season.”

The United Soccer League launched the new USL Academy League in the spring. With the goal of providing a new professional pathway for youth players in USL communities across the country, the first-of-its-kind pre-professional league will align with the United States’ professional calendar, complement existing local youth organizations and allow players extensive access to the First Team.

Unique to any other pre-professional set-up in the United States, the model is designed to allow identification and integration of elite youth players into a pre-professional environment at a younger age, giving them exposure to a higher level of play than they would normally experience, access to the resources and teaching of USL First Teams, all the while serving as a complement to the work being done by other youth clubs in USL communities. More information on the USL Academy League can be found at USL-Academy.com.

The Inaugural Legion FC Academy Schedule:

Date	Time	Opponent	Location
Saturday, July 10	3:00PM	South Georgia Tormenta FC	BBVA Field
Sunday, July 25	11:00AM	South Carolina United	SportsBlast
Saturday, July 31	3:00PM	Southern Soccer Academy	BBVA Field
Wednesday, August 11	3:00PM	Peachtree City MOBA	BBVA Field
Saturday, August 14	11:00AM	East Atlanta FC	SportsBlast

For any inquiries regarding the academy team, please email Academy Head Coach Marcos Ugarte at mugarte@https://www.bhmlegion.com. For age groups U9 through U12, find more information about the Legion FC Development League on our D-League page.