IFN STAFF
BURLINGTON — Statesville FC opened its inaugural season with a hard-fought 1-0 loss at Burlington United FC on Saturday.
The game’s lone goal came in the 14th minute when Burlington’s Angelo Paparoupas directed a free kick around a five-man SVFC wall and into the net just beyond the reach of diving goalkeeper Eric Kniple.
Coach Nick Brown was disappointed by his squad’s overall performance, but he was also pleased with the improved play after a tough opening 45 minutes in the team’s debut in the National Premier Soccer League.
“The first half was not great, but not to be unexpected,” Brown said. ” You got a team that’s brand new and still learning who they are. The second half we did a lot of good things and made some adjustments.”
Defenders Callum Hudson and Julien Sagnol turned in standout performances for SVFC, turning away several BUFC chances before the home side could get a shot off. Kniple made three saves for SVFC, including a diving stop of Paparoupas shot in the 26th minute to keep the game close.
Playing before a couple hundred fans in a park adjacent to Burlington Athletic Stadium, the Statesville side seemed to find its footing just before intermission. The visitors failed to cash in on three corner kicks that came in quick succession in the waning minutes of the half.
After Brown delivered a spirited half-time talk, SVFC picked up the intensity in the second half, but could not net an equalizer. BUFC keeper Alex Enriquez made four saves in the shutout.
Statesville FC featured an up-tempo style of play but had a difficult time gaining or keeping possession in the midfield, especially in the first half. The visitors were also whistled for 19 fouls and had more yellow cards (5) than shots on goal (4).
Next Up
♦ On Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., Statesville FC hosts Hickory FC, which won the NPSL championship in 2025, in an exhibition match at Statesville High School. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. There will be food trucks and a kids zone. Tickets are $5.
♦ On Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Statesville FC will play its NPSL home opener at Statesville High School. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. There will be food trucks and a kids zone. A show featuring 300 drones is planned for halftime. Tickets are $10 for kids ages 3-11, and $12 for ages and up.
Advance tickets are available at www.StatesvilleFootball.Club