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2018 Las Vegas Lights FC season

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Las Vegas Lights FC
2018 season
General ManagerBrett Lashbrook
Head CoachChelís
(until March 14, 2018)
Isidro Sánchez Macip
(from March 15, 2018)
StadiumCashman Field
USLTBD
USL Cup PlayoffsTBD
U.S. Open CupThird Round
Top goalscorerLeague:
Carlos Alvarez (5 goals)
Raúl Mendiola (5 goals)
Sammy Ochoa (5 goals)
All:
Sammy Ochoa (7 goals)
Highest home attendance9,109
(Mar 24 vs. Reno)
Lowest home attendance5,712
(Jun 2 vs. Colorado Springs)
Average home league attendance7,437
2019 →

The 2018 Las Vegas Lights FC season is the club's inaugural season, and their first season in the United Soccer League, the second division of American soccer. The Lights will be playing at Cashman Field north of Downtown Las Vegas.

The Lights' first season began on March 17 against fellow expansion side Fresno FC at Chukchansi Park with a 3–2 victory.

Background

In April 2017, Brett Lashbrook, former COO of Orlando City SC, received preliminary approval for a USL expansion franchise in Las Vegas and thus began negotiations with Las Vegas city officials over a lease agreement to allow his franchise to play their home games at Cashman Field north of Downtown Las Vegas.[1] After three months of negotiations, the Las Vegas City Council unanimously approved a 15-year lease between Lashbrook and the city to play their home games at Cashman Field that was to begin on January 1, 2018. As part of the lease, the Las Vegas 51s minor league baseball club would remain the venue's primary tenant and would receive priority on scheduling, however, if the 51s were to move from Cashman Field, the city and Lashbrook would look to convert Cashman Field into a modern soccer specific stadium as part of a redevelopment of the area.[2]

In August 2017, Lashbrook, alongside Nevada governor Brian Sandoval, Las Vegas mayor Carolyn Goodman, and USL officials, officially announced Las Vegas as the 33rd member of the USL at a fan festival at Zappos headquarters in downtown Las Vegas. During the presentation, Lashbrook announced six potential names (Viva Vegas, Las Vegas Silver, Las Vegas FC, Las Vegas Lights, Las Vegas Action, and Club Vegas) for the franchise, with the official name for the club being chosen through a fan vote.[3] Shortly after midnight on August 29, 2017, Las Vegas Lights FC, a combination of the two most popular names during the fan vote (Las Vegas Lights and Las Vegas FC), was announced as the team's official name during a presentation at the Fremont Street Experience. Following the announcement, Lights officials asked the public to submit designs, ideas, and colors to help the team create its inaugural logo.[4] On October 30, 2017, the Lights released their inaugural crest which resembled the outline of the famous Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign - rotated 90 degrees and included the official team colors of blue, yellow, and pink. The colors, which were originally used on the placeholder logo presented when the team was first announced, were adopted officially after many of the fan submissions for logos incorporated the three colors.[5]

On November 13, 2017, Fútbol Picante analyst José Luis Sánchez Solá was announced as the club's first head coach. El Chelís, as he was commonly referred, had managed numerous clubs in the first and second divisions of Mexico and the United States, including stints with Puebla F.C., Estudiantes Tecos, and Chivas USA, prior to taking over the position with Lights FC.[6] In December 2017, the club expanded its partnership with Zappos.com by announcing a three-year deal for the online retailer to be the club's jersey sponsor[7] and announced BLK as the club's jersey supplier in a multi-year deal in January 2018.[8]

Summary

Preseason

On November 27, 2017, Lights FC announced three preseason friendlies against MLS sides at Cashman Field, as part of their preparations for their first campaign in the USL. The matches were to be on February 10 against the Montreal Impact, February 17 against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC, and February 24 against D.C. United.[9]

In their first preseason friendly, Lights FC fell to Montreal 2–0 in front of a sell-out crowd of 10,387, after a goal from Impact forward Michael Salazar and an own goal by Lights FC defender Joel Huiqui in a matter of three minutes in the second half.[10] Lights FC would fare better in their second preseason game, although they would still lose to Vancouver Whitecaps FC 3–2, with Lights FC scoring their first goals of the year through a brace from midfielder Juan José Calderón.[11] Seven days later, in their last home fixture of the preseason, Lights FC would see another good offensive effort with a goal from defender Miguel Garduño and another goal from Calderón, his third of the postseason; however, Lights FC would fall for the third time during the preseason, losing 4–2 to DC United.[12] Lights FC would get their first result in their final preseason game, after the club drew 1–1 away to Orange County FC through a 77th minute goal from forward Anuar Kanan.[13]

March–May

Just prior to Lights FC's season opener, the club announced that head coach Chelís had been promoted to Technical Director for the club, with his son Isidro Sánchez Macip, who had been an assistant for Lights FC under his father, promoted to head coach.[14] Lights FC began the 2018 USL season on March 17 with an away fixture against Fresno FC, which Lights FC won 3–2. Las Vegas native Matt Thomas opened the scoring within two minutes of the kick-off, while midfielder Alex Mendoza and defender Joel Huiqui added goals within seven minutes of each other in the second half. Despite late goals by Fresno forwards Jemal Johnson and Renato Bustamante, Lights FC was able to hold on for the first victory in club history.[15] Thomas' performance against Fresno FC would lead him to being named to the USL Team of the Week for the first week of the season.[16] The following week, Lights FC would host in-state rival Reno 1868 FC in the first match of the Silver State Cup, ending in a 1–1 draw. Mendoza would open the scoring in the 27th minute with a shot from outside of the box following a failed clearance, but was answered within a minute by Reno forward and UNLV alum Danny Musovski, who slotted home a rebound. Reno would be down to 10-men, following a second yellow card to Musovski lead to his dismissal in the 72nd minute, despite mounting pressure by Lights FC, including a fingertip save by goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski from a header from midfielder Juan Carlos García in the 95th minute, to preserve the draw.[17]

On March 31, Lights FC completed their first come from behind victory with a 2–1 home victory against defending Western Conference champions Swope Park Rangers. Swope Park would open the scoring with an 18th minute goal from midfielder Rodrigo Saravia. Lights FC midfielder Carlos Alvarez would tie the match with a strike in the 53rd minute and a misplaced headed back pass from Swope Park defender Colton Storm helped Lights FC secure their first home victory of the season.[18] Lights FC defender Joel Huqui's performance against Swope Park, which included three interceptions and seven clearances, led to his selection to the USL Team of the Week[19] and the club's performance in the month of March led to head coach Isidro Sánchez Macip, led to his selection as the USL's Coach of the Month for March.[20] Following a bye week, Lights FC returned to action on April 14, drawing 1–1 with Sacramento Republic FC at Cashman Field. Defender Joel Huiqui would open the scoring two minutes into the match, but Sacramento forward Christian Eissele equalized before the hour mark and Lights FC extended their undefeated streak to four matches.[21]

Following another bye week, Lights FC suffered their first loss of the season, dropping a 3–1 decision at home to San Antonio FC. San Antonio received first half goals from forward Éver Guzmán and midfielder José Escalante in the 17th and 33rd minute respectively. San Antonio would add a third when midfielder Rafael Castillo converted a penalty in the 51st minute and, despite Carlos Alvarez' 75th minute goal, a red card to defender Christian Torres limited Lights FC's chances of closing the gap with San Antonio.[22] Three days later, Lights FC would participate in their first road game since the season opener when they traveled to play Western Conference leader Real Monarchs SLC. Despite playing with 10 men for over 70 minutes, after defender Marcelo Alatorre was sent off for a dangerous foul in the 18th minute, Lights FC was able to produce numerous scoring chances, including an 84th minute strike by midfielder Daigo Kobayashi that crashed off of the post. Lights FC were able to hold of the Conference leaders and ended with a 0–0 draw, the first shutout for Lights FC goalkeeper Ricardo Ferriño.[23]

Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup

Main article: 2018 U.S. Open Cup

Lights FC entered the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup in the second round, defeating Premier Development League side FC Tucson, 4–2 on May 16. The match, which was played at Peter Johann Memorial Soccer Field on UNLV's campus, was the first that Lights FC hosted away from Cashman Field, as the baseball field would not be converted to a soccer pitch in time following a Las Vegas 51s home stand. Lights FC would jump out to an early lead as midfielder Carlos Alvarez and defender Alatorre scored within the first ten minutes of the match. Forward Jason Romero would put FC Tucson on the board with a goal in the 38th minute and three minutes after the restart, midfielder Adrian Valenzuela tied the score at 2–2. Lights forward Sammy Ochoa would net his first two goals of the year with goals in the 56th and 65th minute to help Lights FC advance to the third round.[24]

In the third round of the tournament, Lights FC were knocked out by PDL side FC Golden State Force in an away fixture, 2–1, on May 23. After a stalemate in the first half, FC Golden State Force's Allisson Faramilio opened the scoring a quarter of an hour from full time with a shot from outside of the box. Although defender Joel Huiqui would net the equalizer with a header off of a corner kick in the 81st minute, Faramilio would secure the victory and advancement in the competition for FC Golden State after converting a penalty shot in stoppage time.[25]

June–August

On June 2, Lights FC won their first regular season game since March 31, defeating Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, 4–1. Carlos Alvarez opened the scoring with a strike in the 24th minute, while midfielder Freddy Adu and forward Sammy Ochoa scored their first league goals of the season with strikes in the 47th and 58th minute, respectively. Colorado Springs defender Josh Suggs would pull a goal back for Switchbacks FC, but midfielder Matt Thomas would secure the 3 points for Lights FC with a goal in stoppage time to snap the club's seven match winless streak.[26] After an 11-day layoff, Lights FC made their first visit to regional rival Phoenix Rising FC, losing 4–0 to the hosts. Phoenix would receive goals from defender Joe Farrell and forward Solomon Asante, as well as a brace from forward Jason Johnson to send Lights FC to their fourth league loss in five matches.[27] Following the match against Phoenix, an altercation took place between a fan and Technical Director Chelís. The altercation began when the fan yelled something profane at Chelís and he responded by going up to the fan, placing a hand on the fan, and asking him to repeat what he said. Two days after the incident, the USL suspended Chelís for eight games.[28]

Lights FC would return to action three days later hosting Seattle Sounders FC 2, seeing several changes in the lineup including goalkeeper and Las Vegas native Angel Alvarez' debut for the club. Lights FC would ride an offensive outburst in the first half with a brace from Sammy Ochoa and a third goal from Joel Huiqui to take a 3–1 lead into halftime and would add a fourth with a goal from newly acquired midfielder Zach Mathers, as Lights FC won their second straight home match 4–1.[29] Lights FC's next match would be away to Swope Park Rangers, losing to the hosts 3–2. Lights FC would receive goals from midfielder Daigo Kobayashi and forward Sammy Ochoa and had a chance to get an equalizer from a penalty late into stoppage time, but failed to convert when midfielder Carlos Alvarez passed the spot kick to a charging Ochoa in a designed trick play instead of shooting the penalty. Ochoa's shot would ring off the post with Rangers able to clear the ball for the final whistle.[30] Lights FC would continue their Midwestern swing with a match away to Tulsa Roughnecks FC, drawing 2–2 to extend their road winless streak to six matches. Tulsa would score first after midfielder Joaquin Rivas converted a penalty minutes into the match, while Lights FC would receive goals from midfielders Raúl Mendiola and Daigo Kobayashi. Lights FC had a chance to extend the lead, but forward Sammy Ochoa launched a penalty kick over the crossbar in the 62nd minute and defender Josh Morton would score the equalizer for the hosts a minute after Ochoa's miss.[31]

Lights FC would open their first match of the month of July at home against Saint Louis FC. Lights FC were able to extend their home winning streak to three matches through a goal from midfielder Raúl Mendiola shortly into the second half, his second consecutive match with a goal, and goalkeeper Ricardo Ferriño recorded his second shutout of the season, as Lights FC won 1–0.[32] After a one assist, four tackle, and two interception performance against Saint Louis FC, on loan defender Nico Samayoa would be named to the USL Team of the Week for Week 17.[33] Lights FC would begin a four match road trip with a match against OKC Energy FC on July 11. Despite the first hat trick in club history coming from Mendiola and another goal from midfielder Carlos Alvarez, Lights FC would extend their road winless streak to seven matches, as the fell to Energy FC 6–4.[34] Lights FC's struggles would continue on the road, dropping a 2–0 result away to Rio Grande Valley FC Toros. Goals from Toros' defender Conor Donovan and forward Jesús Enríquez extended Lights FC's road winless streak to eight matches.[35] Eight days later, Lights FC would travel to Portland to take on Timbers 2. After a goalless first half, forward Sammy Ochoa netted his fifth goal of the season in 53rd minute. Timbers 2 midfielder Jack Barmby was able to level the match with a goal in 63rd minute, however, forward Omar Salgado would score his first goal of the season in the 74th minute, securing Lights FC's first road victory since March 17, ending an eight match road winless streak.[36] Lights FC would end their longest road trip on July 26 against Seattle Sounders FC 2. The Lights would fall behind early to Sounders 2 after midfielder Antonee Burke-Gilroy scored in the second minute of the game and were hampered more so after defender Marcelo Alatorre received his second yellow of the match in the 45th minute and midfielder Carlos Alvarez received a straight red card two minutes later, leaving Lights FC down to 9 men with a full half to play. Sounders 2 would capitalize on their two man advantage, getting a penalty kick goal from forward David Estrada and a goal from former UNLV forward Lamar Neagle to lead to a 3–0 loss for Lights FC.[37]

Lights FC would return home to Cashman Field on August 4 against Rio Grande Valley FC Toros on August 4. Lights FC were led by goalkeeper Ricardo Ferriño has he stopped all seven shots from RGV FC on way to his third shutout of the season. Defender Joel Huiqui netted the winner for Lights FC in the 82nd minute, as Lights FC extended their home winning streak to four matches with a 1–0 victory.[38] Ferriño's seven saves led to him being named to the USL Team of the Week for Week 21.[39]

Competitions

Preseason

February 10 Las Vegas Lights United States 0–2 Canada Montreal Impact Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 p.m. MST Huiqui Yellow card 19'
Mendoza Yellow card 43'
Ferriño Red card 68'		 Report Mancosu Yellow card 39'
Lovitz Yellow card 41'
Salazar 64'
Huiqui 66' (o.g.)
Choinière Yellow card 77'		 Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 10,387
February 17 Las Vegas Lights United States 2–3 Canada Vancouver Whitecaps Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 p.m. MST Alatorre Red card 57'
Chelís (staff) Red card 57'
Sánchez (staff) Red card 57'
Calderón 66', 68' (pen.)		 Report 1
Report 2		 Techera 13'
Davies 18'
Pert (staff) Red card 57'
Kamara 74' (pen.)		 Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 6,046
February 24 Las Vegas Lights 2–4 D.C. United Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 p.m. MST Calderón 53' (pen.)
Garduño 87'		 Report Asad 42'
Mattocks 51'
Harkes 80'
Acosta 90+2'		 Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 7,158
March 9 Orange County SC 1–1 Las Vegas Lights Irvine, California
11:00 a.m. PST 17' Report Kanan 77' Stadium: Champion Stadium

United Soccer League

Table

Pos Team
 Pld W D L GF GA GD Pts
13 Rio Grande Valley Toros 34 8 14 12 36 42 −6 38
14 LA Galaxy II 34 10 7 17 60 67 −7 37
15 Las Vegas Lights FC 34 8 7 19 50 74 −24 31
16 Seattle Sounders FC 2 34 6 7 21 40 71 −31 25
17 Tulsa Roughnecks 34 3 12 19 36 77 −41 21
Source: 2018 USL standings
Rules for classification: 1) total wins; 2) total goal differential; 3) total goals scored; 4) points earned against top four Conference finishers; 5) disciplinary points; 6) coin toss or drawing of lots

Results by round

Template:Fb rbr header Template:Fb rbr ground

Template:Fb rbr result

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Results

March 17 1 Fresno FC 2–3 Las Vegas Lights FC Fresno, California
7:00 pm PDT Johnson 73', Yellow card 90'
Bustamante 90'		 Report Thomas 2'
Ochoa Yellow card 33'
Mendoza 57'
Huiqui 63', Yellow card 74'
Garduño Yellow card 65'
Portugal Yellow card 78'		 Stadium: Chukchansi Park
Attendance: 7,750
Referee: Ramy Touchan
March 24 2 Las Vegas Lights FC 1–1 Reno 1868 FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Huiqui Yellow card 13'
Garduño Yellow card 18'
Mendoza 27', Yellow card 28'
Portugall Yellow card 31'		 Report Musovski 28', Yellow card 34' Yellow-red card 72'
Richards Yellow card 44'		 Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 9,019
Referee: Victor Rivas
March 31 3 Las Vegas Lights FC 2–1 Swope Park Rangers Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Ochoa Yellow card 32'
Huiqui Yellow card 36'
Alvarez 53'
Storm 71' (o.g.)
Garduño Yellow card 81'
Ferriño Yellow card 90+5'		 Report Saravia 18', Yellow card 76'
Smith Yellow card 90+2'		 Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 7,888
Referee: Robi Hullner
April 14 4 Las Vegas Lights FC 1–1 Sacramento Republic FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Huiqui 2' Report Eissele 57' Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 8,167
Referee: Kevin Stott
April 27 5 Las Vegas Lights FC 1–3 San Antonio FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Alvarez 75'
Torres Red card 88'		 Report Guzmán 17'
Escalante 33'
Castillo 51' (pen.)		 Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 8,025
Referee: Luis Guardia
April 30 6 Real Monarchs SLC 0–0 Las Vegas Lights FC Herriman, Utah
6:00 pm PDT Velásquez Yellow card 68' Report Alatorre Red card 18'
Kobayashi Yellow card 56'
FerriñoYellow card 90'
Alvarez Yellow card 90+2'		 Stadium: Zions Bank Stadium
Attendance: 4,065
Referee: Jon Freemon
May 5 7 Las Vegas Lights FC 1–1 Tulsa Roughnecks FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Alvarez 15'
Portugal Yellow card 53'
Huiqui Yellow card 66'
Thomas Red card 72'
Ricardo Ferriño Yellow card 77'		 Report Rivas 44'
Lennon Yellow card 80'
Tavares Yellow card 85'		 Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 7,777
Referee: Joseph Dickerson
May 11 8 Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC 1–0 Las Vegas Lights FC Colorado Springs, Colorado
6:00 pm PDT Vercollone 70' Report Alvarez Yellow card 53'
Jaime Yellow card 65'
Alatorre Yellow card 80'		 Stadium: Weidner Field
Attendance: 4,039
Referee: Adam Zarrin
May 19 9 Las Vegas Lights FC 0–2 Real Monarchs Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Drake Yellow card 34'
Alvarez Yellow card 66'
Huiqui Yellow card 90+5'		 Report Velásquez 3'
Adams Yellow card 16'
Heard 22'
Horst Yellow card 59'		 Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 6,810
Referee: Malik Badawi
May 26 10 LA Galaxy II 7–2 Las Vegas Lights FC Carson, California
7:30 pm PDT Zubak 10', 16', 18', 54' Yellow card 17'
Jameison Yellow card 28'
Lassiter 65', 89'
Büscher 87'		 Report Kobayashi 7', 22'
Torres Yellow card 38'
Jaime Yellow card 41'
Herrera-Perla Yellow card 76'		 Stadium: StubHub Center
Attendance: 1,215
Referee: Michael Radchuk
June 2 11 Las Vegas Lights FC 4–1 Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Alvarez 24'
Adu 47'
Thomas Yellow card 52' 90+1'
Ochoa 58'		 Report Uzo Yellow card 52'
Suggs 77'
Maybin Red card 80'		 Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 5,712
Referee: Farhad Dadkho
June 13 12 Phoenix Rising FC 4–0 Las Vegas Lights FC Scottsdale, Arizona
7:30 pm PDT Johnson 32', 77'
Wakasa Yellow card 42'
Farrell 53'
Woszczynski Yellow card 90+1'
Asante 90+1' (pen)		 Report Huiqui Yellow card 52'
Mathers Yellow card 56'
Ferriño Yellow card 79'		 Stadium: Phoenix Rising FC Soccer Complex
Attendance: 5,939
Referee: Rubiel Vazquez
June 16 13 Las Vegas Lights FC 4–1 Seattle Sounders FC 2 Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Ochoa 17', 35' Yellow card 31'
Haiqui Yellow card 19' 43'
Mathers 49'		 Preview Saari 45+1' Yellow card 85' Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 6,785
Referee: Alejandro Mariscal
June 24 14 Swope Park Rangers 3–2 Las Vegas Lights FC Kansas City, Kansas
4:00 pm PDT Sinovic 12'
Belmar 56'
Kuzain 67'
Barry Yellow card 83'		 Report Kobayashi 21'
Mendoza Yellow card 46'
Jaime Yellow card 60'
Alatorre Yellow card 83'
Ochoa 87'		 Stadium: Children's Mercy Park
Attendance: 923
Referee: Sergii Demianchuk
June 30 15 Tulsa Roughnecks FC 2–2 Las Vegas Lights FC Tulsa, Oklahoma
5:30 pm PDT Rivas 4' (pen)
Cerda Yellow card 49'
Morton 63'
Pírez Yellow card 74'		 Report Avila Yellow card 3'
Mendiola 34'
Kobayashi 49' (pen)
Jaime Yellow card 70'		 Stadium: ONEOK Field
Attendance: 3,431
Referee: Guido Gonzalez, Jr.
July 7 16 Las Vegas Lights FC 1–0 Saint Louis FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Avila Yellow card 20'
Alatorre Yellow card 36'
Mendiola 49'
Samsyoa Yellow card 63'		 Report Greig Yellow card 84' Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 6,651
Referee: Victor Rivas
July 11 17 OKC Energy FC 6–4 Las Vegas Lights FC Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
5:00 pm PDT Dixon 12', 72'
Atuahene Yellow card 37' 57'
Harris 44'
Siaj 50'
Ibeagha Yellow card 56'
Barril Yellow card 56'
Ross Yellow card 88'
Volesky 90+3'		 Report Alvarez 15'
Jamie Yellow card 56'
Mendiola 65', 70', 90+5'		 Stadium: Taft Stadium
Attendance: 5,557
Referee: Jon Freemon
July 14 18 Rio Grande Valley FC 2–0 Las Vegas Lights FC Edinburg, Texas
5:30 pm PDT Greene Yellow card 35'
Donovan 45'
Enríquez 90'		 Report Pérez Yellow card 14'
Salgado Yellow card 35'
Jaime Yellow card 38'
Alatorre Yellow card 90+4'		 Stadium: H-E-B Park
Attendance: 4,078
Referee: Rosendo Mendoza
July 22 19 Portland Timbers 2 1–2 Las Vegas Lights FC Portland, Oregon
2:00 pm PDT Barmby 63' Report Ochoa 53'
Salgado 74'
Herrera-Perla Yellow card 90+3'		 Stadium: Providence Park
Attendance: 1,947
Referee: Daniel Radford
July 26 20 Seattle Sounders FC 2 3–0 Las Vegas Lights FC Tacoma, Washington
7:00 pm PDT Burke-Gilroy 2'
Ele Yellow card 57'
Miglietti Yellow card 62'
Estrada 68' (pen.)
Neagle 72'		 Report Alatorre Yellow card 19' Yellow-red card 45'
Huiqui Yellow card 21'
Alvarez Red card 45+2'		 Stadium: Cheney Stadium
Attendance: 3,259
Referee: Mark Allatin
August 4 21 Las Vegas Lights FC 1–0 Rio Grande Valley FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Huiqui Yellow card 41', 82'
Ochoa Yellow card 90+2'		 Report Stadium: Cashman Field
Attendance: 6,752
Referee: Michael Zapata
August 11 22 Saint Louis FC v Las Vegas Lights FC St. Louis, Missouri
5:30 pm PDT Stadium: Toyota Stadium
August 15 23 Orange County SC v Las Vegas Lights FC Irvine, California
7:00 pm PDT Stadium: Orange County Great Park
August 18 24 Las Vegas Lights FC v Phoenix Rising FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Stadium: Cashman Field
August 25 25 Las Vegas Lights FC v Fresno FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Stadium: Cashman Field
August 28 26 Reno 1868 FC v Las Vegas Lights FC Reno, Nevada
7:30 pm PDT Stadium: Greater Nevada Field
September 8 27 Las Vegas Lights FC v LA Galaxy II Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Stadium: Cashman Field
September 16 28 Las Vegas Lights FC v Portland Timbers 2 Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Stadium: Cashman Field
September 22 29 Reno 1868 FC v Las Vegas Lights FC Reno, Nevada
7:00 pm PDT Stadium: Greater Nevada Field
September 26 30 Las Vegas Lights FC v Orange County SC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Stadium: Cashman Field
September 29 31 Las Vegas Lights FC v OKC Energy FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Stadium: Cashman Field
October 6 32 San Antonio FC v Las Vegas Lights FC San Antonio, Texas
5:30 pm PDT Stadium: Toyota Field
October 10 33 Las Vegas Lights FC v Phoenix Rising FC Las Vegas, Nevada
8:00 pm PDT Stadium: Cashman Field
August 28 34 Sacramento Republic FC v Las Vegas Lights FC Sacramento, California
7:30 pm PDT Stadium: Papa Murphy's Park

Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup

Main article: 2018 U.S. Open Cup
May 16 Second round Las Vegas Lights FC Nevada 4–2 Arizona FC Tucson Paradise, Nevada
7:30 PM PDT Alvarez 5'
Alatorre 9'
Huiqui Yellow card 20'
Jaime Yellow card 34'
Ochoa 56', 66'
 Report Romero 39'
Valenzuela 48'
Salazar Yellow card 89'		 Stadium: Peter Johann Memorial Soccer Field
Referee: Alejandro Aguilera
May 23 Third round FC Golden State Force California 2–1 Nevada Las Vegas Lights FC Whittier, California
7:00 PM PDT Allisson 75' (90+1), pen.' Report Avila Yellow card 43'
Herrera-Perla Yellow card 45'
Huiqui Yellow card 76' 81'
Calderón Yellow card 90+2'		 Stadium: Rio Hondo College
Attendance: 524

Statistics

Appearances

Source:[40]
Numbers in parentheses denote appearances as substitute.
Players listed with no appearances have been in the matchday squad, but only as unused substitutes.
Discipline includes league, playoffs, and Open Cup play.
Key to positions: GK – Goalkeeper; DF – Defender; MF – Midfielder; FW – Forward
No. Pos. Name League Playoffs U.S. Open Cup Total Discipline
Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
1 GK Mexico Ricardo Ferriño 19 0 0 0 2 0 21 0 5 0
2 DF United States Carter Manley 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
3 DF Mexico Joel Huiqui 17 (1) 4 0 0 2 1 19 (1) 5 12 0
4 DF Mexico Rodrigo Íñigo 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0
6 DF United States Marco Cesar Jaime Jr. 15 (3) 0 0 0 1 (1) 0 16 (4) 0 8 0
7 MF United States Carlos Alvarez 20 5 0 0 2 1 22 6 4 1
8 FW United States Omar Salgado 3 (1) 1 0 0 0 0 3 (1) 1 1 0
9 FW United States Sammy Ochoa 21 5 0 0 2 2 23 7 5 0
11 MF United States Freddy Adu 7 (3) 1 0 0 0 (1) 0 7 (4) 1 1 0
12 MF United States Eric Avila 8 (2) 0 0 0 1 0 9 (2) 0 3 0
13 DF El Salvador Juan Herrera-Perla 9 (1) 0 0 0 1 (1) 0 10 (2) 0 3 0
14 MF United States Alex Mendoza 5 (7) 2 0 0 1 (1) 0 6 (8) 2 3 0
16 DF Mexico Marcelo Alatorre 18 (1) 0 0 0 1 (1) 1 19 (2) 1 5 2
17 DF Mexico Juan Carlos García 4 (2) 0 0 0 0 0 4 (2) 0 0 0
20 MF United States Sebastian Hernandez 0 (2) 0 0 0 0 0 0 (2) 0 0 0
21 MF United States Matt Thomas 8 (4) 2 0 0 2 0 10 (4) 2 1 1
22 GK United States Angel Alvarez 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0
23 DF Mexico Christian Torres 14 (1) 0 0 0 2 0 16 (1) 0 2 1
26 MF Mexico Julian Portugal 6 (7) 0 0 0 0 0 6 (7) 0 3 0
29 DF Mexico Joseph Patrick Pérez 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0
30 GK United States Thomas Olsen 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
33 DF Mexico Miguel Garduño 10 0 0 0 2 0 12 0 4 0
40 MF Mexico Raúl Mendiola 6 (4) 5 0 0 0 0 6 (4) 5 0 0
44 MF Japan Daigo Kobayashi 16 (3) 4 0 0 2 0 18 (3) 4 1 0
58 FW Mexico Daniel Guzmán Jr. 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0
Players with appearances who left before the end of the season
MF Mexico Juan José Calderón 1 (2) 0 0 0 0 (1) 0 1 (3) 0 1 0
FW Mexico Isaác Díaz 2 (2) 0 0 0 0 0 2 (2) 0 0 0
DF Canada Zak Drake 3 (3) 0 0 0 1 0 4 (3) 0 1 0
DF United States Jorge Guillen-Torres 4 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0
MF United States Adolfo Guzman 0 (1) 0 0 0 0 0 0 (1) 0 0 0
FW Mexico Anuar Kanan 2 (2) 0 0 0 0 0 2 (2) 0 0 0
MF United States Zach Mathers 3 (2) 1 0 0 0 0 3 (2) 1 1 0
MF United States James Murphy 6 (1) 0 0 0 0 0 6 (1) 0 0 0
DF Guatemala Nico Samayoa 1 (1) 0 0 0 0 0 1 (1) 0 1 0

Last updated: August 9, 2018.
Source: Las Vegas Lights FC

Top scorers

The list is sorted by shirt number when total goals are equal.

Rnk Pos No. Player United Soccer League USL Playoffs U.S. Open Cup Total
1 FW 9 United States Sammy Ochoa 5 0 2 7
2 MF 7 United States Carlos Alvarez 5 0 1 6
3 MF 44 Mexico Raúl Mendiola 5 0 0 5
DF 3 Mexico Joel Huiqui 4 0 1 5
5 DF 44 Japan Daigo Kobayashi 4 0 0 4
6 MF 14 United States Alex Mendoza 2 0 0 2
MF 21 United States Matt Thomas 2 0 0 2
8 FW 8 United States Omar Salgado 1 0 0 1
MF 11 United States Freddy Adu 1 0 0 1
DF 16 Mexico Marcelo Alatorre 0 0 1 1
MF 32 United States Zach Mathers 1 0 0 1
# Own goals 1 0 0 1
TOTALS 31 0 5 36

Last updated: August 8, 2018.
Source: Las Vegas Lights FC

Clean sheets

The list is sorted by shirt number when total appearances are equal.

Rnk No. Player United Soccer League USL Playoffs U.S. Open Cup Total
1 1 Mexico Ricardo Ferriño 3 0 0 3
TOTALS 3 0 0 3

Last updated: August 8, 2018.
Source: Las Vegas Lights FC

Transfers

Players transferred in
Date Pos. Name Club Fee Ref.
January 8, 2018 MF United States Adolfo Guzman Unattached Free [41]
January 8, 2018 MF United States Sebastian Hernandez Unattached Free [41]
January 8, 2018 MF United States Marco César Jaime Jr. Unattached Free [41]
January 8, 2018 MF Mexico Julian Portugal Unattached Free [41]
January 8, 2018 MF United States Matt Thomas United States Rocky Mountain College Free [41]
January 16, 2018 DF Canada Zak Drake Portugal F.C. Maia Undisclosed [42]
January 16, 2018 DF El Salvador Juan Herrera-Perla United States FC Dallas Academy Free [42]
January 16, 2018 MF United States Alex Mendoza Unattached Free [42]
January 16, 2018 DF United States Jorge Guillen-Torres Unattached Free [42]
January 26, 2018 DF Mexico Joel Huiqui Mexico Potros UAEM Free [43]
January 31, 2018 DF Mexico Marcelo Alatorre Mexico Venados F.C. Free [44]
January 31, 2018 GK United States Angel Alvarez Unattached Free [44]
January 31, 2018 MF Mexico Juan José Calderón Unattached Free [44]
January 31, 2018 GK Mexico Ricardo Ferriño Mexico Venados F.C. Free [44]
January 31, 2018 MF Mexico Juan Carlos García Unattached Free [44]
January 31, 2018 DF Mexico Miguel Garduño Unattached Free [44]
January 31, 2018 FW Mexico Anuar Kanan United States Young Harris College Free [44]
January 31, 2018 DF Mexico Christian Torres Mexico Dorados de Sinaloa Free [44]
February 12, 2018 MF United States Carlos Alvarez United States Los Angeles FC Free
February 16, 2018 MF Japan Daigo Kobayashi United States New England Revolution Free [45]
February 16, 2018 FW United States Sammy Ochoa United States Sacramento Republic FC Free [45]
February 22, 2018 MF United States Freddy Adu Unattached Free [46]
May 4, 2018 GK United States Thomas Olsen United States University of San Diego Free [47]
May 22, 2018 MF United States Eric Avila United States ASC San Diego Free [48]
May 31, 2018 MF United States Zach Mathers United States Seattle Sounders FC Free [49]
May 31, 2018 MF Mexico Raúl Mendiola United States LA Galaxy Free [49]
July 12, 2018 FW Mexico Daniel Guzmán Jr. Guatemala CD Suchitepéquez Free [48]
July 12, 2018 DF Mexico Rodrigo Íñigo Mexico Venados Free [48]
August 10, 2018 MF United States Rafael Garcia United States New York Cosmos B Free [50]
Players loaned in
Start date Pos. Name Club End date Ref.
January 31, 2018 FW Mexico Isaác Díaz Mexico Mineros de Zacatecas May 10, 2018 [51]
June 11, 2018 DF Guatemala Nico Samayoa United States New England Revolution July 11, 2018 [52]
June 22, 2018 MF United States James Murphy United States Los Angeles FC August 6, 2018 [53]
July 12, 2018 FW United States Omar Salgado United States USL El Paso [54]
July 12, 2018 DF Mexico Joseph Patrick Pérez Mexico Club Puebla [55]
July 31, 2018 DF United States Carter Manley United States Minnesota United FC [56]
Players transferred out
Date Pos. Name Club Fee Ref.
Players released
Date Pos. Name Subsequent club Join date Ref.
May 22, 2018 MF United States Jorge Guillen-Torres Unattached [48]
May 22, 2018 MF United States Adolfo Guzman Unattached [48]
May 22, 2018 FW Mexico Anuar Kanan Unattached [48]
June 29, 2018 DF Canada Zak Drake Unattached [57]
July 6, 2018 MF United States Zach Mathers unattached [58]
July 10, 2018 MF Mexico Juan José Calderón unattached [59]

Awards

Player

No. Player Award Week/Month Source
21 United States Matt Thomas USL Team of the Week
Week 1
 [16]
7 Mexico Joel Huiqui
Week 3
 [19]
5 Guatemala Nico Samayoa
Week 17
 [33]
44 Mexico Raúl Mendiola
Week 18
 [60]
1 Mexico Ricardo Ferriño
Week 21
 [39]

Coach

Player Award Week/Month Source
Canada Isidro Sánchez Macip USL Coach of the Month
March
 [20]

See also

References

  1. ^ Munks, Jamie (April 19, 2017). "Las Vegas working with soccer team to use Cashman Field". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 12, 2018.
  2. ^ Manzano, Gilbert (July 19, 2017). "Las Vegas approves United Soccer League team for Cashman Field in 2018". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 12, 2018.
  3. ^ Dadas, Jaclyn; Komitzky, Lea (August 11, 2017). "LAS VEGAS JOINS THE UNITED SOCCER LEAGUE IN 2018 SEASON". Las Vegas Lights FC. Retrieved May 12, 2018.
  4. ^ Gotz, Ben (August 29, 2017). "New United Soccer League team will be called Las Vegas Lights FC". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 12, 2018.
  5. ^ Gotz, Ben (October 30, 2017). "Las Vegas Lights FC releases logo, hopes it carries local appeal". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 12, 2018.
  6. ^ Gotz, Ben (November 13, 2017). "Las Vegas Lights FC announce José Luis Sánchez Solá as first head coach". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 13, 2018.
  7. ^ Gotz, Ben (December 6, 2017). "Las Vegas Lights FC announce Zappos as jersey sponsor". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 13, 2018.
  8. ^ Gotz, Ben (January 30, 2018). "Las Vegas Lights FC to unveil home jerseys Feb. 7". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 13, 2018.
  9. ^ Gotz, Ben (November 27, 2017). "Las Vegas Lights FC to open season with 3 MLS exhibition games". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 22, 2018.
  10. ^ Gotz, Ben (February 11, 2018). "Lights FC lose preseason debut in front of sellout crowd". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 2, 2018.
  11. ^ Gotz, Ben (February 17, 2018). "Juan Jose Calderon provides spark, but Lights FC loses again". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 2, 2018.
  12. ^ Gotz, Ben (February 24, 2018). "Freddy Adu debuts, but Lights FC loses to D.C. United". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 2, 2018.
  13. ^ Gotz, Ben (March 8, 2018). "Lights FC ends preseason with 1-1 draw at Orange County". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 2, 2018.
  14. ^ USLSoccer.com Staff (March 14, 2018). "CHELÍS PROMOTED TO LIGHTS FC TECHNICAL DIRECTOR". Las Vegas Lights FC. Retrieved June 2, 2018.
  15. ^ Gotz, Ben (March 17, 2018). "Lights FC opens inaugural USL season with 3–2 win at Fresno". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 2, 2018.
  16. ^ a b "Belmar Named USL Player of the Week". uslsoccer.com. March 20, 2018. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  17. ^ Gotz, Ben (March 24, 2018). "Lights Lights FC draw 1-1 with Reno 1868 FC in home opener". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 2, 2018.
  18. ^ Gotz, Ben (March 31, 2018). "Carlos Alvarez, Lights FC rally for 2-1 win over Swope Park". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 3, 2018.
  19. ^ a b "Enevoldsen Named USL Player of the Week". uslsoccer.com. April 3, 2018. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  20. ^ a b "LIGHTS FC'S ISIDRO SÁNCHEZ NAMED USL'S COACH OF THE MONTH FOR MARCH". lasvegaslightsfc.com. April 11, 2018. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  21. ^ "Lights FC earns 1-1 draw with Sacramento Republic FC". Las Vegas Review Journal. April 14, 2018. Retrieved June 3, 2018.
  22. ^ "Ugliness all around in Lights' first defeat". Las Vegas Review Journal. April 27, 2018. Retrieved June 3, 2018.
  23. ^ "Lights FC earn scoreless draw with Real Monarchs SLC". Las Vegas Review Journal. April 30, 2018. Retrieved June 3, 2018.
  24. ^ Gotz, Ben (May 23, 2018). "FC Golden State Force eliminates Lights FC from U.S. Open Cup". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 2, 2018.
  25. ^ Gotz, Ben (May 16, 2018). "Sammy Ochoa scores first goals of season to lift Lights FC". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 2, 2018.
  26. ^ Gotz, Ben (June 2, 2018). "Lights FC crushes Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, 4-1". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 3, 2018.
  27. ^ Gotz, Ben (June 13, 2018). "Phoenix Rising FC rolls through Lights FC, Ricardo Ferrino". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 15, 2018.
  28. ^ Gotz, Ben (June 15, 2018). "Lights' technical director suspended 8 games for contact with fan". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 20, 2018.
  29. ^ Gotz, Ben (June 16, 2018). "Samuel Ochoa leads Lights FC past Seattle Sounders FC 2". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 20, 2018.
  30. ^ Gotz, Ben (June 24, 2018). "Failed penalty kick dooms Lights FC late in 3-2 loss". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 2, 2018.
  31. ^ Gotz, Ben (July 1, 2018). "Missed penalty kick haunts Lights FC again in 2-2 draw". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 2, 2018.
  32. ^ Gotz, Ben (July 7, 2018). "Raul Mendiola's goal lifts Lights FC over Saint Louis FC". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 8, 2018.
  33. ^ a b "Brown Voted USL Player of the Week". uslsoccer.com. July 10, 2018. Retrieved July 11, 2018.
  34. ^ Gotz, Ben (July 11, 2018). "Lights FC lose thriller at OKC Energy FC". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 12, 2018.
  35. ^ Gotz, Ben (July 14, 2018). "Lights FC not sharp in loss to Rio Grande Valley FC". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 15, 2018.
  36. ^ Gotz, Ben (July 22, 2018). "Omar Salgado's late strike lifts Lights FC past Portland". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 23, 2018.
  37. ^ Gotz, Ben (July 26, 2018). "Lights FC earns 2 red cards in loss to Seattle". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved August 8, 2018.
  38. ^ Gotz, Ben (August 4, 2018). "Joel Huiqui leads Lights FC to 4th straight home win". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved August 8, 2018.
  39. ^ a b Gotz, Ben (August 8, 2018). "Lights FC players make long-awaited returns to field". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved August 8, 2018.
  40. ^ "Player Stats". Las Vegas Lights FC. Retrieved May 12, 2018.
  41. ^ a b c d e Gotz, Ben (January 8, 2018). "Las Vegas Lights FC make 5 local players first roster signees". Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved May 2, 2018.
  42. ^ a b c d Gotz, Ben (January 16, 2018). "Las Vegas Lights FC add 7 players to preseason roster". Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved May 2, 2018.
  43. ^ Gotz, Ben (January 26, 2018). "Las Vegas Lights FC announce 2 new signees". Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved May 2, 2018.
  44. ^ a b c d e f g h Gotz, Ben (January 31, 2018). "Las Vegas Lights FC sign 11 players to spring training roster". Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved May 2, 2018.
  45. ^ a b Gotz, Ben (February 16, 2018). "3 things to look for in the Lights FC-Vancouver Whitecaps FC game". Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved May 2, 2018.
  46. ^ Gotz, Ben (February 23, 2018). "Lights FC plan to play Freddy Adu against D.C. United". Las Vegas Review Journal. Retrieved May 2, 2018.
  47. ^ Greene, Ryan (May 4, 2018). "LIGHTS FC SIGNS GOALKEEPER THOMAS OLSEN, THE CLUB'S SEVENTH PLAYER WITH LAS VEGAS ROOTS". Las Vegas Lights FC. Retrieved May 7, 2018.
  48. ^ a b c d e f Gotz, Ben (May 22, 2018). "Lights FC cut Las Vegas native Guzman, 2 others, and add 3". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 22, 2018.
  49. ^ a b Gotz, Ben (May 31, 2018). "Lights FC adds two midfielders to roster". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 2, 2018.
  50. ^ Gotz, Ben (August 10, 2018). "Daigo Kobayashi dives deeper into Las Vegas with Lights FC". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved August 11, 2018.
  51. ^ Gotz, Ben (May 10, 2018). "Jorge Guillen-Torres hopes to reward Lights FC coaches' faith". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved May 11, 2018.
  52. ^ Gotz, Ben (June 11, 2018). "Lights FC acquires defender Nico Samayoa on loan". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 12, 2018.
  53. ^ Gotz, Ben (June 22, 2018). "Lights FC acquires James Murphy on loan from MLS team". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  54. ^ Gotz, Ben (June 13, 2018). "Lights FC picks up former No. 1 pick Omar Salgado on loan". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved June 13, 2018.
  55. ^ Gotz, Ben (July 12, 2018). "4 Lights FC transfers become eligible to play". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 13, 2018.
  56. ^ Gotz, Ben (July 31, 2018). "Lights FC acquire Carter Manley from Minnesota United FC". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved August 8, 2018.
  57. ^ Gotz, Ben (June 29, 2018). "Lights FC look to MLS loanees for added depth". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 2, 2018.
  58. ^ Gotz, Ben (July 6, 2018). "Juan Carlos Garcia helps Lights FC from sidelines". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 8, 2018.
  59. ^ Gotz, Ben (July 10, 2018). "USL rule prevents three Lights FC newcomers from playing". Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved July 11, 2018.
  60. ^ "Iwasa Voted USL Player of the Week". uslsoccer.com. July 17, 2018. Retrieved July 18, 2018.
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