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Monterey Bay F.C.

The Greatest Union of Land & Sea

Team 2

MBFC2 Falls 2-1 at Home to San Francisco Glens

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MBFC2 Falls 2-1 at Home to San Francisco Glens

By Elian Corona

SEASIDE, California (Sunday, May 19, 2024) – Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (2-1-0, 6 points) were defeated 2-1 by San Francisco Glens SC (1-1-1, 4 points) in a close-fought match at Cardinale Stadium. Bryan Lopez was able to capitalize on a loose ball inside the area and fire a low shot into the bottom right corner for MBFC2’s lone score of the match.

MBFC2 began the contest under pressure, as SF Glens controlled possession but struggled to find opportunities to shoot. The visitors would have the first real chance in the 13th minute, as a low cross was swung into the box but their striker was unable to poke it into the net. A foul committed by Lorenzo Avalos on the edge of the MBFC2 box in the 17th minute gave SF Glens a chance to have the first shot on target of the match, but a well placed wall was able to deflect it over. Off the resulting corner, MBFC2 were able to strike on the counter, with Ethan Kelly through on goal but only finding the keeper with his shot. Issac Lomeli received the first yellow card for MBFC2 in the 23rd minute for a collision as he fought to win a loose ball. Another chance from a cross saw an SF Glens header go over the bar in the 28th minute. Two minutes later, the visitors would make their chances count as their striker was played through on goal and was able to thread a pass across goal to a teammate who was unmarked and he slotted the ball into the bottom corner, bringing the match to 1-0 in favor of the Glens. Jack Landreth’s clearance in the 43rd minute found Willy Miranda sprinting towards goal, but he was taken out by a SF Glens defender outside the area before he was able to control it. The challenge resulted in a red card for the visiting defender, and MBFC2 now had a one man advantage going into the second half.

MBFC2 made a host of changes at halftime, with Jomar Munaf, Sebastian Ruiz-Hurst, and Lopezcoming on. Francisco Ponce, Avalos, and Kelly all came off the pitch. Miranda had a great chance in the 47th minute as he dribbled in from the left flank and curled a shot towards the back post, and he was only denied by a fully outstretched goalkeeper. In the 55th minute, Alexis Sanchez recovered to protect the MBFC2 goal, chasing down the SF Glens striker and sliding in front of his shot at the last moment. Two minutes later, MBFC2 came close to equalizing as Lopez curled a pass across goal to Miranda, whose shot deflected right to Janos Kömmerling, but the number seven’s shot flew just outside the left post. Kevin Rincon came on for Kömmerling shortly afterwards. MBFC2 would find the equalizer in the 66th minute through Lopez, who latched onto a deflected ball inside the box and fired a shot into the right corner from close range. But SF Glens would strike back not even a minute later, surging forwards down the right flank and squaring the ball across goal to bring the score to 2-1. A SF Glens player took the clear shot and unfortunately for MBFC2, it took a deflection on its way and rebounded into the net. Hugo Vargas-Rios had an opportunity to shoot from range in the 81st minute and his driven shot looked destined for the bottom right corner, but was just barely reached by the keeper as he dove to his left. Ruiz-Hurst was sent off in the 84th minute after his elbow made contact with the opponent’s face in the MBFC2 right corner. Miranda then made way for Brandon Lopez in the 90th minute. A final shot from Bryan Lopez on the volley from inside the area only was able to find the SF Glens goalkeeper’s hands as the match ended in the first defeat of the season for MBFC2.

Information

Date: May 19, 2024
Venue: Cardinale Stadium; Seaside, California
Weather: Sunny and 55 degrees

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F

MBFC2 0 1 1
San Francisco Glens SC 1 1 2
MB2: Bryan Lopez 66’

Lineup

Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (4-3-3): Jack Landreth; Lorenzo Avalos (Sebastian Ruiz-Hurst), Alexis Sanchez, Louie Galdamez, Ramiro Corrales Jr.; Janos Köemmerling (Kevin Rincon), Hugo Vargas-Rios, Isaac Lomeli; Willy Miranda (Brandon Lopez), Ethan Kelly (Bryan Lopez), Francisco Ponce (Jomar Munaf)
Subs not used: Erik Lauta, Christian Dauphin

MBFC2 Tops Academica SC in Eight-Goal Thriller

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MBFC2 Tops Academica SC in Eight-Goal Thriller

By Elian Corona

SEASIDE, California (Saturday, May 11, 2024) – Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (2-0-0, 6 points) bested Academica SC (0-2-0, 0 points) by a score of 6-2 at Cardinale Stadium. Six goals from MBFC2 provided ample entertainment for fans, as Janos Kömmerling opened the scoring with a curling shot that bounced off the post and in after only four minutes. Ramiro Corrales Jr. showed excellent composure to slot the penalty he won into the bottom-left corner six minutes later, and Willy Miranda capitalized on a loose ball in the area, volleying into the back of the net in the 31st minute to make it 3-0. After Academica SC pulled one back, goalkeeper Jack Landreth found Isaac Lomeli with a long ball over the top, and the midfielder made it four with a composed finish. Academica SC struck first in the second half, but Hugo Vargas killed any chance of a comeback by taking advantage of a poor recovery from the opposition goalkeeper and unleashing a shot from long range in the 62nd minute to make it five. Bryan Lopez capped off the performance with a great finish after latching onto a long ball in the 79th minute.

MBFC piled on the pressure from the first minute, beginning with a half volley struck by Lomelifrom the top of the box. The breakthrough would come in the fourth minute, as a one two between Corrales Jr. and opened space for Kömmerling to curl a shot towards goal that bounced off the back post and into the net. Corrales drove forward into the area after a sequence of passes and was scythed down by an Academica SC defender in the 10th minute, resulting in a penalty kick. He would step up to the spot and calmly slot it into the bottom left corner, doubling MBFC2’s advantage. Lomeli produced a bit of skill on the left flank in the 15th minute and was able to square it into the box, but unfortunately no one was able to capitalize. Alexis Sanchez’s shot from range in the 20th minute was spilled by the keeper and Lorenzo Avalos was able to reach the rebound, but a diving reflex save by the keeper prevented another MBFC2 goal. Just a minute later, a freekick in a dangerous position on the right left the crossbar shaking after a thunderous strike from Vargas. MBFC2 found the third in the 31st minute through Miranda, who latched onto a deflection inside the area and unleashed a first time volley into the back of the net. Academica SC was able to get one back in the 38th minute, curling a shot in from distance. A long punt from Landreth sailed over the Academica SC backline, and Lomeli capitalized by running onto the ball and slotted past the goalkeeper while fighting off a defender in the 42nd minute. 

Kömmerling and Miranda were replaced by Bryan Lopez and Jomar Munaf at halftime. Louie Galdamez prevented Academica SC from pulling within two in the 50th minute, displaying great agility to spin and clear a squared ball in midair. Academica SC would be able to cut the lead in the 56th minute, as some good work on the right side opened space for a cross to the back post, which was headed back across goal and tucked away to make it 4-2. Landreth prevented a third goal a few minutes later by first palming away a corner into the bar and then getting down quickly to turn away a shot off the deflection. Edwin Moreno replaced Francisco Ponce shortly afterwards. In the 62nd minute, the Academica SC goalkeeper charged out of his net to try and deny MBFC2 as they surged forwards, but his clearance only went as far as Lomeli, who passed it forwards to Vargas. Vargas saw the keeper out of the net and shot from range, with his drive sailing in for MBFC2’s fifth goal. Moreno was nearly able to make it six in the 70th minute after a great run into the box, but the angle for his shot was tight and he was unable to convert. Munaf was fouled in a good position in the 75th minute, but Vargas was unable to find a brace as his direct freekick flew over the bar. Bryan Lopez made it six for MBFC2 in the 79th minute, latching onto a long ball from Moreno and finding himself one on one with the goalkeeper, he placed his shot perfectly into the bottom left corner. A triple substitution in the 83rd minute saw Sanchez replaced by Christian Dauphin, Ethan Kelly replaced by Brandon Lopez, and Vargas replaced by Luis Mendoza. Academica SC would hit the post from close range late on, and Bryan Lopez nearly scored his second in the 90th minute after latching onto a long ball from Munaf but his shot flew into the goalkeeper’s chest.

Information

Date: May 11, 2024
Venue: Cardinale Stadium; Seaside, California
Weather: Foggy and 57 degrees

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F

MBFC2 4 2 6
Academica SC 1 1 2
MB2: Janos Kömmerling (Ramiro Corrales Jr.) 4’
MB2: Ramiro Corrales Jr. (Penalty) 10’
MB2: Willy Miranda 31’
MB2: Isaac Lomeli (Jack Landreth) 42’
MB2: Hugo Vargas-Rios (Isaac Lomeli) 62’
MB2: Bryan Lopez (Edwin Moreno) 79’

Lineup

Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (4-3-3): Jack Landreth; Lorenzo Avalos, Alexis Sanchez (Christian Dauphin), Louie Galdamez, Ramiro Corrales Jr.; Janos Kömmerling (Bryan Lopez), Hugo Vargas-Rios (Luis Mendoza), Isaac Lomeli, Willy Miranda (Jomar Munaf), Ethan Kelly (Brandon Lopez), Francisco Ponce (Edwin Moreno)
Subs not used: Erik Lauta

MBFC2 Opens 2024 Campaign with 1-0 Victory Over San Francisco City FC at Rabobank Stadium in Salinas

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MBFC2 Opens 2024 Campaign with 1-0 Victory Over San Francisco City FC at Rabobank Stadium in Salinas

By Elian Corona

SALINAS, California (Wednesday, May 8, 2024) – Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (1-0-0, 3 points) secured an opening night victory by a score of 1-0 against San Francisco City FC (0-1-0, 0 points) at Rabobank Stadium. Janos Kömmerling scored the only goal of the night, latching onto a Jomar Munaf through ball down the right hand side before calmly slotting home into the bottom left corner. 

The first chance of the match would go to SF City, with their midfielder finding space in the box, but Jack Landreth was able to save it with his foot. MBFC2 found lots of space down the right hand side early on, with Francisco Ponce finding space to cross multiple times. A nice combination down the left saw Lorenzo Avalos underlap and Willy Miranda find his run, opening space for another cross towards Ethan Kelly. Louie Galdamez showed excellent composure to turn on a long ball from SF City, denying the visitors a clear one on one opportunity. In the 16th minute, the ball fell to Alexis Sanchez on the edge of the area allowing him to whip a cross into Galmadez at the back post although he could only send a shot wide. Isacc Lomeli had an opportunity to shoot from the edge of the area in the 19th minute but his first time shot sailed over the crossbar. Lomeli produced a brilliant bit of skill in the 28th minute, backheeling to Miranda who fired low, forcing a quick reaction save from the SF City keeper. Landreth showcased his own reflexes just a minute later, stopping to get a hand to a close range shot from a tight angle to keep the score level. Both sides fought for possession from that point onwards towards halftime. A yellow card was issued to Ponce in the 44th minute, bringing an end to the first half. 

SF City also had the first chance of the second half, sending a header right over the crossbar off of a wide free kick in the 49th minute. Miranda almost capitalized on an excellent MBFC2 move, latching onto a Kömmerling pass into the area and then getting past two defenders with one touch, only to be swept down by the onrushing goalkeeper for an MBFC2 penalty. The ensuing spot kick was taken by Miranda, who went low to his left. Unfortunately for the number 11, the SF City keeper guessed the same way and was able to parry the penalty away. Miranda had another shot blocked inside the area just a few minutes later as MBFC2 began to find more opportunities. Ponce was then replaced by Munaf in the 62nd minute. In the 66th minute MBFC2 would find their opener, with Kömmerling’s run from deep down the right side being picked out by Munaf. The number 7 drove towards the net and deftly placed his shot into the bottom left corner, beating the onrushing goalkeeper. Lomeli found space to cross into the area in the 70th minute, but Kelly’s header was not able to find the target. Kelly had another opportunity two minutes later, this time sending a right-footed strike inside the area over the crossbar. Kevin Salto and Bryan Lopez replaced Kömmerling and Kelly respectively in the 75th minute. MBFC2 had a golden opportunity to make it a two-goal lead in the 77th, finding themselves in a 4v2 situation, but they were unable to capitalize on their advantage on the break. Eight minutes later, Lomeli was issued a yellow card for a challenge on an SF City player. Then in the final two swaps of the night, Luis Mendoza replaced Miranda and Brandon Lopez replaced Lomeli in the 86th minute and three minutes later, Ramiro Corrales Jr. received a yellow for tugging on the opponent’s shirt. Despite San Francisco City FC’s late push for an equalizer, MBFC2 held on defensively to win the first match of the season 1-0.

Information

Date: May 8, 2024
Venue: Rabobank Stadium; Salinas, California
Weather: Sunny and 68 degrees

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F

MBFC2 0 1 1
San Francisco City 0 0 0
MB2: Janos Kömmerling (Jomar Munaf) 66’

Lineup

Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (4-3-3): Jack Landreth; Lorenzo Avalos, Alexis Sanchez, Louie Galdamez, Ramiro Corrales Jr.; Janos Kömmerling (Kevin Salto), Hugo Vargas-Rios, Isaac Lomeli (Brandon Lopez), Willy Miranda (Luis Mendoza ), Ethan Kelly (Bryan Lopez), Francisco Ponce (Jomar Munaf)
Subs not used: Erik Lauta, Edwin Moreno

MONTEREY BAY F.C. SIGNS SALINAS NATIVE, FORMER MBFC2 GOALKEEPER FABIAN NAREZ TO 25-DAY CONTRACT

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MONTEREY BAY F.C. SIGNS SALINAS NATIVE, FORMER MBFC2 GOALKEEPER FABIAN NAREZ TO 25-DAY CONTRACT

SEASIDE, California (Friday, April 12, 2024) – Monterey Bay Football Club (Monterey Bay F.C.) announced today that the club has signed former Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (MBFC2) goalkeeper Fabian Narez to a 25-day contract following the red card suspension of Carlos Herrera handed out after the final whistle of the Club’s match against Oakland Roots SC on April 6.

Narez, 29, is a Salinas native who played soccer collegiately for Hartnell College after graduating from Alisal High School. Last summer, Narez joined MBFC2 for its inaugural season in USL League Two and helped the team to a NorCal division championship and a playoff berth. Now, the goalkeeper makes the jump from MBFC2 to the first team, officially joining his hometown professional club.

NAME: Fabian Narez
POSITION: Goalkeeper
AGE: 29
DATE OF BIRTH: October 19, 1994
HOMETOWN: Salinas, California
COLLEGE: Hartnell College
TRANSACTION: Monterey Bay has signed Fabian Narez to a 25-day contract on April 12, 2024.

The current roster heading into the 2024 season as of April 12 is listed alphabetically as follows: 

Goalkeepers (3): Carlos Herrera, Fabian Narez, Antony Siaha

Defenders (7): Morey Doner, Max Glasser, Kai Greene, Carlos Guzmán, Alex Lara, Walmer Martínez, Grant Robinson 

Midfielders (7): Rafa Baca, Simon Dawkins, Mobi Fehr, Pierce Gallaway, Xavi Gnaulati, Miguel Guerrero, Adrian Rebollar

Forwards (9): Luther Archimède, Chase Boone, Ryan Dieter, Alex Dixon, Chuy Enríquez, Michael Gonzalez, Jesse Maldonado, Anthony Orendain, Tristan Trager

MONTEREY BAY SIGNS THREE AHEAD OF SEASON OPENER: UC DAVIS’ RYAN DIETER AND MBFC2s MIGUEL GUERRERO, ANTHONY ORENDAIN

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MONTEREY BAY SIGNS THREE AHEAD OF SEASON OPENER: UC DAVIS’ RYAN DIETER AND MBFC2s MIGUEL GUERRERO, ANTHONY ORENDAIN

SEASIDE, California (Wednesday, March 13, 2024) – Monterey Bay Football Club (Monterey Bay F.C.) announced today that the Club has signed three players ahead of its 2024 regular season opener, pending league and federation approval. Ryan Dieter, who was invited to participate in preseason with the team after a stand-out open tryout in January, officially joins the team alongside two members of MBFC2’s inaugural squad – Watsonville native Anthony Orendain and CSUMB’s Miguel Guerrero. The trio of additions now gives the Union a total of three players who have made the transition from MBFC2 to the first team, while Guerrero also becomes the third player in Club history from CSUMB.

“As a club we are excited for Miguel, Anthony, Ryan and Pierce as well as they all embark on their professional careers,” said Club Development Officer Neil Diaz. “As an organization we will continue to work hard to provide opportunities for our local talent and provide support and guidance both on and off the field to help them reach their potential. The club is committed to this long-term project of development and we couldn’t be prouder of these three young men. They are all fantastic role models for our young, aspiring players.”

Dieter, 22, is a Santa Rosa, California native who played collegiately for the UC Davis Aggies from 2019-2023. Dieter received an All-Big West Honorable Mention for his performance during his senior year, in which he recorded eight assists and a goal in 20 appearances (all starts). Dieter was one of five players to receive an invite to preseason from his performance in the Club’s open tryout in January, but was the only player without ties to the Union through its lower-division side or previous professional experience. While at UC Davis, Dieter played alongside current Monterey Bay defender Max Glasser. 

“I’m super excited, very grateful for this experience,” said Dieter. “You go to an open tryout and you don’t expect too much, but once I got that invite I knew it was time to grind. It was tough at first, it was the first professional environment that I’ve been a part of. It took a little bit of getting used to initially, but as soon as I adjusted I knew I was ready for this level. Playing with Max [Glasser] again has been great. Unfortunately we’re on different sides of the formation now – he’s more of a right back and I’m more of a left wing, but back in our Davis days I used to play on the right with him, so this is pretty cool. Overall I thought I did really well in preseason, so I am looking forward to contributing to the team, scoring goals and helping us win.”

Guerrero, 22, becomes the third player from CSU Monterey Bay to sign with the Crisp-and-Kelp, following in the footsteps of both Walmer Martínez and Adrian Rebollar. The Redwood City, California native was also a big part of MBFC2’s inaugural season in USL League Two, helping lead the U-23 side to the NorCal Division title and a playoff spot in the team’s first season in existence. Throughout his time at CSUMB, Guerrero started in 48 of his 61 total appearances and scored eight goals to go with seven assists.

“It’s great to sign with Monterey Bay,” said Guerrero. “I’ve been in the area with CSUMB for a while, following in that same pathway as Adrian [Rebollar] and Walmer [Martínez]. I got the opportunity to play with the second team over the summer, so that got me closer to the first team being able to get to know the guys a little bit, and getting to experience the atmosphere, to now finally signing my first professional contract. I also spent time as a member of the game day staff on first team match days, so I got to know some of the front office staff as well and that was a huge part of my experience here. I’m hoping to contribute goals and assists this season of course, but really just come out and give the most I can and bring a lot of energy.”

Watsonville’s own Orendain is yet another to have played with MBFC2 last season and contributed greatly to the team’s success in its first year as a fixture at the top of the formation. Combined with his performances throughout open tryouts and the preseason, Orendain’s time as MBFC2 has paid off with a first team contract a year later. Collegiately, Orendain played all four years at the University of the Pacific, starting in 72 of his 73 total appearances for the Tigers while adding 14 goals and eight assists.

“It’s an honor to be here. When I first heard that there would be a team in the area, I made it one of my goals to hopefully play for them one day,” explained Orendain. “I’ve come here to Cardinale Stadium to watch some games with my family, so I know that it is an amazing environment and now that I am here, I am grateful. The whole environment here is amazing, the team was super welcoming from the staff to the coaches to everybody involved. My time with MBFC2 was great, we had a lot of good players on that team, a lot of talent. Pierce [Gallaway] and Migue [Guerrero] were a part of that too, and it’s great to continue with them.”

NAME: Ryan Dieter
POSITION: Forward
AGE: 22
HEIGHT: 5’11
DATE OF BIRTH: July 14, 2001
HOMETOWN: Santa Rosa, California
NATIONALITY: United States
COLLEGE: UC Davis
TRANSACTION: Monterey Bay has signed Ryan Dieter to a one-year contract on March 13, 2024.

NAME: Miguel Guerrero
POSITION: Midfielder
AGE: 22
HEIGHT: 5’4
DATE OF BIRTH: August 23, 2001
HOMETOWN: Redwood City, California
NATIONALITY: United States
PREVIOUS CLUB: MBFC2
COLLEGE: CSUMB
TRANSACTION: Monterey Bay has signed Miguel Guerrero to a one-year contract on March 13, 2024.

NAME: Anthony Orendain
POSITION: Forward
AGE: 26
DATE OF BIRTH: March 10, 1998
HOMETOWN: Watsonville, California
NATIONALITY: United States
PREVIOUS CLUB: MBFC2
TRANSACTION: Monterey Bay has signed Anthony Orendain to a one-year contract on March 13, 2024.

The current roster heading into the 2024 season as of March 13 is listed alphabetically as follows: 

Goalkeepers (2): Carlos Herrera, Antony Siaha

Defenders (7): Morey Doner, Max Glasser, Kai Greene, Carlos Guzmán, Alex Lara, Walmer Martínez, Grant Robinson 

Midfielders (7): Rafa Baca, Simon Dawkins, Mobi Fehr, Pierce Gallaway, Xavi Gnaulati, Miguel Guerrero, Adrian Rebollar

Forwards (8): Luther Archimède, Chase Boone, Ryan Dieter, Alex Dixon, Chuy Enríquez, Jesse Maldonado, Anthony Orendain, Tristan Trager

CARMEL NATIVE PIERCE GALLAWAY SIGNS WITH MONTEREY BAY, BECOMES FIRST PLAYER IN CLUB HISTORY TO MAKE JUMP FROM MBFC2

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CARMEL NATIVE PIERCE GALLAWAY SIGNS WITH MONTEREY BAY, BECOMES FIRST PLAYER IN CLUB HISTORY TO MAKE JUMP FROM MBFC2

SEASIDE, California (Thursday, February 22, 2024) – Monterey Bay Football Club (Monterey Bay F.C.) announced today that the Club has signed 22-year-old midfielder Pierce Gallaway, a Carmel native, to a one-year contract with an option for 2025, pending league and federation approval. For Monterey Bay, Gallaway adds size and depth to the squad both in the midfield and on the back line as a central defender. His signing also signifies two landmark firsts in the Club’s record books; Gallaway is now officially the first-ever open tryout participant to be invited to camp and earn a professional contract, and the first player to make the jump to the first team from the Club’s lower-division side, Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (MBFC2).

“I am very honored to represent my community and play for my hometown team. Being from the area makes this achievement even more special, especially knowing that I will have friends and family at Cardinale Stadium every game,” Gallaway expressed. “Having come through the whole process here, it is truly a full circle moment for me. Since the club began the growth has been huge and has done amazing things for the local soccer community. This organization has given me a platform to reach my dreams of becoming a professional soccer player and I won’t be the last.”

He continued, “my experience with MBFC2 last summer was awesome. Being able to play for Ramiro [Corrales] and with many teammates I had known from my youth years made for a successful season. Playing in USL League Two is an important step for any aspiring pro, so playing for the second team really helped me prepare for the next level.”

Gallaway was an integral part of MBFC2’s inaugural season in USL League Two, helping lead the team to the NorCal Division title and a playoff spot in the team’s first season in existence. He was a major fixture on the back line for the Salinas-based, U-23 side last summer before playing a full season with Old Dominion University in NCAA Division I last fall. Gallaway then took part in Monterey Bay’s third annual open tryouts in January, where he was one of five players to receive an invite to participate in preseason with the first team. From there, Gallaway has used every training session, closed-door scrimmage, and preseason match over the past month to officially solidify himself into Head Coach Frank Yallop’s plans.

“We’re happy to add Pierce into the team,” said Yallop. “He is a local kid who started with MBFC2 last summer and now he’s the first to make the transition to the first team. When he joined our open tryouts in January, he really rekindled our thoughts on him. Pierce has trained really well in the last three weeks and deserves this contract. He’s young and versatile, a good all around player. He has great character and is going to fit in really well with us.”

Sam Adelman, Gallaway’s former collegiate head coach from his last two years at Willamette University echoed a similar sentiment in a university article last February. “Pierce is one of the best men’s soccer players to ever play at Willamette,” said Adelman. “Everything he’s garnered is well-deserved. He set the standard for what it means to be a part of this program – everyone will be chasing him for years to come.”

A graduate of Carmel High School, Gallaway was initially recruited by then-Head Coach Jared Rust in 2019 and went on to spend four seasons at Willamette University before graduating with an exercise science degree in 2022. In total, he started 63 of his 64 matches played for the Bearcats and recorded 20 goals and 10 assists, including 12 goals and six assists in his senior year alone.

“Pierce Gallaway is a special player,” said Rust. “His vision, understanding of the game and incessant drive to be great are only a few of his many wonderful qualities. I am so proud of him and happy that all of his hard work is paying off. Not only are Monterey Bay F.C. getting a quality player that is going to be able to unlock great spaces between the lines and produce consistent high level distribution, but they are gaining a local player from the area that will be an excellent representation of the club and the Monterey Bay community with unequivocal professionalism and character. I cannot wait to follow MBFC and see the journey continue for Pierce.”

Throughout his time at Willamette, Gallaway earned several honors including Northwest Conference All-Conference First Team (2022), Northwest Conference Offensive Player of the Year (2022), United Soccer Coaches All-America First Team (2022), College Sports Communicators Academic All-District (2022), and Willamette Bearcat Athlete of the Year (2023). In one season with Old Dominion University, Gallaway started all 17 of his appearances and added a goal.

“Everyone on the team has been extremely welcoming and I’ve enjoyed spending time on the pitch with the guys and socializing in the locker room,” Gallaway explained. “The staff is getting us ready for the season and I feel we are making progress everyday. I hope I can get on the field as much as possible and help the team win games. I know what this group is capable of, so I hope I can contribute to us reaching our potential.”

NAME: Pierce Gallaway
POSITION: Midfielder
AGE: 22
HEIGHT: 6’2
DATE OF BIRTH: April 25, 2001
HOMETOWN: Carmel, California
NATIONALITY: United States
PREVIOUS CLUB: MBFC2
TRANSACTION: Monterey Bay has signed Pierce Gallaway to a one-year contract on February 22, 2024.

The current roster heading into the 2024 season as of February 22 is listed alphabetically as follows: 

Goalkeepers (2): Carlos Herrera, Antony Siaha

Defenders (7): Morey Doner, Max Glasser, Kai Greene, Carlos Guzmán, Alex Lara, Walmer Martínez, Grant Robinson 

Midfielders (6): Rafa Baca, Simon Dawkins, Mobi Fehr, Pierce Gallaway, Xavi Gnaulati, Adrian Rebollar

Forwards (6): Luther Archimède, Chase Boone, Alex Dixon, Chuy Enríquez, Jesse Maldonado, Tristan Trager

MBFC2 ANNOUNCES 2024 REGULAR SEASON SCHEDULE

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MBFC2 ANNOUNCES 2024 REGULAR SEASON SCHEDULE

SEASIDE, California (Thursday, February 15, 2024) – Monterey Bay Football Club (Monterey Bay F.C.) and USL League Two have announced the full 2024 regular season schedule for Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (MBFC2). Last season, MBFC2 polished off a successful year with a 10-1-1 record to secure the NorCal Division Title and earn a spot in the USL League Two Playoffs in its inaugural campaign. This season, MBFC2 will play 14 matches, two more than last season’s schedule, with seven apiece home and away. While three of the upcoming seven home matches will be at Rabobank Stadium in Salinas, four will be played in Seaside at Cardinale Stadium.

MBFC2 opens the season at home against San Francisco City FC on Wednesday, May 8 at Rabobank Stadium. From there, the side will go on to play its next two matches at home as well, facing off against Academica SC on Saturday, May 11 and San Francisco Glens SC on Sunday, May 19, both at Cardinale Stadium. Following four consecutive matches on the road, MBFC2 will return home on June 22 to take on Project 51O in Seaside. MBFC2 ends the regular season the following month with two home matches on Wednesday, July 10 against Marin FC Legends at Rabobank Stadium and Saturday, July 13 against Almaden FC at Cardinale Stadium. 

Three of the team’s matches at Cardinale Stadium this season will be double headers with the Monterey Bay F.C. first team – College Night on May 11, Fan Fest on June 22, and Agriculture & Country Night on July 13. Entry into those matches will require a ticket to the first team match later in the evening. Single game tickets for the rest of the MBFC2 home schedule will be on sale soon. 2024 Monterey Bay F.C. season ticket holders will receive free entry into all MBFC2 home matches as one of its many member perks this season. The MBFC2 coaching staff will be named at a later date. Additional information will be available in the coming weeks, including information about upcoming MBFC2 open tryout dates.

MBFC2’s Successful Inaugural Season Ends in USL League Two Round of 32 with 1-0 Defeat to Ventura County Fusion

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MBFC2’s Successful Inaugural Season Ends in USL League Two Round of 32 with 1-0 Defeat to Ventura County Fusion

VENTURA, California (Friday, July 21, 2023) – Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (MBFC2) fell 1-0 to the defending champions Ventura County Fusion at Ventura College in the USL League Two Playoffs Round of 32, ending the Salinas-based development club’s special first season under Head Coach Ramiro Corrales. 

Playing the majority of their home matches at Rabobank Stadium in Salinas, MBFC2 finished its inaugural campaign as the Western Conference Nor Cal Division Champions behind an impressive 10-1-1 record that saw them end the season ranked 7th out of 122 teams in the league’s nationwide power rankings. With the curtains closed on year one, MBFC2 is expected to resume action in May 2024.

Match: Ventura County Fusion vs MBFC2
Date: July 21, 2023
Venue: Ventura College; Ventura, California

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
Ventura County 0 1 1
MBFC2 0 0 0
VCF: 52’

MBFC2 Secures 2023 USL League Two Nor Cal Division Title with 3-0 Win Over Project 51O

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MBFC2 Secures 2023 USL League Two Nor Cal Division Title with 3-0 Win Over Project 51O

By Eli Corona

SEASIDE, California (Saturday, July 15, 2023) – Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (10-1-1, 31 points) defeated Project 510 (5-7-0, 15 points) 3-0 at Cardinale Stadium. Willy Miranda bagged a brace and Isaac Lomeli scored a goal of his own to secure the 2023 USL League Two Nor Cal Division title for MBFC2 in the Salinas-based development club’s inaugural campaign.

MBFC2 began the match well, threatening down the middle with Hugo Vargas-Rios registering the first shot of the contest with a first-time effort over the bar. Then just six minutes in, Miranda put the home side ahead with a well-placed, low finish into the far corner. In the tenth minute, Los Dos doubled their advantage thanks to Miranda once again. The number eleven picked up the ball in space on the left flank and drove forward before squaring the ball across for the onrushing Lomeli, who tapped the ball into the back of the net. Erik Lauta denied Project 510 an easy finish with a close range save in the 16th minute, ensuring MBFC2 kept a two-goal advantage. Lomeli combined well with Janos Kommerling inside the opposition area with a smart one-two, and Kommerling was only denied by the outstretched leg of the sliding defender. A handball in the box from Project 510 in the 25th minute saw Miranda convert a penalty into the bottom left corner, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and putting the hosts up 3-0. Miranda nearly bagged his hat trick in the 37th minute, but saw his shot roll just wide of the right post. Guerrero looped in a ball in the 2nd minute of first half stoppage time looking for Kommerling, who leapt to reach it and sent his effort wide of the near post.

The second half saw MBFC2 look to hold their lead, taking control of possession and controlling the pace of the match. The 56th minute saw Tamba DiMattia, Kevin Salto, and Luis Mendoza replace Jose Madrigal, Fransisco Ponce, and Vargas-Rios. Shortly after coming on, DiMattia registered two shots, both destined for goal but were blocked well by the Project 510 defense. Miranda looked set up for the hattrick in the 70th minute, but attempted the cutback to Kommerling and saw the ball cleared. Elias Bouhaja replaced Miranda and Ramiro Corrales Jr. replaced Lomeli after the chance. In the 79th minute, Fabian Narez and Albert Quintana came on for Lauta and Miguel Guerrero, marking the first time all substitutes were used in a match for Los Dos. Corrales Jr. took the ball into the box past his man in the 87th minute and looked destined to score with a low driven shot towards the near post which was only saved by the foot of the keeper. Narez recorded a good save a minute later, reaching up to stop a driven effort. The 3-0 victory thanks to a flurry of early goals secured the Nor Cal division title for MBFC2, marking a historic division championship in the club’s first season. The team will now head to the 2023 USL League Two Playoffs this coming weekend.

Match: Monterey Bay F.C. 2 vs Project 510
Date: July 15, 2023
Venue: Cardinale Stadium
Weather: Clear and 65 degrees

Scoring Summary: 1 2 F
MBFC2 3 0 3
Project 510 0 0 0
MBFC2: Willy Miranda –  6’
MBFC2: Isaac Lomeli (Willy Miranda) – 10’
MBFC2: Willy Miranda – 25’

MBFC2 Clinches Spot in 2023 USL League Two Playoffs in Club’s First Season

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MBFC2 Clinches Spot in 2023 USL League Two Playoffs in Club’s First Season

SALINAS, Calif. (Monday, July 3, 2023) – With back-to-back wins over NorCal Division rival Academica SC this past weekend, Monterey Bay F.C. 2 (MBFC2) has officially clinched a spot in the 2023 USL League Two Playoffs. With a playoff spot locked up, the Salinas-based development club will now look to secure the top spot in its division with two matches left to play.

“It’s exciting that we’ve officially clinched playoffs – especially with it being our first season in USL2 and as a team,” said Watsonville native and MBFC2 captain Hugo Vargas. “It means a lot to the team as this was one of our goals since the beginning of the season, so it’s nice to see that all the hard work has been really paying off. Now that we have clinched playoffs, our next goal for us is winning the NorCal division and then winning it all.”

Vargas is one of 14 local players on the 23-man roster and one of eight total players representing California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB). In total, the local 14 include six players from Salinas, two from Carmel, two from Watsonville, and one each from Aptos, Santa Cruz, Seaside, and Soledad. The largely local side also boasts local kit partners in Salinas-based Taylor Farms (front) and Montage Health (sleeve).

“I’m extremely happy for the boys,” said MBFC2 Head Coach Ramiro Corrales. “It’s never easy to start a team from scratch, so right away with the tryouts we picked guys that not only were talented, but had good attitudes – and that went a long way. When we started this project, I told the guys I need two things; attitude and effort. Always have a good attitude when you step on the field, whether it be practice or a game, and do that day in and day out. And I’m extremely happy because they’ve done that all season long. We have a good team – we’ve proven that. Going into these final two games and into the playoffs, we want to go out there, continue to do well and really represent this club.”

MBFC2’s final match of the regular season will be played on Fan Fest night at Cardinale Stadium as part of a double header with the first team on Saturday, July 15. At 3 p.m. PT, MBFC2 will take on Oakland-based division rival side Project 51O before Monterey Bay F.C. takes on Oakland Roots SC later that same night at 7 p.m. PT. Those who purchase tickets to the first team match will receive free entry into MBFC2’s match earlier in the day. So fans looking to cheer on MBFC2 in their regular season home finale can do so for free by showing their ticket to the Monterey Bay F.C. vs Oakland match at the gate upon arrival to Cardinale Stadium. Gates are expected to open at 2:30 p.m. PT.

“The ability to create a competitive environment and then to be able to succeed in that environment in year one is special,” said Monterey Bay F.C. President Mike DiGiulio. “The guys have been so good from an overall culture standpoint in addition to their success on the pitch. They have been a great example of what Monterey Bay Football Club stands for at the forefront; a positive and uplifting environment – and they are absolutely running with it. They are supporting each other and pushing each other to work hard. I am so pleased with the development of not only performing at a high level, but also teamwork, culture, and coming together to evolve this brand. This is a great group of guys and I couldn’t be prouder of the work they are doing on and off the field as a team and as individuals.”

More information about the 2023 USL League Two Playoffs structure and schedule will be announced soon. Learn more about Monterey Bay F.C. 2 at www.MontereyBayFC2.com.

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