LIONSBRIDGE FC
Community-Driven Soccer & Family Fun on the Virginia Peninsula
PLAYOFF SOCCER RETURNS TO NEWPORT NEWS JULY 17 & 19
The postseason for Lionsbridge FC starts at home on Friday night, hosting Asheville City SC in the USL League Two Eastern Conference quarterfinals at TowneBank Stadium.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Asheville advanced with a 1-0 home victory over Virginia Beach United on Tuesday night.
Lionsbridge earned a first-round bye and the right to host the four-team playoff pod after finishing the regular season 11-2-1 with 34 points. The Bridge won the Chesapeake Division by seven points and enter the postseason as division champions for the fourth time in five years.
Friday’s playoff doubleheader begins at noon with South Atlantic Division champion Charlotte Independence II (11-1-2) facing Appalachian FC (9-2-4). Appalachian advanced with a 1-0 road win over LVU Rush on Tuesday night. The result of that match will determine one of the two teams in Sunday’s semifinal.
The winners of Friday’s quarterfinals will meet in the Eastern Conference semifinal at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 19, at TowneBank Stadium. Sunday’s gates will open at 6 p.m
This marks Lionsbridge’s sixth consecutive appearance in the USL League Two playoffs. The club’s current postseason run includes a trip to the 2023 national final and three consecutive appearances in the Eastern Conference final from 2023 through 2025.
Lionsbridge season ticket holders receive free admission. Single-game tickets and discounted weekend passes covering all three matches are available now.
The postseason for Lionsbridge FC starts at home on Friday night, hosting Asheville City SC in the USL League Two Eastern Conference quarterfinals at TowneBank Stadium.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Asheville advanced with a 1-0 home victory over Virginia Beach United on Tuesday night.
Lionsbridge earned a first-round bye and the right to host the four-team playoff pod after finishing the regular season 11-2-1 with 34 points. The Bridge won the Chesapeake Division by seven points and enter the postseason as division champions for the fourth time in five years.
Friday’s playoff doubleheader begins at noon with South Atlantic Division champion Charlotte Independence II (11-1-2) facing Appalachian FC (9-2-4). Appalachian advanced with a 1-0 road win over LVU Rush on Tuesday night. The result of that match will determine one of the two teams in Sunday’s semifinal.
The winners of Friday’s quarterfinals will meet in the Eastern Conference semifinal at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 19, at TowneBank Stadium. Sunday’s gates will open at 6 p.m
This marks Lionsbridge’s sixth consecutive appearance in the USL League Two playoffs. The club’s current postseason run includes a trip to the 2023 national final and three consecutive appearances in the Eastern Conference final from 2023 through 2025.
Lionsbridge season ticket holders receive free admission. Single-game tickets and discounted weekend passes covering all three matches are available now.
CHARLOTTESVILLE SCORES LATE TO EDGE LIONSBRIDGE, 2-1, IN REGULAR SEASON FINALE
Prince Abanfo scored in second-half stoppage time to give Charlottesville Blues FC a 2-1 victory over Chesapeake Division champion Lionsbridge FC on Saturday night at TowneBank Stadium.
With its division title, first-round playoff bye and home playoff weekend already secured, Lionsbridge rested six regular starters in the final match of the regular season.
The altered lineup still struck first. Leo Conneh gave Lionsbridge a 1-0 lead in the second minute, finishing a pass from Clay Obara.
Charlottesville equalized in the 59th minute when Sam Robertson scored off an assist from Lucas White. Abanfo then delivered the winner in the 92nd minute, converting a pass from Robert Sloan.
Lionsbridge outshot Charlottesville 13-10 and held a 10-4 advantage in corner kicks. Charlottesville goalkeeper Brian Zanella and Lionsbridge goalkeeper Diego Garciarena each made six saves.
The loss ended Lionsbridge’s 11-game Chesapeake Division winning streak and its 16-game home winning streak, which dated to June 2025.
Lionsbridge finished the regular season 11-2-1 with 34 points, seven points clear at the top of the Chesapeake Division. Charlottesville finished 8-4-2 and third in the division, two points outside the USL League Two playoff field.
Prince Abanfo scored in second-half stoppage time to give Charlottesville Blues FC a 2-1 victory over Chesapeake Division champion Lionsbridge FC on Saturday night at TowneBank Stadium.
With its division title, first-round playoff bye and home playoff weekend already secured, Lionsbridge rested six regular starters in the final match of the regular season.
The altered lineup still struck first. Leo Conneh gave Lionsbridge a 1-0 lead in the second minute, finishing a pass from Clay Obara.
Charlottesville equalized in the 59th minute when Sam Robertson scored off an assist from Lucas White. Abanfo then delivered the winner in the 92nd minute, converting a pass from Robert Sloan.
Lionsbridge outshot Charlottesville 13-10 and held a 10-4 advantage in corner kicks. Charlottesville goalkeeper Brian Zanella and Lionsbridge goalkeeper Diego Garciarena each made six saves.
The loss ended Lionsbridge’s 11-game Chesapeake Division winning streak and its 16-game home winning streak, which dated to June 2025.
Lionsbridge finished the regular season 11-2-1 with 34 points, seven points clear at the top of the Chesapeake Division. Charlottesville finished 8-4-2 and third in the division, two points outside the USL League Two playoff field.
TWELFTH-STRAIGHT LIONSBRIDGE WIN COMES OVER NORTHERN VIRGINIA
LEESBURG, Va. – Lionsbridge FC defeated Northern Virginia FC for the second time this season, securing its 12th straight victory with the 4-2 win. Lionsbridge improves to 14-1-1 with 34 points in USL2 play while NOVA falls to 5-5-3 with 18 points. Leo Conneh led the night with two assists and one goal. Cristian Ortiz, Clay Obara, and Michael Eberle added the other three goals, while Christian Hatley posted two assists in the win.
Lionsbridge rattled off some early shots with both Christian Hatley and Alex Matthews looking for the early score. After two consecutive corner kicks by Michael Eberle, Ortiz found the early score as he headed the ball over a diving keeper’s hands in the fourth minute.
The Bridge continued to keep the pressure on as Andrew Hollenbach, Eberle and Clay Obara took more shots through the opening 20 minutes. Eberle was fouled in the 23rd minute, but Theo Drennan’s free kick proved an easy save for the NVFC goalie. LBFC goalie Henry Hampshaw had his own big save just one minute later.
Lionsbridge found itself controlling the game in its own offensive zone to start the 30th minute, with Northern Virginia collecting a yellow card in the process. Conneh sent the ball in to his strikers in front of the net before Obara finally came away with it and sent it between the keeper’s legs for the second goal of the game in the 34th minute.
Hampshaw grabbed another leaping save in the 44th minute, but NOVA scored its lone goal of the half in stoppage time. NVFC looked to score again coming out of the halftime break, but the ball found the outside netting of the goal in the 46th minute.
With Eberle in possession of the ball, he sent it out to Hatley on the near side. Hatley’s cross missed its intended target, but Conneh stepped through to send it low for the score in the 47th minute. Hatley and Eberle connected again in the 56th, this time with Eberle logging the goal, for the fourth score of the game and second in 10 minutes.
Northern Virginia quickly ran away with the ball in the 66th minute, but Hollenbach made the slide tackle to send the shot wide and prevent another goal. NVFC maintained control for the next few minutes as a ball was headed high and Hampshaw made a kick save.
NOVA added its second goal off the near post in the 81st minute. The teams traded blows as the clock wound down, with Conneh and Shawn Lanza being shown yellow cards in addition to two yellows presented to Northern Virginia.
Lionsbridge returns home for its final regular season game on Saturday, July 11. LBFC will take on Charlottesville Blues FC for the second time this season at 7 p.m. ET at TowneBank Stadium.
LEESBURG, Va. – Lionsbridge FC defeated Northern Virginia FC for the second time this season, securing its 12th straight victory with the 4-2 win. Lionsbridge improves to 14-1-1 with 34 points in USL2 play while NOVA falls to 5-5-3 with 18 points. Leo Conneh led the night with two assists and one goal. Cristian Ortiz, Clay Obara, and Michael Eberle added the other three goals, while Christian Hatley posted two assists in the win.
Lionsbridge rattled off some early shots with both Christian Hatley and Alex Matthews looking for the early score. After two consecutive corner kicks by Michael Eberle, Ortiz found the early score as he headed the ball over a diving keeper’s hands in the fourth minute.
The Bridge continued to keep the pressure on as Andrew Hollenbach, Eberle and Clay Obara took more shots through the opening 20 minutes. Eberle was fouled in the 23rd minute, but Theo Drennan’s free kick proved an easy save for the NVFC goalie. LBFC goalie Henry Hampshaw had his own big save just one minute later.
Lionsbridge found itself controlling the game in its own offensive zone to start the 30th minute, with Northern Virginia collecting a yellow card in the process. Conneh sent the ball in to his strikers in front of the net before Obara finally came away with it and sent it between the keeper’s legs for the second goal of the game in the 34th minute.
Hampshaw grabbed another leaping save in the 44th minute, but NOVA scored its lone goal of the half in stoppage time. NVFC looked to score again coming out of the halftime break, but the ball found the outside netting of the goal in the 46th minute.
With Eberle in possession of the ball, he sent it out to Hatley on the near side. Hatley’s cross missed its intended target, but Conneh stepped through to send it low for the score in the 47th minute. Hatley and Eberle connected again in the 56th, this time with Eberle logging the goal, for the fourth score of the game and second in 10 minutes.
Northern Virginia quickly ran away with the ball in the 66th minute, but Hollenbach made the slide tackle to send the shot wide and prevent another goal. NVFC maintained control for the next few minutes as a ball was headed high and Hampshaw made a kick save.
NOVA added its second goal off the near post in the 81st minute. The teams traded blows as the clock wound down, with Conneh and Shawn Lanza being shown yellow cards in addition to two yellows presented to Northern Virginia.
Lionsbridge returns home for its final regular season game on Saturday, July 11. LBFC will take on Charlottesville Blues FC for the second time this season at 7 p.m. ET at TowneBank Stadium.
LIONSBRIDGE CLINCHES CHESAPEAKE DIVISION WITH WIN OVER HILL CITY
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC defeated Hill City FC 4-0 on Friday night at TowneBank Stadium to clinch the USL League Two Chesapeake Division Title. LBFC’s fourth title in five years comes with a 10-1-1 record and 31 points in conference play. Hill City drops to 6-7-0 with 18 points.
Four different Bridgers scored in the win – Timo Boomkens, Leo Conneh, Christian Hatley, and Clay Obara. Hatley also registered an assist in the match, with Cristian Ortiz and Shawn Lanza adding assists of their own. Luc Achermann led all players with four shots on the night as Lionsbridge finished with 15 total shots. Hill City logged just one shot but recorded four saves to LBFC’s one save.
Through the first 10 minutes, neither team could take commanding control of the field as each club had a handful of throw-ins, with a pair of goal kicks coming for Hill City.
The 18th minute saw Benjamin Velasquez get another throw in that was headed away by HC but gave Lionsbridge a corner kick opportunity. Achermann took the corner in the 19th and, after it was headed off of the right post, Ortiz connected with Boomkens who sent the ball to the top corner of the net for the first goal of the game.
Conneh looked to Ortiz in the 21st minute for the second goal, but Ortiz’s shot just nicked the right post to avoid a goal. Henry Hampshaw made his first save in diving fashion in the 25th minute to prevent an HCFC goal.
In the 29th minute, Achermann found himself with possession of the ball at midfield and fed it to Hatley, who passed to Conneh right in front of the box and slipped it past the keeper’s right hand.
Lionsbridge came out quick in the second half with a shot that was saved by Hill City in the 47th minute. LBFC continued to pound the offensive zone as Hatley and Andrew Hollenbach each got shots off in the next 10 minutes. Josh Baker had a ball ready for Ortiz in the 61st minute, but the cross went just past Ortiz’s reach. Hill City had its best look at a goal in the 74th minute as a player went one-on-one with Hampshaw, but the shot went wide of the right post.
Hatley was fouled inside the box in the 80th minute which allowed him to net a penalty kick for the third goal of the game in the 81st. Obara and Boomkens rattled back-to-back shots off in the 86th and 87th minutes before Obara finally connected on a goal in the 88th, with Lanza getting the assist.
Lionsbridge heads out on the road to face Northern Virginia FC on Wednesday, July 8. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Segra Field.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC defeated Hill City FC 4-0 on Friday night at TowneBank Stadium to clinch the USL League Two Chesapeake Division Title. LBFC’s fourth title in five years comes with a 10-1-1 record and 31 points in conference play. Hill City drops to 6-7-0 with 18 points.
Four different Bridgers scored in the win – Timo Boomkens, Leo Conneh, Christian Hatley, and Clay Obara. Hatley also registered an assist in the match, with Cristian Ortiz and Shawn Lanza adding assists of their own. Luc Achermann led all players with four shots on the night as Lionsbridge finished with 15 total shots. Hill City logged just one shot but recorded four saves to LBFC’s one save.
Through the first 10 minutes, neither team could take commanding control of the field as each club had a handful of throw-ins, with a pair of goal kicks coming for Hill City.
The 18th minute saw Benjamin Velasquez get another throw in that was headed away by HC but gave Lionsbridge a corner kick opportunity. Achermann took the corner in the 19th and, after it was headed off of the right post, Ortiz connected with Boomkens who sent the ball to the top corner of the net for the first goal of the game.
Conneh looked to Ortiz in the 21st minute for the second goal, but Ortiz’s shot just nicked the right post to avoid a goal. Henry Hampshaw made his first save in diving fashion in the 25th minute to prevent an HCFC goal.
In the 29th minute, Achermann found himself with possession of the ball at midfield and fed it to Hatley, who passed to Conneh right in front of the box and slipped it past the keeper’s right hand.
Lionsbridge came out quick in the second half with a shot that was saved by Hill City in the 47th minute. LBFC continued to pound the offensive zone as Hatley and Andrew Hollenbach each got shots off in the next 10 minutes. Josh Baker had a ball ready for Ortiz in the 61st minute, but the cross went just past Ortiz’s reach. Hill City had its best look at a goal in the 74th minute as a player went one-on-one with Hampshaw, but the shot went wide of the right post.
Hatley was fouled inside the box in the 80th minute which allowed him to net a penalty kick for the third goal of the game in the 81st. Obara and Boomkens rattled back-to-back shots off in the 86th and 87th minutes before Obara finally connected on a goal in the 88th, with Lanza getting the assist.
Lionsbridge heads out on the road to face Northern Virginia FC on Wednesday, July 8. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Segra Field.
THREE-GOAL FIRST HALF POWERS LIONSBRIDGE PAST CHARLOTTESVILLE BLUES FC
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Lionsbridge FC secured its ninth USL2 win of the season with a 3-0 victory over the second place Charlottesville Blues FC at Charlottesville HS on Wednesday night. Lionsbridge (12-1-1, 9-1-1 USL2) now owns 28 points in the USL2 Chesapeake Division, cementing a five-point lead over Charlottesville and Virginia Beach United in second place with 23 points each.
Lionsbridge dominated the field to start the first half with multiple players getting off shots in the first 10 minutes. The 11th minute saw Cristian Ortiz score on a rebounded shot from an Luc Achermann free kick to get the scoring started.
Another free kick for Achermann gave the Bridge its second score as he put the ball in the back of the net with some heat on the kick in the 16th minute. Achermann struck again in the 19th minute when he broke out to pass the ball to Hoyos Lopez, who sent it between the keeper’s legs for the third goal.
The pressure from LBFC eased just slightly as Charlottesville was able to get a couple shots off, but off-target shots and a save from Henry Hampshaw kept the Blues off the board. Lionsbridge looked to strike again in the 32nd minute, but Lopez’s shot found the left post instead.
CBFC had one of its players shown a yellow card in the 33rd minute before having another shot go wide again. Achermann rattled off one more shot that was saved, and Michael Eberle headed a shot from the corner wide. Achermann was presented a yellow card in extra time of the first half as the Bridge went into the break with a 3-0 lead.
Charlottesville received a second yellow card in the 46th minute. Benjamin Velasquez sent a throw-in to Josh Baker in the 50th minute, but Baker’s shot went wide and over the right post. Achermann took one more shot from 20 yards out in the 51st minute but had it saved before he was subbed off. Velasquez was shown a yellow card in the 53rd minute.
Hampshaw made a few more easy saves, with the Blues also having multiple shots go off target to keep them scoreless. CBFC kept trying to pound the zone but was unable to connect as the clock wound down in the second half.
Lionsbridge returns home to TowneBank Stadium on Saturday, June 27, to face off against Ashland Town FC. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. ET.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Lionsbridge FC secured its ninth USL2 win of the season with a 3-0 victory over the second place Charlottesville Blues FC at Charlottesville HS on Wednesday night. Lionsbridge (12-1-1, 9-1-1 USL2) now owns 28 points in the USL2 Chesapeake Division, cementing a five-point lead over Charlottesville and Virginia Beach United in second place with 23 points each.
Lionsbridge dominated the field to start the first half with multiple players getting off shots in the first 10 minutes. The 11th minute saw Cristian Ortiz score on a rebounded shot from an Luc Achermann free kick to get the scoring started.
Another free kick for Achermann gave the Bridge its second score as he put the ball in the back of the net with some heat on the kick in the 16th minute. Achermann struck again in the 19th minute when he broke out to pass the ball to Hoyos Lopez, who sent it between the keeper’s legs for the third goal.
The pressure from LBFC eased just slightly as Charlottesville was able to get a couple shots off, but off-target shots and a save from Henry Hampshaw kept the Blues off the board. Lionsbridge looked to strike again in the 32nd minute, but Lopez’s shot found the left post instead.
CBFC had one of its players shown a yellow card in the 33rd minute before having another shot go wide again. Achermann rattled off one more shot that was saved, and Michael Eberle headed a shot from the corner wide. Achermann was presented a yellow card in extra time of the first half as the Bridge went into the break with a 3-0 lead.
Charlottesville received a second yellow card in the 46th minute. Benjamin Velasquez sent a throw-in to Josh Baker in the 50th minute, but Baker’s shot went wide and over the right post. Achermann took one more shot from 20 yards out in the 51st minute but had it saved before he was subbed off. Velasquez was shown a yellow card in the 53rd minute.
Hampshaw made a few more easy saves, with the Blues also having multiple shots go off target to keep them scoreless. CBFC kept trying to pound the zone but was unable to connect as the clock wound down in the second half.
Lionsbridge returns home to TowneBank Stadium on Saturday, June 27, to face off against Ashland Town FC. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. ET.
LIONSBRIDGE BEAT VIRGINIA BEACH, 2-0; WINS COASTAL VIRGINIA CHALLENGE CUP FOR SEVENTH TIME IN EIGHT YEARS
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC defeated Virginia Beach United 2-0 on Saturday night at TowneBank Stadium to bring the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup back to Newport News for the seventh time in eight years.
The win moved Lionsbridge to 25 points through 10 Chesapeake Division matches, extending its lead over Virginia Beach United to five points. LBFC remain first in the division at 8-1-1, with a +25 goal difference. Charlottesville Blues FC sit second on 23 points through 11 matches, while Virginia Beach are third on 20 points through 10.
Lionsbridge also completed the regular-season head-to-head series against Virginia Beach with four points from two matches, following a 1-1 draw away in May and Saturday’s 2-0 win in Newport News.
Cristian Ortiz and Leo Conneh scored for Lionsbridge, while goalkeeper Henry Hampshaw preserved the shutout with a series of important saves. The Bridge created the stronger attacking output, recording 13 shots to Virginia Beach’s three and putting 11 shots on target.
Benjamin Velasquez got a throw-in to start off Lionsbridge in the fourth minute and sent it to Ortiz, but his shot was saved to prevent an early goal. Hampshaw had a diving save of his own in the 11th minute that led to VBU’s corner getting headed away.
Michael Eberle sent a cross in to Santiago Hoyos Lopez in the 18th minute, but Hoyos’ header went just high of the left corner post. Both teams continued to put pressure on through free kicks and corners before Ortiz gave Lionsbridge the advantage in the 34th minute. Ortiz found space at the top of the box and, after his initial effort was saved, converted the rebound to put LBFC ahead 1-0.
Luc Achermann-Stanfield took additional free kicks and corner kicks before halftime, but Lionsbridge could not add to its lead. Theo Drennan was shown a yellow card in first-half stoppage time, and Virginia Beach earned one final corner before the break without finding an equalizer.
The second half opened with fouls on both sides, including a yellow card for Virginia Beach’s Alexander Moody. Christian Hatley and Eberle each had shots go off target in the 51st minute. Lilian Fichelle received a yellow card in the 57th minute, and Josh Baker was booked shortly afterward.
Virginia Beach had its clearest second-half sequence in the 66th minute from a free kick, but the initial effort and the follow-up were blocked by Lionsbridge defenders Timo Boomkens and Andrew Hollenbach.
Conneh and Achermann-Stanfield were fouled in the 71st and 75th minutes, but the resulting LBFC free kicks did not produce a second goal. Virginia Beach earned a corner in the 80th minute, which Lionsbridge cleared. Fichelle then made a sliding stop in the 85th minute to prevent a Virginia Beach cross from reaching the box.
Conneh had a shot saved in the 89th minute, but he returned a minute later to finish the match. Clay Obara supplied the assist as Conneh struck past the Virginia Beach goalkeeper in the 90th minute for the 2-0 final.
With additional stoppage time remaining, Lionsbridge held firm through Virginia Beach free kicks and late pressure to complete the shutout.
The result continues a strong historical series for Lionsbridge in the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup and gives the Bridge an important division result entering the final four regular-season matches.
LBFC return to the road on Wednesday, June 24, to face Charlottesville Blues FC at Charlottesville High School.
Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC defeated Virginia Beach United 2-0 on Saturday night at TowneBank Stadium to bring the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup back to Newport News for the seventh time in eight years.
The win moved Lionsbridge to 25 points through 10 Chesapeake Division matches, extending its lead over Virginia Beach United to five points. LBFC remain first in the division at 8-1-1, with a +25 goal difference. Charlottesville Blues FC sit second on 23 points through 11 matches, while Virginia Beach are third on 20 points through 10.
Lionsbridge also completed the regular-season head-to-head series against Virginia Beach with four points from two matches, following a 1-1 draw away in May and Saturday’s 2-0 win in Newport News.
Cristian Ortiz and Leo Conneh scored for Lionsbridge, while goalkeeper Henry Hampshaw preserved the shutout with a series of important saves. The Bridge created the stronger attacking output, recording 13 shots to Virginia Beach’s three and putting 11 shots on target.
Benjamin Velasquez got a throw-in to start off Lionsbridge in the fourth minute and sent it to Ortiz, but his shot was saved to prevent an early goal. Hampshaw had a diving save of his own in the 11th minute that led to VBU’s corner getting headed away.
Michael Eberle sent a cross in to Santiago Hoyos Lopez in the 18th minute, but Hoyos’ header went just high of the left corner post. Both teams continued to put pressure on through free kicks and corners before Ortiz gave Lionsbridge the advantage in the 34th minute. Ortiz found space at the top of the box and, after his initial effort was saved, converted the rebound to put LBFC ahead 1-0.
Luc Achermann-Stanfield took additional free kicks and corner kicks before halftime, but Lionsbridge could not add to its lead. Theo Drennan was shown a yellow card in first-half stoppage time, and Virginia Beach earned one final corner before the break without finding an equalizer.
The second half opened with fouls on both sides, including a yellow card for Virginia Beach’s Alexander Moody. Christian Hatley and Eberle each had shots go off target in the 51st minute. Lilian Fichelle received a yellow card in the 57th minute, and Josh Baker was booked shortly afterward.
Virginia Beach had its clearest second-half sequence in the 66th minute from a free kick, but the initial effort and the follow-up were blocked by Lionsbridge defenders Timo Boomkens and Andrew Hollenbach.
Conneh and Achermann-Stanfield were fouled in the 71st and 75th minutes, but the resulting LBFC free kicks did not produce a second goal. Virginia Beach earned a corner in the 80th minute, which Lionsbridge cleared. Fichelle then made a sliding stop in the 85th minute to prevent a Virginia Beach cross from reaching the box.
Conneh had a shot saved in the 89th minute, but he returned a minute later to finish the match. Clay Obara supplied the assist as Conneh struck past the Virginia Beach goalkeeper in the 90th minute for the 2-0 final.
With additional stoppage time remaining, Lionsbridge held firm through Virginia Beach free kicks and late pressure to complete the shutout.
The result continues a strong historical series for Lionsbridge in the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup and gives the Bridge an important division result entering the final four regular-season matches.
LBFC return to the road on Wednesday, June 24, to face Charlottesville Blues FC at Charlottesville High School.
Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m.
LIONSBRIDGE GRABS 10TH WIN IN SHUTOUT FASHION
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Hoyos Lopez logged his second hat trick in as many games as Lionsbridge FC defeated Patuxent FA 6-0 on Wednesday night at TowneBank Stadium for the club’s 10th win of the season.
Lopez became the first player in team history to score hat tricks in back-to-back games and now leads the team with 11 total goals this season. Lionsbridge outshot Patuxent 20 to three, but the Patuxent keeper made 11 saves compared to Diego Garciarena’s two. PFA also logged eight corners in the match while LBFC did not take any.
In addition to Lopez, Christian Hatley added two goals and Alex Kryazhev added one, both in the second half, to add to the Lionsbridge lead. Lopez and Michael Eberle led the team with four shots each, and Hatley and Cristian Ortiz were next with three apiece.
Lionsbridge took control of the offensive zone quickly and Lopez, Eberle, Andrew Hollenbach and Leo Conneh each got shots off in the first six minutes. Ortiz sent a cross over to Lopez in the eighth minute who had to reset before sending the ball in for his first goal of the night.
Lopez struck again after going one-on-one and crossing up the Patuxent keeper to sneak the ball in for a 2-0 lead in the 20th minute. Eberle and Alex Matthews took shots quickly after but could not connect.
Hollenbach was shown a yellow card in the 30th minute, but Patuxent received its own two minutes later. Lopez was fouled and Achermann took the free kick, but his shot went long. Lopez took another in the 36th minute but had it batted down by the PFA goalie.
Conneh was tripped up in the box in the 40th minute, which allowed Lopez to take the penalty kick and net his third goal of the game for a 3-0 Bridge lead heading into halftime.
Christian Hatley, Josh Baker, Achermann and Kryazhev all had shots to start the opening 10 minutes of the second half. In the 60th minute, Achermann fed the ball to Kryazhev who tapped it over to Hatley to score the fourth goal of the night.
Hatley struck again, this time unassisted, in the 68th minute when he went one-on-one to make the goalie miss and score as the defender could not get the block. Patuxent received another yellow just two minutes later for its second of the game.
Kryazhev, Ortiz, Conneh and Hatley each kept the pressure on for the PFA defense before Kryazhev finally connected on his goal in the 85th minute. Lionsbridge looked to threaten again as the clock wound down, with more shots coming from Kryazhev and Ortiz, but finished the game out 6-0.
LBFC is back in action on Sunday, June 17, against Virginia Beach United. The second installment of the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup this season will kick off at 7 p.m. at TowneBank Stadium.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Hoyos Lopez logged his second hat trick in as many games as Lionsbridge FC defeated Patuxent FA 6-0 on Wednesday night at TowneBank Stadium for the club’s 10th win of the season.
Lopez became the first player in team history to score hat tricks in back-to-back games and now leads the team with 11 total goals this season. Lionsbridge outshot Patuxent 20 to three, but the Patuxent keeper made 11 saves compared to Diego Garciarena’s two. PFA also logged eight corners in the match while LBFC did not take any.
In addition to Lopez, Christian Hatley added two goals and Alex Kryazhev added one, both in the second half, to add to the Lionsbridge lead. Lopez and Michael Eberle led the team with four shots each, and Hatley and Cristian Ortiz were next with three apiece.
Lionsbridge took control of the offensive zone quickly and Lopez, Eberle, Andrew Hollenbach and Leo Conneh each got shots off in the first six minutes. Ortiz sent a cross over to Lopez in the eighth minute who had to reset before sending the ball in for his first goal of the night.
Lopez struck again after going one-on-one and crossing up the Patuxent keeper to sneak the ball in for a 2-0 lead in the 20th minute. Eberle and Alex Matthews took shots quickly after but could not connect.
Hollenbach was shown a yellow card in the 30th minute, but Patuxent received its own two minutes later. Lopez was fouled and Achermann took the free kick, but his shot went long. Lopez took another in the 36th minute but had it batted down by the PFA goalie.
Conneh was tripped up in the box in the 40th minute, which allowed Lopez to take the penalty kick and net his third goal of the game for a 3-0 Bridge lead heading into halftime.
Christian Hatley, Josh Baker, Achermann and Kryazhev all had shots to start the opening 10 minutes of the second half. In the 60th minute, Achermann fed the ball to Kryazhev who tapped it over to Hatley to score the fourth goal of the night.
Hatley struck again, this time unassisted, in the 68th minute when he went one-on-one to make the goalie miss and score as the defender could not get the block. Patuxent received another yellow just two minutes later for its second of the game.
Kryazhev, Ortiz, Conneh and Hatley each kept the pressure on for the PFA defense before Kryazhev finally connected on his goal in the 85th minute. Lionsbridge looked to threaten again as the clock wound down, with more shots coming from Kryazhev and Ortiz, but finished the game out 6-0.
LBFC is back in action on Sunday, June 17, against Virginia Beach United. The second installment of the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup this season will kick off at 7 p.m. at TowneBank Stadium.
LIONSBRIDGE WINS IN 90TH MINUTE OVER NORTHERN VIRGINIA
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Hoyos Lopez scored his first hat trick of the season as Lionsbridge FC completed the comeback and defeated Northern Virginia FC by a score of 5-4 on Saturday night at TowneBanke Stadium.
Lionsbridge picked up its ninth win of the season, and eighth consecutive, to improve to 9-1-1 and 6-1-1 in USL League Two play. Northern Virginia fell to 2-3-3 on the year, owning nine points to LBFC’s 19.
Lopez led all players with three goals on the night, including one unassisted on a penalty kick. Clay Obara and Cristian Ortiz scored the equalizer and the game-winning goal in the 88th and 90th minutes, respectively. Mohammed Ibrahim, Luc Achermann, Leo Conneh and Ortiz all contributed assists on the night as the Bridge finished with 14 shots to NVFC’s 11. Lionsbridge goalie Henry Hampshaw made three saves on the night, and LBFC ended with seven corner kicks. Northern Virginia saw its goalie tab six saves and its offense take five corners while having four different goal scorers.
Although Hampshaw made a diving save to start the game, Northern Virginia responded with its first score off of a corner at just 50 seconds into the match.
Lionsbridge got its first shots off in the fourth minute, with Michael Eberle having his shot saved and Alex Kryazhev trying to pick up the ricochet but getting stopped. NVFC scored again on a penalty kick in the sixth minute of the game to take an early 2-0 lead.
Kryazhev, Eberle, Ibrahim and Abdou Magib-So each took fast shots at the net but all went just wide of the net. After two corners from Achermann, Lopez took the ball from Ibrahim in the 19th minute and scored through the legs of a defender and the Northern Virginia goalie to cut the deficit in half.
An NVFC player was presented a yellow card in the 26th minute which allowed Lopez to score on a penalty kick of his own and even the score at 2-all. Both teams took more shots but could not connect until extra time in the first half. Northern Virginia scored on its second corner to take a 3-2 lead into halftime.
Each team came out firing in the second half, with both squads having players get presented yellow cards by the 51st minute. Achermann was fouled in the 53rd minute and sent the free kick in for Lopez to finish with the header and tie the game up again.
NVFC posted its answer in the 62nd with a shot from the top of the box that snuck in the upper left corner of the net. Conneh and Achermann tried to even the score up with shots in the 68th and 70th minutes but both went too high.
Eberle and Ortiz looked poised to threaten but each of their shots were blocked to prevent the equalizer. Lopez attempted his second header goal of the game in the 87th minute but had his shot saved.
After checking into the game just 10 minutes prior, Obara connected on a header of his own in the 88th minute to knot the score at four as the clock started to wind down. Ortiz assisted on Obara’s goal and then took his own shot, assisted by Conneh, in the 90th minute to punch in the go-ahead goal and give Lionsbridge its first lead of the game at 5-4.
Northern Virginia played aggressively down to the wire, drawing a yellow and a red card in stoppage time, but could not come up with a goal before the final whistle.
Lionsbridge returns to TowneBank Stadium on Wednesday, June 17, to take on Patuxent FA at 7 p.m.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Hoyos Lopez scored his first hat trick of the season as Lionsbridge FC completed the comeback and defeated Northern Virginia FC by a score of 5-4 on Saturday night at TowneBanke Stadium.
Lionsbridge picked up its ninth win of the season, and eighth consecutive, to improve to 9-1-1 and 6-1-1 in USL League Two play. Northern Virginia fell to 2-3-3 on the year, owning nine points to LBFC’s 19.
Lopez led all players with three goals on the night, including one unassisted on a penalty kick. Clay Obara and Cristian Ortiz scored the equalizer and the game-winning goal in the 88th and 90th minutes, respectively. Mohammed Ibrahim, Luc Achermann, Leo Conneh and Ortiz all contributed assists on the night as the Bridge finished with 14 shots to NVFC’s 11. Lionsbridge goalie Henry Hampshaw made three saves on the night, and LBFC ended with seven corner kicks. Northern Virginia saw its goalie tab six saves and its offense take five corners while having four different goal scorers.
Although Hampshaw made a diving save to start the game, Northern Virginia responded with its first score off of a corner at just 50 seconds into the match.
Lionsbridge got its first shots off in the fourth minute, with Michael Eberle having his shot saved and Alex Kryazhev trying to pick up the ricochet but getting stopped. NVFC scored again on a penalty kick in the sixth minute of the game to take an early 2-0 lead.
Kryazhev, Eberle, Ibrahim and Abdou Magib-So each took fast shots at the net but all went just wide of the net. After two corners from Achermann, Lopez took the ball from Ibrahim in the 19th minute and scored through the legs of a defender and the Northern Virginia goalie to cut the deficit in half.
An NVFC player was presented a yellow card in the 26th minute which allowed Lopez to score on a penalty kick of his own and even the score at 2-all. Both teams took more shots but could not connect until extra time in the first half. Northern Virginia scored on its second corner to take a 3-2 lead into halftime.
Each team came out firing in the second half, with both squads having players get presented yellow cards by the 51st minute. Achermann was fouled in the 53rd minute and sent the free kick in for Lopez to finish with the header and tie the game up again.
NVFC posted its answer in the 62nd with a shot from the top of the box that snuck in the upper left corner of the net. Conneh and Achermann tried to even the score up with shots in the 68th and 70th minutes but both went too high.
Eberle and Ortiz looked poised to threaten but each of their shots were blocked to prevent the equalizer. Lopez attempted his second header goal of the game in the 87th minute but had his shot saved.
After checking into the game just 10 minutes prior, Obara connected on a header of his own in the 88th minute to knot the score at four as the clock started to wind down. Ortiz assisted on Obara’s goal and then took his own shot, assisted by Conneh, in the 90th minute to punch in the go-ahead goal and give Lionsbridge its first lead of the game at 5-4.
Northern Virginia played aggressively down to the wire, drawing a yellow and a red card in stoppage time, but could not come up with a goal before the final whistle.
Lionsbridge returns to TowneBank Stadium on Wednesday, June 17, to take on Patuxent FA at 7 p.m.
LIONSBRIDGE POSTS STATEMENT WIN OVER RICHMOND UNITED
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC took down Richmond United 8-0 on Wednesday night at TowneBank Stadium. With the win, LBFC moves to 8-1-1 on the season and captures its fifth shutout victory.
Lionsbridge finished with 17 shots, six corners and three saves in the match to Richmond’s six shots, three corners and five saves. Goalies Diego Garciarena and Ethan Chenoweth combined for the shutout with three saves between the pair. Three different Bridgers posted two goals - Alex Kryazhev, Grady Morello and Cristian Ortiz - and Leo Conneh and Jan Maldonaldo led all players with two assists. Ortiz and Mohammed Ibrahim both logged five shots each, with Ibrahim and Clay Obara being the other goal scorers for Lionsbridge. Theo Drennan and Christian Hatley both assisted on one goal for LBFC.
Kryazhev got the game started quickly as he slipped past two defenders to score one-on-one against the Richmond goalie just 39 seconds into the game. Mohammed Ibrahim looked to score again in the ninth minute, but his shot went wide past the right post.
Kryazhev’s second goal of the game came in the 13th minute after an assist from Maldonaldo allowed him to break free and sneak the ball inside the right post yet again. Garciarena had a diving save to prevent a RU goal in the 19th and punched another off target in the 27th minute.
Lionsbridge had a free kick opportunity at the 31st minute but missed before Obara had his goal go in on the ricochet off of a save. Obara logged another shot in the 36th minute, but LBFC went into halftime still with a 3-0 lead.
Although the first 10 minutes of the second half were quiet, Morello brought The Bridge right back into it with his first goal, assisted by Drennan, in the 55th minute. Ibrahim followed that up with a goal of his own three minutes later with a fiery shot from the top of the box after a pass from Conneh.
Chenoweth tallied his first save in the 62nd minute and kept Richmond at bay for the rest of the match. Morello’s second goal, with Maldonaldo’s second assist, found the back of the net in the 73rd minute for the sixth Lionsbridge score of the game. Ortiz struck soon after with a goal assisted by Hatley at minute 75.
RU got off one more shot before the end of the match in the 80th minute, but Ortiz sealed the deal with a 90th minute goal assisted by Conneh to finish out the 8-0 win.
Lionsbridge will be back at TowneBank Stadium for the second of a four-game homestand on Saturday, June 13. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. against Northern Virginia FC.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC took down Richmond United 8-0 on Wednesday night at TowneBank Stadium. With the win, LBFC moves to 8-1-1 on the season and captures its fifth shutout victory.
Lionsbridge finished with 17 shots, six corners and three saves in the match to Richmond’s six shots, three corners and five saves. Goalies Diego Garciarena and Ethan Chenoweth combined for the shutout with three saves between the pair. Three different Bridgers posted two goals - Alex Kryazhev, Grady Morello and Cristian Ortiz - and Leo Conneh and Jan Maldonaldo led all players with two assists. Ortiz and Mohammed Ibrahim both logged five shots each, with Ibrahim and Clay Obara being the other goal scorers for Lionsbridge. Theo Drennan and Christian Hatley both assisted on one goal for LBFC.
Kryazhev got the game started quickly as he slipped past two defenders to score one-on-one against the Richmond goalie just 39 seconds into the game. Mohammed Ibrahim looked to score again in the ninth minute, but his shot went wide past the right post.
Kryazhev’s second goal of the game came in the 13th minute after an assist from Maldonaldo allowed him to break free and sneak the ball inside the right post yet again. Garciarena had a diving save to prevent a RU goal in the 19th and punched another off target in the 27th minute.
Lionsbridge had a free kick opportunity at the 31st minute but missed before Obara had his goal go in on the ricochet off of a save. Obara logged another shot in the 36th minute, but LBFC went into halftime still with a 3-0 lead.
Although the first 10 minutes of the second half were quiet, Morello brought The Bridge right back into it with his first goal, assisted by Drennan, in the 55th minute. Ibrahim followed that up with a goal of his own three minutes later with a fiery shot from the top of the box after a pass from Conneh.
Chenoweth tallied his first save in the 62nd minute and kept Richmond at bay for the rest of the match. Morello’s second goal, with Maldonaldo’s second assist, found the back of the net in the 73rd minute for the sixth Lionsbridge score of the game. Ortiz struck soon after with a goal assisted by Hatley at minute 75.
RU got off one more shot before the end of the match in the 80th minute, but Ortiz sealed the deal with a 90th minute goal assisted by Conneh to finish out the 8-0 win.
Lionsbridge will be back at TowneBank Stadium for the second of a four-game homestand on Saturday, June 13. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. against Northern Virginia FC.
LIONSBRIDGE CRUISES PAST LOUDOUN UNITED 2
LEESBURG, Va. – Lionsbridge FC defeated Loudoun United 2 by a score of 4-1 on Sunday night at RavenTek Park. LBFC grabs its seventh win of the season to move to 7-1-1 overall and 5-1-1 with 16 points in USL2 play, while LUFC2 is now 1-4-1 with four points.
Luc Achermann led the night for Lionsbridge with two goals and one assist. Christian Hatley notched a goal and an assist, Alex Kryazhev netted the last goal, Hoyos Lopez logged two assists.
Loudoun started quick with two early shots before Lionsbridge could get its first shot off. Michael Eberle took LBFC’s first shot, but it went high in the seventh minute. Loudoun looked to strike again in the 17th minute, but Abdou Magib-So blocked the shot to prevent a goal.
Achermann continued to get shots off but was unable to connect before LUFC scored the first goal in the 31st minute. Henry Hampshaw saved another Loudoun goal in the 33rd minute to shift momentum for Lionsbridge. Hatley scored the equalizer soon after, in the 40th minute, after Achermann dropped it in for Hatley to take through the box himself.
Leo Conneh had his shot go wide in the 42nd, but Achermann changed the game seconds later with his first goal off of a headed assist from Hatley. Achermann found the back of the net once again in extra time of the first half, when the cross from Lopez allowed Achermann to sneak it in the right side.
Lopez and Hatley both got shots off to start the second half, and Hampshaw made yet another save in the 58th minute. Kryazhev got a shot off in the 59th but had it blocked before Eberle was fouled and Lionsbridge took the free kick. A Loudoun player was shown a yellow card in the 63rd minute and, after a string of LBFC shots, another in the 69th.
Bridge coach Chris Whalley was presented a yellow card in the 71st minute. The 75th minute saw Kryazhev score his goal with the assist coming from Lopez on the right side. Loudoun took two more corner kicks in the 78th, but Lionsbridge defended both and Hampshaw added a punch save in the 79th minute.
Each team rattled off shots in the last 10 minutes but none connected. A Loudoun player received another yellow in the 82nd minute, and Jan Maldonado was shown a yellow card at 90+1’.
Lionsbridge returns home on Wednesday, June 10, to face Richmond United. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET at TowneBank Stadium.
LEESBURG, Va. – Lionsbridge FC defeated Loudoun United 2 by a score of 4-1 on Sunday night at RavenTek Park. LBFC grabs its seventh win of the season to move to 7-1-1 overall and 5-1-1 with 16 points in USL2 play, while LUFC2 is now 1-4-1 with four points.
Luc Achermann led the night for Lionsbridge with two goals and one assist. Christian Hatley notched a goal and an assist, Alex Kryazhev netted the last goal, Hoyos Lopez logged two assists.
Loudoun started quick with two early shots before Lionsbridge could get its first shot off. Michael Eberle took LBFC’s first shot, but it went high in the seventh minute. Loudoun looked to strike again in the 17th minute, but Abdou Magib-So blocked the shot to prevent a goal.
Achermann continued to get shots off but was unable to connect before LUFC scored the first goal in the 31st minute. Henry Hampshaw saved another Loudoun goal in the 33rd minute to shift momentum for Lionsbridge. Hatley scored the equalizer soon after, in the 40th minute, after Achermann dropped it in for Hatley to take through the box himself.
Leo Conneh had his shot go wide in the 42nd, but Achermann changed the game seconds later with his first goal off of a headed assist from Hatley. Achermann found the back of the net once again in extra time of the first half, when the cross from Lopez allowed Achermann to sneak it in the right side.
Lopez and Hatley both got shots off to start the second half, and Hampshaw made yet another save in the 58th minute. Kryazhev got a shot off in the 59th but had it blocked before Eberle was fouled and Lionsbridge took the free kick. A Loudoun player was shown a yellow card in the 63rd minute and, after a string of LBFC shots, another in the 69th.
Bridge coach Chris Whalley was presented a yellow card in the 71st minute. The 75th minute saw Kryazhev score his goal with the assist coming from Lopez on the right side. Loudoun took two more corner kicks in the 78th, but Lionsbridge defended both and Hampshaw added a punch save in the 79th minute.
Each team rattled off shots in the last 10 minutes but none connected. A Loudoun player received another yellow in the 82nd minute, and Jan Maldonado was shown a yellow card at 90+1’.
Lionsbridge returns home on Wednesday, June 10, to face Richmond United. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET at TowneBank Stadium.
LIONSBRIDGE WINS FIFTH STRAIGHT AT ANNAPOLIS
ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Lionsbridge FC locked down its fifth straight win with a 2-0 victory over Annapolis Blues FC on Wednesday night at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium. LBFC now owns 13 points on a 6-1-1 record, and a 4-1-1 bid in USL2 play. Annapolis falls to 2-2-0 with six points on the year.
Michael Eberle led the Bridge with one assist and one goal, while Hoyos Lopez added the other goal and Luc Achermann contributed the other assist.
Annapolis got an early shot off, looking to score in the third minute, but Timo Boomkens blocked the shot to force a corner kick that missed. ABFC had another opportunity from the corner in the seventh minute, but the shot went wide again.
Alex Matthews, Abdou Magib-So and Hoyos Lopez all had shots, but none connected until Eberle sent a cross to Lopez who netted the first goal in the 25th minute. Annapolis got two more quick shots off in the 29th and 30th minutes but both were too far off target for a goal.
Timo Boomkens and Henry Hampshaw continued to command the defense, with Boomkens blocking a shot and Hampshaw punching one high in the 31st minute. Hampshaw made his biggest save of the half with a diving stop while one-on-one with a Blues attacker.
Lionsbridge came out hot in the second half, immediately commanding the offensive zone. The Bridge looked to add another in the 47th minute, but miscues on offense allowed an Annapolis defender to punch out a shot. Achermann took the corner kick and booted it in for Eberle’s header to score the second goal.
ABFC continued to get shots off, but all of the shots were off-target. Mohammed Ibrahim had his first shot in a Bridge jersey get blocked in the 86th minute, and Matthews’ corner kick in the 89th was headed high and away.
Lionsbridge heads back out on the road to face Loudoun United 2 on Sunday, June 7, at 7:30 p.m. at Segra Field.
ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Lionsbridge FC locked down its fifth straight win with a 2-0 victory over Annapolis Blues FC on Wednesday night at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium. LBFC now owns 13 points on a 6-1-1 record, and a 4-1-1 bid in USL2 play. Annapolis falls to 2-2-0 with six points on the year.
Michael Eberle led the Bridge with one assist and one goal, while Hoyos Lopez added the other goal and Luc Achermann contributed the other assist.
Annapolis got an early shot off, looking to score in the third minute, but Timo Boomkens blocked the shot to force a corner kick that missed. ABFC had another opportunity from the corner in the seventh minute, but the shot went wide again.
Alex Matthews, Abdou Magib-So and Hoyos Lopez all had shots, but none connected until Eberle sent a cross to Lopez who netted the first goal in the 25th minute. Annapolis got two more quick shots off in the 29th and 30th minutes but both were too far off target for a goal.
Timo Boomkens and Henry Hampshaw continued to command the defense, with Boomkens blocking a shot and Hampshaw punching one high in the 31st minute. Hampshaw made his biggest save of the half with a diving stop while one-on-one with a Blues attacker.
Lionsbridge came out hot in the second half, immediately commanding the offensive zone. The Bridge looked to add another in the 47th minute, but miscues on offense allowed an Annapolis defender to punch out a shot. Achermann took the corner kick and booted it in for Eberle’s header to score the second goal.
ABFC continued to get shots off, but all of the shots were off-target. Mohammed Ibrahim had his first shot in a Bridge jersey get blocked in the 86th minute, and Matthews’ corner kick in the 89th was headed high and away.
Lionsbridge heads back out on the road to face Loudoun United 2 on Sunday, June 7, at 7:30 p.m. at Segra Field.
LIONSBRIDGE FC POWER PAST CHRISTOS FC IN 5-1 STATEMENT WIN
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC put together a complete team performance on Saturday night at TowneBank Stadium, defeating Christos FC 5-1 in a dominant USL League Two matchup. The Boys in Blue controlled the rhythm of the game from start to finish, with a strong attacking display and disciplined defensive shape that limited Christos for long stretches.
Lionsbridge opened the scoring after sustained pressure in the attacking third, with the build-up leading to a well-worked chance that set the tone for the night. From there, LBFC continued to grow into the match, moving the ball confidently and creating repeated opportunities down the flanks and through central combinations.
The second half is where the match opened up. Lionsbridge struck first in the 73rd minute when Kryazhev made an immediate impact off the bench, finishing a composed chance after being picked out by Achermann. The goal extended the lead to 4-0 and reflected the team’s depth and ability to change the game through substitutions.
Christos responded in the 81st minute, pulling one back after a strong initial save was parried into a dangerous area and converted on the rebound. Despite the concession, Lionsbridge stayed organized and did not allow the goal to shift momentum in any meaningful way.
Earlier in the half, Lionsbridge had already been creating chances through sharp combinations, including a dangerous delivery from Ortiz that nearly found Hatley, only for the Christos goalkeeper to make a key stop. Moments later, Christos briefly found some attacking rhythm, but defensive work from Conneh helped break up pressure and keep LBFC firmly in control.
The finishing touch came deep into stoppage time. In the 90+3rd minute, Kryazhev struck again to seal the win, finishing calmly on a breakaway after a perfectly weighted ball from Lopez Martin. The goal capped off a standout performance from the substitute forward, who finished the night with a brace.
From start to finish, Lionsbridge showed control in possession, strength in transition, and clinical finishing when chances arrived, securing a convincing 5-1 victory over Christos FC.
Lionsbridge now turns its attention to a road test, traveling to face the Annapolis Blues on Wednesday, June 3. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Md., as the Boys in Blue look to carry this momentum into another important USL2 matchup.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC put together a complete team performance on Saturday night at TowneBank Stadium, defeating Christos FC 5-1 in a dominant USL League Two matchup. The Boys in Blue controlled the rhythm of the game from start to finish, with a strong attacking display and disciplined defensive shape that limited Christos for long stretches.
Lionsbridge opened the scoring after sustained pressure in the attacking third, with the build-up leading to a well-worked chance that set the tone for the night. From there, LBFC continued to grow into the match, moving the ball confidently and creating repeated opportunities down the flanks and through central combinations.
The second half is where the match opened up. Lionsbridge struck first in the 73rd minute when Kryazhev made an immediate impact off the bench, finishing a composed chance after being picked out by Achermann. The goal extended the lead to 4-0 and reflected the team’s depth and ability to change the game through substitutions.
Christos responded in the 81st minute, pulling one back after a strong initial save was parried into a dangerous area and converted on the rebound. Despite the concession, Lionsbridge stayed organized and did not allow the goal to shift momentum in any meaningful way.
Earlier in the half, Lionsbridge had already been creating chances through sharp combinations, including a dangerous delivery from Ortiz that nearly found Hatley, only for the Christos goalkeeper to make a key stop. Moments later, Christos briefly found some attacking rhythm, but defensive work from Conneh helped break up pressure and keep LBFC firmly in control.
The finishing touch came deep into stoppage time. In the 90+3rd minute, Kryazhev struck again to seal the win, finishing calmly on a breakaway after a perfectly weighted ball from Lopez Martin. The goal capped off a standout performance from the substitute forward, who finished the night with a brace.
From start to finish, Lionsbridge showed control in possession, strength in transition, and clinical finishing when chances arrived, securing a convincing 5-1 victory over Christos FC.
Lionsbridge now turns its attention to a road test, traveling to face the Annapolis Blues on Wednesday, June 3. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Md., as the Boys in Blue look to carry this momentum into another important USL2 matchup.
LIONSBRIDGE NETS SIX IN WIN OVER BETHESDA
BETHESDA, Md. – Five different Lionsbridge players scored as LBFC defeated Bethesda SC 6-1 at Maryland SoccerPlex on Wednesday night. Lionsbridge picks up its fourth win to move to 4-1-1 with seven points in USL2 play, and Bethesda now sits at 0-1-0.
Hoyos Lopez led the night with one goal and three assists. Luc Acherman recorded an assist and a goal, and Christian Hatley scored the final two goals in the last 15 minutes of the game. Cristian Ortiz and Timo Boomkens rounded out the scorers, with Lilian Fichelle and Josh Baker each adding an assist on the night.
After a few early fouls from both teams, BSC looked to threaten with a shot in the 17th minute, but it went high as goalie Henry Hampshaw dove for it. Lionsbridge got on the board first in the 24th minute after Baker’s shot was deflected right to Fichelle, who sent it in to Lopez and scored on the header. Lopez almost had a second header score in the 31st minute, but his shot went high.
LBFC struck again when Lopez passed to Cristian Ortiz to score the second goal of the half in the 36th minute. Timo Boomkens and Baker both got shots off in the 43rd and 44th minute but both were punched out by the Bethesda keeper. The second half was postponed with a rain and lightning delay that lasted over an hour.
BSC quickly scored its lone goal of the game in the 50th minute with Carson Shamoo putting his team on the board.
Pinto had a shot deflected in the 52nd minute, and Achermann had a shot deflected 10 minutes later, but Boomkens was there to put it away for the third Bridge goal. Ortiz and Boomkens were both denied at the 67-minute mark, and Boomkens helped deny Bethesda in the 68th minute.
Lopez connected with Achermann for the fourth goal and four minutes later, in the 78th minute, Baker sent the ball to Hatley who scored just inside the right post. In the 86th minute, Lopez sent a shot that was saved by the goalie and taken by a Bethesda defender, but Hatley took it right back for the sixth and final goal of the game.
Lionsbridge returns home on Saturday, May 30 to face Christos FC at TowneBank Stadium. The second meeting of Lionsbridge and Christos has kickoff set for 7 p.m. ET.
BETHESDA, Md. – Five different Lionsbridge players scored as LBFC defeated Bethesda SC 6-1 at Maryland SoccerPlex on Wednesday night. Lionsbridge picks up its fourth win to move to 4-1-1 with seven points in USL2 play, and Bethesda now sits at 0-1-0.
Hoyos Lopez led the night with one goal and three assists. Luc Acherman recorded an assist and a goal, and Christian Hatley scored the final two goals in the last 15 minutes of the game. Cristian Ortiz and Timo Boomkens rounded out the scorers, with Lilian Fichelle and Josh Baker each adding an assist on the night.
After a few early fouls from both teams, BSC looked to threaten with a shot in the 17th minute, but it went high as goalie Henry Hampshaw dove for it. Lionsbridge got on the board first in the 24th minute after Baker’s shot was deflected right to Fichelle, who sent it in to Lopez and scored on the header. Lopez almost had a second header score in the 31st minute, but his shot went high.
LBFC struck again when Lopez passed to Cristian Ortiz to score the second goal of the half in the 36th minute. Timo Boomkens and Baker both got shots off in the 43rd and 44th minute but both were punched out by the Bethesda keeper. The second half was postponed with a rain and lightning delay that lasted over an hour.
BSC quickly scored its lone goal of the game in the 50th minute with Carson Shamoo putting his team on the board.
Pinto had a shot deflected in the 52nd minute, and Achermann had a shot deflected 10 minutes later, but Boomkens was there to put it away for the third Bridge goal. Ortiz and Boomkens were both denied at the 67-minute mark, and Boomkens helped deny Bethesda in the 68th minute.
Lopez connected with Achermann for the fourth goal and four minutes later, in the 78th minute, Baker sent the ball to Hatley who scored just inside the right post. In the 86th minute, Lopez sent a shot that was saved by the goalie and taken by a Bethesda defender, but Hatley took it right back for the sixth and final goal of the game.
Lionsbridge returns home on Saturday, May 30 to face Christos FC at TowneBank Stadium. The second meeting of Lionsbridge and Christos has kickoff set for 7 p.m. ET.
LIONSBRIDGE RECORDS SECOND STRAIGHT SHUTOUT
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - Lionsbridge FC defeated Greenville United 3-0 on Sunday night at TowneBank Stadium to move to 3-1-1 on the season. With the loss, Greenville United falls to 2-2-0.
Lionsbridge outshot Greenville 17 to four, with Rai Pinto leading all players with four shots and one goal. Christian Hatley was the next highest shooter with three shots and one goal of his own, while Andrew Hollenbach added the last Lionsbridge goal. Greenville made 12 saves to the Bridge's two, but LBFC commanded the corner with nine corner kicks to GU’s one.
Lionsbridge had an early corner kick opportunity in the third and eighth minutes but could not convert yet. Achermann found himself in front of the net with two defenders on him and had his shot saved, but Hatley was able to score off of the rebound for Lionsbridge’s first goal.
Garciarena kept up momentum with a diving stop in front of the right post in the 25th minute to stop Greenville’s best chance at scoring. Both defenses worked hard for the next 10 minutes, but a punched block of Conneh’s shot set up the corner kick for Achermann in the 33rd minute. Achermann sent the ball in, and Hollenbach completed the play with the header for a 2-0 LBFC lead.
Pinto came out of the half on fire with multiple shots on goal, but he did not wind up connecting until the 60th minute when he took a pass from Hoyos Lopez and slammed it into the back of the net.
LBFC looked to add on with a goal from Alex Kryazhev, but the goal was called back. The Bridge held it down for the rest of the game, getting off three shots with Dario Caetano making one save in the 90th minute.
Lionsbridge heads back on the road next week when it visits Bethesda SC on Wednesday, May 27. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Maryland SoccerPlex.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - Lionsbridge FC defeated Greenville United 3-0 on Sunday night at TowneBank Stadium to move to 3-1-1 on the season. With the loss, Greenville United falls to 2-2-0.
Lionsbridge outshot Greenville 17 to four, with Rai Pinto leading all players with four shots and one goal. Christian Hatley was the next highest shooter with three shots and one goal of his own, while Andrew Hollenbach added the last Lionsbridge goal. Greenville made 12 saves to the Bridge's two, but LBFC commanded the corner with nine corner kicks to GU’s one.
Lionsbridge had an early corner kick opportunity in the third and eighth minutes but could not convert yet. Achermann found himself in front of the net with two defenders on him and had his shot saved, but Hatley was able to score off of the rebound for Lionsbridge’s first goal.
Garciarena kept up momentum with a diving stop in front of the right post in the 25th minute to stop Greenville’s best chance at scoring. Both defenses worked hard for the next 10 minutes, but a punched block of Conneh’s shot set up the corner kick for Achermann in the 33rd minute. Achermann sent the ball in, and Hollenbach completed the play with the header for a 2-0 LBFC lead.
Pinto came out of the half on fire with multiple shots on goal, but he did not wind up connecting until the 60th minute when he took a pass from Hoyos Lopez and slammed it into the back of the net.
LBFC looked to add on with a goal from Alex Kryazhev, but the goal was called back. The Bridge held it down for the rest of the game, getting off three shots with Dario Caetano making one save in the 90th minute.
Lionsbridge heads back on the road next week when it visits Bethesda SC on Wednesday, May 27. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Maryland SoccerPlex.
LIONSBRIDGE BOUNCES BACK WITH SHUTOUT WIN
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC defeated the Virginia Marauders 3-0 on Wednesday night inside TowneBank Stadium for its first Chesapeake division win of the season. Lionsbridge improves to 2-1-1 with four points while the Marauders fall to 0-2-0.
Five different Bridgers had two shots on the night, with Hoyos Lopez, Josh Baker, and Christian Hatley being the three that connected on goals. Henry Hampshaw had two saves in the net as Lionsbridge put up 15 shots and 12 corners. The Bridge held VM to just five shots, all in the first half, one corner kick, and one save.
Lopez got the scoring started in the 12th minute after slipping the ball into the back right corner off a pass from Rai Pinto.
The Bridge continued to pound the net but were unlucky as the ball found the right post and the crossbar on two different occasions. Josh Baker had two errant shots in the 40th and 42nd minutes as
Lionsbridge went into halftime with a 1-0 lead.
The second half started off rocky as Lionsbridge had three straight corner kicks in the 52nd and 53rd minutes, and Luc Achermann came close with a shot just past the left post in the 55th minute. Achermann was able to connect with Baker for his second goal in as many games to give Lionsbridge a 2-0 advantage.
Hatley added onto the lead as he went three-on-one to put a goal in the back of the net with an assist from Baker. The Bridge had a few more shots to end the half, but the match finished with a 3-0 score to put LBFC back in the win column.
Lionsbridge will be back in action on Sunday, May 24, when it takes on Greenville United at 7 p.m. in TowneBank Stadium. In addition to Chick-fil-A night, there will also be postmatch fireworks presented by Bowditch Ford.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC defeated the Virginia Marauders 3-0 on Wednesday night inside TowneBank Stadium for its first Chesapeake division win of the season. Lionsbridge improves to 2-1-1 with four points while the Marauders fall to 0-2-0.
Five different Bridgers had two shots on the night, with Hoyos Lopez, Josh Baker, and Christian Hatley being the three that connected on goals. Henry Hampshaw had two saves in the net as Lionsbridge put up 15 shots and 12 corners. The Bridge held VM to just five shots, all in the first half, one corner kick, and one save.
Lopez got the scoring started in the 12th minute after slipping the ball into the back right corner off a pass from Rai Pinto.
The Bridge continued to pound the net but were unlucky as the ball found the right post and the crossbar on two different occasions. Josh Baker had two errant shots in the 40th and 42nd minutes as
Lionsbridge went into halftime with a 1-0 lead.
The second half started off rocky as Lionsbridge had three straight corner kicks in the 52nd and 53rd minutes, and Luc Achermann came close with a shot just past the left post in the 55th minute. Achermann was able to connect with Baker for his second goal in as many games to give Lionsbridge a 2-0 advantage.
Hatley added onto the lead as he went three-on-one to put a goal in the back of the net with an assist from Baker. The Bridge had a few more shots to end the half, but the match finished with a 3-0 score to put LBFC back in the win column.
Lionsbridge will be back in action on Sunday, May 24, when it takes on Greenville United at 7 p.m. in TowneBank Stadium. In addition to Chick-fil-A night, there will also be postmatch fireworks presented by Bowditch Ford.
LIONSBRIDGE FALLS TO CHRISTOS IN 94TH MINUTE
BALTIMORE, Md. – Lionsbridge FC fell 2-1 to Christos FC on Saturday night at Retriever Soccer Stadium in Baltimore.
Lionsbridge held the ball in its own offensive zone for the better part of the first 15 minutes, with both Christian Hatley and Cristian Ortiz getting shots off. Christos got on the board first, though, with a goal in the 17th minute to go ahead 1-0.
Christos was assessed a yellow card in the 22nd minute, but Lionsbridge could not capitalize on the ensuing free kick. Josh Baker laced in a corner kick to Timo Boomkens in the 25th minute, but the head from Boomkens was blocked. Baker had another shot saved in the 37th minute, and Lionsbridge could not manage to get a goal before the half was over.
In the 48th and 49th minutes, Lopez had two shots barely missed the net, but he was able to connect with Baker for a Lionsbridge goal in the 54th minute. Baker’s second goal of the season slipped past the goalkeeper into the back right corner and evened the score at 1-1.
Lionsbridge continued to create shots, with Baker, Magib-So, Ortis and Lopez all looking to score, but none could connect on a goal. The Lionsbridge defense supported Hampshaw in goal as Christos had two shots blocked by defenders in the 74th minute.
Christos and Lionsbridge traded wide shots in the 86th and 87th minute as the game looked to finish in a draw even with five minutes of stoppage time. In the 94th minute, Christos was able to send a shot into the back of the net for the winning goal.
Lionsbridge returns home on May 20 when it will face the Virginia Marauders at 7 p.m. at TowneBank Stadium.
BALTIMORE, Md. – Lionsbridge FC fell 2-1 to Christos FC on Saturday night at Retriever Soccer Stadium in Baltimore.
Lionsbridge held the ball in its own offensive zone for the better part of the first 15 minutes, with both Christian Hatley and Cristian Ortiz getting shots off. Christos got on the board first, though, with a goal in the 17th minute to go ahead 1-0.
Christos was assessed a yellow card in the 22nd minute, but Lionsbridge could not capitalize on the ensuing free kick. Josh Baker laced in a corner kick to Timo Boomkens in the 25th minute, but the head from Boomkens was blocked. Baker had another shot saved in the 37th minute, and Lionsbridge could not manage to get a goal before the half was over.
In the 48th and 49th minutes, Lopez had two shots barely missed the net, but he was able to connect with Baker for a Lionsbridge goal in the 54th minute. Baker’s second goal of the season slipped past the goalkeeper into the back right corner and evened the score at 1-1.
Lionsbridge continued to create shots, with Baker, Magib-So, Ortis and Lopez all looking to score, but none could connect on a goal. The Lionsbridge defense supported Hampshaw in goal as Christos had two shots blocked by defenders in the 74th minute.
Christos and Lionsbridge traded wide shots in the 86th and 87th minute as the game looked to finish in a draw even with five minutes of stoppage time. In the 94th minute, Christos was able to send a shot into the back of the net for the winning goal.
Lionsbridge returns home on May 20 when it will face the Virginia Marauders at 7 p.m. at TowneBank Stadium.
LIONSBRIDGE GETS FIRST WIN OF SEASON IN HOME OPENER
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC picked up its first win of the 2026 USL League Two season with a 4-0 shutout of Grove United on Wednesday night at TowneBank Stadium.
Lionsbridge totaled 16 shots, four saves, and seven corner kicks on the night. Grove finished with five shots, two saves, and two corner kicks in the match.
Lionsbridge found the net first when Alex Kryazhev laced in a ball from Leo Conneh on the right side in the 13th minute. Conneh added his own goal just minutes later when he headed a pass from Lilian Fichelle in the 19th minute.
After ending the first 45 minutes up 2-0, Lionsbridge wasted no time added on in the second half. Josh Baker slid a ball into the back corner after a throw-in from Maldonado in the 50th minute to go ahead 3-0.
Another header for Lionsbridge, this time from Hoyos Lopez, in the 74th minute sealed the final score for Lionsbridge as the defense held off Grove United for the remainder of the game.
Lionsbridge will hit the road to face Christos FC at Under Armour Stadium on Saturday, May 16 at 7 p.m.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Lionsbridge FC picked up its first win of the 2026 USL League Two season with a 4-0 shutout of Grove United on Wednesday night at TowneBank Stadium.
Lionsbridge totaled 16 shots, four saves, and seven corner kicks on the night. Grove finished with five shots, two saves, and two corner kicks in the match.
Lionsbridge found the net first when Alex Kryazhev laced in a ball from Leo Conneh on the right side in the 13th minute. Conneh added his own goal just minutes later when he headed a pass from Lilian Fichelle in the 19th minute.
After ending the first 45 minutes up 2-0, Lionsbridge wasted no time added on in the second half. Josh Baker slid a ball into the back corner after a throw-in from Maldonado in the 50th minute to go ahead 3-0.
Another header for Lionsbridge, this time from Hoyos Lopez, in the 74th minute sealed the final score for Lionsbridge as the defense held off Grove United for the remainder of the game.
Lionsbridge will hit the road to face Christos FC at Under Armour Stadium on Saturday, May 16 at 7 p.m.
LIONSBRIDGE OPEN SEASON WITH 1-1 DRAW AT VIRGINIA BEACH
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- Lionsbridge FC opened the 2026 USL League Two season with a 1-1 draw against Virginia Beach United on Saturday night at the Virginia Beach SportsPlex, leaving the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup to be decided in the return leg June 20 at TowneBank Stadium.
Lionsbridge struck first in the fifth minute, when Angel Lopez Martin finished off an assist from Christian Hatley to give the visitors an early 1-0 lead.
Virginia Beach answered in the 32nd minute through Moody, who scored from Wayland’s assist to level the match before halftime.
Lionsbridge pushed for a winner in the second half and produced its best chance in the 71st minute. Cristian Ortiz hit the post, collected the rebound and found substitute Leo Conneh, but Conneh’s shot went off target.
Ortiz continued to create danger late, including an 82nd-minute cross that found Alex Kryazhev in the box before Virginia Beach cleared the threat
Virginia Beach had a late opportunity from a free kick at the top of the box after Santiago Hoyos Lopez was booked in the 84th minute, but the attempt went wide.
Lionsbridge pressed through four minutes of stoppage time but could not find the breakthrough.
The draw gives both teams one point and sets up the second leg of the CoVa Cup on June 20 in Newport News.
Lionsbridge returns home Wednesday, May 13, for its 2026 home opener against Grove United at TowneBank Stadium on City of Newport News Night.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- Lionsbridge FC opened the 2026 USL League Two season with a 1-1 draw against Virginia Beach United on Saturday night at the Virginia Beach SportsPlex, leaving the Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup to be decided in the return leg June 20 at TowneBank Stadium.
Lionsbridge struck first in the fifth minute, when Angel Lopez Martin finished off an assist from Christian Hatley to give the visitors an early 1-0 lead.
Virginia Beach answered in the 32nd minute through Moody, who scored from Wayland’s assist to level the match before halftime.
Lionsbridge pushed for a winner in the second half and produced its best chance in the 71st minute. Cristian Ortiz hit the post, collected the rebound and found substitute Leo Conneh, but Conneh’s shot went off target.
Ortiz continued to create danger late, including an 82nd-minute cross that found Alex Kryazhev in the box before Virginia Beach cleared the threat
Virginia Beach had a late opportunity from a free kick at the top of the box after Santiago Hoyos Lopez was booked in the 84th minute, but the attempt went wide.
Lionsbridge pressed through four minutes of stoppage time but could not find the breakthrough.
The draw gives both teams one point and sets up the second leg of the CoVa Cup on June 20 in Newport News.
Lionsbridge returns home Wednesday, May 13, for its 2026 home opener against Grove United at TowneBank Stadium on City of Newport News Night.
START MAKING YOUR 2026 SUMMER PLANS... The 2026 Schedule is Out!
Lionsbridge FC returns for its ninth USL League Two season in 2026 under head coach Chris Whalley with another demanding Chesapeake Division slate that reflects the league’s continued growth and competitive depth.
The club will play 18 regular season matches, including 11 home fixtures at TowneBank Stadium, where one of the most passionate and consistent supporter environments in League Two continues to shape the matchday experience. Familiar regional rivalries, new opponents, and a schedule filled with high-stakes divisional matchups will again define the road to the postseason.
The 2026 campaign offers supporters multiple marquee nights throughout the summer, including rivalry fixtures, community celebrations, and signature Bowditch Ford Fireworks matches. Season jerseys and wristbands remain the club’s all-access pass, guaranteeing entry to every home match and providing the best overall value across the summer.
With playoff ambitions and another championship pursuit ahead, the 2026 schedule sets the stage for a summer built around competition, community, and the matchday atmosphere that defines Lionsbridge FC.
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WHALLEY RETURNS FOR NINTH YEAR AS HEAD COACH
Chris Whalley will lead Lionsbridge FC for a ninth season in 2026, continuing a tenure that has established the club as one of the premier programs in USL League Two. Since 2018, Whalley has guided Lionsbridge to five consecutive playoff appearances, three straight Chesapeake Division titles, two Eastern Conference Finals and a 2023 league final. His teams hold a 92-25-23 all-time record, including a 48-5-11 mark at TowneBank Stadium since 2021. During Whalley’s tenure, 31 Lionsbridge players have advanced to the professional ranks across MLS, USL and internationally, with alumni earning MLS first-round selections and U.S. Men’s National Team recognition. Whalley, a native of Nottinghamshire, England, brings 18 years of head coaching experience and also serves as head coach at Chowan University, where he is the program’s all-time wins leader. He will be assisted by assistant coaches Josh Spencer, Jamie Gunderson, Fernando Zuniga and co-goalkeeper coaches Rich Dearle and Dario Caetano. |
FANS CHOOSE 'PENINSULA NAVY' AS 2026 HOME & SEASON TICKET JERSEY
Lionsbridge supporters have spoken – loudly and clearly!
With more than 500 votes cast across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, the Peninsula Navy kit stormed to victory in our 2026 jersey fan vote. The bold blue-and-navy design captured more than twice as many votes as the runner-up, making it the runaway favorite and the newest chapter in our club’s tradition of fan-powered style.
The Peninsula Navy shirt will be our 2026 home jersey and the exclusive Season Ticket Jersey.
Lionsbridge supporters have spoken – loudly and clearly!
With more than 500 votes cast across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, the Peninsula Navy kit stormed to victory in our 2026 jersey fan vote. The bold blue-and-navy design captured more than twice as many votes as the runner-up, making it the runaway favorite and the newest chapter in our club’s tradition of fan-powered style.
The Peninsula Navy shirt will be our 2026 home jersey and the exclusive Season Ticket Jersey.
ELEVEN LIONSBRIDGE ALUMNI SIGN PROFESSIONAL CONTRACTS ACROSS U.S., EUROPE
Lionsbridge FC has produced 11 professional signings this offseason, continuing the club’s progression pipeline across MLS, MLS NEXT Pro, USL League One and Europe.
Headlining the group is Ricky Louis, who scored 11 goals in 17 matches in 2025, was selected second overall in the MLS SuperDraft by FC Dallas. Midfielder Felix Ewald signed with Real Monarchs SLC after recording seven goals in eight matches.
Defender Javi Sanchez moved to FK Jerv in Norway following eight appearances in 2025. Defender Damean Dominguez signed with San Juan FC after starting 20 matches and contributing one goal and one assist.
Forward Denis Krioutchenkov joined One Knoxville SC after totaling 16 goals and seven assists across two seasons. Forward Taig Healy signed with Fort Wayne FC following a six-match stretch that included three goals and three assists during the 2025 postseason run.
Defender Davide Materazzi completed a four-year Lionsbridge career with 56 appearances and signed with New York Cosmos.
Goalkeeper Mitch Budler started three games for Lionsbridge during the 2025 season, and LBFC went unbeaten in those contests.
Three members of the 2024 team have moved onto the next level. Defender Jasper Winslow signed with Tacoma Defiance after appearing in 17 matches. Forward Claudel N’Goubou joined Forward Madison FC following a four-goal season. Defender Donovan Williams also signed with One Knoxville after featuring in four matches.
The 11 signings bring Lionsbridge’s all-time total to 32 players advancing to the professional ranks since 2018.
Lionsbridge reached the USL League Two Eastern Conference Final in both 2024 and 2025.
Lionsbridge FC has produced 11 professional signings this offseason, continuing the club’s progression pipeline across MLS, MLS NEXT Pro, USL League One and Europe.
Headlining the group is Ricky Louis, who scored 11 goals in 17 matches in 2025, was selected second overall in the MLS SuperDraft by FC Dallas. Midfielder Felix Ewald signed with Real Monarchs SLC after recording seven goals in eight matches.
Defender Javi Sanchez moved to FK Jerv in Norway following eight appearances in 2025. Defender Damean Dominguez signed with San Juan FC after starting 20 matches and contributing one goal and one assist.
Forward Denis Krioutchenkov joined One Knoxville SC after totaling 16 goals and seven assists across two seasons. Forward Taig Healy signed with Fort Wayne FC following a six-match stretch that included three goals and three assists during the 2025 postseason run.
Defender Davide Materazzi completed a four-year Lionsbridge career with 56 appearances and signed with New York Cosmos.
Goalkeeper Mitch Budler started three games for Lionsbridge during the 2025 season, and LBFC went unbeaten in those contests.
Three members of the 2024 team have moved onto the next level. Defender Jasper Winslow signed with Tacoma Defiance after appearing in 17 matches. Forward Claudel N’Goubou joined Forward Madison FC following a four-goal season. Defender Donovan Williams also signed with One Knoxville after featuring in four matches.
The 11 signings bring Lionsbridge’s all-time total to 32 players advancing to the professional ranks since 2018.
Lionsbridge reached the USL League Two Eastern Conference Final in both 2024 and 2025.
This Is Lionsbridge FC
⭐ USL League Two National Finalist (2023)
🏆 USL League Two Eastern Conference Champion (2023)
⭐ USL League Two Eastern Conference Runner-Up (2024, 2025)
🏆 Chesapeake Division Champion (2022, 2023, 2024)
⭐ USL League Two Playoff Host (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)
⭐ Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Qualifier (2023, 2024, 2025)
🏆 Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup winner (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
🏆 Commonwealth Cup Champion (2018)
🏆 USL League Two Eastern Conference Champion (2023)
⭐ USL League Two Eastern Conference Runner-Up (2024, 2025)
🏆 Chesapeake Division Champion (2022, 2023, 2024)
⭐ USL League Two Playoff Host (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)
⭐ Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Qualifier (2023, 2024, 2025)
🏆 Coastal Virginia Challenge Cup winner (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024)
🏆 Commonwealth Cup Champion (2018)
LIONSBRIDGE FC NAMED USL LEAGUE TWO FRANCHISE OF THE YEAR
Lionsbridge FC was named the Franchise of the Year by USL League Two at the league's Winter Summit. (FULL ARTICLE)
Lionsbridge FC was named the Franchise of the Year by USL League Two at the league's Winter Summit. (FULL ARTICLE)
USL LEAGUE TWO RECOGNIZES LIONSBRIDGE FC FOR ITS COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
(USLLeagueTwo.com) – The Hampton Roads area of Virginia has a well-documented passion for soccer. Though the interest in global soccer has been present for some time, the area hadn't recently had a club to call its own until two years ago. That changed when Lionsbridge FC was founded. (FULL ARTICLE)
(USLLeagueTwo.com) – The Hampton Roads area of Virginia has a well-documented passion for soccer. Though the interest in global soccer has been present for some time, the area hadn't recently had a club to call its own until two years ago. That changed when Lionsbridge FC was founded. (FULL ARTICLE)
