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On October 24, 2018, more than six months before Forward Madison FC had even played a game, Don Smart became the first player signing in the the Flamingos’ short history. On Saturday, in front of a screaming crowd of nearly 4,000 at Breese Stevens Field, he wrote his name in the FMFC record book once again. Propelled by Smart’s goal and two assists, Forward Madison thundered its way to a 3-1 victory over Toronto FC II, the first home win in club history.

“It was a huge game,” Smart said. “We had to go out from the start, from the get-go, and the coach told us to get after them in the first ten minutes. You saw that we had them on their heels, so we had momentum, so we said, ‘let’s keep going.’”

Smart was starting fresh for the game, coming back off a one-match suspension he’d received due to a red card earned against Orlando City B two weeks ago. FMFC’s lineup also featured the return of Wyatt Omsberg from injury and the first home start for Madison native Carl Schneider.

Facing off against Toronto FC II, which had previously been undefeated in USL League One play, the Flamingos had a tall task to take on according to Head Coach Daryl Shore.

“Toronto’s a good team, they’re well coached, it’s a great club,” Shore said. “For us to be able to give them their first loss on our home turf is great.”

The game started with FMFC in control of possession, pushing ahead but failing to create chances. Jeff Michaud struck the first shot on goal in the 21st minute, but Toronto saved it and countered quickly, with Forward Madison goalkeeper Ryan Coulter making a huge one-on-one stop to keep the score level.

In the 33rd minute, it finally happened. After over 120 minutes of waiting for a Forward Madison goal at Breese Stevens Field, Smart crossed a ball from the right-hand side, and an oncoming Paulo Júnior stepped up to knock it home and make history. It probably wasn’t the prettiest goal he’d ever scored, but the Forward fans seemed to only care that it had crossed the line – they rose in jubilation, and the Flock End chanted Paulo’s name for several minutes afterwards.

Things looked good going into the end of the first half, but Toronto’s Jacob Shaffelburg found the equalizer against the run of play, dribbling into the box and placing a shot well into the bottom corner of Coulter’s net. At the half, the two teams were knotted at 1-1.

“We thought we started a lot better than we’d started in the previous games, which was one of our focuses,” Shore said after the match. “To get the goal in the first half was a key.”

In the second half, the Flamingos took flight. In the 68th minute, Paulo floated a long ball to Smart, who took it down deftly and turned in towards goal. Looking up, he cut it back for the oncoming run of defender Carter Manley, who powered a first-time finish that restored Forward Madison’s lead – the first goal of Manley’s professional career.

Flamingos captain Connor Tobin thought he’d added another in the 83rd minute, but his goal was called off for a foul in the build-up. Instead, Toronto pushed numbers forward, hoping for another equalizer. They came just feet away in the 95th minute, Coulter once again deflecting a one-on-one shot before Tobin sprinted to the goal line to stop the ball from trickling in.

Finally, with the last kick of the game, Smart finished off his Mingo of the Match performance. With Toronto still pushing up, Smart made a run behind the shoulder of the defensive line, and Paulo whipped a ball for him to tap home and seal the victory.  

“I love this weather and I love the fans,” Smart said. “You can’t get any better.”

The Flamingos won’t have long to bask in their historic victory, as they travel to Milwaukee on Tuesday to take on Bavarian Soccer Club in the first round of the U.S. Open Cup. From there, Forward Madison will continue to Tennessee next Saturday, where it will look to exact revenge upon Chattanooga Red Wolves SC for its opening day loss in April. With its 3-1 win, FMFC has moved up to fifth place in the USL League One standings.

For now, though, according to Shore, Forward Madison fans can sit back and appreciate an unforgettable evening.

“[I’m] elated, just pure excitement,” Shore said. “The guys were ready to go from the start, got off on a good step, a little bit of a hiccup but the response after halftime was amazing. Playing in front of this [crowd]  is absolutely incredible.”

Forward Madison FC
4-3-3
Coach: Daryl Shore
Goalkeeper – Ryan Coulter  #1
Defender- Carl Schneider #23 (#77 Jiro Barriga Toyama 81’)
Defender – Connor Tobin (captain) #13
Defender- Wyatt Omsberg #22
Defender – Carter Manley  #2 ⚽ assisted by Don Smart 68’
Midfielder – Eric Leonard  # 3
Midfielder – Jeff Michaud  #8 (J.C. Banks 66’) YC 89’
Midfielder – Josiel Núñez  #70
Forward – Paulo Júnior  #11 ⚽ assisted by Don Smart 33’
Forward- Don Smart #7 ⚽ assisted by Brian Bement 90+6’
Forward – Mason Toye #9 (#14 Brian Bement 85’)

Substitutes
GK- Brian Sylvestre #92
M- Jiro Barriga Toyama #77
M- Brandon Eaton #6
M- Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi #12
M- Vital Nizigiyimana #19
M- J.C. Banks #29
F- Brian Bement #14

Toronto FC II
4-5-1
Coach: Michael Rabasca
Goalkeeper – Caleb Patterson-Sewell #28
Defender- Trevor Swartz #51(#57 Tariq Mohammed 70’)
Defender – Patrick Bunk-Andersen #42
Defender- Julian Dunn #52
Defender- Dante Campbell #48
Midfielder – Noble Okello #59
Midfielder – Adolfo Ovalle #43 (Captain)
Midfielder – Luca Petrasso #39
Midfielder – Griffin Dorsey #19 (#58 Jordan Faria 75’)
Midfielder- Jacob Shaffelburg #84 ⚽ assisted by Julian Dunn 43’
Forward – Jordan Perruzza #77

Substitutes
GK- Kevin Silva #90
D- Franco Ramos Mingo #36
M- Terique Mohammed #57
M- Gideon Waja #37
M- Jordan Faria #58
M- Mehdi Essoussi #35

Goals
Forward Madison FC
33’ – Paulo Junior (Don Smart)
68’ Carter Manley (Don Smart)
90+6’ Don Smart (Brian Bement)

Toronto FC II
43’ Jacob Shaffelburg (Julian Dunn)

Yellow Cards 
Forward Madison FC
89’ J.C. Banks

Referees
Calin Radosav
John Krill
Art Arustamyan
Peter Bernardy

Attendance
3,806

On October 24, 2018, more than six months before Forward Madison FC had even played a game, Don Smart became the first player signing in the the Flamingos’ short history. On Saturday, in front of a screaming crowd of nearly 4,000 at Breese Stevens Field, he wrote his name in the FMFC record book once again. Propelled by Smart’s goal and two assists, Forward Madison thundered its way to a 3-1 victory over Toronto FC II, the first home win in club history.

“It was a huge game,” Smart said. “We had to go out from the start, from the get-go, and the coach told us to get after them in the first ten minutes. You saw that we had them on their heels, so we had momentum, so we said, ‘let’s keep going.’”

Smart was starting fresh for the game, coming back off a one-match suspension he’d received due to a red card earned against Orlando City B two weeks ago. FMFC’s lineup also featured the return of Wyatt Omsberg from injury and the first home start for Madison native Carl Schneider.

Facing off against Toronto FC II, which had previously been undefeated in USL League One play, the Flamingos had a tall task to take on according to Head Coach Daryl Shore.

“Toronto’s a good team, they’re well coached, it’s a great club,” Shore said. “For us to be able to give them their first loss on our home turf is great.”

The game started with FMFC in control of possession, pushing ahead but failing to create chances. Jeff Michaud struck the first shot on goal in the 21st minute, but Toronto saved it and countered quickly, with Forward Madison goalkeeper Ryan Coulter making a huge one-on-one stop to keep the score level.

In the 33rd minute, it finally happened. After over 120 minutes of waiting for a Forward Madison goal at Breese Stevens Field, Smart crossed a ball from the right-hand side, and an oncoming Paulo Júnior stepped up to knock it home and make history. It probably wasn’t the prettiest goal he’d ever scored, but the Forward fans seemed to only care that it had crossed the line – they rose in jubilation, and the Flock End chanted Paulo’s name for several minutes afterwards.

Things looked good going into the end of the first half, but Toronto’s Jacob Shaffelburg found the equalizer against the run of play, dribbling into the box and placing a shot well into the bottom corner of Coulter’s net. At the half, the two teams were knotted at 1-1.

“We thought we started a lot better than we’d started in the previous games, which was one of our focuses,” Shore said after the match. “To get the goal in the first half was a key.”

In the second half, the Flamingos took flight. In the 68th minute, Paulo floated a long ball to Smart, who took it down deftly and turned in towards goal. Looking up, he cut it back for the oncoming run of defender Carter Manley, who powered a first-time finish that restored Forward Madison’s lead – the first goal of Manley’s professional career.

Flamingos captain Connor Tobin thought he’d added another in the 83rd minute, but his goal was called off for a foul in the build-up. Instead, Toronto pushed numbers forward, hoping for another equalizer. They came just feet away in the 95th minute, Coulter once again deflecting a one-on-one shot before Tobin sprinted to the goal line to stop the ball from trickling in.

Finally, with the last kick of the game, Smart finished off his Mingo of the Match performance. With Toronto still pushing up, Smart made a run behind the shoulder of the defensive line, and Paulo whipped a ball for him to tap home and seal the victory.  

“I love this weather and I love the fans,” Smart said. “You can’t get any better.”

The Flamingos won’t have long to bask in their historic victory, as they travel to Milwaukee on Tuesday to take on Bavarian Soccer Club in the first round of the U.S. Open Cup. From there, Forward Madison will continue to Tennessee next Saturday, where it will look to exact revenge upon Chattanooga Red Wolves SC for its opening day loss in April. With its 3-1 win, FMFC has moved up to fifth place in the USL League One standings.

For now, though, according to Shore, Forward Madison fans can sit back and appreciate an unforgettable evening.

“[I’m] elated, just pure excitement,” Shore said. “The guys were ready to go from the start, got off on a good step, a little bit of a hiccup but the response after halftime was amazing. Playing in front of this [crowd]  is absolutely incredible.”

Forward Madison FC
4-3-3
Coach: Daryl Shore
Goalkeeper – Ryan Coulter  #1
Defender- Carl Schneider #23 (#77 Jiro Barriga Toyama 81’)
Defender – Connor Tobin (captain) #13
Defender- Wyatt Omsberg #22
Defender – Carter Manley  #2 ⚽ assisted by Don Smart 68’
Midfielder – Eric Leonard  # 3
Midfielder – Jeff Michaud  #8 (J.C. Banks 66’) YC 89’
Midfielder – Josiel Núñez  #70
Forward – Paulo Júnior  #11 ⚽ assisted by Don Smart 33’
Forward- Don Smart #7 ⚽ assisted by Brian Bement 90+6’
Forward – Mason Toye #9 (#14 Brian Bement 85’)

Substitutes
GK- Brian Sylvestre #92
M- Jiro Barriga Toyama #77
M- Brandon Eaton #6
M- Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi #12
M- Vital Nizigiyimana #19
M- J.C. Banks #29
F- Brian Bement #14

Toronto FC II
4-5-1
Coach: Michael Rabasca
Goalkeeper – Caleb Patterson-Sewell #28
Defender- Trevor Swartz #51(#57 Tariq Mohammed 70’)
Defender – Patrick Bunk-Andersen #42
Defender- Julian Dunn #52
Defender- Dante Campbell #48
Midfielder – Noble Okello #59
Midfielder – Adolfo Ovalle #43 (Captain)
Midfielder – Luca Petrasso #39
Midfielder – Griffin Dorsey #19 (#58 Jordan Faria 75’)
Midfielder- Jacob Shaffelburg #84 ⚽ assisted by Julian Dunn 43’
Forward – Jordan Perruzza #77

Substitutes
GK- Kevin Silva #90
D- Franco Ramos Mingo #36
M- Terique Mohammed #57
M- Gideon Waja #37
M- Jordan Faria #58
M- Mehdi Essoussi #35

Goals
Forward Madison FC
33’ – Paulo Junior (Don Smart)
68’ Carter Manley (Don Smart)
90+6’ Don Smart (Brian Bement)

Toronto FC II
43’ Jacob Shaffelburg (Julian Dunn)

Yellow Cards 
Forward Madison FC
89’ J.C. Banks

Referees
Calin Radosav
John Krill
Art Arustamyan
Peter Bernardy

Attendance
3,806

MATCHDAY! We've got less than 200 seats available, so if you don't have your ticket yet, get it now! 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All fans who enter Breese Stevens Field MUST pass through a metal detector. Please arrive early to allow for extra time to make your way through security and to your seat. 

BOX OFFICE OPENS: 4:00 PM – if you have tickets available at Will Call, this is when you can come pick them up. 

OFFICIAL PRE-GAME RESTAURANT: Stop by the Avenue Club before the game for food and drink!

GATES OPEN: 6:00 PM 

ARRIVAL AT THE STADIUM: For those of you driving to the game, please see the parking map for lots in the area. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to safely arrive at Breese Stevens Field and get to your seat. 

BAG POLICY: We kindly ask fans to follow our bag policy in regards to match safety and to allow for the quick and smooth entry of fans into the stadium. There are strict limitations on what bags are allowed at Breese Stevens Field. Types of bags that are allowed in the stadium:
-bags smaller than 12” x 12” x 12” such as a small purse or personal bag. No backpacks.
-1-gallon plastic freezer bags
-Medically necessary bags and diaper bags

PLEASE DO NOT bring these types of bags:
-backpacks
-camera cases
-large purses
-binoculars case
-Folding chair bag
-Mesh bags
-Over-sized tote bags

CONCESSIONS: Our main concessions and beer stands are located on the West end of the stadium. Our menu, including items created by three of Madison's celebrity chefs: Tory Miller, Patrick DePula & Daniel Bonanno, will be available for fans to try! 

OFFICIAL POST-GAME RESTAURANT: Our players are heading to the Essen Haus after every home game this season, and they want you to join them! Come by our official post-game restaurant and have a meal with the team; we'll raise some steins to celebrate a win!

For a full A to Z guide on our stadium policies, please click here! 

If you have any issues or concerns about the game, please don't hesitate to reach out to our front office team at: 608-204-0855 or info@https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com

MATCHDAY! We’ve got less than 200 seats available, so if you don’t have your ticket yet, get it now! 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All fans who enter Breese Stevens Field MUST pass through a metal detector. Please arrive early to allow for extra time to make your way through security and to your seat. 

BOX OFFICE OPENS: 4:00 PM – if you have tickets available at Will Call, this is when you can come pick them up. 

OFFICIAL PRE-GAME RESTAURANT: Stop by the Avenue Club before the game for food and drink!

GATES OPEN: 6:00 PM 

ARRIVAL AT THE STADIUM: For those of you driving to the game, please see the parking map for lots in the area. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to safely arrive at Breese Stevens Field and get to your seat. 

BAG POLICY: We kindly ask fans to follow our bag policy in regards to match safety and to allow for the quick and smooth entry of fans into the stadium. There are strict limitations on what bags are allowed at Breese Stevens Field. Types of bags that are allowed in the stadium:
-bags smaller than 12” x 12” x 12” such as a small purse or personal bag. No backpacks.
-1-gallon plastic freezer bags
-Medically necessary bags and diaper bags

PLEASE DO NOT bring these types of bags:
-backpacks
-camera cases
-large purses
-binoculars case
-Folding chair bag
-Mesh bags
-Over-sized tote bags

CONCESSIONS: Our main concessions and beer stands are located on the West end of the stadium. Our menu, including items created by three of Madison’s celebrity chefs: Tory Miller, Patrick DePula & Daniel Bonanno, will be available for fans to try! 

OFFICIAL POST-GAME RESTAURANT: Our players are heading to the Essen Haus after every home game this season, and they want you to join them! Come by our official post-game restaurant and have a meal with the team; we’ll raise some steins to celebrate a win!

For a full A to Z guide on our stadium policies, please click here! 

If you have any issues or concerns about the game, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our front office team at: 608-204-0855 or info@https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com

Forward Madison FC went Full Mingo Friday evening, unveiling a new pink flamingo-themed alternate jersey during a fan event at Fields Auto Madison. The kit – which will be used primarily during U.S. Open Cup and exhibition matches – was manufactured by hummel and designed in-house by FMFC’s Cassidy Sepnieski.

According to Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, the new jersey perfectly encapsulates the exuberant spirit of Forward Madison.

“We’re big believers in the idea that life, especially in Madison, should be fun and a bit irreverent,” Wilt said. “This Full Mingo jersey was an outside-the-box, crazy idea, and now that it’s come to life, we think fans will adore it.”

Forward Madison FC went Full Mingo Friday evening, unveiling a new pink flamingo-themed alternate jersey during a fan event at Fields Auto Madison. The kit – which will be used primarily during U.S. Open Cup and exhibition matches – was manufactured by hummel and designed in-house by FMFC’s Cassidy Sepnieski.

According to Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, the new jersey perfectly encapsulates the exuberant spirit of Forward Madison.

“We’re big believers in the idea that life, especially in Madison, should be fun and a bit irreverent,” Wilt said. “This Full Mingo jersey was an outside-the-box, crazy idea, and now that it’s come to life, we think fans will adore it.”

The jersey itself is mostly pink, with a navy-and-white winged pattern running down the front, intersected by a scalloping pattern derived from the Forward Madison logo. The sleeves are solid pink, featuring navy hummel chevrons on the shoulders. The collar includes the words “Full Mingo,” a reference to Forward Madison’s viral Twitter post that has developed into the club’s tagline.

The front of the jersey features the logo of Dairyland Insurance, part of a three-year agreement FMFC announced in March. Fans will have their first opportunity to purchase the Full Mingo alternate jersey during Saturday’s home game against Toronto FC II, which kicks off at 7:00 p.m. at Breese Stevens Field. Online sales will start at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 5.

The jersey itself is mostly pink, with a navy-and-white winged pattern running down the front, intersected by a scalloping pattern derived from the Forward Madison logo. The sleeves are solid pink, featuring navy hummel chevrons on the shoulders. The collar includes the words “Full Mingo,” a reference to Forward Madison’s viral Twitter post that has developed into the club’s tagline.

The front of the jersey features the logo of Dairyland Insurance, part of a three-year agreement FMFC announced in March. Fans will have their first opportunity to purchase the Full Mingo alternate jersey during Saturday’s home game against Toronto FC II, which kicks off at 7:00 p.m. at Breese Stevens Field. Online sales will start at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 5.

According to Wilt, the jersey will give Madisonians one more reason to love their new soccer club.

“The team’s supporters showed during the sold-out home opener in last Saturday’s snowstorm that they are one of the best soccer fanbases in the entire country,” Wilt said. “Flock leadership weighed in on various designs and were influential in the final selection.”

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will play its next home game Saturday, May 4 against Toronto FC II. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/tickets.

According to Wilt, the jersey will give Madisonians one more reason to love their new soccer club.

“The team’s supporters showed during the sold-out home opener in last Saturday’s snowstorm that they are one of the best soccer fanbases in the entire country,” Wilt said. “Flock leadership weighed in on various designs and were influential in the final selection.”

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will play its next home game Saturday, May 4 against Toronto FC II. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/tickets.

USL League One – Game 5
Forward Madison FC vs Toronto FC II
Saturday, May 4, 2019; 7:00 p.m. CT
Breese Stevens Field – Madison, WI

Where to Watch
ESPN+
Follow @ForwardMSNFC on Twitter for live updates
Keep track of official stats on the USL League One match center

Forward Madison FC will follow up on its inaugural home opener Saturday night at Breese Stevens Field by looking for its first home win against Toronto FC II (7 p.m., ESPN+), one of two teams still undefeated in USL League One play. In contrast to the opening night snowstorm, FMFC is expected to have be warm and sunny weather this weekend. At the time of writing, Madison is projected to be 64° with no chance of rain at kickoff time Saturday.

Click here to see the Gameday Guide for Saturday!

Head Coach Daryl Shore, appearing on “Let Me Be Forward” this week, said that FMFC didn’t come out strong enough in the first half last week against Greenville Triumph, which contributed to the team’s eventual 0-0 draw. If the Flamingos want to win this time, that’s got to change.

“[We have to] look to get a goal early and really put the pressure on them to play at our place,” Shore said. “[We’re] looking forward to getting back out there, looking forward to having our fans again, and on our end we’re looking forward to rewarding them this weekend with the three points.”

Forward Madison will be aided by the return of several key players to its squad. J.C. Banks, Wyatt Omsberg and Don Smart are all available again for Shore’s selection. On the other hand, defenders Christian Díaz and Shaun Russell are both out with groin injuries. Midfielder Danny Tenorio continues to rehabilitate from his meniscus tear, while goalkeeper Brandon Barnes has been sidelined by a finger injury.

In Toronto FC II, the Flamingos come up against an opponent that has not lost in its three opening matches. Toronto is led by its captain, Tsubasa Endoh, a 25-year-old winger who has split time between TFC II and its parent club, Major League Soccer’s Toronto FC.

Toronto topped Lansing Ignite FC 2-0 last weekend despite controlling less than 30 percent of possession. According to Shore, Toronto poses a threat, but the Flamingos are more than capable of getting their first home victory.

“They’ve got some veteran guys who know how to handle tough situations, and they’ve gotten off to a good start, so it’s going to be a tough game for us,” Shore said. “But we’re at home. Our thought process this week is we’re going to take the game to them.”

FMFC will have little time for rest following Saturday’s game, travelling to Milwaukee on Tuesday for the team’s first-ever U.S. Open Cup matchup against Milwaukee Bavarian SC. If the Flamingos win there, they’ll earn a trip to Texas to take on El Paso Locomotive FC on May 15.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will play its next home game on May 4 vs Toronto FC II. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/tickets.

USL League One – Game 5
Forward Madison FC vs Toronto FC II
Saturday, May 4, 2019; 7:00 p.m. CT
Breese Stevens Field – Madison, WI

Where to Watch
ESPN+
Follow @ForwardMSNFC on Twitter for live updates
Keep track of official stats on the USL League One match center

Forward Madison FC will follow up on its inaugural home opener Saturday night at Breese Stevens Field by looking for its first home win against Toronto FC II (7 p.m., ESPN+), one of two teams still undefeated in USL League One play. In contrast to the opening night snowstorm, FMFC is expected to have be warm and sunny weather this weekend. At the time of writing, Madison is projected to be 64° with no chance of rain at kickoff time Saturday.

Click here to see the Gameday Guide for Saturday!

Head Coach Daryl Shore, appearing on “Let Me Be Forward” this week, said that FMFC didn’t come out strong enough in the first half last week against Greenville Triumph, which contributed to the team’s eventual 0-0 draw. If the Flamingos want to win this time, that’s got to change.

“[We have to] look to get a goal early and really put the pressure on them to play at our place,” Shore said. “[We’re] looking forward to getting back out there, looking forward to having our fans again, and on our end we’re looking forward to rewarding them this weekend with the three points.”

Forward Madison will be aided by the return of several key players to its squad. J.C. Banks, Wyatt Omsberg and Don Smart are all available again for Shore’s selection. On the other hand, defenders Christian Díaz and Shaun Russell are both out with groin injuries. Midfielder Danny Tenorio continues to rehabilitate from his meniscus tear, while goalkeeper Brandon Barnes has been sidelined by a finger injury.

In Toronto FC II, the Flamingos come up against an opponent that has not lost in its three opening matches. Toronto is led by its captain, Tsubasa Endoh, a 25-year-old winger who has split time between TFC II and its parent club, Major League Soccer’s Toronto FC.

Toronto topped Lansing Ignite FC 2-0 last weekend despite controlling less than 30 percent of possession. According to Shore, Toronto poses a threat, but the Flamingos are more than capable of getting their first home victory.

“They’ve got some veteran guys who know how to handle tough situations, and they’ve gotten off to a good start, so it’s going to be a tough game for us,” Shore said. “But we’re at home. Our thought process this week is we’re going to take the game to them.”

FMFC will have little time for rest following Saturday’s game, travelling to Milwaukee on Tuesday for the team’s first-ever U.S. Open Cup matchup against Milwaukee Bavarian SC. If the Flamingos win there, they’ll earn a trip to Texas to take on El Paso Locomotive FC on May 15.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will play its next home game on May 4 vs Toronto FC II. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/tickets.

We're launching a new kit! Join us at Fields Auto of Madison, located at 504 E. Badger Road, Madison, WI 53713. 

We'll have three players modeling the new jersey, as well as coaches and members of our ownership group available to chat with fans. Jerseys will be available for sale immediately following the reveal and fans are invited to stick around for bowling on the Fields Auto lanes! Jerseys will otherwise be available for purchase in the team store, Flamboyance on the day of our match against Toronto FC II.

RSVP to the event here.

We’re launching a new kit! Join us at Fields Auto of Madison, located at 504 E. Badger Road, Madison, WI 53713. 

We’ll have three players modeling the new jersey, as well as coaches and members of our ownership group available to chat with fans. Jerseys will be available for sale immediately following the reveal and fans are invited to stick around for bowling on the Fields Auto lanes! Jerseys will otherwise be available for purchase in the team store, Flamboyance on the day of our match against Toronto FC II.

RSVP to the event here.

Forward Madison FC is moo-ving ahead in its inaugural season with a Wisconsin signature by adding an eleven-week old dairy calf as a team mascot, the club announced Monday. The yet-to-be-named calf, which is reportedly quite adept at hoofing soccer balls, has signed with FMFC on a lifetime contract.

According to Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, the Flamingos’ new cow will help steer the club in the right direction.

“Some people might say that this is just a cowllous publicity stunt, but we’re udderly prepared to milk it for all it’s worth,” Wilt said. “As a Wisconsin team, we wanted to pay homage to the proud heritage of the Wisconsin dairy industry, and although this may be a little cheesy, it’s the perfect way to do it.”

The cow, which fans will have the opportunity to submit names for starting Monday afternoon, will feature in Forward Madison’s starting lineup photo on game days and be available for pictures with fans. When not at FMFC games, she will live year-round at Havens Petting Farm in Blue Mounds, WI, where she will be well taken care of by employees who have devoted their lives to the love of animals.

“Adding a dairy cow to our regular matchday program raises the steaks for the fan experience at Breese Stevens Field,” Wilt said. “Forward Madison supporters are going to have pints of fun at our games, and we’re dairy excited to give them one more reason to come out.”

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will play its next home game this Saturday on May 4 vs Toronto FC II. Fans can get tickets for all matches this season by visiting https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/tickets.

Forward Madison FC is moo-ving ahead in its inaugural season with a Wisconsin signature by adding an eleven-week old dairy calf as a team mascot, the club announced Monday. The yet-to-be-named calf, which is reportedly quite adept at hoofing soccer balls, has signed with FMFC on a lifetime contract.

According to Forward Madison Managing Director Peter Wilt, the Flamingos’ new cow will help steer the club in the right direction.

“Some people might say that this is just a cowllous publicity stunt, but we’re udderly prepared to milk it for all it’s worth,” Wilt said. “As a Wisconsin team, we wanted to pay homage to the proud heritage of the Wisconsin dairy industry, and although this may be a little cheesy, it’s the perfect way to do it.”

The cow, which fans will have the opportunity to submit names for starting Monday afternoon, will feature in Forward Madison’s starting lineup photo on game days and be available for pictures with fans. When not at FMFC games, she will live year-round at Havens Petting Farm in Blue Mounds, WI, where she will be well taken care of by employees who have devoted their lives to the love of animals.

“Adding a dairy cow to our regular matchday program raises the steaks for the fan experience at Breese Stevens Field,” Wilt said. “Forward Madison supporters are going to have pints of fun at our games, and we’re dairy excited to give them one more reason to come out.”

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will play its next home game this Saturday on May 4 vs Toronto FC II. Fans can get tickets for all matches this season by visiting https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/tickets.

Forward Madison FC kicked off professional soccer in Madison Saturday night, drawing 0-0 with Greenville Triumph SC in front of a sold-out, standing-room-only crowd at Breese Stevens Field. Forward’s fans partied through a snowstorm, singing, chanting and cheering on the team despite adverse weather, as 4,462 people and 260 plastic flamingos looked on at a historic night for soccer in Wisconsin

According to Head Coach Daryl Shore, the nature of the occasion didn’t escape the team.

“It’s a special night for Madison,” Shore said. “It’s a special night for the state of Wisconsin, the city of Madison, for our ownership group, our supporters, our front office, just a really special night for our city.”

Forward Madison captain Connor Tobin, a longtime veteran of the American soccer scene, said the atmosphere Saturday night was one of the best he had ever seen.

“This place is something special, and it rivals any environment that’s in the United States,” Tobin said. “I think before you to talk about the performance, you’ve got to talk about the fans. This is about them, and I think you saw it throughout the stadium.”

Forward fans had waited nearly a year since “Madison Pro Soccer” launched last May to see their team in action, and they dutifully filed into Breese Stevens Field as soon as gates opened. As club staff cleared snow from the field, kickoff time was pushed back 30 minutes, giving supporters time to fill in the stands.

Before the match, the stadium observed a moment of silence to honor Jimmy Banks, the Wisconsin soccer legend and father of FMFC forward J.C. Banks, who passed away Friday. Wisconsin lieutenant governor Mandela Barnes and Madison mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway participated in the ceremonial first kick, and shortly thereafter the match got underway.

Greenville controlled much of the possession early on, both teams attempting to deal with the ball’s uneven bounces on wet and snowy turf. Greenville striker Jake Keegan produced the first shot of the game, firing from far out into the hands of FMFC goalkeeper Ryan Coulter in the 9th minute.

Coulter made another strong stop in the 34th minute, denying a curling effort from Christopher Bermudez, the second of four total saves he made during the game. Madison came close in the 39th minute, as right back Carter Manley looped in a cross aimed at the head of striker Mason Toye, but Greenville goalkeeper Dallas Jaye caught the ball well.

“Obviously the conditions had a big impact,” Tobin said. “It took us probably until the second half to figure out how to play in it. We’re a team that wants to pass the ball, obviously with the conditions it was a little tough to do that.”

Coming out of the locker rooms for the second half, Forward Madison looked more energized almost immediately. With the snow faltering, the Flamingos picked up the pace, launching attack after attack at Greenville’s defense.

Midfielder Josiel Núñez put a low shot on target in the 51st minute, but Jay got down to make the save. Núñez nearly produced a goal off a free kick in the 64th minute, but his shot sailed inches high of the crossbar.

In the final 15 minutes, Madison unleashed a bevy of shots, trying to find a late winning goal. Shaun Russell headed over the bar in the 80th minute; Mason Toye headed right at the goalkeeper in the 87th. The Flamingos had one last free kick hail mary in the final minute of stoppage time, but no one could find Núñez’s long ball.

Nevertheless, Forward’s fans treated its team to a rousing ovation at the final whistle, and the players returned the applause in kind, trotting over to the Flock End bleachers on the east side of Breese Stevens Field to show their appreciation.

Forward Madison will be back at home next Saturday, playing host to Toronto FC II in a game that promises, if nothing else, to be warmer than the previous one. Tickets are available here.

According to Shore, there’s no better place in USL League One to see a match.

“You know, it’s in tough conditions, it’s hard to play when it’s snowing all day, but overall [I’m] pleased with our team’s effort, pleased with our fans,” he said. “[It was an] unbelievable turnout even when the weather was was it was. [It’s the] best place to play in our league.”
 

Forward Madison FC

4-3-3
Head Coach: Daryl Shore
Goalkeeper – Ryan Coulter  #1
Defender – Christian “Pato” Díaz  #27 (#23 Carl Schneider 52”)
Defender – Shaun Russell #15
Defender – Connor Tobin (captain) #13 YC 90 +2
Defender – Carter Manley  #2
Midfielder – Eric Leonard  # 3
Midfielder – Jeff Michaud  #8 YC 85’
Midfielder – Josiel Núñez  #70
Forward – Paulo Júnior  #11
Forward – Jiro Barriga Toyama  #77 YC 48’ (#14 Brian Bement 84’)
Forward – Mason Toye #9

Substitutes

GK- Brian Sylvestre #92
D- Carl Schneider #23
M- Brandon Eaton #6
M- Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi #12
M- Vital Nizigiyimana #19
M- Zaire Bartley #17
F- Brian Bement #14

Greenville Triumph SC
4-2-3-1
Coach: John Harkes
Goalkeeper – Dallas Jaye #22
Defender – Dominic Boland #2
Defender – Tyler Polak (captain) #3 YC 63’
Defender – Evan Lee #12
Defender – Kevin Politz #4 YC 66’
Midfielder – Aaron Walker #8 (#5 Max Hemmings 69’)
Midfielder – Paul Clowes #6 (#11 Cameron Saul 89’)
Midfielder – Cole Seiler #14
Midfielder – Omar Mohamed
Midfielder – Christopher Bermudez #7 YC 42’
Forward – Jake Keegan #9

Substitutes

GK- Armando Quezada #19
D- Choi Sang-Ryeong #13
M- Carlos Gomez #10
M- Sami Guediri #21
M- Max Hemmings #5
M- Travis Ward #88
F- Cameron Saul #11

Yellow Cards:

Forward Madison FC
#23- Carl Schneider 52’
#77- Jiro Barriga Toyama 48’
#8- Jeff Michaud 85’
#13- Connor Tobin 90+2’

Greenville Triumph SC
#7 – Christopher Bermudez 42’
#3- Tyler Polak 63’
#4 – Kevin Politz 66’

Referees
Joshua Encarnacion
Ethan Buege
Justin Mack
Ryan Shanklin

 

Attendance
4,462 (sold out)

Forward Madison FC kicked off professional soccer in Madison Saturday night, drawing 0-0 with Greenville Triumph SC in front of a sold-out, standing-room-only crowd at Breese Stevens Field. Forward’s fans partied through a snowstorm, singing, chanting and cheering on the team despite adverse weather, as 4,462 people and 260 plastic flamingos looked on at a historic night for soccer in Wisconsin

According to Head Coach Daryl Shore, the nature of the occasion didn’t escape the team.

“It’s a special night for Madison,” Shore said. “It’s a special night for the state of Wisconsin, the city of Madison, for our ownership group, our supporters, our front office, just a really special night for our city.”

Forward Madison captain Connor Tobin, a longtime veteran of the American soccer scene, said the atmosphere Saturday night was one of the best he had ever seen.

“This place is something special, and it rivals any environment that’s in the United States,” Tobin said. “I think before you to talk about the performance, you’ve got to talk about the fans. This is about them, and I think you saw it throughout the stadium.”

Forward fans had waited nearly a year since “Madison Pro Soccer” launched last May to see their team in action, and they dutifully filed into Breese Stevens Field as soon as gates opened. As club staff cleared snow from the field, kickoff time was pushed back 30 minutes, giving supporters time to fill in the stands.

Before the match, the stadium observed a moment of silence to honor Jimmy Banks, the Wisconsin soccer legend and father of FMFC forward J.C. Banks, who passed away Friday. Wisconsin lieutenant governor Mandela Barnes and Madison mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway participated in the ceremonial first kick, and shortly thereafter the match got underway.

Greenville controlled much of the possession early on, both teams attempting to deal with the ball’s uneven bounces on wet and snowy turf. Greenville striker Jake Keegan produced the first shot of the game, firing from far out into the hands of FMFC goalkeeper Ryan Coulter in the 9th minute.

Coulter made another strong stop in the 34th minute, denying a curling effort from Christopher Bermudez, the second of four total saves he made during the game. Madison came close in the 39th minute, as right back Carter Manley looped in a cross aimed at the head of striker Mason Toye, but Greenville goalkeeper Dallas Jaye caught the ball well.

“Obviously the conditions had a big impact,” Tobin said. “It took us probably until the second half to figure out how to play in it. We’re a team that wants to pass the ball, obviously with the conditions it was a little tough to do that.”

Coming out of the locker rooms for the second half, Forward Madison looked more energized almost immediately. With the snow faltering, the Flamingos picked up the pace, launching attack after attack at Greenville’s defense.

Midfielder Josiel Núñez put a low shot on target in the 51st minute, but Jay got down to make the save. Núñez nearly produced a goal off a free kick in the 64th minute, but his shot sailed inches high of the crossbar.

In the final 15 minutes, Madison unleashed a bevy of shots, trying to find a late winning goal. Shaun Russell headed over the bar in the 80th minute; Mason Toye headed right at the goalkeeper in the 87th. The Flamingos had one last free kick hail mary in the final minute of stoppage time, but no one could find Núñez’s long ball.

Nevertheless, Forward’s fans treated its team to a rousing ovation at the final whistle, and the players returned the applause in kind, trotting over to the Flock End bleachers on the east side of Breese Stevens Field to show their appreciation.

Forward Madison will be back at home next Saturday, playing host to Toronto FC II in a game that promises, if nothing else, to be warmer than the previous one. Tickets are available here.

According to Shore, there’s no better place in USL League One to see a match.

“You know, it’s in tough conditions, it’s hard to play when it’s snowing all day, but overall [I’m] pleased with our team’s effort, pleased with our fans,” he said. “[It was an] unbelievable turnout even when the weather was was it was. [It’s the] best place to play in our league.”
 

Forward Madison FC

4-3-3
Head Coach: Daryl Shore
Goalkeeper – Ryan Coulter  #1
Defender – Christian “Pato” Díaz  #27 (#23 Carl Schneider 52”)
Defender – Shaun Russell #15
Defender – Connor Tobin (captain) #13 YC 90 +2
Defender – Carter Manley  #2
Midfielder – Eric Leonard  # 3
Midfielder – Jeff Michaud  #8 YC 85’
Midfielder – Josiel Núñez  #70
Forward – Paulo Júnior  #11
Forward – Jiro Barriga Toyama  #77 YC 48’ (#14 Brian Bement 84’)
Forward – Mason Toye #9

Substitutes

GK- Brian Sylvestre #92
D- Carl Schneider #23
M- Brandon Eaton #6
M- Ally Hamis Ng’Anzi #12
M- Vital Nizigiyimana #19
M- Zaire Bartley #17
F- Brian Bement #14

Greenville Triumph SC
4-2-3-1
Coach: John Harkes
Goalkeeper – Dallas Jaye #22
Defender – Dominic Boland #2
Defender – Tyler Polak (captain) #3 YC 63’
Defender – Evan Lee #12
Defender – Kevin Politz #4 YC 66’
Midfielder – Aaron Walker #8 (#5 Max Hemmings 69’)
Midfielder – Paul Clowes #6 (#11 Cameron Saul 89’)
Midfielder – Cole Seiler #14
Midfielder – Omar Mohamed
Midfielder – Christopher Bermudez #7 YC 42’
Forward – Jake Keegan #9

Substitutes

GK- Armando Quezada #19
D- Choi Sang-Ryeong #13
M- Carlos Gomez #10
M- Sami Guediri #21
M- Max Hemmings #5
M- Travis Ward #88
F- Cameron Saul #11

Yellow Cards:

Forward Madison FC
#23- Carl Schneider 52’
#77- Jiro Barriga Toyama 48’
#8- Jeff Michaud 85’
#13- Connor Tobin 90+2’

Greenville Triumph SC
#7 – Christopher Bermudez 42’
#3- Tyler Polak 63’
#4 – Kevin Politz 66’

Referees
Joshua Encarnacion
Ethan Buege
Justin Mack
Ryan Shanklin

 

Attendance
4,462 (sold out)

MATCHDAY! We've got less than 200 seats available, so if you don't have your ticket yet, get it now! 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All fans who enter Breese Stevens Field MUST pass through a metal detector. Please arrive early to allow for extra time to make your way through security and to your seat. 

BOX OFFICE OPENS: 4:00 PM – if you have tickets available at Will Call, this is when you can come pick them up. 

OFFICIAL PRE-GAME RESTAURANT: Stop by the Avenue Club before the game for food and drink!

GATES OPEN: 6:00 PM 

ARRIVAL AT THE STADIUM: For those of you driving to the game, please see the parking map for lots in the area. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to safely arrive at Breese Stevens Field and get to your seat. 

BAG POLICY: We kindly ask fans to follow our bag policy in regards to match safety and to allow for the quick and smooth entry of fans into the stadium. There are strict limitations on what bags are allowed at Breese Stevens Field. Types of bags that are allowed in the stadium:
-bags smaller than 12” x 12” x 12” such as a small purse or personal bag. No backpacks.
-1-gallon plastic freezer bags
-Medically necessary bags and diaper bags

PLEASE DO NOT bring these types of bags:
-backpacks
-camera cases
-large purses
-binoculars case
-Folding chair bag
-Mesh bags
-Over-sized tote bags

CONCESSIONS: Our main concessions and beer stands are located on the West end of the stadium. Our menu, including items created by three of Madison's celebrity chefs: Tory Miller, Patrick DePula & Daniel Bonanno, will be available for fans to try! 

OFFICIAL POST-GAME RESTAURANT: Our players are heading to the Essen Haus after every home game this season, and they want you to join them! Come by our official post-game restaurant and have a meal with the team; we'll raise some steins to celebrate a win!

For a full A to Z guide on our stadium policies, please click here! 

If you have any issues or concerns about the game, please don't hesitate to reach out to our front office team at: 608-204-0855 or info@https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com

MATCHDAY! We’ve got less than 200 seats available, so if you don’t have your ticket yet, get it now! 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All fans who enter Breese Stevens Field MUST pass through a metal detector. Please arrive early to allow for extra time to make your way through security and to your seat. 

BOX OFFICE OPENS: 4:00 PM – if you have tickets available at Will Call, this is when you can come pick them up. 

OFFICIAL PRE-GAME RESTAURANT: Stop by the Avenue Club before the game for food and drink!

GATES OPEN: 6:00 PM 

ARRIVAL AT THE STADIUM: For those of you driving to the game, please see the parking map for lots in the area. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to safely arrive at Breese Stevens Field and get to your seat. 

BAG POLICY: We kindly ask fans to follow our bag policy in regards to match safety and to allow for the quick and smooth entry of fans into the stadium. There are strict limitations on what bags are allowed at Breese Stevens Field. Types of bags that are allowed in the stadium:
-bags smaller than 12” x 12” x 12” such as a small purse or personal bag. No backpacks.
-1-gallon plastic freezer bags
-Medically necessary bags and diaper bags

PLEASE DO NOT bring these types of bags:
-backpacks
-camera cases
-large purses
-binoculars case
-Folding chair bag
-Mesh bags
-Over-sized tote bags

CONCESSIONS: Our main concessions and beer stands are located on the West end of the stadium. Our menu, including items created by three of Madison’s celebrity chefs: Tory Miller, Patrick DePula & Daniel Bonanno, will be available for fans to try! 

OFFICIAL POST-GAME RESTAURANT: Our players are heading to the Essen Haus after every home game this season, and they want you to join them! Come by our official post-game restaurant and have a meal with the team; we’ll raise some steins to celebrate a win!

For a full A to Z guide on our stadium policies, please click here! 

If you have any issues or concerns about the game, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our front office team at: 608-204-0855 or info@https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com

USL League One – Game 4
Forward Madison FC vs Greenville Triumph SC
Saturday, April 27, 2019; 7:00 p.m. CT
Breese Stevens Field – Madison, WI

Where to Watch
ESPN+
Follow @ForwardMSNFC on Twitter for live updates
Keep track of official stats on the USL League One match center

Forward Madison FC will kick off its inaugural home opener Saturday night at Breese Stevens Field against Greenville Triumph SC (7 p.m., ESPN+), looking to mark the historic occasion with a victory. Since the club’s launch in May 2018, Madison’s soccer fans have waited patiently for their dream to become reality. This weekend, it arrives.

According to Head Coach Daryl Shore, Forward Madison’s players has been looking forward to the game just as much as their supporters have.

“It’s [been] a long time coming and a lot of people have been waiting for this moment,” Shore said. “It’s going to be an amazing atmosphere.”

With the weather forecast predicting snowfall, fans will want to bundle up before they arrive at the stadium Saturday (see FMFC’s complete Gameday Guide here). The snow may also affect how the game itself plays, but Shore said he’s made the necessary preparations.

“I don’t know how much snow we’re going to have, but hopefully they’ll have an orange soccer ball or a yellow soccer ball for us to use,” Shore said. “We’ll just take it as is. Two teams have to play in the weather, so if we have to adapt to the weather I’m sure we will do that accordingly, but leading up to it we’re not going to change the way we play.”

Forward Madison will come into the game with most of its roster available to play, although it must deal with several absences. Midfielder Danny Tenorio is still recovering from a torn meniscus; defender Wyatt Omsberg is out with a foot injury; midfielder Don Smart is suspended due to a red card he earned last week. Smart has started every game so far, but Shore said the Flamingos feel capable without him.

“We’ve got guys who can step in and play, so we’ll make one adjustment with Don not being in the lineup and then we’ll go after the game like we normally would,” he said.

In Greenville Triumph SC, FMFC comes up against the fifth-place team in USL League One. Greenville has two wins and two losses, but has only scored three goals.

“They’re dangerous,” Shore said. “They do play direct, so we’ve just got to be ready to win second balls and then catch them on our break because they do push a lot a numbers forward. If we can win the ball and play forward quickly, we can catch them in a numbers-down situation and hopefully we can turn their attacking players into defenders.”

Following its home opener against Greenville, Forward Madison will play host again next Saturday, facing off against Toronto FC II on May 4 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available here.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/tickets.

USL League One – Game 4
Forward Madison FC vs Greenville Triumph SC
Saturday, April 27, 2019; 7:00 p.m. CT
Breese Stevens Field – Madison, WI

Where to Watch
ESPN+
Follow @ForwardMSNFC on Twitter for live updates
Keep track of official stats on the USL League One match center

Forward Madison FC will kick off its inaugural home opener Saturday night at Breese Stevens Field against Greenville Triumph SC (7 p.m., ESPN+), looking to mark the historic occasion with a victory. Since the club’s launch in May 2018, Madison’s soccer fans have waited patiently for their dream to become reality. This weekend, it arrives.

According to Head Coach Daryl Shore, Forward Madison’s players has been looking forward to the game just as much as their supporters have.

“It’s [been] a long time coming and a lot of people have been waiting for this moment,” Shore said. “It’s going to be an amazing atmosphere.”

With the weather forecast predicting snowfall, fans will want to bundle up before they arrive at the stadium Saturday (see FMFC’s complete Gameday Guide here). The snow may also affect how the game itself plays, but Shore said he’s made the necessary preparations.

“I don’t know how much snow we’re going to have, but hopefully they’ll have an orange soccer ball or a yellow soccer ball for us to use,” Shore said. “We’ll just take it as is. Two teams have to play in the weather, so if we have to adapt to the weather I’m sure we will do that accordingly, but leading up to it we’re not going to change the way we play.”

Forward Madison will come into the game with most of its roster available to play, although it must deal with several absences. Midfielder Danny Tenorio is still recovering from a torn meniscus; defender Wyatt Omsberg is out with a foot injury; midfielder Don Smart is suspended due to a red card he earned last week. Smart has started every game so far, but Shore said the Flamingos feel capable without him.

“We’ve got guys who can step in and play, so we’ll make one adjustment with Don not being in the lineup and then we’ll go after the game like we normally would,” he said.

In Greenville Triumph SC, FMFC comes up against the fifth-place team in USL League One. Greenville has two wins and two losses, but has only scored three goals.

“They’re dangerous,” Shore said. “They do play direct, so we’ve just got to be ready to win second balls and then catch them on our break because they do push a lot a numbers forward. If we can win the ball and play forward quickly, we can catch them in a numbers-down situation and hopefully we can turn their attacking players into defenders.”

Following its home opener against Greenville, Forward Madison will play host again next Saturday, facing off against Toronto FC II on May 4 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available here.

Forward Madison FC’s inaugural season is here! The team will open at home on April 27 vs Greenville Triumph SC. Get tickets to see Forward Madison’s inaugural season at: https://www.forwardmadisonfc.com/tickets.