53rd Meeting Between Reading and Ocean City on Deck
United play host to a battle of the unbeatens during Kicks Against Cancer Night
READING, PA (June 4, 2022) – Reading United plays host to Ocean City Nor’easters in the 53rd meeting between the two clubs – continuing the longest active rivalry in all of the United Soccer League umbrella on Saturday during Kicks Against Cancer Night. A 7:00pm kickoff at Alvernia University awaits the two sides – both coming in undefeated in 2022 and jostling for first place positioning in the Mid Atlantic Division.
Kicks Against Cancer Night is an annual tradition entrenched deep in Reading United’s lore that dates back to former general manager/owner/player Archie Moylan’s battle with cancer. Thousands of dollars have been raised for local families, non-profits, and foundations such as the Anthony Myers Movement that not only search for a cure, but also aid those who are currently battling. The game-worn jerseys will be auctioned off during the game, with fans able to take pictures and get autographs postgame with the player of their choosing.
After 52 meetings, the two teams are deadlocked at 22-22-8, including a 0-0 stalemate in Ocean City last year, as well as a 5-2 loss when Reading hosted at Berks Catholic High School. The latter meeting marked the return of former Reading United head coach Alan McCann, who left for the Nor’easters following the end of the canceled 2020 season. It also was the first Nor’easter road victory against Reading since 2014. With McCann moving on to join a pair of former United gaffers (Brendan Burke, Stephen Hogan) as part of the Colorado Springs Switchbacks family, Kevin Nuss returns to the bench for Ocean City.
Ocean City swings into town with a 2-0-1 record, by virtue of a 1-1 draw on the road against Real Central New Jersey, and a pair of 2-1 victories over West Chester United and Philadelphia Lone Star. Both wins came off late scores – one in the 76th minute against Philadelphia, and the other a 94th minute stunner that secured a comeback victory against reigning division champion West Chester.
The Nor’easters roster hosts a slew of former Reading United players – most likely rostered to compete in the U.S. Open Cup’s early rounds. Nonetheless, some United throwbacks from the early-to-mid-2010’s include Keasel Broome, Jonny Dolezal, and Jason Plumhoff. All three players went on to play professionally following their time in Reading. The lone swap from last year’s Reading squad is Nick Pariano, who figures in as a key part of the Nor’easter midfield following a six-game stint with United in 2021.
Reading is coming off of a 4-1 drubbing of Lehigh Valley United, that saw the home side break a 0-0 draw at the half with a 46th minute goal, and then three more in the next half hour of play. Isak Sedin led the way for Reading with a goal and assist, while Talla Faye, Kaelan Debbage, and Ike Hollinger also got on the board. Reading leads the division with a +5 goal differential as the much improved squad looks to continue its hot stretch of play to open the 2022 season.
Game day tickets for all remaining home dates are available for purchase at readingunitedac.com for just $7+fees or for $10 at the gate.
