Tulsa Roughnecks
Shelbie Stilwell
TULSA — For the past two weeks, the Tulsa Roughnecks FC have remained at the top of the league standings, maintaining first place in the Western Conference of the United Soccer League Championship. In fact, the Roughnecks have had the best start-to-season in franchise history and it doesn’t appear they’ll be slowing down anytime soon.
Roughnecks defender, Luca Lobo has also been named as the league leader for goals scored. In addition, Roughnecks midfielder, Rodrigo da Costa sits in second place tied for assists throughout the league. It appears the 2019 Roughnecks team has made a complete 180 from the direction of the team in previous years.
“We are glad to get off to a good start in the USL Championship,” head coach Michael Nsien said. “We have experienced players that understand the importance of winning games early on in the season, while we continue to improve as a team. Luca Lobo is the standard of a player’s mentality we want in our environment. He took advantage of the opportunity and he’s earned his place in the team and has shown that he is a quality player by leading the league in goals scored and also maintaining his defensive responsibilities.”
The Roughnecks travel to the West Coast this weekend to take on LA Galaxy II followed by Fresno FC on April 13 before returning to ONEOK Field on April 24 where they will play host to the Colorado Switchbacks. The Wednesday evening meeting on the 24th will also double as a Castle of Muskogee Renaissance Night/Family Night. With a list of season accolades adding up going into April, the Roughnecks look toward their match-up against OKC Energy on April 27 at ONEOK Field where fireworks will light up the Tulsa sky following the game.
“After a successful preseason we are pleased with the start both on and off the field,” GM Wayne Farmer said. “It was great to get 3 more points against a tough Rio Grande Valley FC team. We are thrilled to be at the top of the table through a month’s play.”