Match Recap: New York Magic vs. New Jersey Alliance Women, Sunday, May 21st

The New York Magic traveled across the Hudson River to open the 2023 UPSL Northeast American Division Conference play with a 1-1 draw against the New Jersey Alliance Women at Mattano Park in Elizabeth, New Jersey.  The Magic opened the scoring in the 24th minute when Dina Mulic picked up a pass and sprinted down the left side before centering to Dani Perri, who expertly buried the shot in the back of the net.  New Jersey equalized off of a corner kick a few minutes later.  The rest of the match was a physical, closely fought contest with neither team able to breach the solid defenses of their opponent.

The Magic attack was disrupted right before halftime when striker Perri had to leave the game due to an injury caused by a collision with the New Jersey Alliance's goalkeeper.  The best opportunity of the second half came from a free kick by Dina Mulic that was tipped just wide of the post. Throughout the half the Magic back line held strong in front of goalkeeper Stephanie Gonzalez.  The backline was anchored by Imanie Richards whose performance earned her a spot on the UPSL Northeast team of the week. 

The Magic opened the season with an international squad featuring players from six different countries plus Long Island.  The new look team featured eight starters and ten players total making their UPSL debuts for the Magic.  Coach Nino DePasquali will once again aim to improve the team as he did in each of the previous two seasons, both of which ended in UPSL division championships.

After a week off for the Memorial Day holiday, the Magic will travel down the Garden State Parkway to Atlantic City to resume UPSL play at Inter AC on June 3rd, before opening their home season at Queens College on June 10.

Congratulations to Magic players Dani Perri and Imanie Richards for being named to the UPSL Northeast American Conference Team of the Week.

NY Magic Reserves Weekly Training is Back!

Yippee, we finally got our training field back after renovation.  New turf, lights, & sparse crowds make for a "magical" environment.  Starting October 8th, NY Magic will practice on Thursdays from 8 - 10 p.m. at Harlem River Park (128th St. & 3rd Ave.).  Take the Uptown #4, #5 or #6 train to 125th and walk 3 blocks to 128th.

Match Recap: New York Magic vs. Williamsport City Lions, Saturday June 25th

The New York Magic bounced back from their first loss in over a year with a decisive 3-0 road victory against the Williamsport City Lions at Penn College of Technology in Williamsport, PA on Saturday.  The win moved the Magic into second place ahead of their two remaining games in UPSL Northeast American Conference play.

Kenisa Destinvil opened the scoring in the 15th minute, finishing from the top of the box off an assist from debutant, Lindsay Anderson.  The Magic created a number of opportunities to extend their lead but failed to capitalize during the rest of the first half.  Ashlee Thompson and Malya Hirshkowitz anchored a rebuilt Magic back line and the Magic got strong overall defensive play from Rachel Law, Lindsay Anderson, Amber Rose Petrillo and Andrea Marca. Goalkeeper, Corinne Costello stepped up to make four saves and gave a dominant performance in goal.

Following halftime, midfielders Kirsty Shell, Flick Eriksson and Medina Mulic continued to set up the attack of Dani Perri and Kensia Destinvil who forced a number of saves from the Williamsport goalkeeper.  The Magic would generate 22 total shots in the game and the sustained pressure eventually allowed the Magic to add the second goal in the 80th minute when Perri was taken down from behind in the penalty box.  Hirshkowitz stepped up and calmly drilled the penalty into the left corner to double the Magic lead.  Destinvil then capped off the scoring in the 88th minute, collecting an Eriksson pass and sliding the ball into the right corner for the Magic's third goal of the game.

The Magic return home on Saturday July 2nd in a crucial rematch with Inter AC that could determine playoff places.  Kickoff at our beautiful waterfront home venue of Reinhart Field at SUNY Maritime will be at 6:00 PM.  

Click here to see the UPSL Standings

Press Coverage and Full Match Replay of New York Magic vs. Williamsport City Lions on Sat. June 25th

Click on the links below to see the full match replay and press coverage in two Williamsport area newspapers of the New York Magic:

Full Game Replay:

NY Magic v. Williamsport City Lions Game Replay

Below is sports reporter Evan Wheaton's wonderful coverage in the Williamsport Sun Gazette newspaper:

Williamsport Sun Gazette coverage

Below is sports writer / reporter / photographer, Brett Crossley's great coverage and photos of last Saturday's game on the North Central PA.com news site:

North Central PA.com coverage

Match Recap: New York Magic vs. Inter AC, Saturday June 18th

The NY Magic traveled down the Garden State Parkway to a narrow, windswept Shellum Field in Atlantic City where they fell to Inter AC 4-2.  The loss was the Magic's first defeat since their UPSL season opener in 2021.

The Magic started strongly in the 18th minute with Kensia Destinvil swiftly controlling a pinpoint accurate long pass over the top from Malya Hirskowitz and finishing into the net for a 1-0 lead.  The lead was doubled in the 26th minute when a Kirsty Shell corner was knocked into the Atlantic City goal by Ray Ann Montano.  However, the Magic were unable to maintain their momentum and Inter AC equalized with two goals in the 29th and 38th minutes of the first half, followed by two quick goals early in the second half.  The Magic attack struggled playing into the wind in the second half and while the team was able to generate a number of shots, the crucial 3rd goal never materialized to get back into the game.  

The Magic's season resumes on June 25th when they will make the trip to Williamsport, Pennsylvania to face the Williamsport City Lions.  Following that the Magic will make their long awaited return to SUNY Maritime to finish the 2022 summer season.

Click here to see the UPSL Standings

Match Recap: New York Magic vs. Westchester United FC, Wednesday, June 8th

The New York Magic, fresh off a convincing 5-0 victory in the ENYSSA Ann Rapaglia State Cup Final battled traffic, mosquitos and a youthful Westchester United FC team in a 1-1 draw at Brewster High School on Wednesday evening.  Despite an abbreviated warm up caused by the delayed arrival of the team van, the Magic struck first in the 12th minute when Kirsty Shell sent in Dani Perri behind the Westchester defense and Perri calmly finished the one on one chance past the Westchester United goalkeeper. Westchester United FC then evened the score late in the first half on a goal by Sophia Danyko Kulchycky.  Overall, the Magic played well in the first 45 minutes defending compactly, creating numerous opportunities and looking dangerous on the counter.

The Magic defense controlled the second half of the game, as the back line of Ashlee Thompson, Malya Hirshkowitz, Mariko Whitenack, and Shannon Landry ensured there would be no more clean chances on keeper, Corinne Costello's, goal.  Despite tired legs, the Magic still generated a number of opportunities but were unable to find a winning goal.

The Magic's three game road trip continues on June 18 with a trip down the Garden State Parkway to face Inter AC in Atlantic City. The Magic will return home for their final two games on July 2nd and July 9th at SUNY Maritime.

Click here to see the UPSL Standings

Match Recap: New York Magic vs. Williamsport City Lions, Saturday, May 21st

The New York Magic kicked off the 2022 UPSL summer season and defense of their UPSL division championship with a hard fought 1-1 draw against league newcomers Williamsport City Lions at a sun-drenched Reinhart Field at SUNY Maritime.  Four newcomers joined seven returnees in the starting lineup played amidst a late spring heat wave that resulted in a sweltering game time temperature of over 90 degrees.  The teams played an entertaining first half in which the Magic was able to create a slew of chances but were unlucky in their finishing.

The deadlock was broken in the 57th minute when Shannon Landry sprung Kensia Destinvil behind the Williamsport defense with a pinpoint accurate crossfield pass.  Destinvil took care of the rest with a fine finish into the corner of the net.  The Magic, anchored by Ashlee Thompson and Malya Hirshkowitz in the center back and Captain Ray Ann Montano and Amber-Rose Petrillo in the defensive midfield, repelled repeated attacks from Williamsport as the heat took its toll on the players.  The Magic goal was finally breached by a cross that found its way into the upper corner of the net to complete the scoring in the 86th minute of the game.

The Magic will play the first of three straight road games in a mid-week trip to Westchester United FC on June 8th.  The Magic will then return home for their final two games on July 2nd and July 9th at SUNY Maritime.

Click here to see the UPSL Standings

New York Magic Spring Season Leading Scorers

Perfect Fall 2021 Season for the New York Magic

The New York Magic capped a perfect fall season last month with an undefeated 9-0 record in NYMWSL play and an opening round victory in the ENYSA State Cup tournament.  The Magic dominated league play outscoring their opponents by a margin of 72-1.  The team featured an exciting mix of returnees from the 2021 UPSL Northeast Conference Championship team as well as several talented newcomers.  

Attack
The forward line was once again led by captain Dani Perri who netted 16 goals in league play. Perri provided great passing as well as tireless energy off the ball including combination and set up play, runs and pressing.  The attacking midfield in Coach Nino’s innovative and dynamic offense was spearheaded by the quick feet and nifty dribbling of Kensia Destinvil who totaled a team leading 21 goals in fall league play.  Newcomer Emma Loving produced dominant performances on the wing with her sensational dribbling runs that resulted in 9 league goals, an abundance of assists, and attracted the attention of European scouts. Newcomer Keri Birkenhead added 10 goals playing in both center forward and midfield roles and impressed with her powerful shot and hold up play.  Shanice Robe added additional firepower to the attack, tallying 3 league goals.

Midfield
Midfielder Dina Mulic added another 6 goals during the fall campaign and provided excellent two way play on both the wing and in the center of midfield.  Newcomer Maya Golowasch added versatility to the offense with two goals during the season while playing both forward and midfield, while longtime Magic contributor and midfielder Eileen McMahon added experience, leadership and a goal during the fall campaign.  Amber-Rose Petrillo once again anchored the defensive midfield with her astute ball winning ability and toughness. Eva Zamagias added depth and hustle in the defensive midfield.  Amber Mitchell provided speed, energy and good distribution on the wing while Noelle Higginson showed superb touch and vision while directing the offense from the center of the field. 

Defense
The Magic backline allowed only a single goal all season anchored by co-captain Ray-Ann Montano who also contributed a stellar header goal from a corner kick in the last game of the season.  Returnees Ashlee Thompson, Shannon Landry, and Mariko Whitenack helped to expertly shut down opposition attacks and get forward into the attack when the opportunities presented themselves. Newcomers Malya Hirshkowitz, Niamh McKevitt and Tia Briggs-Thompson all impressed with their intelligent reading of the game, positioning, and effective distribution.  Starting goalkeeper Corinne Costello and backup Julia Kelly were there to turn away anything that made it past the Magic defense and both provided impressive distribution of the ball.  

Staff, Affiliates, Friends and Family
General manager Lyndelle Phillips and Head Coach Nino DePasquali once again expertly  organized, prepared and inspired the team and staff to another successful season.  Many thanks to assistant coaches Calvin Salmon, Lisa Shaw, Jessica Reifer, scouts Aston Hinds, Mario Maldonado, and all of the families and friends who supported the Magic at various games and practices this fall.  

Sponsors
The Magic would like to thank key sponsors Arkema and Pebax for their unparalleled support for women’s soccer in New York City.

Current and Upcoming Schedule
The Magic is currently on winter break and after the winter thaw will return for the second half of the NYMWSL season as well as the next rounds of the ENYSA State Cup Tournament.  Please check the website for updates on upcoming indoor practices and tournaments as well as some exciting interviews and player bios coming soon
 

New York Magic Fall Season Leading Scorers

New York Magic Overall Scoring Leaders for the 2021 UPSL Spring / Summer Season

New York Magic Crowned UPSL Northeast Conference Champions

Match Recap: New York Magic vs. Invictus FC, July 25, 2021

The New York Magic were crowned UPSL Northeast Conference Champions with a 5-1 victory over Invictus FC on Sunday at a sun drenched Reinhart Field at SUNY Maritime. After an early Invictus goal, the Magic were quick to equalize in the 11th minute when Dani Perri scored a close range header off of a Mike Abe corner kick.  In stoppage time of an opportunity filled first half, Kensia Destinvil broke through to put the Magic ahead with the first of her three goals. The second half saw the Magic take control of the game.  Mike Abe scored a brilliant goal in the 54th minute with an expertly placed long range shot taken from just inside her own half.  Kensia Destinvil added two more goals and some spectacular dribbling to complete her hat trick in the 57th and 76th minutes.  The newly crowned champions, New York Magic, end their season on a seven game unbeaten streak, finishing with an overall record of 6-1-1 in Northeast Conference play.

Click here to see the UPSL Standings

Match Recap: New York Magic vs. Queens FC, July 18, 2021

The NY Magic finished their penultimate game of the season on Sunday with an 8-1 victory over Queens FC.  The Magic came out sharp scoring in the 4th minute of the game with Miki Abe blasting in a shot off an assist by Abaina Louis.  Dani Perri doubled the lead with a nice finish in the 11th minute.  Miki Abe then expertly converted penalties in the 23rd and 31st minutes for her first career hat trick.  After Queens FC pulled one back, Kensia Destinvil completed the first half scoring in the 45th minute.  The second half saw the Magic continue their strong play with goals by Kensia Destinvil in the 54th and 75th minutes to complete a hat trick of her own.  Dani Perri finished the scoring in the 77th minute with her second goal of the game.  The victory moved the Magic one step closer to the UPSL Northeastern Conference title with one game remaining to play.  The Magic's season concludes on Sunday, July 25th when they host Invictus FC at SUNY Maritime at 2 p.m.

Click here to see the UPSL Standings

Match Recap: New York Magic vs. Invictus FC, July 12, 2021

The Magic finished their third game in five days with a 1-1 tie at Accelerate Sports vs. Invictus FC.  In rainy conditions, the Magic dominated the play and took the lead in the 49th minute on a goal by Danielle Perri assisted by Abaina Louis.  Invictus FC leveled the score in the second half and the Magic, with numerous opportunities, was unable to find the match winning goal.  In response to the heavy schedule load, coach Nino adjusted the starting lineup and Natalie Martinez and Gianna Finz started and provided a spark for the team.  Securing a point in what was a hard fought and physical game leaves the Magic in first place in the Northeastern Conference with two games to play.  The Magic's season continues on Sunday, July 18th when the team makes the long road trip to Roy Wilkins Park to face Queens FC at 7 p.m.

Click here to see the UPSL Standings

Match Recap: New York Magic vs. Krasjisnik FC, July 11, 2021

Hot and sunny conditions in Utica did not deter the Magic from securing a 3-2 victory against division leading Krasjisnik FC in the first game of their weekend road trip.  In the first half, after a Brooke Barbuto goal for Krasjisnik FC, the Magic responded with a goal of their own by Kensia Destinvil to level the score at 1-1.  Some key tactical changes resulted in the Magic playing a strong second half.  An early second half goal by Flero-Dina Surpris gave the Magic the lead and a beautiful outside shot from Miki Abe made the score 3-1.   A controversial penalty scored by Caroline Kopp of Krasjisnik in the 88th minute narrowed the Magic's lead to 3-2.  The Magic's defense of Ray-Ann Montano, Ashlee Thompson, Shannon Landry, and Mariko Whitenack and defensive midfielder Amber-Rose Petrillo won balls, shut down passing lanes and marked key opposition players out of the game. Goalkeeper Corinne Costello made a number of key saves in the rare instances when the defense was breached. An eye opening 9 minutes of stoppage time signaled by the referee made the end of the match a tense and spirited affair with the Magic prevailing and earning a crucial victory in the Northeastern Conference.  The win moves the Magic into a tie for first place in the division heading into their second game of the weekend.

Click here to see the UPSL Standings

Match Recap: New York Magic vs. New Jersey Wizards, July 7, 2021

On a picture perfect evening at SUNY Maritime, the New York Magic defeated the New Jersey Wizards 4-0.  The Magic got off to a quick start with a nicely taken Danielle Perri goal in the 2nd minute.  Kensia Destinvil added to the score sheet in the 17th minute and debutant Flero-Dina Surpris scored the third Magic goal in the 44th minute.  In the 53rd minute, Destinvil made it 4-0 in favor of the Magic with her second goal of the game.  The Magic was buoyed by excellent teamwork, tactics and defense in this match.  Next up for the Magic is a weekend road trip to Utica to face Krasjisnik FC and Invictus FC.  Special thanks to Magic announcer Burt Shoobs who provides our games with a wonderfully professional voice.

Click here to see the UPSL Standings

Soccer Today Interview with Lyndelle Phillips on the New York Magic and the UPSL

Click here to read Editor in Chief, Diane Scavuzzo's interview in Soccer Today with Lyndelle Phillips on the New York Magic joining the UPSL. Also included are a bit of Magic history, current goals for the club, as well as Lyndelle's expertly articulated vision for both women's soccer development and the future of women's soccer in the United States.

Match Recap: NY Magic vs. Queens FC, June 27th, 2021

On a windy yet pleasant afternoon at SUNY Maritime, the NY Magic defeated a strong Queens FC team 2-0 with beautifully taken goals in each half by Kensia Destinvil and Danielle Perri.  The win pushed NY Magic into third place in the UPSL Eastern Conference standings with multiple games in hand on the first and second place teams.  The Magic will look to continue their winning ways on Wednesday, July 7th at 8 p.m. at SUNY Maritime against the New Jersey Wizards.   

Click here to see the UPSL Standings

UPSL Women Announces Northeast Expansion with New York Magic:

The United Premier Soccer League (#UPSL) announces New York, NY, based New York Magic (@nymagicsoccer ) as its newest @upslwomen expansion club ahead of the UPSL Spring 2021 season! #UPSLSpring21  

Click below for official UPSL press release:

Spring 2021 UPSL Women Welcomes NY Magic

New York Magic COVID Statement:

The New York Magic organization is committed to the health and safety of all of our players and staff.  We will be adhering to current COVID-19 protocols and will follow the most up to date guidance as issued by federal, state and local governments as well as the United States Soccer Federation's return to play recommendations.  

US Soccer PLAY ON COVID 19 Resources

Pebax Powered!

New York Magic is now Pebax Powered!  Click on the link below to see a short video from the New York Magic vs. Japanese Selection Team game that took place at Hofstra University below:

New York Magic is Pebax Powered!

Click below to see a video of the Pebax powered New York Magic in action at East 6th Street in NYC: