OFF! ON! OFF!

The start of the 2026 Select League season could not have started much worse for Northland FC. The club up North built on a mix of young talent and experienced players. Returning to compete in the premier league of Kansas State Soccer. The anticipation, the anxiety, the energy was building month after month after month after mmmooonnnnttthhhh.

Just to be called off hours before kick off.

Match week 2 comes with a challenge against the recognizable Emporia FC. Coming out swinging Emporia put the breaks on Real Overland Park title hopes on week one when Emporia thrashed ROP 7 - 1. The League for Clubs, UPSL, and now Select League house some of Kansas toughest competition.

Northland FC hosting the toughest squad in the metro! We held our own to keep the points between us. A relentless first have saw opportunities on both sides. Northland FC's Goal Keeper Marcelo was showing his agility with save after save keeping the score close. Emporia was able to Roar just one goal past Marcelo during the first half. Partnered with a solid defensive pairing was the chemistry Northland needed.

2nd half gets underway with Northland trailing by one goal. But it did not stay that way for long at all. Following a yellow card shown to Northland's Abas. Tigran, with an assist from Josue, was able to find the back of the net ! Though Josue was not able to register a shot himself. His efforts were pivotal to bring the score level. That goal was Northland FC’s first of the 2026 season and swung the momentum completely.

The early second half goal gave Northland FC the boost of energy they needed. Every player, every pass, every position was putting in that must more effort, energy, power behind their kicks. Emporia seemed overwhelmed from the pressure from this "lower league" squad. Not able to make it past the defensive power of Abas and James they leave Happy Rock with one point, a few questions, and a frown.

Coming off the pitch following the well earned point, we had our answers. The level of the Select League is high. We could have walked away with three points. We have opportunity to grow and the opportunity to win the Select League! And more importantly, Northland FC can go toe-to-toe with the league’s top sides.

Next up is a bye week for Northland FC — no match this weekend

But all focus now shifts to the next home game.

SATURDAY MAY 23, 2026

vs MERRIAM ATLAS

HAPPY ROCK PARK – KICK OFF 6:00PM

Come out and support the boys up North as they look to turn this momentum into 3 points at home.