READING, PA (June 1, 2021) –  Wednesday’s matchup between Reading United and the Ocean City Nor’easters will have no shortage of motivation as Reading will face Ocean City head coach Alan McCann for the first time since his departure from the club last year. An upstart Reading United team fresh off their first victory of the season should be confident enough to take on an undefeated Nor’easters squad that features a few familiar faces.

McCann left a profound mark on Reading, becoming one of the club’s most decorated coaches in just two seasons at the helm. His 28-3-5 mark includes two straight trips to the USL League Two finals, and his six playoff victories set a Reading United team record. 

In his first season with Ocean City, the two-time reigning USL League Two Coach of the Year has continued his success and has yet to notch a loss with his new club. The Nor’easters currently sit in second place in the Eastern Conference Mid Atlantic Division with a 3-0 record after knocking off top-ranked West Chester United 2-1 on May 23rd. The squad features Bakary Bagayoko, Simon Becher, Jamali Waite, and Jilly Waso - all former Reading United players.

While Ocean City enters the contest on a hot streak, Reading United comes in with some much needed confidence as well after a 1-0 victory over Philadelphia Lone Star on Friday evening. The rain-soaked affair was a sloppy one to start, but Reading kicked into high gear, outshooting the away side 17-6 on the evening. Lyam MacKinnon bagged his first goal for Reading and outshot the entire Philadelphia-side with seven.

A full strength Reading United squad with added reinforcements should be able to give McCann and company a run for their money in the 51st meeting between the two clubs, the oldest active rivalry in the USL. Tickets for the June 2 matchup at Carey Stadium can be purchased at http://oceancityfc.com/tickets. The match can be viewed at mycujoo.com.