U.S. Open Cup Chaos: Sharktopus FC to Replay Bellevue Match

The U.S. Open Cup has taken a dramatic turn as Sharktopus FC prepares for a rematch against Bellevue Athletic after a controversial second-round qualifying match. The original game, which Bellevue won 4-3, raised concerns over a potential conflict of interest involving the referee, who was previously affiliated with Bellevue.

Sharktopus manager Leo Ohannesian first noted unusual rapport between the Bellevue players and the referee during the match. “As a passionate soccer coach, I could disagree with the calls,” Ohannesian stated to ESPN. “But their familiarity with him was odd; they were calling him ‘buddy’ and by his first name.” After the match, he learned that the referee had played for Bellevue’s reserve team, B2, which prompted him to contact U.S. Soccer regarding a possible protest.

Upon investigation, the U.S. Open Cup adjudication and disciplinary panel confirmed that the situation warranted a rematch, as the referee’s previous ties represented a clear conflict of interest. The panel issued a statement emphasizing that their decision aimed to maintain the integrity of the competition, stating, “The decision does not reflect any evidence or belief that any party attempted to influence the competition.”

The rematch is set to occur before the next round of the tournament on November 1, 2023. Bellevue Athletic had filed an appeal against the ruling, paying a $500 fee in the process, but it remains to be seen if the decision will be overturned.

The U.S. Open Cup is a storied tournament that allows teams from across the country, including amateur squads, to compete against professional sides. Established in 1913-14, the competition has grown to be a platform where lower-division teams can challenge higher-ranked opponents, adding excitement and unpredictability.

While only a handful of amateur teams have captured the trophy since the inception of Major League Soccer (MLS) in 1996, moments of glory for lesser-known clubs have made headlines. Just this year, amateur side El Farolito stunned professional teams Real Monarchs and Monterey Bay, showcasing the potential for upsets within the tournament.

The saga surrounding Sharktopus FC adds to the rich tapestry of the U.S. Open Cup’s history. The team, which plays in the Recreational Adult Team Soccer (RATS) League, has made its mark with a unique name that has piqued curiosity. Ohannesian shared that the origin of the name remains a mystery even to the team.

As the tournament progresses, local rivalries and community ties play a significant role in the fabric of the U.S. Open Cup. For many amateur teams, participation in the tournament represents not just a chance for glory, but also an opportunity to connect with fellow soccer enthusiasts.

Bellevue Athletic’s sporting director Anastacio Rivera acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that the referee’s previous affiliation should have disqualified him from officiating the match. Rivera supported the integrity of the competition, emphasizing, “We didn’t think he should [referee our game], but when he says it’s cleared with everybody, there’s not much we can do.”

As anticipation builds for the rematch, both teams now face the challenge of navigating the complexities of the U.S. Open Cup, where every match can lead to unexpected twists and turns. The outcome of this replay not only impacts the teams involved but also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining fairness and transparency within the sport.