US Open Cup Match Preview: Vermont Green FC vs. Westchester SC

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Virtue Field at Archie Post Athletic Complex — Burlington, Vermont
Broadcast: Paramount+

Weather Forecast — Burlington, VT (April 1, 2026)

Based on historical early‑April climate patterns for Burlington.

Temperature: 42–48°F (evening kickoff will feel colder)

Conditions: Partly cloudy

Wind: 6–10 mph

Rain Probability: ~20%

Pitch Impact: Cool, firm surface—favors high‑energy pressing and fast transitions

Injury & Availability Report

Vermont Green FC

No major injuries reported entering the match.

Squad is fresh after their historic First Round win.

Head coach Chris Taylor was named Top Coach of the First Round, signaling strong tactical form.

Westchester SC

No official injury list published yet.

Expected to travel with a full professional roster.

Entering the match after a mixed run of form (2W‑1D‑2L).

Team Records & Recent Form

Vermont Green FC (USL League Two — Pre‑Professional)

Recent Results:

1–0 vs Portland Hearts of Pine (Cup First Round)

2–1 vs Ballard FC

0–0 vs Dothan United

3–1 vs Lionsbridge

3–2 vs FC Motown II

Key Notes:

Riding momentum after a historic Cup upset over a USL1 opponent.

Strong home support at Virtue Field.

Attack led by David Ismail, who scored the First Round winner.

Creative engine: Ryan Zellefrow, who assisted the decisive goal.

Westchester SC (USL League One — Fully Professional)

Recent Results:

2–0 vs NY Renegades

1–1 vs Charlotte Independence

2–3 vs One Knoxville

1–2 vs Chattanooga Red Wolves

2–2 vs Portland Hearts of Pine

Key Notes:

More experienced roster with year‑round training.

Forward D. Burko has 2 goals in Cup play and is their top scorer.

Defensive inconsistency: 7 goals conceded in last 3 matches.

Series History

First‑ever meeting between the clubs.

Vermont represents USL2; Westchester represents USL1.

Stakes: Winner advances to the U.S. Open Cup Round of 32.

Key Player Matchups

David Ismail (VTG) vs. Westchester Back Line

Scored Vermont’s First Round winner.

Westchester has conceded multiple goals in recent matches.

D. Burko (WCH) vs. Vermont Center‑Backs

2 goals in Cup play; Westchester’s most dangerous finisher.

Vermont must stay compact to avoid transition goals.

Midfield Battle: Zellefrow (VTG) vs. Westchester’s Double Pivot

Zellefrow’s creativity is crucial for Vermont’s chance at another upset.

Westchester’s midfield is more experienced and physical.

Betting Trends

Vermont Green FC

5‑match unbeaten streak (all competitions).

Conceded only 1 goal in last 3 matches.

Strong home performances at Virtue Field.

Westchester SC

Winless in last 3 competitive matches.

Conceded 7 goals in last 3.

Struggle to close out matches late.

Cup Trends

Vermont already upset a USL1 team in Round 1.

Westchester has never advanced past the Second Round.

MATCH ODDS

Vermont Green FC           + 275

Westchester SC                – 125

Draw                                + 250

Over 2.5 – 105                   Under 2.5 – 115

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, March 31, 2026