The Round of 32 is set.
Vermont Green FC will host Hudson Valley Hammers on Friday, July 18th at 7pm to begin the USL League Two Playoffs presented by VensureHR. The Green earned a spot in the Round of 32 by winning the Northeast Division. The Hammers will come to Burlington fresh off a big First Round playoff win over Ocean City Nor’Easters.
HISTORY
Vermont Green FC and Hudson Valley Hammers will play for the first time ever on Friday, but the two clubs have orbited one another while vying for playoff spots in the past.
In 2022, the Green defeated the Western Mass Pioneers at Virtue Field on the final day of the regular season, finishing third in the Northeast Division, and earning the Eastern Conference wildcard berth. The win meant the Green edged out the Hammers for the final wildcard spot.
In 2024, the Green and the Hammers were again watching each other’s results in the final match of the season. The Green claimed the final playoff spot that again left the Hammers out in the cold.
No, there isn’t on-field history between the two sides, but there could be slightly more resentment from the Hudson Valley than the Green realize.
HUDSON VALLEY HAMMERS IN FOCUS
Hudson Valley Hammers were founded in 2020 with a group led by United States Men’s National Team captain Tyler Adams, a Hudson Valley native. The club was founded to promote the growth of talent in the region. They kicked off their first USL League Two season in 2022, the same season Vermont Green FC debuted.
The Hammers compete in the competitive Metropolitan Division, and while the likes of Long Island Rough Riders, FC Motown, and Manhattan SC have been the mainstays of dominance in the Metro, Hudson Valley have never been far behind. In their first four seasons, the club has three third place finishes, and one second place finish.
In 2025, the Hammers finished with 7 wins, 2 losses, and 3 draws in their 12 matches played. They finished only behind the undefeated Metropolitan Champions FC Motown, and 2022 national finalist Long Island Rough Riders.
The New Yorkers will be coming to Vermont with experience and a strong sense of regional pride, as many of the players hail from the Hudson Valley. In addition to their passion, they’ll be coming in hot: the Hammers dismantled Ocean City Nor’easters 3-1 away from home on Tuesday.
The Vermonters will need to be focused. Their opponents come in with a fog of unfamiliarity and a nothing-to-lose mindset.
The Green will look to their style, their turf, and their mighty fanbase to prove themselves superior. It’s bound to be a hotly-contested affair in Burlington.
PRODIGAL SON
One player has been the center of conversation in every cafe, bar, and household in Chittenden County this week: that’s Owen O’Malley. The returning-hero has been patient all season long, overcoming an ankle injury that left him unable to train for weeks. But when his moment came—and the Green needed him most—O’Malley tapped into the magic of the mountains, and delivered for the community he loves. His 99th minute goal lifted the Green to their first ever division title.
O’Malley is a serious weapon in Chris Taylor’s arsenal. Whether he’s used from the start, or as a super-sub, whether as an outside back or a winger, our number 12 is ready to step up to the occasion when Taylor calls.
ON THE CONCOURSE
South End Sliders, Sabah House, Church Street Cheesesteaks, Maharaja Spice, and Thingz from Yaad will be serving on the concourse. Ben & Jerry’s will be scooping FREE ICE CREAM! Arrive early to enjoy the concourse full of food vendors, tabling partners, and more!
TICKETS
The match is sold out, and no additional tickets will be made available. Fans without tickets can observe the match for free from the hill behind the north goal.
WATCH THE MATCH
Vermont Green FC will broadcast the match live and with commentary at vermontgreenfc.com/streaming.