Playmaker Mendiola Makes Return to Lights FC (original) (raw)

LAS VEGAS – Las Vegas Lights FC announced on Thursday the return of forward Raul Mendiola ahead of its first game back in action on Saturday night against San Diego Loyal SC. Mendiola ranks second all-time in goals in Lights FC history, having recorded 10 tallies during the club’s inaugural 2018 season with the club.

“Obviously Raul is a great player who the fans here know well. I am excited he’s agreed to join us this season,” said Lights FC Head Coach Frank Yallop. “This is obviously a unique season and we are excited to add further depth to the roster today.”

Born in Mexico but raised in Southern California, Mendiola signed a Homegrown Player contract with Major League Soccer’s LA Galaxy ahead of the 2014 season. While with the Galaxy, Mendiola was a standout for the LA Galaxy II in the Championship, and helped the side make history as the first MLS owned-and-operated club to reach the USL Championship Final in 2015.

In addition to playing for Las Vegas, Mendiola has also competed for Reno 1868 FC and San Diego Loyal SC, both of whom he’ll face in his first two games back in a Lights FC uniform. For his career in the Championship, Mendiola has recorded 23 goals and 29 assists in 120 appearances.

Lights FC returns to play this Saturday on the road against San Diego Loyal SC at 10 p.m. ET before returning to Cashman Field for their home opener on Saturday, August 1st versus in-state rival Reno 1868 FC.