Sports stats



NASL North Carolina FC

Carolina vs. Fort Lauderdale Strikers This Sunday, October 9

October 7, 2016 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
North Carolina FC News Release


Carolina vs. Fort Lauderdale Strikers This
Carolina vs. Fort Lauderdale Strikers This
(North Carolina FC)

Game originally scheduled for Saturday, October 8 postponed:

Weather and travel concerns related to Hurricane Matthew forced the date change from Saturday, October 8 to Sunday, October 9, as the Strikers will be making their way up to Cary, N.C. from South Florida. "After consulting with the League and Ft. Lauderdale, we all agreed that rescheduling the game to Sunday was the safest option for all involved," said RailHawks President and General Manager Curt Johnson. "We expect a good competitive game on Sunday and look forward to the match as we make a push for the playoffs."

Match Preview:

The Carolina RailHawks (9W-7D-11L; 34 pts; 7th place) host the Fort Lauderdale Strikers (8W-8L-11L; 32 pts; 9th place) today at WakeMed Soccer Park at 1:00 p.m. With a win, the RailHawks would take the series, as the two teams sit at 1-1 against each other this year.

The Strikers served the RailHawks a 3-1 loss on May 7 at WakeMed Soccer Park for their first meeting of the year. Since then, the RailHawks have only lost one game at WakeMed Soccer Park, embarking on a nine game home unbeaten streak until a September 28 loss to last year's NASL Champions, the New York Cosmos. The RailHawks took the second game against the Strikers, on July 16, with a 1-0 win after a Brian Shriver goal in the 23rd minute.

The RailHawks hold a slight offensive edge over the Strikers, with 31 and 27 goals scored, respectively. However, Brian Sylvestre and Strikers' goalkeeper Bruno Cardoso are close to even footing, as Sylvestre and Cardoso have both made 47 saves throughout their appearances this year. In this goalkeepers' duel, Sylvestre has a small leg up, as he has conceded 17 goals in 15 games played, while Cardoso has given up 20 goals in 16 appearances.

Last Time Out:

Carolina is coming off an October 2 draw against Rayo OKC. Neither team scored in regulation; however, there was excitement in stoppage time as Matt Watson broke through in the 92nd minute with an impressive goal from outside the box. Rayo OKC spoiled the RailHawks' chance of coming away with three points by scoring just two minutes later to result in a 1-1 draw.

Players to Watch:

# 11 Tiyi Shipalane

Shipalane is in his sixth season with the RailHawks and now has 20 total assists during his time at Carolina. Shipalane is known for his impressive foot skills and explosive touch, and it is no surprise that he is in the top 5 in the NASL for total crosses with 126 (averaging 5 crosses per game). The midfielder has also proved that he is not afraid to go for goal himself, as he has scored three goals this season in 25 games played.

#15 Amauri

The Italian International has provided a spark for the Strikers, as he has four goals in just nine games played. His first goal for the team was a bicycle kick that grabbed national attention on August 13 against Miami FC. His impressive resume includes caps with the Italian national team, Palermo, Juventus and most recently Torino. At 36 years old, Amauri brings experience and composure to his squad, making him the one to watch in Sunday's match.

Coming Up Next:

The RailHawks will remain in Cary for a midweek match against Rayo OKC on October 12 at 7:30 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park. The game will be broadcast live on WRAL2, TWC SportsChannel and beIN SPORTS.

West Ham United Jersey Auction to benefit Equality NC:

The RailHawks are auctioning off West Ham United jerseys to benefit Equality NC, a local advocacy group dedicated to securing equal rights and justice for LGBTQ North Carolinians. Now through October 15, 10 jerseys will be up for auction signed by over 10 West Ham United players including fan favorites Andy Carroll, Pedro Obiang and Manuel Lanzini. To place a bid, visit qtego.net/qlink/CarolinaRailHawks.

Check out the North Carolina FC Statistics




Images from this story

Carolina vs. Fort Lauderdale Strikers This
Carolina vs. Fort Lauderdale Strikers This
   



North American Soccer League Stories from October 7, 2016


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central