NASL Tampa Bay Rowdies

FCTB takes on University of Tampa in First Preseason Game

Published on March 5, 2010 under North American Soccer League (NASL)
Tampa Bay Rowdies News Release


After scouring the globe, attending multiple combines, holding invitation-only tryouts in Tampa and Liverpool, the Rowdies are about to take to the pitch together for the first time in their first preseason game in preparation for the 2010 inaugural season.

With the majority of the team now reported to camp, the team will have a chance to put Coach Paul Dalglish's system into action as they take on University of Tampa this Saturday.

During training sessions at the Land O' Lakes Sports Complex this past week, the players have been getting to know each other and learning how to work together in Coach Dalglish's new system.

"We're going to be playing a very attacking style with high pressure from the front. A 4-2-3-1 system with two out and out wingers," Coach Dalglish said. "The older Rowdies fans who grew up on the flying Wegerles should find this somewhat familiar and will really enjoy the style."

With Dalglish's style in mind, the team had the goal to find exciting wide players to fit into the system. "We like to get the ball wide early create 1v1 situations for our dynamic wingers," Dalglish added. "After a week of training, the team worked really hard and we got a chance to see them up close and working together. We certainly have what we were looking for. We're really excited about the upcoming season."

The team will face off against a University of Tampa squad that made it to the NSCAA National Quarterfinals and finished fifth in the NSCAA National Rankings with a 17-3-1 overall record last season.

The excitement of the first match isn't overshadowing Dalglish's goals. "Fitness," Dalglish said. "Like any preseason match the goal is to get everyone match fit, playing 11v11, staying healthy and avoiding injuries."

This game represents the start of a new era in Rowdies history and means a great deal to each player, especially to midfielder Pascal Millien. Millien is not only returning to play against his alma mater team but is also helping raise money for his home country of Haiti. Proceeds from the game will benefit the American Red Cross and the earthquake relief efforts in Haiti.

The game kicks off Saturday, March 6 at 7 p.m. at University of Tampa's Pepin Stadium. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for 17 and under.

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North American Soccer League Stories from March 5, 2010


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