Home team's strong offensive performance proves too much for Atlanta

Published on May 14, 2011 under North American Soccer League (NASL)
Atlanta Silverbacks News Release


The Atlanta Silverbacks suffered a 3-0 loss to the NSC Minnesota Stars at NSC Stadium in Blaine, Minn. Saturday night.

The Stars put pressure on the visiting Silverbacks from the outset, forcing Atlanta goalkeeper Felipe Quintero into a trio of difficult saves early in the game. Stars midfielder Lucas Rodriguez was at the forefront of the home team's attack, and he would have given his team a 1-0 advantage if not for a point-blank save from Quintero.

The Stars' persistence paid off in the 17th minute when a cross from midfielder Neil Hlavaty found forward Jeff Cosgriff, who flicked a header past Quintero from 10 yards away. Both teams created several good scoring chances in the first half, but Cosgriff's first goal of the season remained the difference as the teams headed into the locker rooms at halftime.

The Stars won a penalty kick in the 56th minute when midfielder Ely Allen was taken down in the 18-yard box. Hlavaty stepped up to the penalty spot and converted his shot, putting it to Quintero's right. After a good scoring chance for Silverbacks defender Willie Hunt, the Stars countered with another goal. Midfielder Lucas Rodriguez, who turned in a very strong performance Saturday night, beat Quintero with a low shot to make the score 3-0 in the 66th minute.

The Silverbacks came close to scoring twice in the second half. Forward Emsad Zahirovic's shot was saved by Stars goalkeeper Joe Warren, while a shot from forward Raphael Cox rattled off the post just before the final whistle.

The Silverbacks return home to take on the Fort Lauderdale Strikers at Atlanta Silverbacks Park on Saturday, May 21. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased online at atlantasilverbacks.com or by phone at 404-969-4900.

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North American Soccer League Stories from May 14, 2011


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