Sports stats



Kickabout: Match Day 1

April 4, 2015 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Atlanta Silverbacks News Release


ATLANTA -- Friendly wins against teams like the Charlotte Independence, Clemson University and UAB boosted the Atlanta Silverbacks' confidence throughout the five-week preseason, but everything comes fully into focus when the Silverbacks (6-5-16 in the league in 2014) host the second-year Indy Eleven on Saturday night (7:30 p.m., ESPN3) to open NASL play.

"We'll have to come with our game we showed in preseason and put it all together," said midfielder Ferrety Sousa on the eve of the start of his third year in Atlanta.

Forward Shaka Bangura, another of the four Silverbacks who played in Atlanta last year, said he spoke with some of the new players, most of whom are coming from outside leagues in the United States or abroad, about what challenges to expect in the NASL.

"This is a very physical league," Bangura said. "I talked to a few guys and told them you have to be mentally focused and sharp. There are going be some mistakes, so you have to be ready to take advantage."

Defender Paul Black, who played a full 90-minute shift in Atlanta's preseason finale, is eager to face the new challenge NASL play brings.

"I'm raring to go and very excited," defender Paul Black said. "It's been very positive the last few days of training."

What to watch for: Silverbacks vs. Indy Eleven

1. Jon Okafor and Kyle Porter vs. Indy full backs

Atlanta's wingers frequently troubled opposing defenses during preseason friendlies, and their matchup against Indy's Marco Franco and Jaime Frias -- both former MLS players -- will be crucial to the Silverbacks' attacking success. Physical and quick, Okafor and Porter have also demonstrated the willingness and ability to switch sides during games to give the opposition a different look. Adding the attacking prowess of full backs Black and Kyle Miller, flank battles in Atlanta's attacking third may be the Silverbacks' best path to scoring.

2. Atlanta's defensive cohesion

Breaking in an entirely new back line would challenge even the most talented groups, and that's before accounting for a rookie goalkeeper. Smith selected the same back line -- Black, Simon Mensing, Rauwshan McKenzie and Miller -- for the final two friendlies, with his defensive starters all playing at least 60 minutes for the first time in the preseason. Saturday will be the second time the Silverbacks will face professional forwards in 2015. Likely featuring two strikers, from Charlie Rugg, Brian Brown and Wojciech Wojcik, the Indy forwards will put more pressure on the Silverbacks defense and goalkeeper C.J. Cochran to maintain a high level of communication and keep miscues to a minimum.

3. Rising competition level

For both teams, opening NASL play will bring a considerable jump in quality from the preseason schedule. Indy split the two games against USL teams -- Saint Louis FC and Louisville City FC -- and played college teams for the remainder of scrimmages. Similarly, Atlanta mixed a lone professional friendly, a 2-1 Silverbacks victory against Charlotte, with collegiate opponents across three states. The Silverbacks were undefeated in full-sided exhibitions, but professionals are a different matter, especially in competitive matches. Whichever side can take those metaphorical punches, particularly in the early stages, and not become overwhelmed will put themselves in good position to pick up three points on Saturday.

Silverbacks reveal 2015 kit at kickoff party

Wednesday night's kickoff party at Red Brick Brewery launched the Club's uniforms and multiplied enthusiasm mere days before beginning the NASL season -- and the free beer served in Silverbacks glasses certainly didn't hurt the cause.

Unveiled by Porter and Mensing, the Silverbacks' 2015 uniforms include a red-and-black-striped home top and a white away kit with horizontal black and red hoops. Both jerseys feature the Atlanta skyline on the back, a small detail that goes a long way in representing the city.

Chants and songs filled the brewery, and the Silverbacks squad mingled with fans before and after the reveal, taking pictures with those who came out to Red Brick to celebrate the coming Spring Season.

"It was great to interact with the fans," Black said. "The players are all excited, and I think fans are excited too."

Steward Ceus appears on CBS 46

Taking a short break from his quickly-progressing knee surgery rehabilitation on Thursday, Silverbacks goalkeeper Steward Ceus appeared on CBS 46's Atlanta Plugged In, a midday talk show hosted by Annalee Perry.

They Said It

Roswell native Kevin Sawchak on signing after his preseason trial:

"I feel great. It's a hometown club and it's great to be back in Atlanta. I think we're going to have a successful season with Gary and Steve Guppy."

Peachtree City native and Berry College alumnus Josh Hughes on signing after his preseason trial :

"I'm elated to sign. This is what I've worked for my entire life. As any player knows, this isn't where the hard work stops; it's where it begins. I can't wait to get on the field for the season."

Fabrice Gautrat on signing after his preseason trial :

"I've only been here a couple months but the training sessions with Gary and the rest of the coaching staff have been very professional. I'm excited to really get started."

• Discuss this story on the North American Soccer League message board...

North American Soccer League Stories from April 4, 2015


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.

Other Recent Atlanta Silverbacks Stories



Sports Statistics from the Stats Crew
OurSports Central