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Knox Keeps Thunder in Game, Earn One Point from 1-1 Draw at Miami

August 31, 2008 - USL First Division (USL-1)
Minnesota Thunder News Release


MIAMI, Florida (August 31, 2008)- The Minnesota Thunder ended their two game series tonight against Miami FC, tying 1-1. Nathan Knox scored the Thunder's only goal that kept them in the game, and protecting their spot above Miami in the First Division standings. Both teams were coming off a rough game on Friday, after the Thunder defeated the Blues 2-1. The Thunder earned four points from the weekend series, enough to put them in a good position to play Montreal and Vancouver next weekend.

The Thunder had the advantage going into tonight's game. They had confidence from the win on Friday, and Miami was missing three key players because of red cards. The Thunder was up 2-0 in the series against Miami so far in the season, and was looking to sweep the series and earn a full six points in tonight's game.

The game started off in Miami's favor, with the pressure on the Thunder's defensive end. Former Thunder player Ansu Toure was the most dangerous attacker for the Blues, putting up five shots against the Thunder defense. In the first half, the Thunder couldn't seem to get past the Miami defense, only providing them with one scoring opportunity in the first half. In the 30th minute, Brian Cvilikas made a run down the right flank, crossing it into Dale Weiler. Weiler couldn't seem to get to the ball fast enough on the other side, giving Miami possession.

In the 43rd minute, Miami scored their first and only goal of the game. Alex Afonso sent a through ball to Sean Fraser who passed through the Thunder defense and put a ball in front of net that the Thunder defense couldn't seem to get too. A Thunder defender attempted to trap the ball, only to find the back of the Thunder net. The late goal put Miami at an advantage going into the second half, and the Thunder knew a loss wasn't acceptable.

The start of the second half, the Thunder came out energized and ready to score. It wasn't until the Thunder made a key substitution in the 64th minute that the striker mentality was turned up a level. In the 74th minute, Ricardo Sanchez took one of his many free kicks, bending the ball on net. Miami goalkeeper Josh Saunders was there to dive and save it, only leading to a Thunder corner kick.

It was goalkeeper Nic Platter that kept the Thunder in tonight's game, making five key saves. In the 75th minute Fraser sent a cross to Afonso who missed the ball, only to be saved by Platter and cleared out of danger.

In the 88th minute, the Thunder tied the game. Knox, who had the game winning goal in Friday's game, came in as a substitute in the 64th minute, scored the goal to tie late in the game. John Greenfield sent a great through ball to Knox who was placed in front of goal. Knox followed his shot into the back of the net, securing a Thunder draw.

"The team battled all weekend to earn a tough four points on the road. I believe we are still in control of our destiny when it comes to the playoffs," said interim head coach Donny Grammenz.

The Thunder earned four points from the weekend series, and go on to play Montreal and Vancouver on September 5 and 7, respectively. The Thunder return home on September 13 to host the Charleston Battery as part of their two last home games of the regular season. For tickets call 651.989.5151 or visit www.ticketmaster.com



USL First Division Stories from August 31, 2008


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