Miami FC more than ready to host Rochester
September 7, 2009 - USL First Division (USL-1)
Fort Lauderdale Strikers News Release
MIAMI September 7, 2009 - After an impressive victory this past Saturday night at FIU Stadium, Miami FC prepares to host the Rochester Rhinos. The game will be played at Lockhart Stadium Tuesday, September 8 at 8 p.m. Miami has two games left in the 2009 home schedule, including the season finale against the Puerto Rico Islanders at Lockhart Stadium on Saturday, September 19 at 8 p.m.
"I can tell after the win that the team looks really focused. Everyone in the organization understands what's at stake," said head coach Zinho. "We are going to continue our philosophy that every game is a final."
About Miami
The Blues beat the Austin Aztex 3-1, snapping a six-game winless streak with an offensive explosion at the Cage. Miami's newest signings left a strong imprint on the team. Aaron King, the latest player to sign with the Blues, scored a goal in his debut for Miami FC. Brain Shriver was named the Powerade Player of the Game, and home-grown product Nelson Pizarro contributed in Miami's latest win with a brilliant assist on the third goal.
Miami is still in 8th place, currently one spot outside the final playoff spot. Although Vancouver has played one more game than the Blues, Miami is eight points behind the Whitecaps. Miami has four games left on its calendar; the two home games against the Minnesota Rhinos and the Puerto Rico Islanders, and two road games against the Charleston Battery and the Rochester Rhinos.
About Minnesota
The Rhinos are currently in fifth place with 38 points. Rochester beat Miami in their first matchup this season at Lockhart Stadium 2-1 on April 26th. On September 3, Rochester ended the Portland Timbers' USL First Division's record unbeaten streak with a 2-1 victory in front of over 11,000 Timbers fans. Just three days later, however, The Rhinos lost 0-2 to the Puerto Rico Islanders at Juan Ramon Loubriel Stadium, missing out on the opportunity of locking up a playoff berth. After this Tuesday's game against Miami, Rochester will go back home to face the Blues once again at Rochester Rhinos Stadium and then host one of USL elites, the Charleston Battery.
Miami FC Challange
The Blues are inviting all their fans to pack the house for their season finale at Lockhart Stadium against their Caribbean rivals the Puerto Rico Islanders. One player from the team will have to shave his head for every 500 fans that attend the game. The game will feature another Powerade pre-game parade. The parade will feature over half a dozen youth clubs leading the team on to the pitch.
USL First Division Stories from September 7, 2009
- Austin plays strong against Portland, but gives up late goal in 1-0 defeat - Austin Aztex
- Late Keel goal lifts Timbers to victory in Austin, 1-0 - Portland Timbers
- Miami FC more than ready to host Rochester - Fort Lauderdale Strikers
- Timbers Face Aztex In Home-And-Home Set This Week - Portland Timbers
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