NASL Miami FC

Miami FC Set for Midweek Clash with Ottawa

Published on September 27, 2016 under North American Soccer League (NASL)
Miami FC News Release


MIAMI, Fla. - The Miami FC returns to FIU Stadium, Wednesday, Sept. 28, closing out a two-match homestand against Ottawa Fury FC.

A Game of Millimeters

The Orange and Blue hosted Puerto Rico FC last week, in what would be a closely contested match.

Puerto Rico FC nearly opened the scoring early on, but a last-ditch clearance off the line by Gabriel Farfán kept the match even. A few minutes later Farfán nearly gave the Miami FC the lead after connecting with a Blake Smith cross.

Just before halftime, Daniel Vega went full-stretch to deny a quality Puerto Rico scoring opportunity.

Enzo Rennella was fantastic in the second half, putting two dynamite shots on goal early in the second half. Unfortunately, the Puerto Rico keeper was able to stop both shots.

Puerto Rico took the lead in the 79th minute after a free kick glanced off the head of Pablo Campos for an own goal.

The Orange and Blue would push hard for an equalizer but could not find the back of the net, falling 1-0.

Down but Never Out

Last year's Soccer Bowl runners-up, Ottawa Fury FC, finished last in the spring season but came back with a vengeance in the fall.

The Miami FC are in the exact position, with a similar path to the Soccer Bowl lined up.

The Fury opened the season by winning six matches and drawing once, against some of the best teams in the league.

The Miami FC was off to a slower start winning three, losing two and drawing twice. After a tough loss to the Strikers, the Orange and Blue hit their stride and went unbeaten in the last six matches.

Even though the Miami FC has dropped the last two matches, the playoffs are still well within reach.

The Miami FC sits just six points behind, current Fall Season leaders the NY Cosmos. With just seven matches left and a late season clash with New York still on the schedule, the Orange and Blue are in prime position to take the Fall Season Championship.

The squad is also still in prime position to earn the fourth and final playoff spot in the Combined Standings. Minnesota United is just four points ahead of the Miami FC, with Miami holding a match in hand.

Players to Watch

Gabriel Farfán has been a great two-way threat for the Miami FC since joining the club.

On defense, Farfán has marshaled the wings with authority. He has won 68 duels, collected 46 interceptions and made 26 clearances. Two of those clearances have denied goals, coming off the goal line.

Farfán has been crucial to the Miami FC's offensive turnaround. He has whipped in 35 crosses this season, creating 16 scoring chances and registering an assist.

Farfán's passing on the ground has been just as effective. He has completed 556 passes this season, posting a pass accuracy of 86%.

Jaime Chavez made his return to the field last week after an extended absence due to injury.

Chavez was catching fire before getting hurt scoring three goals in two matches, including a game-winner.

In 61 minutes of action against Puerto Rico, Chavez made a multitude of dangerous runs creating havoc for Puerto Rico and scoring opportunities for his teammates.

Chavez has netted four goals this season and with great efficiency. 13 of his 18 shots have been on target this season.

His fantastic movement and strength in the air has been key for the Miami FC offense. He has created 10 scoring chances this season and registered one assist. His value to the attack goes further than passing and assists. Chavez has won 72 duels, including 39 in the sir. His knack for winning 50-50 balls has initiated the attack many times for the Orange and Blue.

Watch:

- BeIN Sports

Follow:

- Live Play-By-Play on Twitter at @TheMiamiFC

- Live Stats HERE

For tickets to the match, please visit MiamiFC.com/Tickets

Check out the Miami FC Statistics

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North American Soccer League Stories from September 27, 2016


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