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NASL Miami FC

Miami FC Set to Take on Puerto Rico FC For First Time

September 2, 2016 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Miami FC News Release


MIAMI, Fla. - The Miami FC will be in Puerto Rico this weekend to take on fellow NASL newcomer Puerto Rico FC. Kickoff from Estadio Juan Ramón Loubriel is set for 7:30 p.m.

Down to the Wire

In front of a raucous crowd, the Miami FC and Minnesota United played out an exciting 1-1 draw.

The early goings were tightly contested as both sides fought to take control of the momentum. The Miami FC's first chance came in the 16th minute after Blake Smith smashed a volley from the top of the box.

As the first half closed, Ariel Martinez played a great ball to Dario Cvitanich. Cvitanich was able to get a foot on the pass but the chip shot was a bit too high.

The Orange and Blue took the lead early in the second half. In the 51st minute, Calvin Rezende played a great ball into the Minnesota United box. The ball floated past the defense and froze Minnesota's keeper. Poku made a great run far post and finished the chance with an easy tap in.

Minnesota would find an equalizer seven minutes later. A long ball made its way to Lance Laing's left foot and was able to chip keeper Daniel Vega.

Vincenzo Rennella came into the match in the 79th minute and made an instant impact. The club's newest attacking option nearly scored three game-winners on the three shots he took in the match.

Both sides would come close to taking the three points, but after the final whistle had blown, the Miami FC would walk away with a point and remain in fourth place in the Fall Season standings.

New vs. New

2016 is the first season the Miami FC, Rayo OKC and Puerto Rico FC have competed in the NASL.

This Saturday will mark the first meeting between the Orange and Blue and Puerto Rico FC, but this is not the first time the new teams have faced off.

The Miami FC has played Rayo OKC twice this year. The first matchup went to Rayo OKC, 3-2, after a late fould lead to a questionable penalty. The second match would go the way of the Miami FC. Deep into extra time Martinez hit a stunning game-winner to give the club a 2-1 victory on the road.

Puerto Rico FC only joined the NASL in the Fall Season, but has already played Rayo OKC twice. Puerto Rico took a 2-1 lead late in the first meeting, only to see a penalty shot end the game 2-2. They would get revenge when Rayo traveled to Puerto Rico 10 days later. Hector Ramos would net the eventual game-winner, giving Puerto Rico FC it's first-ever victory.

Road Warriors

The Orange and Blue struggled on the road during the Spring Season, but have flipped the script in the Fall Season.

The Miami FC has played five matches away from FIU Stadium in the fall and are yet to lose. Two wins and three draws on the road have been instrumental in the club's rise up the Fall Season table.

The Miami FC also has been formidable on offense when on the road. The squad has netted nine goals when away from home, including three against the Carolina RailHawks and a club-record four against Minnesota.

The Orange and Blue will look to continue this success as they stare down another long road trip, with stops in Puerto Rico and Edmonton.

Players to Watch

Since joining the club for the start of the fall season, Poku has helped the Miami FC become a top five side. The Miami FC has lost only twice in the last 10 matches and has scored 16 goals, double its Spring Season output.

Poku brings great athletics and a non-stop motor that has made a force in the NASL. He has already scored four goals for the Miami FC on just seven shots and has registered an assist.

As the Miami FC continues to fight for a playoff spot, his energy and finishing will be great assets.   

Daniel Vega has been fantastic since day one for the Orange and Blue. Without the Argentinian in goal it is hard to say where the club would be.

Vega currently leads the NASL in saves with 73, while having faced 100 shots on his goal. Many of the Miami FC's triumphs can be traced back to great saves he has made to keep the club in matches.

He is not only a great shot-stopper but he also commands his box better than most. This season Vega has made 12 catches, 16 punch-outs and 21 clearances, making it difficult for opposing offenses to score easy goals.

Vega was recently named to the NASL Team of the Week, his third time earning the honor, after making five saves against high-powered Minnesota United.

Watch:

- ESPN 3 webstream. Available HERE

- GolTV (delayed)

Follow:

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

- Live Stats HERE

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North American Soccer League Stories from September 2, 2016


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