NASL North Carolina FC

RailHawks Capture Dramatic 2-1 Victory over Tampa Bay

Published on June 8, 2013 under North American Soccer League (NASL)
North Carolina FC News Release


CARY, NC - Once again, RailHawks midfielder Tiyi Shipalane came up with his late game magic to capture a 2-1 victory for the RailHawks (4W-3T-1L, 15pts) over the Tampa Bay Rowdies (3W-3T-3L, 12pts). This time Shipalane's stoppage goal was accompanied by midfielder Cesar Elizondo's goal in the 90th minute to level the match 1-1. Tampa Bay forward Devin Del Do put the Rowdies up a goal in the 87th minute of play. With the win, the RailHawks improve to first place in the NASL standings with only four matches remaining in the NASL Spring Season.

"Tampa is a good team," said RailHawks head coach Colin Clarke. "We are delighted to earn the three points. The crowd has gone home happy, so we'll take it."

Playing down a man, due to a 38th minute red card to defender Andres Arango, the Rowdies defense continued to frustrate the RailHawks through the first 90 minutes of play. Going into stoppage time, the Rowdies led 1-0 despite being outshot 20 to 7.

"It was a very tough night," said Clarke. "Credit to Tampa. They defended very well and made it difficult on us in the attacking third."

The Rowdies jumped on top when Del Do collected a bouncing goal kick that landed in the RailHawks box. RailHawks goalkeeper Akira Fitzgerald got a hand on Del Do's shot, but was unable to keep it out of the net.

Although keeping most of the possession throughout the night, the RailHawks offense was kept at bay for 90 minutes. That was until an Austin da Luz cross connected with Elizondo in the 6-yard box. Elizondo out jumped the rushing Rowdies goalkeeper, Diego Restrepo, to nod home the equalizer and set the stage for another Shipalane last minute goal. Only minutes later Shipalane received the ball at the edge of the Rowdies box. He proceeded to beat one defender before releasing his shot that would earn the RailHawks the three points and the victory.

The RailHawks will now turn their focus to MLS side, Chivas USA, for the Round of 16 match in the 100th Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The RailHawks will host Chivas USA on Wednesday, June 12th at WakeMed Soccer Park at 7:00pm ET with a trip to the Quarterfinal Round on the line. Tickets are available for by calling the St. Lawrence Homes Box Office at 919-459-8144 or by visiting www.CarolinaRailHawks.com.

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