Sports stats



USSF D-2 North Carolina FC

RailHawks Tie Stars 0-0 in Opening Playoff Game

October 6, 2010 - U.S. Soccer Federation D-2 (USSF D-2)
North Carolina FC News Release


BLAINE, MN (October 6, 2010) - The Carolina RailHawks (13-9-8, 47 pts) tied the NSC Minnesota Stars (11-12-7, 40 pts) 0-0 on Wednesday night, in the first leg of the opening playoff series. The RailHawks return home to WakeMed Soccer Park on Saturday at 7 p.m. to close out the series.

"We started the game a little slow, but we improved as the first half went on and I think we played well in the second half and created quite a few good chances," said RailHawks head coach Martin Rennie. "We generally defended well and played well, so now the game is open for the taking at home and we're looking forward to that."

The first half took on a tentative pace as both teams seemed keen on not conceding the first goal. Play opened up a bit late in the first half, and Gregory Richardson nearly put the RailHawks on top with a breakaway in the 39th minute. After slipping the ball under Minnesota goalkeeper Joe Warren and regaining possession, Richardson played the ball across to Gardner who was unable to connect. RailHawks goalkeeper Eric Reed came up strong when called upon in the first half, ensuring that the RailHawks went into the locker room tied at 0-0.

Reed continued to keep the game level in the second half, after a diving save in the 63rd minute. RailHawks midfielder Matt Watson was inches away from breaking the scoreless tie in the 75th minute, but his shot soared just over the crossbar. With the game in stoppage time, RailHawks defender Brad Rusin nearly stole the win after he got behind the defense and chested the ball inches wide.

Next, the RailHawks return home for the second leg of the series on Saturday, 7 p.m. at WakeMed Soccer Park. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by calling the LGFCU Box Office at 919-859-5425 or at www.carolinarailhawks.com/playoffs.

Check out the North Carolina FC Statistics



U.S. Soccer Federation D-2 Stories from October 6, 2010


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central