NASL Miami FC

RECAP | the Miami FC Keeps Playoff Hopes Alive with 2-2 Draw At

Published on October 14, 2016 under North American Soccer League (NASL)
Miami FC News Release


MIAMI - (Oct. 14, 2016) - The Miami FC closed out a two-match homestand Friday night with a crucial playoff fixture against the Tampa Bay Rowdies. A wide open match would see the Orange and Blue take an early lead, only for the Rowdies to fight back, ending in a 2-2 draw.

"We started the first half well and scored early," said Head Coach Alessandro Nesta. "We started the second half poorly but fought well at the end of the match."

The Miami FC came out on fire in the first half, with forward Jaime Chavez leading the charge.

Just two minutes into the match Blake Smith sent a cross that found Chavez but the shot flew just high off the crossbar. On the other end, Rhett Bernstein came up with a key block in the 11th minute to keep Tampa off the board.

The Orange and Blue continued to push forward, ripping off two close-range shots a minute later but they were blocked. The next Miami FC attack saw Chavez find space in the box, but his chip shot floated over the crossbar.

The Rowdies responded almost immediately with a great chance of their own, but Daniel Vega went full-stretch to make a stop at the far post.

The Miami FC's relentless attack paid off in the 16th minute. Smith sent in a cross-pitch pass to a streaking Chavez, who hit a perfect volley into the Rowdies' net to take a 1-0 advantage.

Chavez would double the lead five minutes later, this time with an assist. He and Poku worked some excellent combination play, ending with Chavez threading a great pass to Poku. Wide open in front of goal, Poku easily finished the chance.

The Rowdies again had a response. Georgi Hristov headed home a cross in the 28th minute to bring the score to 2-1.

The home side closed out the half with another Chavez opportunity that was cut out before he could get a head on the ball.

The second half started off slow but picked up as the final whistle approached with both sides eager to take three points.

The Rowdies were able to control possession early on in the second half, picking up an equalizer in the 66th minute. Juan Guerra created space from himself at the top of the box and curled in his shot for the goal.

The Miami FC responded well, with the team regaining possession and getting forward in attack.

Chavez nearly scored the game-winner in the 69th minute as he hit another fantastic volley that was a bit too high.

The two sides continued to wrestle for control of the match, with the Miami FC getting the upper hand late.

Smith and Chavez combined again, this time in the 86th minute as Smith's cross bounced over Chavez's head.

Extra time would see the Orange and Blue find another gear as they fought to win the match.

First, great passing ended with Poku open at the far post. He sent in a one-time shot but it was saved. Just before the final whistle blew, Jonathan Borrajo whipped a cross to Bernstein who was able to direct a header on goal stopped by Matt Pickens.

The Miami FC hits the road for two matches, kicking off the trip with a midweek clash against the Jacksonville Armada, followed by a visit to New York to face the Cosmos.

Quick Hits

Starting Xl

GK - Vega

DEF - Smith, Trafford, Bernstein, Freeman, Borrajo

MID - Palacios, Steele (70' - Rezende), Poku 

FWD - Chavez, Cvitanich (76' - Rennella)

Bookings

56' - Chavez (yellow)

Stats

Possession: 49%

Shots: 12

Passes: 390

Pass Accuracy: 77%

Clearances: 11

Tackles: 15

About The Miami FC

The Miami FC is Miami's only professional soccer team and began playing in the North American Soccer League (NASL) in 2016. Co-owned by international entrepreneur Riccardo Silva and world-renowned soccer superstar Paolo Maldini, the club will compete in the U.S. Open Cup and host international tournaments and friendly matches.

In partnership with The Miami Foundation and the Play for Change Foundation, Miami FC's mission is to connect with Miami's communities through the global language of soccer, strengthening their ties by promoting social-driven initiatives and charitable work through soccer.

Check out the Miami FC Statistics

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North American Soccer League Stories from October 14, 2016


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