NASL Tampa Bay Rowdies

Rowdies Players Weigh in on Crucial Match against the Cosmos

Published on September 24, 2013 under North American Soccer League (NASL)
Tampa Bay Rowdies News Release


TAMPA, Fla. (September 24, 2013) -- One of the most historic rivalries in U.S. Soccer history will resume this Sunday for the second time this Fall Season, as the Tampa Bay Rowdies will travel to face the New York Cosmos in James M. Shuart Stadium. Not only is the Rowdies 10-game undefeated run at stake, but with a win the reigning NASL Soccer Bowl Champions will take over first place in the standings.

"The Cosmos have shown that they are a tough team to beat," commented midfielder Stuart Campbell. "They are very strong at home, but then again we are the best team on the road and it's up to us to take over the top of the table. It's such an honor to play for a club that has such a rich history and tradition and playing against the Cosmos is special for every member on this team."

New York visited Al Lang Stadium in Week 2 of the Fall Season, as the Rowdies and Cosmos battled it out to a scoreless draw in front of a standing-room-only crowd. The visiting team showed their overall strength as a team, but it was Rowdies goalkeeper Diego Restrepo who was the man of the match. His 12-save performance sent the Cosmos back up north with just one point.

"The game at Al Lang was tough as they came out in full force," explained midfielder Keith Savage. "Now with half of the season unfolded, this game will be a very different one than the one in August. Rivalries like these are different than any other match as there are more than three points on the line."

The Rowdies players know that they will not be alone when they take the pitch at Hofstra. With a contingency of Ralph's Mob making the trip, the squad knows how important their support will be.

"It's fantastic to know that when Sunday's match kicks off, we will have our support in New York," said forward Georgi Hristov. "A win against the Cosmos will give us first place, but it will also be a great way to thank our fans for the support."

With his quick pace and off-ball movements, forward Lucky Mkosana has quickly become a fan favorite. Having just played three matches, Mkosana has been impressed with the support from the club's fans.

"They are the best fans I have ever played in front of," said the 25-year-old. "They are constantly supporting the team and they are truly our 12th man. I am excited to play against the Cosmos in my first rivalry since joining the club, and I hope to play my part in helping the team get the win in New York."

The Rowdies and Cosmos will resume their historic rivalry this Sunday, September 29 at 5:00 p.m. ET at James H. Shuart Stadium in New York. Sunday's match will be broadcast on ONE World Sports.

Check out the Tampa Bay Rowdies Statistics

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



North American Soccer League Stories from September 24, 2013


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