Silverbacks Head North with Loons in Sight

October 23, 2015 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Atlanta Silverbacks News Release


BLAINE, Minn. - After an scoreless draw at home onSaturday night, the Atlanta Silverbacks (7-11-10, 32 points) need to collect maximum points away to Minnesota United (13-10-5, 49 points) in order to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The Silverbacks face a challenge against the Loons, who are currently on an eight-game unbeaten run at home, not having lost since the final game of the Spring Season.

Minnesota has been a cut above the rest. In fact, they've scored more goals - 36 - than any other team in the NASL. Only 13 of those 36 goals were scored on their home field, though. What has assured the Loon's postseason spot has been their defense. Playing away from NSC Stadium, the team has given up 20 goals. Only the Carolina RailHawks have conceded more with 25. At home, Minnesota has allowed only four goals through the Fall Season. That's the lowest of any team in the league.

Minnesota, while a great team, isn't unstoppable. It's three losses during the Fall Season came at the hands of the RailHawks, New York Cosmos and - in it's previous match - Indy Eleven. Out of those three, only the Cosmos have a winning record, showing that the Loons do slip up every now and then.

During the two clubs' last meeting, Atlanta took an early lead with a 9th minute goal from Pedro Mendes. The Silverbacks ultimately fell 2-1 at Atlanta Silverbacks Park.

Saturday night is likely to be the toughest game Atlanta has played all season, but three points are absolutely necessary to ensure the season doesn't end on Halloween weekend.



North American Soccer League Stories from October 23, 2015


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