Silverbacks Surge into Empire State to Face Cosmos
October 2, 2015 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Atlanta Silverbacks News Release
NEW YORK - The Atlanta Silverbacks (7-9-9, 30 points) are in an enviable position - just four points outside of fourth place - and within reach of grabbing the NASL's final playoff spot with five matches to play. Now, the Silverbacks are looking ahead to a home-and-home series with one of the best teams in the NASL and Spring Season champions, the New York Cosmos (11-10-4, 43 points). Atlanta travels to Shuart Stadium on Oct. 4 for a rare 5 p.m. kickoff (ONE World Sports) before returning to Atlanta Silverbacks Park three days later to host the Cosmos on Oct. 7 (7:30 p.m.).
After a draw and a win with five goals scored, the Silverbacks are riding a modest two-game unbeaten run, which is something that can't be said about the Cosmos.
Jaime Chavez grabbed two goals against the Scorpions on Sept. 26, while Junior Burgos notched two assists. Chavez now leads the team in scoring and assists with seven of each.
New York has been in a bit of a slump for the past two weeks. After losing to Ottawa Fury FC in a horrendous 4-1 game, the Cosmos lost again to FC Edmonton on Match Day 25. The Cosmos conceded two goals in two minutes before grabbing a consolation goal in the 58th minute.
Atlanta has only met the Cosmos once this year. That game ended in a scoreless draw at Atlanta Silverbacks Park.
With 43 points, New York has consistently been one of the best teams all season. They're already guaranteed a playoff spot after winning the Spring Season. Their recent woes could lead to Atlanta's fortunes, though.
If the Silverbacks can grab some points from James M. Shuart Stadium, they could force themselves closer to playoff contention. They'll be doing so as Silverbacks director of scouting and player recruitment Ricky Clarke makes his managerial debut. Silverbacks head coach Gary Smith will serve a one-match technical area ban, but will be present for the match.
North American Soccer League Stories from October 2, 2015
- FCE Match Preview vs. Ottawa Fury FC - FC Edmonton
- Canadian Rivalry Continues; the Race for the Championship Enters Home Stretch - NASL
- Match Preview: All-Canadian Rivalry Heats up at TD Place Between Ottawa and Edmonton - Ottawa Fury FC
- Loons Look to Defend Home Field in Final Stretch - Minnesota United FC
- Match Notes: San Antonio Scorpions vs Fort Lauderdale Strikers: October 3, 2015 - San Antonio Scorpions
- Silverbacks Surge into Empire State to Face Cosmos - Atlanta Silverbacks
- Jaime Frias Goal Earns Indy Eleven Precious Road Point - Indy Eleven
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