Strikers Defeat First-Place Scorpions 2-0
August 29, 2014 - North American Soccer League (NASL)
Fort Lauderdale Strikers News Release
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. "" The Strikers claimed victory over the first-place San Antonio Scorpions in a dramatic 2-0 spectacle Friday night at Lockhart Stadium. FafÃÂ Picault's eighth goal of the year gave the Strikers a first-half lead, while a second-half free kick strike from Mark Anderson ensured the win.
The Strikers dominated the early proceedings of the match, largely in part to a change of formation by Strikers Head Coach Günter Kronsteiner. Boosted by the return of several players from injury and suspension, the Austrian tactician fielded a strong attacking side in a classic 4-4-2 diamond midfield formation.
Led by the attacking trio of Jenison Brito, FafÃÂ Picault, and Aly Alberto Hassan, the Strikers forced Scorpions goalkeeper Josh Saunders into seven saves in the first 45 minutes of action. He made 11 saves on the night.
Saunders' goal was finally breached just minutes before halftime. Former Scorpion Walter Ramirez played FafÃÂ Picault through on goal with just a defender and the goalkeeper to beat. A deft touch allowed Picault to skip around defender Greg Janicki before sending a low shot off the post and into the back of the net to open the scoring.
A red card shown to Hassan in the 64th minute of the match reduced the Strikers to ten men for the closing stages of the match.
Despite the man disadvantage, the Strikers added an insurance goal to make it 2-0. Substitute Mark Anderson scored his fourth goal of the year by firing a free kick past Saunders to double the lead.
Picault had two chances to score his first brace for the Strikers deep into injury time. Saunders came up big to deny the initial effort and the follow-up rebound.
North American Soccer League Stories from August 29, 2014
- Strikers Defeat First-Place Scorpions 2-0 - Fort Lauderdale Strikers
- Scorpions Drop Only 2nd Road Match of the Year in 2-0 loss to the Ft. Lauderdale Strikers - San Antonio Scorpions
- United Puts Eleven-Game Unbeaten Streak on the Line Sunday in Edmonton - Minnesota United FC
- Match Preview: RailHawks Host Atlanta Silverbacks - North Carolina FC
- Match Preview: Scorpions at Ft. Lauderdale Strikers - San Antonio Scorpions
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.
