Strikers Extend Unbeaten Streak to 7 Games with Draw in Oklahoma
Published on September 18, 2016 under North American Soccer League (NASL)
Fort Lauderdale Strikers News Release
Yukon, OK- The Fort Lauderdale Strikers stretched their run of unbeaten games to seven matches after recording a 1-1 draw versus Rayo OKC. The Strikers had a great opportunity to open the scoring early inside a minute after kickoff, but Paulo Jr.'s opportunity was broken up by the Rayo defense.
Rayo OKC created numerous scoring opportunities in the first half with the best chance being saved at point blank range by Fort Lauderdale Goalkeeper Bruno. Rayo ran the Strikers defense ragged at times in the half but were unable to record the match's opening goal.
Fort Lauderdale struggled throughout much of the first half to create opportunities but came out more confidently in the second half. The scoring opened when they drew a dangerous free kick in minute 61 which the Honduran international took. Rayo goalkeeper Daniel Fernandes saved the swerving effort but it fell into the path of Maicon Santos who finished the opportunity. For Santos, it was his sixth goal of the season and his second in as many weeks.
The Strikers had a few chances to double the lead but were unable to take advantage of the opportunities. Rayo OKC had a wonderful chance to equalize approaching minute 80, but Billy Forbes sailed his attempt over the crossbar. But minutes late Forbes would atone for his mistake as he was clipped from behind in the area and awarded a free kick. Rayo Captain Michel calmly slotted the spot kick home in minute 83 and the teams split the points.
With the draw, Fort Lauderdale moved into a three-way deadlock for fifth position in the NASL table with Miami FC, and traditional rival Tampa Bay who also happen to be next week's opponent. The Strikers will face the Rowdies at Central Broward Stadium, Saturday September 24 at 7pm ET.
North American Soccer League Stories from September 18, 2016
- Strikers Extend Unbeaten Streak to 7 Games with Draw in Oklahoma - Fort Lauderdale Strikers
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