Thunder looks to rebound on the road against Montreal

Published on May 20, 2006 under USL First Division (USL-1)
Minnesota Thunder News Release


ST. PAUL, Minn. (Saturday, May 20, 2006) - The Minnesota Thunder (1-2-1) will play their fourth straight road game in a tough away stretch in facing the Montreal Impact (1-1-1) in their home opener on Sunday, May 21. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. at Robillard Sports Complex. After over a month on the road, the Thunder will return home on Saturday, May 27 for a match-up with the Portland Timbers.

About the Thunder

The Thunder is winless in three road games, and is hoping to turn things around after tough back-to-back away matches last weekend. After tying the Seattle Sounders 1-1 on Saturday, the Thunder traveled immediately to face the Vancouver Whitecaps on Sunday, and lost 3-0. Forward Nathan Knox still leads the team with one goal and two assists for four points, while midfielder Terry Alvino is close behind with one goal and one assist for three points. Goalkeeper Joe Warren has a goals against average of 1.00 in three games with nine saves.

About the Impact

Last season, Montreal finished with the best record in the USL First Division at 18-3-7 and boasted the stingiest defense in the league, allowing just 15 goals in 28 games. This year, the Impact has given up four goals in four games, including a 3-1 loss to the Charleston Battery on May 13. Forwards Daniel Antoniuk and Mauricio Salles each have two points to lead the Montreal attack. Goalkeeper Greg Sutton has been named to the USL First All-League team for three consecutive seasons. This year, Sutton posts a 1.00 goals against average with nine saves.

Thunder Head Coach Amos Magee

"Montreal is traditionally one of the top three teams in our league. They're experienced with several Canadian national team players. It will be our stiffest test yet. It's their home opener, and after a mediocre start to the season, we know they'll be focused."

Last Season's Series

The Thunder were 0-1-1 against Montreal last season, but played one of their best league games of the year in a 1-1 tie on July 15 in St. Paul. The Impact got revenge on September 4 in a 1-0 win in Montreal.

Up Next

The Thunder next takes the field on Saturday, May 27, when they host the Portland Timbers at 7:35 p.m. at the National Sports Center in Blaine. The game is the second of a doubleheader, with the W-League Minnesota Lightning playing the first game in franchise history at 5:05 p.m. against the London Gryphons. Admission to both games is granted with the purchase of a Thunder ticket. For ticket information, visit www.mnthunder.com or call 651.917.TEAM.

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