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Thunder Secures First Season Victory Over Vancouver 1-0

April 26, 2008 - USL First Division (USL-1)
Minnesota Thunder News Release


ST PAUL, Minn. - The Minnesota Thunder secured their first win of the season against the Vancouver Whitecaps 1-0 on Saturday night in Vancouver. This was the Thunder's first win in Vancouver's home stadium since 1997. The Thunder scored the only goal of the game off a penalty kick in the 66th minute by Ricardo Sanchez.

The Whitecaps and the Thunder were evenly matched throughout the game, with the Thunder pulling out on top. Both teams earned several corners; the Whitecaps with five and the Thunder with three. The Whitecaps' first chance came in the 17th minute when Eddie Sebrango headed the ball from 8 yards out off a cross from Takashi Hirano. Thunder keeper Nic Platter punched the ball out and saved a potential Vancouver goal.

The Thunder came out strong on defense after their loss to Portland on Thursday night. Platter had yet another solid game, earning key saves and his first shut out of the 2008 season.

"We believe we have one of the best keepers in the league. He showed that tonight by keeping his composure the whole game. He was outstanding," said Thunder head coach Amos Magee.

In the 63rd minute, the Whitecaps midfielder Tony Donatelli received a ball from the defense and cut inside past Thunder defenders. He hit a ball across the goal face, only to be saved by Platter once again.

In the 67th minute came the first and only goal of the game. Frederico Moojen was pulled down by Hirano in the penalty box and the Thunder was awarded a penalty kick. Sanchez was chosen to take the kick and sent the ball top left to secure the Thunder's first win. After the goal, Vancouver stepped up their offense, sending dangerous crosses into the Thunder's goal zone. The Thunder continued their strong defense and held the Whitecaps scoreless to finish the game.

"It was a fantastic performance by all 18 members of our team. We battled from the opening whistle and put forth a heroic performance. We defended hard and strong to the end," said Magee.

The Minnesota Thunder will open its home season on Sunday, May 4 at James Griffin Stadium against the Rochester Raging Rhinos at 5:05 p.m. Season tickets are currently on sale by visiting www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 651.989.5151.



USL First Division Stories from April 26, 2008


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