Westchester Flames Face Must-Win Game
May 5, 2004 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Westchester Flames News Release
Traveling to the Western Mass Pioneers is never easy, but for the Westchester Flames, the game this Saturday, May 8th, has become a must-win situation. With only two games remaining in US Open Cup Qualifying for the Flames, they have garnered two points in the standings, putting them behind the Pioneers for the final spot to advance. The top five PSL teams, along with defending champion Wilmington Hammerheads, advance to the first round of the US Open Cup. Having previously missed by one point, the Flames have made it a priority to get into Cup play in 2004. The Pioneers already have three points by virtue of their 3-1 victory against the Long Island Rough Riders last Saturday. This game is the second game of the season for the Pioneers.
Coach Gus Skoufis says, "This will be a very difficult game. The Pioneers are always a tough team, especially at home, and they, along with most everyone else, have gone out and improved their roster immensely. This is truly a must-win game for us."
The Flames, (0-0-2, 2 points), anticipate the return of defender Danny Parkin and forward Aboubacar Camara for this game. Both players are awaiting clearance from the US Soccer Federation. Parkin has been out with an off-season knee injury, but has been working his way back into shape. Camara, a last-minute signing in 2003, looks to help bolster the Flames offense with his ball handling skills.
Also in the news for the Flames, midfielder Roberto Esquivel was named to the USL Team of the Week for Week 3 for his game-tying goal in the 77th minute against the New Hampshire Phantoms.
The Flames return home to face the Long Island Rough Riders next Saturday, May 15th, 5:30 p.m. at City Park Stadium, New Rochelle. Tickets will be availabe for sale at the gate.
United Soccer League Championship Stories from May 5, 2004
- Westchester Flames Face Must-Win Game - Westchester Flames
- Rough Riders Week Ahead - Long Island Rough Riders
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