Bayamón, PR (September 17, 2011) - The Puerto Rico Islanders beat the number one team in the North American Soccer League (NASL), the Carolina Railhawks 1-0 at the Juan Ramon Loubriel in the heart of Bayamon. The Islanders are the only team in the league who is undeafted at home. Puerto Rico squares off against FC Tampa Bay this Wednesday at “La Islandera”. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.
“We have done very well at home. They’re coming off a couple of bad results. With all said and done we had a lot of young kids out tonight and I thought they did very well especially in the second half. In the first half we were a little careless with the ball but in the second half they responded with a good performance and it's important to maintain the momentum at home,” said Colin Clarke, head coach of the Puerto Rico Islanders.
In the 14th minute of action, Ray Burse shut down the leading goal scorer of the NASL, Etienne Barbara.
The Islanders quickly responded when Yakiel Perez took a pass from Matt Bouraee at the edge of the box, but the shot fell into the hands of Carolina goalkeeper Brad Knighton.
During the first half, the Puerto Rico Islanders were active down the right wing with constant pressure from defendor Richard Martinez who whipped some dangerous crosses into the box.
In the 51st minute, Petter Villegas took a pass from Jarad Van Schaik outside the box firing a shot that sailed over the frame.
The first goal came in the 57th minute, after a beautiful cross from Kevon Villaroel that bounced between two Railhawk palyers. Petter Villegas took advantage of the error scoring his second goal of the season.
"It's important for us to continue this winning streak here at home. The pride of not losing at home is important. It was an important win going into the playoffs," said Petter Villegas,
