After an exciting affair in Bayamon, the Puerto Rico Islanders climbed back up and regained share of the points lead in the NASL with 28. Now the Islanders travel to Atlanta to square off against Eric Wynalda and the Atlanta Silverbacks. As always, fans can watch the game at the Islanders' Watch Party in Coladas Fine Puerto Rican Cuisine and Frozen Drink Bar at Verdanza Hotel in Isla Verde, starting at 7:00 p.m.
The Islanders have taken 6 points from the Silverbakcs in two previous meetings. They have beaten the Silverbacks twice this year by the scores of 3-0 in Bayamon in May and 2-1 at Atlanta Silverbacks Park last month. The teams will also meet again on the last match of the season at the newly renovated Juan Ramon Loubriel Stadium.
Islanders' Manager, Adrian Whitbread, spoke before the upcoming match: “We are in for a very tough game come Saturday in Atlanta. We saw what they are capable of doing against Minnesota and with a new coaching staff and several new players we are in for a difficult match. Several key players are out injured but our active players are ready and up for the challenge”.
SCOUTING ATLANTA SILVERBACKS
The Silverbacks are in the unfortunate position of last in the NASL with only 11 points. However, things have started to look brighter after Eric Wynalda joined the team as Manager. The Silverbacks beat the Minnesota Stars at the NSC their last time out. It was their first win in their last five matches. They look to continue their renewed form against the league leaders.
ISLANDERS LAST TIME OUT
The Islanders regained the joint points' lead with a win over San Antonio. A first half goal from Nicholas Addlery proved to be the difference between the sides. The Islanders spent the first half attacking and the second half defending the Scorpions for a well rounded victory.
TARGET MEN
The Islanders’ pacey attack featuring the likes of diminutive speedsters Jonathan Faña and Davey Foley is well documented. But center forwards Nicholas Addlery and Hector “Pito” Ramos have been finding success in their traditional big-man role. Addlery currently leads the team with goals (6) and Ramos has made the most of his time, netting twice.
