By Jay Rosquites
EBC Florida Bureau
ST. PETERSBURG, FL (Eagle News) – The Tampa Bay Rowdies definitely stirred up soccer fever as they hosted FC Cincinnati at Al Lang Stadium during the United Soccer League (USL) Playoffs.
After missing the playoffs for five straight seasons, the Rowdies came out aggressive with a goal from Marcel Schafer only eight minutes into the game. In the 25th minute, Schafer notched in another goal, as the Rowdies completely dominated the first half.
“I enjoy to assist my teammates. It means maybe more to me than to score. But, I think now I can say, I can be more confident if you give me too much space,” Schafer said after the win.
In the 67th minute of the second half, Georgi Hristov added the third and final goal for Tampa Bay, securing their win with superior defensive play and excellent goalkeeping by Matt Pickens. The Rowdies now face 7th-seeded New York Red Bulls II who defeated the higher seeded Charleston Battery.
After the game, Hristov was not surprised hearing of the Red Bulls II Victory.
“I knew it was gonna be very very hard for Charleston; just the way New York plays. They’re very dangerous… so much energy and quick and I’m not surprised. It’ll be a very tough game for us. That’s for sure,” Hristov said.
Even though the Red Bulls II are the defending USL champions, the Rowdies are confident as they go into the next round with the home crowd behind them. The Rowdies take on the Red Bulls II on Oct. 28 @7:30pm EST.
(Eagle News Service)