RailHawks tie league-leading Islanders

Soccer

RailHawks tie league-leading Islanders

May 19, 2012

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Cary, N.C. — The Carolina RailHawks (0-5-4, 5 pts.) tied 1-1 with the league leading Puerto Rico Islanders (5-2-1, 17 pts.) on Saturday at WakeMed Soccer Park.

Brian Shriver scored his fourth goal of the season for the RailHawks while Jonathan Faña scored for the Islanders.

“We played very well tonight and generated chances. Unfortunately we weren’t able to score more goals,” said RailHawks head coach Colin Clarke. “If we continue to play this way, the results will come.”

Clarke presented several changes in the lineup with midfielder Austin Da Luz, a local product and Wake Forest University standout, making his first start of the season. Colombian midfielder Breiner Ortiz also received his first start of the season. Defender Gale Agbossoumonde started his second consecutive match for the RailHawks after overcoming a toe injury.

The RailHawks dominated the first half with great control of the ball, forcing Puerto Rico to play in their half of the field. However, it was Puerto Rico that was able to get on the scoreboard first from a free kick. The ball was centered and Jay Needham headed the ball from the far post towards the center of the box and Jonathan Faña chested the ball toward the back of the net to put the Islanders up 1-0.

In the second half, the RailHawks were quick to find the 1-1 equalizer when Brian Shriver with a volley that went to the side netting of the goal for his fourth goal of the season. Nick Zimmerman got the assist on the goal, his first of the season. The RailHawks had several opportunities to get ahead on the score but were ultimately unable to get the second goal of the match.

The RailHawks will return to WakeMed Soccer Park on May 22 to face PSA Elite at 7 p.m. for the second round of the U.S. Open Cup. With a victory on Tuesday, the RailHawks will host reigning MLS Champions, L.A. Galaxy, on May 29 at 7 p.m. in the third round of the competition. Tickets for the match can be purchased online at www.CarolinaRailHawks.com or by calling the Cruizers Box Office at 919-459-8144.