Thursday August 10, 2006

          The Atlanta Silverbacks and the Puerto Rico Islanders have been neck-and-neck for weeks, with both teams contending to remain in the top half of the USL First Division table. The teams shared the same record recently, but this week’s games have given Puerto Rico a slight advantage. Atlanta (28 points) lost to Rochester on Saturday night, allowing Puerto Rico (29 points) to edge-out in front by one point after the Islanders tied Charleston. The Silverbacks will host the Islanders this Saturday, August 12 at 7:30 pm at RE/MAX Greater Atlanta Stadium and a win would push the Silverbacks past the Islanders in league standings.
          Atlanta’s deep roster and versatile players have the potential to give any team trouble. The Silverbacks are coming off two losses and will surely be ready to bring home a win. Atlanta will have to keep a watchful eye on Puerto Rico’s leading scorer, Alen Marcina, who has recorded nine goals so far this season (three coming against the Silverbacks). Marcina sits 6th in the USL First Division Point Leaders ranking with 18 points; he also sits 4th in the USL First Division Goal Leaders ranking with nine goals.
          The first 500 fans to enter the gates at this Saturday’s “Best Buy Game Day” will be presented with the third set of 2006 player cards. Tickets for Saturday night’s game are available, however, after midnight Friday night remaining tickets will only be available through the online “print-at-home” option. Tickets will also be available at the stadium box office starting at 5:00 pm on Saturday. Please purchase your tickets early! Upper level parking opens at 5:30 pm and the stadium gates open at 6:00 pm. For more information call 1-866-GO-BACKS or visit www.atlantasilverbacks.com.