The Atlanta Silverbacks defeated the Portland Timbers 2-0 last night with two goals from forward Machel Millwood. Millwood's two goals make him the Silverbacks' leading scorer with six goals so far this season; he also leads the team in points with 14. Millwood gave the Silverbacks the lead in the 32 minute from an assist by Tony McManus. Millwood doubled the 'Backs lead in the 70 minute when he collected a loose ball in the midfield, he took off past the Timbers' defense and chipped the ball over the keeper. On the defensive end, Felipe Quintero played exceptionally well in goal for the 'Backs and stopped a penalty kick in the first minutes of the match. Quintero's ten wins and seven shutouts place him 4th in league standings for goalkeeping wins, and 5th in the league for shutouts.
The Silverbacks are fighting for a spot in the 2006 playoffs - last night's win puts Atlanta in 6th place with 35 points. The win bumped the Silverbacks ahead of Seattle and Puerto Rico. The 'Backs, 10-11-5, will need to finish within the top six spots to qualify for the post-season.
"It was great getting three points here in our first game on the road. Now we're going to look to take care of Seattle on Saturday," commented Head Coach Jason Smith.
The team will play against the Seattle Sounders on Saturday night at 10:00 pm EST. The Sounders are also in playoff contention and will be fighting for the win as well. For more information check back to www.atlantasilverbacks.com.
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