Two players from the Atlanta Silverbacks were named to the 2006 USL First Division All-League Second Team. Team captain Rodrigo Rios and newcomer Matt Bobo earned two of the 11 spots on the All-League roster.
“I think it’s well deserved. Bobo was obviously our leader in the back all year, he played every minute of every game. Rios was the engine that ran our offense. I appreciate the fact that other coaches recognize their talent and their contribution,” said Head Coach Jason Smith.
Rodrigo Rios led the Silverbacks’ offense from the central midfield; he contributed goals and assists along with leadership and experience. He played in all 28 games for the Silverbacks with a total of 2366 minutes played. The Chilean midfielder recorded four goals and five assists for a combined total of 13 points. Rios scored against the Charleston Battery (6.3), the Virginia Beach Mariners (7.8), the Puerto Rico Islanders (8.12), and Miami FC (8.27). He was named to the USL First Division All-League Second Team last year for his efforts with the Silverbacks.
Matt Bobo led the Silverbacks’ defense from the center back position; his consistent play and strength in the air helped the team on a playoff race that lasted until the final day of the regular season. In an act almost unheard of by a field player, Bobo played in every minute of every single game in the 2006 season. During his 2520 minutes in 28 games, Bobo recorded only one goal, but it was a memorable one. The Iowa native scored the first goal ever recorded at RE/MAX Greater Atlanta Stadium. Bobo scored the goal in the Silverbacks’ 3-2 win over the Charleston Battery at the home opener on June 3. This was his first season on the All-League team.
Click here for a complete list of the 2006 USL First Division All-League teams.
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