The Silverbacks' offense has been on fire recently, scoring nine goals in its past three games while taking down the Charleston Battery, Rochester Rhinos, and Vancouver Whitecaps in the same week. Charleston and Vancouver currently sit atop the USL-1 standings.

(Photo Caption: Atlanta midfielder Tony McManus makes a slide tackle against Vancouver. McManus’ equalizer helped spur the Silverbacks to victory. Photo by Ron Holt.)

However, the Silverbacks (8-5-6) have yet to score against the Blues (5-8-8) this year, falling 0-1 in a U.S. Open Cup match, and in a 0-3 league fixture last Sunday.

In the impressive run, the Silverbacks jumped from eighth place to fourth in the standings. Atlanta will be looking to continue building momentum and staking itself a playoff spot. Yet, Miami has been difficult to beat recently, losing just twice in its last twelve matches.

A major reason has been the stellar play of Miami goalkeeper Josh Saunders. Saunders has recorded an impressive 11 shutouts, which ranks him first in the league. He also has maintained a 1.00 GAA.

The match will also feature the league’s top goal scorers in Alex Afonso and Mac Kandji. Each has scored 10 goals on the year, and both will be fighting for sole possession of first place. Afonso tallied a goal and an assist in the last meeting between the teams.

Kandji, the current Player of the Week, has been vital in the Silverbacks’ streak of three wins, scoring four goals, recording an assist, and setting up a penalty kick as well.

The Silverbacks will next travel to Canada for a rematch against the league-leading Vancouver Whitecaps on Sunday, August 10th.

The first 800 fans entering the park will receive a FREE 2008 Silverbacks team poster to commemorate both the men's and women's seasons!