Antigua Barracuda FC News Release -- www.antiguabarracudafc.com
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
BRADENTON, Fla. -- IMG Academy in Bradenton Fla., will be home for the next two Antigua Barracuda FC USL PRO games, with the Barracudas desperately seeking to record their first victories away from the comforts of their island paradise, Antigua. The enforced change was approved by the League after the Sir Vivian RIchards Stadium became unavailable to host the Los Angeles Blues on Thursday and Saturday afternoon.
Teams, fans and the entire league can expect the same high standards USL PRO has become accustomed to, with the internationally renowned facility going all out to ensure no one is disappointed.
"We are excited and honored to host these two important mtchups", said Adam Gee, IMG Soccer Academy, Business Development Manager. "When we were approached by Antigua Barracuda, it was an easy decision to make, as we successfully hosted the National team of Antigua and Barbuda as they prepared for their World Cup Qualifiers back in June. Coupled with our strong working relationship with the league, we are delighted to play an important role as this opportunity unfolds."
Antigua will be hoping to use its familiarity of the surroundings to their advantage and secure the maximum number of points to advance up the table in search of a playoff spot.
"We like this place, and we hope to make full use of our time here," said Head Coach Tom Curtis. "We have something to build on with our first away point in Harrisburg, where I thought the boys were committed, combative and focused, hopefully we can deliver the full package over the two games and with games in hand, keep moving up the table, to our desired place".
Peter Byers will renew his acquaintances with colleague players and staff of the Blues for the first time, following his short time at the club last season, and will be keen to send a strong message of exactly what they are missing.
"My time at the Blues was short but enjoyable, but the business at hand is all about my country and moving this team forward," Byers said. "I made a conscious decision to stay at home and to work hard with the all important qualifiers that are still ahead of us, these games will be good tools to test our talents."
IMG is busy preparing for the opener on Thursday at 4 p.m. ET, and while the league continues to monitor all preparations, Antigua is aiming to deliver the goods on the field as they aim to bolster their playoff hopes with victory.