Phoenix FC News Release -- www.phoenixfc.com
Friday, March 29, 2013
PHOENIX -- Phoenix FC hosts the first home game of its inaugural 2013 USL PRO regular season when VSI Tampa Bay FC visits Sun Devil Soccer Stadium on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. PT. Phoenix FC and VSI Tampa Bay FC are the two newest USL PRO franchises, and this Saturday’s match will mark the first ever professional game for the visitors from Florida. Phoenix FC kicked off its season with a 2-0 loss to Los Angeles Blues in Fullerton, Calif. last Saturday.
Despite the first-game loss, Phoenix FC was encouraged by its performance in Los Angeles. With starters Darren Mackie and Devon Grousis out of the lineup due to injury, the club found itself at an almost immediate disadvantage when midfielder Anthony Obodai received a red card late in the first half, forcing Phoenix FC to play for more than a half with just 10 players. The Wolves played tough defense and allowed only one goal after the sending off, while also stepping it up on offense for shots on goal that were ultimately saved by Blues goalkeeper, Carl Woszczynski.
VSI Tampa Bay FC boasts an impressive roster of seasoned players for its inaugural season, led by veteran forward, Mauricio Salles. Ranked 25th in the USL First Division Top 25 of the Decade, Salles is immediately making an impact at VSI Tampa Bay FC as an experienced leader who has scored goals in multiple preseason matches.
Both Phoenix FC and VSI Tampa Bay FC have assembled teams made up of players with professional and international experience, many of whom have played together previously for USL PRO and Major League Soccer clubs. Both sides have made it clear with their signings that they intend to be immediately competitive in USL PRO, and this Saturday’s matchup promises to be one in which each team looks to make a statement as the stronger of the two freshman clubs.
Veterans Mackie and Grousis are listed as probable for Phoenix FC this week and both will be game-time decisions as to whether or not they play. A trio of talented Brazilians including Renan Felipe Boufleur, Diego Faria and Netinho, and former MLS goalkeeper and local native Andrew Weber are expected to start.
For tickets to Phoenix FC’s inaugural home opener, visit phoenixfc.com.