Wilmingtonton Hammerheads News Release -- www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com
Thursday, July 7, 2011
WILMINGTON, N.C. -- The Wilmington Hammerheads travel to the Caribbean this weekend to take on the Antigua Barracuda FC for the first time of the 2011 USL PRO season. The two teams meet Friday, July 8 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, July 10 at 5 p.m. at the Sticky Wicket Stadium in Antigua.
The Hammerheads travel to Antigua after a short week of training and recovery from their last Saturday night win against the Los Angeles Blues. Their 4-2 win against the Blues brought the Hammerheads up to 21 points and are now tied with the Charlotte Eagles in the American Division, just a point behind Antigua for the fourth and final playoff place.
Despite his struggles with minor injuries this season, Hammerhead forward Chris Banks continues to be a game-changing player for Wilmington. Banks notched one goal and two assists against Los Angeles last week and was named to the USL PRO Team of the Week on Tuesday. Midfielder Jack Avesyan has earned his spot in the starting lineup the past few games and his quickness in the midfield has been making an impact in the Hammerheads' attack.
With 22 points, Antigua Barracuda FC sits right in front of Wilmington and Charlotte. Their most recent match up was against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds on the road where they lost 2-0. While the Hammerheads have won more games than lost, the Barracuda have tallied more losses than wins this season with a current record of 7-9-1.
With five goals on the season, Antigua forward Stefan Smith is leading his team in points at 10. Defender Christopher Harvey has made a strong showing defensively and offensively for the Barracuda with two goals, two assists, and a recorded eight shots on goal.
Hammerheads head coach David Irving is optimistic about their trip to the Caribbean.
“This weekend could help us dramatically in the standings," Irving said. "As long as we keep our focus and give Antigua a tough battle, we can come home to Wilmington with a few wins under our belt and set the stage for the rest of this month. We have some tough matches ahead of us and this weekend is no exception."
Both games against Antigua will be available to watch live online at USLlive.com. The Hammerheads next match at home is on July 16th when they will host the Harrisburg City Islanders.