Rochester Rhinos News Release - www.rhinossoccer.com
Thursday, August 4, 2011
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – The Rochester Rhinos host the Charlotte Eagles on Friday at 7:30 p.m. at Sahlen’s Stadium in a matchup with huge playoff implications.
Including Friday, the Rhinos have just three regular season games remaining in their quest to claim the top spot in the American Division. Friday’s match pits current American Division leader Rochester (11-6-4, 37 pts.) against the Eagles (8-7-5, 29 pts.), who currently trail the Charleston Battery by three points for the fourth and final playoff spot in the National Division.
The Rhinos and the Eagles met in Charlotte last Friday, July 29, when they played to a 2-2 draw. Rochester went up 2-0 in that game off goals from Kendall Jagdeosingh in the 23rd minute and Andrew Hoxie in the 75th minute.
But Charlotte responded with a late surge off goals from Jorge Herrera in the 77th minute and Chris Salvaggione in the 80th minute. That gave the Eagles a share of the points, but Rochester rebounded the next evening with a 1-0 victory over Charleston.
Rhinos Head Coach Bob Lilley expects Charlotte to give the Rhinos another tough game on Friday.
“They are well-coached and they will make adjustments,” Lilley said. “This game is important for us for playoff positioning and we’ll have to be ready to play.”
Friday night’s match will feature $1 beers and hot dogs during pregame. Fans will also receive 2011 Rochester Rhinos team photos. Gates open at 6:30 p.m.
Following Friday’s match, the Rhinos have a quick turnaround to face F.C. New York on the road on Sunday at 2 p.m. The Rhinos then return to Sahlen’s Stadium on August 13 against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds to conclude the regular season. As Fan Appreciation Night, the August 13 match will feature special giveaways throughout the evening. There will be a pregame concert from Rochester recording artist Jeremiah Garcia and a postgame concert from national recording artist Cory Lamb in celebration of Faith Night.