South Huntington, NY (July 10, 2010) – The Long Island Rough Riders Men’s team played a rematch against Ottawa Fury at Cy Donnelly Stadium.  On July 3rd the Rough Riders traveled north of the border and fell to the Fury 3-1.  Ottawa is currently tied for the lead in points (27) with MPS Portland Phoenix in the Mid Atlantic Division.

Both teams, who were both in dire need of points, ended this match with one apiece after the 2-2 draw.  The Fury needed three to take sole possession of first place at the end of the weekend.  The Rough Riders were looking for three as well to keep their playoff hopes alive. 

“Mathematically we are still in the hunt for a playoff spot,” said Rough Riders Head Coach Paul Roderick.  “We need to play our best soccer of the year in our final four games to stay alive, and hope for the best.”

Ottawa opened the scoring in the 34th minute with a goal from Kevin Struthers, after being set-up by Danny Bachar.  The Rough Riders responded quickly in the 38th minute when Bryant Craft scored off a ball deflected by the Fury’s keeper.  The teams went into the half tied at one goal a piece. 

The Fury struck first again in the second half off a goal from Joe Ruesgen (assist by Kenneth Caceros).  As time dwindled in the second half, the Rough Riders were able to counter again with an unassisted goal by game MVP Dominick Sarle in the 87th minute.

The Rough Riders now stand fourth in the Mid Atlantic Division with 19 points.  With four games remaining, the Men must come out victorious in each match to have a shot at returning to the postseason. 

The Men will face their local rivals, the Brooklyn Knights, at 8:00 PM on Wednesday July 14th.  To purchase tickets for this match, please visit www.liroughriders.com/tickets.

Article by Brian Patak