SILVERBACKS DEFEAT REVOLUTION 2-0
The Atlanta Silverbacks hosted crosstown rivals Georgia Revolution FC in their final home match of the season on Saturday night. It was a scorcher, as temperatures were at 95 degrees at the 7:30 pm kickoff. The Silverbacks were looking to continue their good form and their push for a playoff berth while Georgia Revolution were looking to play spoiler. The match ended at 2-0 with the Silverbacks coming out on top.
The first half had little excitement with few chances. Both teams were playing a bit reserved and were not as willing to push numbers forward with the increased chances of allowing a dangerous counter attack and an advantage for the opposing team. The Silverbacks looked to be the more dangerous team in the opening minutes primarily due to a shaky start from Revolution FC goalkeeper Bjorn Kammholz. The Silverbacks were able to capitalize off a free kick just outside the penalty box from a free kick scored by Joao Johanning Mora.
Mora went for placement rather power and hit it beautifully over the wall and into the top corner past the goalkeeper’s outstretched arms. The Silverbacks have been deadly from set pieces this season, tallying over half of their total goals from set piece play. Atlanta’s back four looked strong, especially the outside defenders. The Revolution showed promise themselves with strong midfield play and aggressive pressure all over the field.
The Revolution came out in the second half with much more of a purpose to their play and generated some quality chances in the opening minutes. Silverbacks goalkeeper Bryce Billington made a couple quality saves. The second half was full of substitutions for the Silverbacks between the 60-70 minute mark, four players coming on with fresh legs. Around the 75th minute, Atlanta began to play more calmly on the ball, content to hold possession and minimize chances from the opposition. Atlanta defender Georgii Kulov was sent off with a red card in the 90th minute of the match for a reckless challenge. The Silverbacks looked the stronger team tonight and the scoreboard displayed that.
