Soccer: Railhawks Shoot Down Montreal

Story by Guest Columnist | August 9, 2010 | Tags: carolina railhawks, News, soccer, Sports, Wake Med Soccer Park

Story by Marco Rosa. Photos by Tom Mousseau for CaryCitizen.

CARY, NC (August 7, 2010) – Saturday was Military Appreciation Night at Wake Med Soccer Park. And the Railhawks brought their own firepower to bear with a 2-0 over the Montreal Impact. Goals from Josh Gardner and Cory Elenio were enough to secure three crucial points for the RailHawks.

“We’re in a good position and we’re starting to play better at the right time,” said RailHawks head coach Martin Rennie. “It was a good win for us tonight, and getting that win gives us some confidence.”

Both teams took their time settling in early, but after 20 minutes the game opened up. In the 22^nd minute, Floyd Franks hit the post with a low shot. As the first half winded down, the RailHawks struck on a quick counterattack. In the 45^th minute, Matt Watson led a pass to Gardner, who raced into the box and blasted it past Montreal goalkeeper Matt Jordan.

“We fought for the ball at midfield and the ball popped to me,” said Gardner. “I took kind of a long touch but I was able to get there, touch to Matt [Watson], and he gave it back. I saw [Matt] Jordan cheating to his left, so I went near post.”

A stingy RailHawks defense took over in the second half, frustrating Montreal’s attack. The RailHawks utilized another dangerous counterattack to seal the game late. Second half substitute Etienne Barbara cut through the Impact defense in the 83^rd minute and played the ball across to Elenio for the easy finish.

With Saturday night’s win, the RailHawks strengthen their hold on second place in the NASL Conference. With three games at hand, the RailHawks jump to four points ahead of third place Montreal.

Upcoming Games

Get Tickets to these upcoming Railhawks games:

• Wed August 11 vs Rochester
• Wed August 18 vs Miami FC – Come early for Taste of the Triangle

Tom’s Pictures

Photographer Tom Mousseau really outdid himself this time, capturing the full flavor of the evening at Wake Med Soccer Park.

From the feel-good vibe of Military Appreciation Night to the intensity of a hard-fought victory, these pictures make it seem like you’re right there.

News on CaryCitizen is sponsored by Cary Courtyard by Marriott and Cary Residence Inn by Marriott.