Minnesota Thunder News Release - www.mnthunder.com
Thursday, May 8, 2008
ST PAUL, MN -- The Minnesota Thunder will take their winning record back to James Griffin Stadium on Saturday, May 10 when they host the Montreal Impact at 7:05 p.m. Tickets are currently on sale by visiting www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 651.989.5151. For Saturday’s game, fans will be allowed onto the field after the match for autographs.
About the Thunder
Minnesota is already stepping up their play from their mediocre 2007 season. Already 2-1-0 with six points, the team is tied for third in the United Soccer Leagues First Division with the team they play Saturday, the Impact. After winning the home opener on May 4, the Thunder is looking to start a winning streak on their home field against Montreal. In the home opener, Alen Marcina scored the lone goal that secured the team’s second win of the season and first over the Rochester Rhinos this season. Nic Platter has also been powerful this year, with a crucial save in the Rochester game. Platter saved a penalty kick in the 26th minute that could have tied the game, proving why he is one of the top goalkeepers in the league. Platter also earned the assist on Marcina’s goal, the first assist of his professional career.
About the Impact
The Impact is also in third place in the First Division with an even six points; although the Impact has played one more game than the Thunder with a 2-2-0 record. Last season, Impact forward Charles Gbeke led the league in shots with 75, and ended the season second in goals with 10. Gbeke should challenge Platter to his fullest, providing for an entertaining game on both ends. Four Impact players were added to the Thunder roster this offseason, Andres Arango, Freddy Moojen, Paul Moran and Alen Marcina. Marcina, Moojen and Moran have received solid playing time so far this season.
Three Thunder Players Make Team of the Week; Platter Named Player of the Week
The Minnesota Thunder had three players that made the USL Week Three Team of the Week. Goalkeeper Nic Platter was named USL Player of the Week for his efforts in the home opener on May 4 against the Rochester Rhinos. In that match, Platter chalked up an assist on the game winning goal, and preserved his clean sheet with a penalty kick save.
Defender Kevin Taylor was nominated to the team of the week for his solid play in the same game, and Alen Marcina was nominated for his game winning goal.
