ATLANTA – The Tampa Bay Rowdies have gone top of the combined USL Championship standings following a 2-0 victory over Atlanta United 2 on Wednesday.
That landmark may be significant, but even more so is its position in the group, a whopping nine points clear on top of Group H.
It may not have been the most impressive or breathtaking victory, but there aren’t any points for style, and getting the job done matters the most in a shortened season. The Rowdies rarely looked troubled as they cruised to the two-goal victory.
As has become common in this post COVID era, the hydration break proved to be a catalyst for change. The Rowdies’ first goal came just after the first half pause. Lewis Hilton swung in a corner perfectly for Forrest Lasso to head home.
It was a long wait for the second goal, which didn’t come until the 81st minute when a stunning run from Juan Tejada led to him sealing the win. He received Yann Ekra’s through ball and then cut back inside, curling the ball past the keeper.
It could have been three late in the match as Tejada and Ekra swapped roles, but Ekra was denied by a save.
READ MORE: Rowdies Score Three to Sink Miami
Atlanta had plenty of the ball, especially in the first half, but failed to convert all that possession into chances, and the Rowdies took advantage.
With the win, Tampa Bay is 12 points, four games, clear of missing a playoff place, and with only eight games to play for the side in third place (Atlanta), it already looks like the Rowdies are playoff-bound.
(Photo: Tampa Bay Rowdies)
Florida Soccer Report 