The Atlanta Silverbacks Women guaranteed their opportunity to make their third playoff run, in three years, in front of a huge crowd at home.  With two games to play, the Silverbacks remain in first place of the Atlantic Division with 25 points, Tampa follows with 23 and then Charlotte with 18. 

“We said at the beginning of the season that it starts with game one.  With us losing 8 starters last season (retired, relocation, WPS) – guaranteeing a playoff spot before the last few games is a true testament to the veterans on our team and the many newcomers that have come in and contributed,” commented GM Laura Fedrigo.

Last night the Silverbacks were lucky to have a comfortable night in the middle of July, but weren’t so lucky on the field fighting to a 0-0 draw against the Charlotte Lady Eagles.  The Silverbacks had many opportunities throughout the night, but were unable to find the back of the net to break the scoreless tie.

            Late in the game, with aspirations of the playoffs tantalizingly close, both teams picked up the intensity.  A great diving save in the 76^th by Silverbacks goalkeeper Michelle Betos helped to preserve her 9^th shutout of the season and maintained her top ranking for Goals Against  (GA) - 1 & Goals Against Average (GAA) - .111 for the League. 

The Lady Eagles again threatened in the 77^th minute as a header over the head of Betos was headed away on the goal line by second half substitute Kylie Hopper.

            The Silverbacks quickly countered after those two close calls.  In the 79^th minute, Rhonda Brooks shot from inside the box just missed wide to the left.  The Silverbacks would again come close to claiming victory again during stoppage time as a shot by Megan Tomlinson was saved on the goal line by Charlotte goalkeeper, Alyssa Whitehead to close out the scoreless game.

            The final home game of the season, was widely attended by local groups including the Georgia Referees and Silverbacks PDP, GSA, TYSA, CFC & ASA youth clubs.  The Silverbacks also held their first ever silent auction, auctioning off the players black game jerseys.

 “The atmosphere was great and we really appreciate the support of so many different groups as well as Inkhead, the game day sponsor, for providing the black bags we gave away.  The atmosphere was amazing, everyone had a great time and it was a great way to close the regular season,” commented GM Laura Fedrigo. 

The Silverbacks have two games remaining, both on the road, at Charlotte and Cary.  Still hoping to claim the opportunity to host the first round of playoffs, the Silverbacks will closely watch the games on the other side of the conference as well.  Playoff seeding will be official July 20^th and the playoff schedule is expected to be announced July 21^st.  For up to date information on the team please visit www.atlantasilverbacks.com