Nashville Metros News Release - www.nashvillemetrossoccer.com

Friday, July 3, 2009

NASHVILLE, TN -- The Nashville Metros posted a two goal lead against the visiting division leading Bradenton Academics and held on for a 2-2 draw Friday evening.

The Nashville Metros came into Friday's battle with Bradenton six spots behind in the standings. This did not discourage a Nashville team who came out of the gate firing on all cylinders.

The Metros struck first in the game when Jason Bristol finished off a Dustin Dawes free kick. It was Bristol's first goal on the season, and Dawes' third game out of four earning a point.

The rest of the first half was a back and forth battle until the 44th minute when Nashville struck again on a free kick. Dawes again served a ball in, Andy Gordon won the initial header and Garrett Mclaughlin got the goal.

The two goal lead was short-lived however when Bradenton scored off a free kick in the 64th minute.

Both sides had their chance with the Academics hitting the post and the Metros missing a number of close chances.

Bradenton saw fireworks in the 91st minute when they scored on a corner after the game Metros right back Sam Roca was asked to comment on the game.

"It’s great to go toe to toe with the best team in our division," said Metros coach Rico Laise. "The lads played well tonight and I know we will keep this momentum for the rest of the season."

The Metros face Atlanta next Saturday at 7pm. It will be the deciding game of the series with each team grabbing a wins on the road thus far.