NASL.com

The Miami FC are back at Ocean Bank Field at FIU this weekend for Military Appreciation night as they host the Eddies of Edmonton, Saturday, May 28 at 8:00 p.m.

Strong Finish
The Miami FC is coming off a bye week after a promising result against the Carolina RailHawks in Cary, N.C.

Carolina dominated the early moments of the match but Daniel Vega was great in between the posts, helping the Miami FC weather the early storm. As the first half came to a close, the momentum shifted to the Miami FC.

The second half was all Miami FC, as the team started to click on offense. Richie Ryan and Calvin Rezende developed a great connection in the midfield which opened the game up for the rest of the team.

The Miami FC would go on to create multiple scoring chances but were unlucky to find the back of the net. Though the match ended in a 0-0 draw, the offense looked to have found a rhythm and the defense picked up its first shut out of the season.

Blocked!
The Miami FC has had some tough luck this season on offense, seeing 19 shots blocked. In three of seven matches this season the Miami FC has had four shots destined for goal, get blocked.

In Ottawa, the Miami FC was able to get off three shots but two were blocked.

FC Edmonton sports the NASL’s top defense, having allowed only five goals this season. A big part of that is there proficiency at blocking shots, as Edmonton has got in front of 21 shot so far this season.

Players to Watch
Vega has been great for the Miami FC since day one and put in one of his best performances against Carolina, helping the franchise register its first-ever shutout.

Vega's 25 saves are a NASL high, with the next closest being 19. His play has been recognized by the league on multiple occasions; he was named to Team of the Week during week 2 and nominated twice for Play of the Week.

He will be facing off against Edmonton’s Matt VanOekel and the league’s best defense.

Just three days into his Miami FC tenure, Richie Ryan started against the RailHawks and put in 90 strong minutes. With Ryan anchoring the midfield, the Miami FC had one of its best days passing the ball, leading to 10 shots.

His calming presence will be key in breaking down a strong FC Edmonton backline.