The Atlanta Silverbacks are off to a strong start in 2013, sitting in third place in the NASL standings.
That start could get even better as the ‘Backs advance to the third round of the 2013 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup against Real Salt Lake.
Atlanta didn’t get a home match against an MLS team like the Carolina RailHawks, Fort Lauderdale Strikers and Richmond Kickers, but they will take the opportunity available to them.
The Silverbacks advanced to the third round of the 100th anniversary U.S. Open Cup with a 3-2 win over National Premier Soccer League’s Georgia Revolution at RYSA Soccerplex in Conyers.
The visitors started quickly in the “Battle For Atlanta”, getting on the scoreboard in the fourth minute on a goal from Ruben Luna.
The Revolution drew even 12 minutes later on a goal from Ian Smith, but Luna’s second goal on penalty kick gave the Silverbacks a 2-1 lead before halftime. One more in the second half and the Silverbacks had punched their ticket to Utah.
The game is set for Tuesday, May 28. The Silverbacks will have a quick turnaround after hosting San Antonio three days earlier.
In league play Atlanta is coming off a win over the NASL leading Carolina RailHawks.
Head coach Brian Haynes made several changes in his starting lineup against the Revolution from the RailHawks match, giving Bobby Reiss, Horace James and Pablo Cruz their first starts.
Cruz scored Atlanta’s third goal, the eventual game-winner.