By MICHAEL BOYLAN

Sports Editor

Georgia is nationally known for its level of play in soccer. Our high school teams are ranked in national polls, and our club teams produce players that play in the collegiate and professional levels. It makes you wonder why we don't have a major league soccer team.

Though we have the Atlanta Classics, a women's team, and the Atlanta Silverbacks, a major league soccer farm team, Atlanta will get to see some major league stars close up this Thursday evening when the Miami Fusion comes to challenge the Silverbacks.

The Fusion is one of the Silverbacks' two MLS affiliates. They are off to a rough start this season, sporting a 4-11 record. They have not won a road game all year. The team is led by Diego Serna, Henry Gutierrez and Tyrone Marshall.

The Silverbacks have had their share of ups and downs this season but seem to be figuring out things on both sides of the ball lately. They are steeped in international players and play an aggressive game that keeps them close to most opponents.

The game will be played at DeKalb Memorial Stadium and is scheduled to kick off at 7:35 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for children under 19. Call 404-377-5575 for information or visit the Silverbacks on the Web at www.atlantasilverbacks.com.

.

Back to the Top of the PageBack to the Sports Home Page