A Rowdy Invitational

With Tampa Bay beginning their quest to have a Major League Soccer team officially as of December 2016, the second year of the “Suncoast Invitational” serves as a perfect showcase of the passion in the Tampa area. This year features the top two Eastern-Conference teams Toronto FC, and Montreal Impact. Additionally D.C. United, Philadelphia Union, Chicago Fire, and the Tampa Bay Rowdies. With our unique playing surface, local attractions, and our wild fan base, Tampa Bay brings a lot to the table in their capabilities to host a tournament like this.

          With the Montreal Impact taking on D.C. United to open the invitational, on paper this match looked to be a tight game. With both teams featuring a potent offense, and stellar goalkeepers. Needless to say, the paper proved right. Slide tackles all around, and a fast paced match had many of the fans on the edge of their seats most of the game. While the 4-2 score may not indicate the most stellar of goalkeeping, with the amount of shots on goal, scoring opportunities, and physical play, this could not have been a more spirited match.

          Carrying over that same level of spirit, Tampa Bay Rowdies took on Philadelphia Union. While Tampa Bay Rowdies play in the United Soccer League, and Philadelphia Union play MLS, this could not have been a tighter matchup. While many may have expected this to be a blow out in favor of Philadelphia, it could not have been further from the case. Both teams brought forward a tight midfield game, and showcased a high pressure offense, in the end Philadelphia Union was able to escape with a 1-0 victory to close the opening night of the Suncoast Invitational.

photo Jordan Raiff

          This week on Wednesday February 22 there will be a single game between Philadelphia Union and Montreal Impact at 7pm. Saturday February 25 will have a tripleheader with Toronto FC taking on Chicago Fire at 3pm, Philadelphia Union versus D.C. United at 5pm, and closing this year’s events out, Tampa Bay Rowdies will play Montreal Impact. With tickets for each day starting at 15 dollars, it’s a perfect chance to come support the drive for MLS to come to Tampa Bay permanently!!!