The Tampa Bay Rowdies came from a two-goal deficit to earn a draw with Miami FC Friday night, pulling into a tie for fourth place with three games to go.
The Rowdies tied Miami, 2-2, to earn its first Coastal Cup since 2013.
The point earned by the Rowdies pulled Tampa Bay into a tie with Minnesota and Rayo OKC.
The night started tough for Tampa Bay as the Rowdies fell behind 2-0. They found a way with a strong second half.
“I’m very pleased with our performance in the second half,” coach Stuart Campbell said. “It was a tough start to the game but credit to our guys for putting in a shift and finding the equalizer. With the final playoff spot up for grabs, this point was very important for us.”
Miami forwards Jaime Chavez and Kwadwo Poku scored in the first half to give the home team a 2-0 lead. Miami scored in the 16th and 21st minutes.
The Rowdies cut the lead in 27th minute after midfielder Eric Avila placed a perfect cross into the box finding Georgi Hristov. The Bulgarian forward placed his header at the far post out of the reach of goalkeeper Daniel Vega.
The Rowdies dominated most of the second half, creating several chances to tie the match up.
Tampa Bay’s effort would pay off in the 66th minute, when Guerra smashed in a shot from the top of the 18-yard box. Guerra’s first goal of the season tied the match, with midfielder Joe Cole getting the assist.
“It was great to get the equalizer tonight since I think we played very well after they gained a two-goal lead,” Guerra said. “The team is working hard to get into the playoffs and I think it showed tonight with our effort. Miami is a good team, but we were able to limit their chances, especially in the second half.”
With the score level at 2-2, the Rowdies continued to press for the game-winner, but it was the Miami FC that had the last chance of the match. After a long ball across the Rowdies’ box, Jonathan Borrajo found a wide open Rhett Bernstein, but the defender’s header went straight to goaltender Matt Pickens.
“I can’t stress it enough, we need the fans there on Wednesday night,” said Campbell. “I know it’s a midweek match but come out and cheer for us as we fight for the final playoff spot. We perform very well at home, and a lot of that has to do with the tremendous support that comes from the stands.”
The Rowdies now host a midweek match against Indy Eleven. Kickoff on Wednesday is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
