SECAUCUS, N.J. - The MetroStars announced today that they will meet the Long Island Rough Riders, of the USL Second Division, in an exhibition match at Mitchel Field on Saturday, April 9, at 6:30 p.m. ET.
"We are very pleased to be able to fill in a bye weekend so early in the season with a game against the Rough Riders," said MetroStars President and General Manager Nick Sakiewicz. "This match will serve as both an opportunity to reach out to the local Long Island soccer community, as well as a great opportunity to showcase our team."
The two squads last met in the Summer of 2004, when the Metros downed the Rough Riders on July 13, 2-1. Staten Island native John Wolyniec and Sergio Galvan Rey tallied goals for the "Red and Black" in that contest, while Shawn Higgins scored for the Rough Riders.
"In celebration of the 10th Anniversary of our first national championship I felt it was crucial for our fans that we tested our improved roster against the best possible opposition," said Rough Riders General Manager Jim Kilmeade. "These are two great clubs with two great histories...it really is a prospect to savor."
The MetroStars open their season on Saturday, April 2 when they host Real Salt Lake at Giants Stadium at 7:00 p.m. The match will mark the return of Clint Mathis and Eddie Pope to Giants Stadium.
