News

Attinella Named NASL Defender of the Week

Posted on Tue, May 24, 2011

FC Tampa Bay goalkeeper Jeff Attinella has been named the North American Soccer League Defender of the Week, the league announced on Tuesday.

Attinella earned his first career shutout in Saturday’s victory over the Montreal Impact, making 11 saves in the 3-0 win. The Clearwater native and graduate of the University of South Florida made seven of his saves in the second half and has allowed just one goal in the last two matches.

“It is a great honor. A lot of times the goalie gets the credit for what our defense does and I think this is an award for our entire defense,” said Attinella. “I’m thrilled to receive it and am happy that we were able to keep Montreal out of the net, which is a tough thing to do. Now we look forward to this Saturday’s game in Minnesota and hope to continue our winning streak.”

The award marks the second time an FC Tampa Bay goalkeeper has received the honor this season. Daryl Sattler was named NASL Defender of the Week on April 25 following a scoreless draw at Montreal.

PRACTICE UPDATE
FC Tampa Bay held its second workout of the week Tuesday morning at Shimberg. The team will have an off day on Wednesday before conducting its final practice of the week in Tampa Bay this Thursday morning.

FC Tampa Bay returns to action this Saturday night, May 28, when it travels to Minnesota to face the Stars at 8:30 p.m. ET. The match is the first of two straight road games as the club then meets FC Edmonton at Foote Field on Tuesday, May 31 at 9:30 p.m. ET.

INJURY UPDATES
Defender Andres Arango suffered a thigh contusion against Montreal and missed his second straight day of practice on Tuesday. His status for this week's game is questionable.

Defender Omar Jarun, who sustained a right knee injury on Saturday night, spent Tuesday morning rehabbing with head athletic trainer Jim Faylo. His status for this week's game is questionable.

Forward Warren Ukah sustained a right knee injury versus the Impact and missed his second consecutive practice today. He was scheduled to undergo more tests on Tuesday.