Written by Ryan Flynn
The Sarasota Paradise start their road to USL League 2 glory on Friday, July 19, as they take on Brave SC in the opening round of the playoffs, hosted in Asheville, North Carolina.
The final week of the season saw the Paradise have their most important game, truly coming together as a team and dismantling division leaders Miami AC 4-0. This game featured goals from four different players and a clean sheet from keeper Brendan Reilly, giving the home fans a show and the Paradise momentum heading into their final game of the season. The final game of the season was a drama-filled, rain shortened 1-0 win over St Petersburg FC that saw an early goal from Kai Tamashiro to help propel the Paradise to an improbable division crown and playoff spot.
Brave SC (9-1-2) enters the matchup with a similar season. After draws against Florida Elite and Brooke House SC to start their season, the Buffalo caught fire, winning seven straight games to firmly cement themselves atop the Southeast division. After a close 2-1 loss to Nona FC snapped their winning streak, the Buffalo would go on to dismantle their final two opponents to ensure their spot in the playoffs.
It’s WIN OR GO HOME in Asheville. If the Paradise win, they will play in the round of 16 on Sunday for a spot in the Quarterfinals.
Fans can catch the Round of 32 game on Sports Engine Play Friday at 4 pm est.
