Rhinos and Islanders End in 0-0 Deadlock

The Rochester Rhinos faced the Puerto Rico Islanders for the first time since falling in last season's USL-1 Semifinal Round. The Islanders advanced to the league title match only to lose to the Vancouver Whitecaps. In an evenly played match the Rhinos and Islanders played to a scoreless draw.

Rochester, playing without defenders John Ball and Danny Earls, moved the ball well during the first half of play as they set the pace of play. The first 45 minutes saw each team denied by the goalpost. For Rochester Tai Atieno had Bill Gaudette beaten but was denied by the post. The Islanders' Nicholas Adderly returned the favor four minutes later. Rookie defender Nano Short cleared the rebound off the line with a header.

Puerto Rico began the second half strong applying pressure early. Goalkeeper Scott Vallow came up with two huge saves to keep the game scoreless in the first ten minutes of the second stanza. Johnny Menyongar had an opportunity in the 77' for Rochester but Islander goalkeeper Bill Gaudette made a diving save.

Rochester will continue their road swing on Sunday when they face the Miami FC Blues. Kickoff for the match is 6:00 p.m.