Puzzling Rowdies seek scoring touch tonight

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Puzzling Rowdies seek scoring touch tonight

By Darek Sharp, Times Correspondent

Friday, August 26, 2016 8:21pm

T. PETERSBURG — It would almost be easier if they weren't playing well.

That, at least, would give the Rowdies an easy-to-accept frame for why they are suffering through their roughest patch of the season.

Tampa Bay has lost three straight, five of six and has tasted victory just twice through 10 games of the NASL's fall season.

Last week the Rowdies dominated league-leading Edmonton, consistently breaking down a defense that has allowed just 10 goals in 19 games, nine fewer than anyone else. Tampa Bay made 21 shots on goal to just nine for Edmonton but lost 1-0.

Even Edmonton coach Colin Miller had to admit how "fortunate" his team was last Saturday to endure a constant Tampa Bay attack, and praise how strong a club the Rowdies are.

"Hearing the coach compliment us, how we're the best team they've played. … that just made it worse," Rowdies coach Stuart Campbell said.

With a dozen games remaining, the Rowdies hope their fortunes start to flip tonight at Al Lang Stadium as Tampa Bay hosts Rayo OKC (3-3-4) at 7:30.