Crystal Palace Baltimore News Release - www.crystalpalaceusa.com

Friday, May 9, 2008

BALTIMORE, MD -- The Wilmington Hammerheads are the final opponent in the opening three-game home stand for Crystal Palace Baltimore. The game takes place on Saturday night at UMBC, with the wet weather expected to clear up in plenty of time for the 7:00pm kick-off.

With nearly 2,000 tickets sold already, and free noisemakers being distributed to fans, the atmosphere should be terrific.

The Baltimore side had great success against Wilmington last year, winning both home and away encounters 3-0. The Hammers will be looking to turn their fortunes around after losing at Bermuda, then narrowly going down at home to league-leading Charlotte last weekend. But Palace will be favorites, having won their first two fixtures of the season without conceding a single goal.

There are no injuries to report in the Palace squad. Last week’s USL2 Player of the Week, Gary Brooks, will be expecting to start up front and add to his tally of two goals and one assist in two games thus far.

Defender Mike Lookingland will be in contention for the starting line-up for the first time after being held back last week. Brian Rowland has returned to full fitness after wrist surgery in the off-season and will be hoping to displace in-form, back-up ‘keeper, Matt Nelson.

Alex Ughiovhe and Cecil Lewis will also be available for selection having completed their one-game suspensions