The Silverbacks captured the NASL Spring Season title on Thursday with a 3-0 victory at Minnesota combined with a loss by Carolina, which was on top of the league going into the games.
The title gives the Silverbacks (6-3-3) the right to host the Soccer Bowl, the NASL’s championship game in November.
Atlanta took the lead in the 30th minute on a goal by Brad Stisser, who headed in a free kick from Pablo Cruz into the near corner.
The Silverbacks added another in the 73rd minute when Bobby Reiss who one-timed a low cross by substitute Horace James, who had beat a defender.
The last goal came courtesy of Ruben Luna, who stole the ball from a defender and slammed in a left-footed effort from 18 yards out a few minutes later.
It is quite a turnaround in fortunes for the Silverbacks, who have struggled in the NASL since joining the league in 2011. They finished last in 2011 and second-to-last in 2012.
However, the franchise began to find its footing midway through last season when Eric Wynalda was brought on as a consultant. He began to find new talent and appointed Brian Haynes as coach.
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