Midfielder Brian “BK” Knapp and forward Andy Tiedt signed with the Rochester Rhinos of the United Soccer League for Tuesday’s Lamar Hunt US Open Cup match versus Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution, each featuring in Rochester’s 5-1 loss.
Knapp started and played the game’s first 52 minutes before a lengthy lightning delay ended his evening prematurely. He was physical and stout, rather impressive for his first USL professional match, playing a dangerous through ball to former Blitzer middie Mike Reidy in the opening frame.
Tiedt entered in the 78th minute and put in a solid 12 minutes up top. Wearing No. 28, he put good pressure on the Revs backline and forced veteran goalkeeper Matt Reis to slide at Tiedt’s feet in a dangerous position. Peter Marlette was also in the mix for an appearance but roster spot complications for the Rhinos kept the FCB midfielder in street clothes.
FC Buffalo expects to find out in the next 24 hours whether either player will sign a longer deal with the Rhinos or return back to the Blitzer ranks.
Three other Blitzers appeared for the Rhinos tonight. Kendell McFayden scored the Rhinos only goal but was also red carded during stoppage time for a dangerous challenge. Mike Reidy played all 90 minutes and was the most electric Rhino on the pitch, while Josh Faga also played all 90 minutes featuring at both right back and defensive center mid.
