Rochester Rhinos News Release - www.rhinossoccer.com
Thursday, March 26, 2009
ROCHESTER, NY -- The Rochester Rhinos announced that they have come to terms with defender/midfielder Kwame Sarkodie on a one-year contract. The club defeated the University of Rochester Yellowjackets 4-0 Wednesday evening.
"I've known about him for about two and a half years and have followed him since he played with the Cincinnati Kings" said Rhinos Head Coach Darren Tilley. I think he will bring a lot of speed and excitement to the left had side along with Danny Earls.
Sarkodie spent a portion of 2008 USL season as a member of the Cleveland City Stars, helping them to the USL Second Division championship. Additionally, the 23 year old defender from Dayton, Ohio saw action with the Colorado Rapids reserve squad in 2008.
Sarkodie, also has PDL experience with the Cincinnati Kings (2007) and two seasons with the Indiana Invaders (2005-06). Prior to turning pro, the 5-11, 170 pounder played collegiately at the University of Cincinnati where he tallied three goals and six assists in 69 career matches.
The Rochester Rhinos earned their first win of the preseason on Wednesday night, defeating the University of Rochester Yellowjackets 4-0 at Rhinos Stadium.
2008 club Rookie of the Year Danny Earls hooked up with Ryan Heins twice within the first 15 minutes of the match. The first of the two came after just four minutes of play with Earls finishing off a pass from Heins. Roles weer reversed ten minutes later as Heins scored off a corner kick giving the Rhinos a 2-0 lead.
Rochester controlled the pace of play the entire match adding to their lead with two late goals. Newcomer Chris Sanders tallied his first of the preseason, reeling in a through ball from newly signed Kwame Sarkodie in the 64th. Sanders took the pass, fighting off a defender and was able to beat the U of R netmider. The night's scoring was closed out in the 68th minute of play as 2008 team MVP Johnny Menyongar recorded his first from Maurici Salles. Scott Vallow started in goal and was relieved by Tim Melia in the second half.
Rochester will continue preseason play on Saturday when they host CSL Italia at Rhinos Stadium. Kick-off is 4:00 p.m.
