The Atlanta Silverbacks announcing that their third-round U.S. Open Cup matchup on May 30 with Major League Soccer sideSeattle Sounders FC has changed locations from Atlanta to Seattle.

Atlanta Silverbacks sell the U.S. Open Cup venue to Seattle Saunders FC

Wojtek Wysocki

Atlanta Silverbacks Examiner

The Atlanta Silverbacks issued a statement early Wednesday after announcing that their third-round U.S. Open Cup matchup on May 30 with Major League Soccer sideSeattle Sounders FC has changed locations from Atlanta to Seattle.

“The decision associated with the venue change wasn’t easy, by any means,” said Silverbacks Chairman Boris Jerkunica. “Seattle Sounders FC presented us with an offer that we simply couldn’t refuse, and in the end, it was a decision that was based on the balance between instant gratification and long-term improvement.”

The organization will use the funds for three primary initiatives:

Fan Appreciation Night on June 16 – The Silverbacks will offer free tickets to their home game on June 16 against the Carolina RailHawks. Tickets can be requested by calling 404-969-4900 or visiting atlantasilverbacks.com/fanappreciationnight.

Player personnel – The technical staff has already begun to look to improve the team through additional player signings.

MLS exhibition game – The Silverbacks will host an exhibition game at Atlanta Silverbacks Park against a MLS team.

After defeating NPSL side Georgia Revolution, 1-0, in Conyers Tuesday night, the Silverbacks will now take on the Sounders on May 30 at 7 p.m. local time (10 p.m. ET) at Starfire Sports Complex in Tukwila, Wash. A live webcast of the game will be available at soundersfc.com.