Wilmington Hammerheads News Release -- www.wilmingtonhammerheads.com
Thursday, April 28, 2011
WILMINGTON, N.C. – The Wilmington Hammerheads take the field at Legion Stadium on Friday at 7:30 p.m. for their second game of the 2011 USL PRO season against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds aiming to build on their 1-0 win against the Rochester Rhinos two weeks ago.
The Hammerheads made a strong showing against Rochester as rookie midfielder Luke Mulholland scored the game-winning goal and rookie goalkeeper Brock Duckworth posted a shutout, both in their professional debuts.
Both Duckworth and Mulholland were named to the USL PRO’s Team of the Week last week. Despite playing with a broken hand, Mulholland’s persistence in the midfield is likely to be visible in Friday night’s game.
As his side prepared for the Riverhounds, Head Coach David Irving had high expectations for his team.
“Friday’s game against Pittsburgh is a must win for us,” said Irving. “It is important that we make our home field of Legion Stadium a fortress for the rest of the season. Any win is crucial, but wins at home are vital.”
Team Captain Ivan Becerra is expected to remain a key component in the Hammerheads' defensive line-up, and midfielders Manny Guzman and Paul Nicholson are likely to have an impact against the Riverhounds.
Pittsburgh travels to Wilmington after a road win against the Harrisburg City Islanders. Shintaro Harada will certainly be a strong force in the midfield for the Riverhounds after scoring the game-winning goal in their 1-0 victory against the City Islanders.
Pittsburgh also has a few key returnees and additions for the 2011 season. Goalkeeper Hunter Gilstrap was named the USL-2 Goalkeeper of the Year in 2010 and is back for the 2011 season, while Thabiso “Boyzzz” Khumalo’s previous experience with Major League Soccer's D.C. United should be beneficial. Paired with 2010 USL-2 Rookie of the Year Jeremy Deighton, the two attackers are likely to keep the Hammerheads' defenders on their toes.
Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors 65-and-older, and $6 for kids 12-and-under. Gates open at 6 p.m. Special group rates are available. Contact the Wilmington Hammerheads’ office for more information.