Pittsburgh Riverhounds News Release -- www.riverhounds.com
Thursday, May 5, 2011
PITTSBURGH, Pa. -- The Riverhounds (1-2-1) return home to Chartiers Valley Stadium this Friday for a game against the Charleston Battery (3-1-1). The two clubs will meet for the second time in less than a week, with last Saturday’s game at Blackbaud Stadium ending in a scoreless draw. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
Last weekend’s game between the Riverhounds and Battery was a battle of possession in the middle third of the field. The defensive prowess of both sides was evident throughout the entire game as neither side could find the back of the net.
This Friday’s game should be an interesting and exciting clash between the Riverhounds and the 2010 USL-2 champions. The two clubs know each other well and have had a week to work on weaknesses seen in their last meeting.
Riverhounds Impact Players
Forwards—Jason Yeisley has been a handful for opposing defensive lines and is looking to notch his first goal in Riverhounds’ colors. Rookie Matt Fondy provided the Riverhounds with an assist last Friday against the Wilmington Hammerheads (2-0-0) and earned his first professional start against the Battery. 2010 USL-2 Rookie of the Year Jeremy Deighton has been an impact player as a second half substitute for the Hounds, nodding home a goal against Wilmington and looking to be a force in the air this season.
Midfielders—Shintaro Harada is a staple in the middle of the park for the Hounds and will be playing to honor his fellow countrymen during the club’s efforts to raise funds for victims of the tsunami and earthquakes in Japan earlier this year. Thabiso ‘Boyzzz’ Khumalo was dangerous last Saturday against the Battery on the left flank.
Defenders—Hunter Gilstrap is the man in goal for the Riverhounds and will look to record his third shutout of the season. Outside backs, Jason Kutney and Sterling Flunder add an attacking mindset with their overlapping runs.
Battery Impact Players
Forwards—Levi Coleman is the big target striker for the Battery and causes problems with his skillset and strength. Dane Kelly’s pace off the ball adds balance to the Battery’s attack.
Midfielders—Cole Peverley’s ability to serve the ball into dangerous situation is instrumental for the Battery on restarts. Nicki Patterson finds ways to jump inside of his marker on the flank and apply pressure on the opposition’s back line.
Defenders—John Wilson’s tireless engine and ability to read the game as a veteran central defender stifles the attack and allows for the Battery to counter attack. The ex-D.C. United star will provide leadership for a young Battery side
Tickets for Friday’s game can be purchased by calling the Riverhounds office at (412) 539-1191 or at the ticket gates on game day.