We've been calling for Tupi since seeing him kick a few guys during the exhibition season, but Nikola Katic hadn't had a start through the first six games. After taking a beating in Charlotte on Friday, Riverhounds manager Gene Klein gave a few guys the night off in Wilmington. This opened the door for Katic, Tony Labudovski and Tommy Gray to get their first starts of the season. The rookie trio did not disappoint! Labudovski bagged a goal and assisted on another while Tommy added an insurance goal to secure full points. However, it may have been the physical Katic who was most impressive playing center defensive midfield in a 4-5-1 formation.

"He won tackles, headers and moved the ball well," explained midfielder Jason Kutney, "Niko played really well."

The Riverhounds have another weekend off before hosting Bermuda on Thursday, June 11th and then Richmond the following Sunday evening, June 14th.