At 7:00 PM today, the Hounds square off against the Harrisburg City...I mean...@#$&ty Islanders in the third installment of the cross-state Keystone Derby.

1. The Hounds need to start out of the gate fast. Away teams are getting too much pressure on Hunter in the Hounds' zone early in home matches. Our boys need to energize the crowd early, and take Harrisburg out of this match in the first half. If T-Mac and company are caught off balance in the first half, it could be a long evening in the Valley.

2. Hunter needs to be money in net. Mr. Gilstrap has been one of the strongest additions to the Hounds this season. He's made some unreal saves at crucial moments. In order to close out these Susquehanna jokes, Hunter is going to have to be lights-out if the Hounds jump up early. A lapse in concentration could make all the difference in this match, as both previous matches have ended in low-scoring draws between the two clubs.

3. The Hounds' offense needs to constantly turn on the fire against the Islanders' D. One of the biggest improvements since the beginning of the season has been the Hounds' attack. Lead by Severs, Deighton, and Tommy Gun, the Hounds' offense has been phenomenal the past few matches. They need to continue to get off quality shots and keep the Islanders' GK on his toes.

This is why the Hounds need to win. A team with this...thing...as their mascot does not deserve to be playing soccer.

GO HOUNDS!