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Riverhounds Pound Cal, Continue Perfect Preseason

Posted by espo On 9:38 AM 0 comments

The Pittsburgh Riverhounds traveled to California University last night for a preseason friendly. The Hounds dominated the game, winning 5 nil. This brings the preseason totals to a staggering 4-0 with 12 goals scored and none conceded. Reigning rookie of the Year Jeremy Deighton led the way with a brace before limping off with an ankle injury late in the second half. The Hounds midfielders controlled play throughout a physical match. Other goals were scored by CB Kyle Veris and rookies Neil Shaffer and Matt Fondy. Keepers Hunter Gilstrap and Derek Yobbi shared the clean sheet.

The boys will finish up their preseason this Wednesday evening (7pm @ CMU) competing in a three team round robin with Duqensne and CMU.

Quick Friday Thought...

Posted by espo On 5:26 PM 0 comments

it's interesting...on the prospects of Chad Ochocinco wanting to play soccer

After his stint in KC has ended (which it will by all account next Monday), will he have even MORE of a passion to succeed in this sport? If so, would he be willing to trial at a USL level club? Imagine what signing this guy would do, not only for a club, but for the USL as a whole, just in terms of exposure.

Imagine the buzz, both positive and negative, if the Hounds were to offer him a trial that he accepted. Now imagine that he makes the squad. Imagine how many more people would come to games. Imagine the coverage the Hounds would get from the local media. This would be a HUGE story in the middle of Pirates season (gag) that people would latch on to. CVHS would, without a doubt, sell out.

Big, big momentum as a franchise moving into what could be the biggest year of their existence.

If I worked in Hounds FO, I'd at least make an inquiry to see if there was any mutual interest.

pittsburgh riverhounds |

USL Previews the Hounds

Posted by espo On 10:23 AM 0 comments

USL Feature (taken from www.uslsoccer.com)

Thursday, March 24, 2011

PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS

Coach: Justin Evans
2010 Season: Semifinals, USL-2

The Lowdown – After a preceding pair of disappointing seasons that saw them miss the playoffs, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds appeared to lay the foundation for a strong run of success in the 2010 USL-2 season. Making the playoffs for the first time since 2006, the Riverhounds were led by a strong defense and an impressive home record that saw them lose only twice in the league at Chartiers Valley Stadium.

Key Departures – The Riverhounds had close to a perfect offseason, keeping the core of their squad together. According to Coach Justin Evans, no player of major significance has moved on, giving the club a chance to build on the success it found a season ago.

Key Returnees – At the center of that group is the defensive duo of 2010 USL-2 Goalkeeper of the Year Hunter Gilstrap and 2010 USL-2 Defender of the Year Shintaro Harada. After giving up 20 goals in 20 games a season ago, the Riverhounds could have the ability to lower that figure to less than a goal a game this season.

Key Additions – The signing of Thabiso “Boyzzz” Khumalo is likely to add some additional scoring punch for the Riverhounds, and Khumalo could form a strong partnership with 2010 USL-2 Rookie of the Year Jeremy Deighton, who scored five goals in 13 games a season ago. Khumalo’s experience with D.C. United should pay dividends for the Riverhounds.

The Coach’s Opinion – “We are out to win the championship every single year. We are very hopeful that we have done enough in the off season to prepare ourselves to win the championship, as I expect so are the other teams at this point. It is going to be an exciting USL PRO summer of soccer.” – Justin Evans

If it all goes to plan – The Riverhounds certainly appear to be if not the favorite to win the National Division then certainly the co-favorite alongside the Rochester Rhinos. Pittsburgh does have a tricky start to the season with four of its first five games on the road, including a tasty rematch of last season’s USL-2 semifinal against Richmond to open, but if it can get through that passage in good shape a division title could be there for the taking.

Army Dispatch: Quick and Dirty Recap - Hounds @ RMU

Posted by espo On 11:12 AM 0 comments

Well, not much to report I am afraid...the match was kind of sloppy. The Hounds didn't do too much in the first half and guys look tired, probably from training so hard over the first four days of camp! It's a bit insane to think that they've only been in camp for 4 days and have had 2 games, but they're up against the start of the season and need to get into game shape fast...

1st half lineup looked like this (classic 4-4-2)
GK - Hunter
RB - Seth
CB - Rolko
CB - Veris
LB - Flunder
RM - Gray
CM - Shin
CM - Shaffer
LM - Tuttle
RF - Severs
LF - Boyzzz

Seth played decent at RB, I've underestimated the kid. He looked smooth and composed but had a few vision problems missing Tommy's runs, instead looking to go across the pitch to Tuttle. Neil Shaffer played the entire game at CM. Shin was a beast as usual, but he and Neil didn't have much chemistry which is understandable. I thought that Neil got better and better as the game progressed. Tommy Gray made a few nice runs through the RMU defenders in the 1st half, only to see that final ball fail. Boyzzz and Severs didn't do too much up top in the 1st half aside from a nice volley that Boyzzz almost scored on (keeper made a great save). Tuttle and Boyzzz were closer to being on the same page as opposed to Sunday vs Pitt. Rolko and Veris were solid. Flunder looks a bit slow and out of shape at this point but I am not worried. He was strong down the left flank last season.

We attacked more in the 2nd half and had some quality chances. Deighton continues to be our biggest threat so far in the pre-season. He came on with another new forward who we couldn't identify, might have been the new kid from FCD. Regardless, those two played well off each other and created more than the guys in the 1st half. Horner came on for Shin in the 2nd half and did okay. Shaffer took more control of the midfield in the 2nd half which was nice to see. Niko came on to play CB and Shin dropped back as his partner. There was a young kid playing LW who looked a bit tentative, he didn't do much. On the RW we had a fast kid who I didn't recognize. He had pace and made a few nice plays.

I left a bit early, at that point it was still nil to nil. Not sure how it ended up. I'll update the score as soon as I get the official word.

Update - Apparently we scored late and won the game 1 to nil. Might have been rookie Matt Fondy credited with the goal. So, the guy playing up top with Deighton must have been Fondy.

Hounds Dip into MLS Pot

Posted by espo On 10:23 AM 0 comments

As the inaugural USL-PRO season draws near, Pittsburgh Riverhounds manager Justin Evans is doing everything he can to field a competitive side in the vastly improved league.

Last week saw the return of fan favorite Boyzzz Khumalo after a two year stint with DC United. Boyzzz can play forward or wing, has tons of pace and has excelled at this level in the past. His experiences with DC United saw him feature in both MLS and CONCACAF Champions League matches.

Another former MLS player, defender Kyle Veris, looked solid this past Sunday when the Hounds took on the University of Pittsburgh in a preseason friendly. Kyle was selected in the 3rd round of the 2006 MLS SuperDraft by the LA Galaxy. He made 18 league appearances, including 10 starts throughout the 2007 season. After a stint in Norway, Veris featured at USL clubs Puerto Rico and Miami FC over the last few seasons pilling up 38 league appearances. The 6' 4" center back looks to have great composure on the back line and will add a threat on set pieces.

Just today we received news that striker Jason Yeisley has officially signed. Jason spent last year with FC Dallas. He was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2010 MLS SuperDraft following a stellar senior season at Penn State. He played in 5 contests, all as a sub, logging 39 minutes. The 24 year old Hershey native has good size and will compete for playing time with a talented group of forwards.

The addition of these three players, all of whom have MLS experience, is a step in the right direction for the club. The league is going to be more competitive this season requiring a talented, deep squad if we're to reach post-season play.

Pitt Opens New Complex vs Hounds

Posted by espo On 12:02 PM 0 comments

PITTSBURGH- The University of Pittsburgh men’s soccer team has announced its 2011 spring schedule. This spring will mark the unveiling of the Petersen Sports Complex, the new state-of-the-art homes for the Panthers' men’s and women’s soccer, baseball and softball teams. The complex is located on 12 acres on Pitt's upper campus.

The Panthers will first see action in the new facility on March 20, against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds with a noon kickoff.

UPDATE - March 22nd, 2011

The Hounds won a mostly uneventful game by the score of 1 to nil. 2010 USL2 Rookie of the Year winner Jeremy Deighton found the back of the net in the 2nd half to give the Hounds a pre-season victory. The new soccer complex was brilliant! Seeing a nice, wide pitch with only soccer lines in this city is always something that puts a smile on my face. There was only one stand with limited seating but plenty of standing room around the near goal and opposite sideline.

pittsburgh riverhounds, preseason |

USL-PRO: Impact on the Hounds

Posted by espo On 3:22 PM 0 comments

It's been a very busy week for USL CEO Alec Papadakis. Owners meetings took place in Tampa and a major announcement was released: Designed to help ensure the long-term stability of professional soccer in North America, United Soccer Leagues announced the merger of its First and Second Divisions into a single league property for 2011 - USL PRO.

I can confirm that the Hounds will indeed take part in the USL-PRO 2011 season. At this time, we're not sure which division we'll compete in, but a good bet is a North Eastern division consisting of teams such as Harrisburg and Rochester. It is possible that we will end up in a Midwest division with Dayton, but that is not likely.

After reading the press release, talking to a few of my contacts and scouring the net, I have come to the conclusion that this is very good news for the Pittsburgh Riverhounds Football Club. The goal of the restructure is to bring long term stability to the league by reducing franchise operation costs and developing regional rivalries.

Playing games within a smaller geographical area will allow the Riverhounds to reduce their travel expenses by a significant amount. More games against neighboring clubs may help draw fans and allow travelling supporters to attend more road contests. If a club such as Cleveland re-emerged, the Hounds would have a natural rivalry to market! There is potential here and as a supporter this is right up my alley.

The inclusion of stable clubs like Rochester and expansion clubs located in larger markets will generate increased league exposure and benefit the smaller clubs. What does this mean? Well, in terms of exposure, we could see the Hounds on Fox Soccer Channel sometime in 2011. In 2010, FSC included a USL Game of the Week and hosted USL Breakaway, a weekly highlight show. Both should continue next season. Also, if the rumors are true and a team in or near New York City begins play in 2011, that would undoubtedly present opportunity. Adding the largest television market in the United States would give the league (and clubs) greater negotiating leverage and additional exposure, which could lead to increased revenue.

Yes, it is still speculation at this point but it's positive and attainable.

After a very successful 2010 campaign under gaffer Justin Evans, the Riverhounds will no doubt carry over their winning attitude, pride and passion to compete in the new league versus potential new clubs. UNLEASH THE HOUNDS!!!

A Cut from Kut

Posted by espo On 2:18 PM 1 comments

Hey guys...got an email from Jason Kutney today. He asked me to pass this on to the Steel Army and any other supporters who showed up this season to cheer on the boys. 2010 was a fantastic season where we made great strides on and off the pitch. Enjoy!

On behalf of the Riverhounds Pro Team and Front Office, I would like to extend a sincere "thank you" to the Army members who came out to support the Hounds through a crazy ride!

As happens with young, rebuilding teams, it takes time to gel. This was certainly the case with the 2010 Hounds, but thanks to the efforts of Justin, Rotz, and Gene, as a Coaching Staff, we absolutely found the right formula.

It was great to see such a young group of players come to understand the professional game under the direction of the Coaches and the Veteran players. I certainly spent much more time this year explaining life at the pro level to various rookies and I know Salsi, Shintaro, Travis, Pierce, and Hunter did the same. By the middle of the season, a bond formed that would keep us close through the final bus ride.

Obviously we're all disappointed in our match on Saturday. We didn't do enough to win, and Richmond, as a veteran team, took advantage of the situation. But as we reflect on the seaon, we take many positives with us.

Our Pro Team is a winner - its proven now. The heart, the passion, and the skill all combined to land us in a deserved 3rd Place. Our Academy has grown and allowed us to attract and sign the players to reach this level.

That Academy is now considered the top technical training program in Western Pa, and we're very proud of that. We have young stars coming through the pipeline, and its a pleasure to see the support we receive from these families on gameday! The money from all of these programs goes DIRECTLY back into the pro team. Our majority owner is one of the most selfless individuals I have ever met. He supports what we all support - the Club first! We are making headway toward an outdoor complex!

So, 2010 has been a marked improvement. As we look forward to 2011, we will be working hard to improve. We have a long way to go!

Personally, I know there have been ups and downs with the Army support, but I cannot stress enough how much I owe you all for your continued support. I started this and I want to see this through. I want nothing more than to look each and every one of you in the eyes when we cut the tape on a new stadium. I have dealt with a back injury that is certainly something I have to take seriously. I am going for testing very soon and will need to respect the doctor's recommendations. My on-field work will never end until it has to. I love the game and cannot live without it. I hope to play in front of the Army again, and I will work my ass off to make sure I'm fit and ready. As Justin knows, the top 11 play. I fight like everyone else to be in the top 11.

As for the Army, I hope 2011 shows a return of the 12th Man! The return of what all other USL Clubs grew to hate!

Win and We're In

Posted by espo On 12:20 PM 0 comments

There are a gaggle of complex scenarios that could see the Hounds make or miss the playoffs. The results of this weekend's games should go a long way to settle a few variables. However, there is one simple thing that we can do to secure a spot in the postseason: Win. The Riverhounds host the league leading Battery this Saturday night at 7pm. The front office has asked everyone to wear white to create the Hounds first "white out". The Riverhounds will be honoring their academy kids before the game and holding raffles for prizes throughout the evening. Tickets are only $5 for at the gate!

Game notes: Charleston will be without the league's leading scorer, Lamar Neagle, due to yellow card accumulation. Defenders John Wilson and Colin Falvey should be in the lineup coming off of injuries. Pittsburgh fullback Jason Kutney is nursing back spasms but should feature in Justin Evan's lineup.

Footy Fact: The Hounds have the league's stingiest defense, allowing only 18 goals all season.

pittsburgh riverhounds, USL |

What Went Wrong with the City Islanders?

Posted by espo On 11:13 AM 0 comments

It's been a bit of an up and down year for our neighbors to the east. Off the pitch, they were able to take full control over their stadium and entered into an official partnership with new MLS club Philadelphia. Taking control of the stadium will no doubt increase revenue streams and give them the flexibility to host additional events. The relationship with Philly was supposed to increase Harrisburg's viability and legitimacy and provide them with talent to compete in the USL's second division. However, the realities of whoring themselves out has had a detrimental effect on the team's 2010 campaign.

The City Islanders currently sit in 5th place at 17 points with a minus 8 goal differential. With three games remaining this season (two versus the Riverhounds) they are grasping for breath. A win or tie by the Hounds this Wednesday will eliminate Harrisburg from playoff contention. So where did it all go wrong in a season that should have seen the City Islanders competing for the championship? First off, Hounds' gaffer Justin Evans was able to convince scoring sensation Chad Severs to leave Harrisburg and sign for Pittsburgh. This left a big hole in their lineup that's been tough to fill. Second, the Philadelphia Union hasn't lived up to their end of the bargain in my estimations. Sure, some high-level talent has played a few games in Harrisburg this season, but rotating players into and out of the lineup on a weekly basis keeps a team from gelling into a contender. Also, the timing of a recent friendly between the two sides came at a terrible junction in the season for Harrisburg.

They had just completed a four game unbeaten streak, winning three times for 10 points. On the 21st they traveled down to DC to take on United in the US Open Cup and came away empty. Then, after losing 3-2 at home to Charleston on the 24th, the Islanders hosted the Union on the 27th. Playing their starting XI was a mistake as they dropped their next game at Richmond on the 31st, 2-0. They're a tired and battered squad who could have used an extra few days off instead of worrying about a meaningless game.

Perhaps something good will come of their partnership in the future, and maybe they'll learn from these mistakes for next season, but I for one am glad that the Hounds haven't bent over for an overrated and under-talented MLS club.

Have fun propping up the table with Maryland.

All the Right Moves...

Posted by espo On 10:39 AM 0 comments

He came in with little public fanfare, save a few dozen die-hard Riverhounds supporters who were happy to see local Pittsburgh native Justin Evans replace Gene Klein as manager. He promised us a winning attitude and accountability on the field, a tough task for a club that missed the playoffs in consecutive seasons. Many were skeptical, and as most of Pittsburgh forgot about soccer for the winter, Evans began to assemble the backbone of the 2010 squad.

In were Chad Severs (F), Travis MacKenzie (M) and Shintaro Harada (CB). Three players with pedigree and experience. Three players who were slated to make an immediate impact. As the season drew closer more pieces were added. Alex Weekes (M/F) was signed and Hunter Gilstrap (GK) joined the squad. Evans was instrumental in recruiting both players to bolster the club. Gilstrap added stability on the goal line while Weekes provided youthful talent. Rookie Jeremy Deighton (F) made the squad after impressing during the pre-season, leading the team in goals. After the season got underway, Justin further adjusted the roster by bringing in Lee Kouadio-Tobey (F) and Matt Tuttle (M). Both players have an attacking flare. Lee brought pace and the ability to run at defenders while Matt provides shiftiness and creativity on the wing. Free-agent additions Sterling Flunder (D) and Lou Rolko (D) were able to wrestle starting spots from fan-favorites Eddie Hayden and Nathan Salsi. Rookie midfielders Adam Gazda and Matt Baker have both provided depth and skill off the bench. In fact, only two members of the 2009 starting XI still hold their spots on the pitch.

The personnel moves and team selection may not have always been popular with fans and supporters, but the results cannot be questioned. The Hounds sit in 3rd place with four games remaining. With three of those at home the Riverhounds control their own post-season fate.

I've heard Evans described as arrogant, abrasive and overly confident. Perhaps that's just what we needed: an arrogant SOB with a blue-collar attitude to come in and not only overhaul the roster, but change the team mentality. The Hounds play with confidence and the belief that they're the better team. It's made the difference between losing a tough road game and salvaging a point. Getting a big home win instead of settling for a draw. Those positive results are pushing the club in the standings and demanding respect off the field.

Just this past week, the Post Gazette ran a decent story on the Hounds and updates from the Charlotte game were aired on local sports radio 93.7 The Fan. When the Riverhounds win, the media cannot ignore the club. Above all else, we love a winning team here in Pittsburgh. Look no further than manager Justin Evans as the primary reason for the Riverhounds recent success.

UNLEASH THE HOUNDS!

Win Completes Perfect Preseason

Posted by espo On 4:06 PM 0 comments

I wasn't able to attend the match, so I've included the official Hounds' press release below. Sounds like the weather affected the pitch and made for an ugly game. I also heard that the Vulcans didn't appreciate the Hounds' ball control, evident by their questionable late challenges, but that I cannot confirm! Also, I could be wrong but it looks like long-shot Jeremy Deighton has now scored in each preseason game...has he done enough to make the club?

Pittsburgh, PA – April 9, 2010

Riverhounds End Pre-Season Undefeated

The Riverhounds traveled to California Pennsylvania to round up their Pre-Season Exhibition matches in preparation for the 2010 season. California University played host to the Hounds on the cold and rainy April evening.

California took the early lead over Pittsburgh in the 11^th minute. A Riverhound clearance was served back into danger by California resulting with the Hounds conceding a set piece for the Vulcans from 25 yards out. The Vulcan strike broke through the Riverhounds wall and past the diving hands of Hunter Gilstrap. The ball rebounded off of the upright to an unmarked Vulcan who passed the ball into the open goal.

The Hounds drew even with the Vulcans five minutes later. Travis MacKenzie played a slotted ball into the Vulcans penalty area and was thought to be cleared by California. The ball landed on Matt Bakers foot on the left side of the box. Baker picked his head up and played a lofted ball over the defense to find Chad Severs sitting alone on the far post. Severs’ first touch saw him cut the ball to his left past the approaching defender and slide a left-footed shot into the back corner of the goal.

Riverhounds veteran Nathan Salsi put the Hounds up 2-1 in the 19^th minute. The Vulcans gave the Hounds their first corner of the match and Salsi took advantage of the opportunity. The initial cross bounced off of three or four players and landed at Salsi’s feet. His composure saw him lift the ball over the diving Vulcan goal keeper to find the back of the net.

Tommy Gray and Jeremy Deighton connected for the Hounds third goal of the half. Ed Hayden, attacking down the left flank served an early diagonal ball over the Vulcan defense to find Gray on the corner of the eighteen. Gray brought the ball out of the air with his chest and chipped it over his marking defender to find Deighton on top of the penalty area. Deighton prepared his body to receive the pass and struck a side-volley into the upper left corner of the goal.

The second half saw limited opportunities from either side. The match ended with the Hounds winning 3-1 over the Vulcans.

The Riverhounds open the 2010 season next Saturday, April 17^th on the road against the Real Maryland. The Home Opener is Sunday, May 2^nd at Chartiers Valley High School with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 PM.

Hounds Trash Slippery Rock, Continue to Roll in 2010

Posted by espo On 11:48 AM 0 comments

The Riverhounds FC improved their preseason record to 3-0-0 with a convincing win over Slippery Rock University last night. The Hounds have now scored eleven times in three games while conceding a single goal. This is a measured improvement over the 2008 and 2009 preseason contests where the Hounds struggled to find offense. The six to nil drubbing of SRU looks to be a culmination of a new approach taken by the club in 2010.

The Riverhounds took major steps to improve their organization this past off-season by naming Evans gaffer, promoting Gene Klein to Director and adding Meghan Arrico to perform Public Relations duties. John Rotz was also named as an assistant coach, rounding out an impressive staff which also includes football gurus Paul Child and Jeroen Walstra.

After solidifying the front office, attention was focused on improving the on-field performance of a club that missed post-season play for the second straight year in 2009. The Riverhounds made a major splash in 2010 by signing high-scoring forward Chad Severs away from rival Harrisburg City. Following that was the acquisition of Japanese defensive midfield standout Shintaro Harada, who most recently starred for Crystal Palace Baltimore. However, the Hounds were just getting started. Veteran keeper Hunter Gilstrap was brought in along with young, attacking talents Alex Weekes and Matt Baker. Steel Army favorite, Travis MacKenzie, returns to the club where he started his pro career in 2008. There are also a slew of young, hungry players competing for roster spots as we get closer to the April 17th opener at Real Maryland.

The 2010 campaign started with a bang and has been running on all cylinders ever since. Will this momentum carry us to glory? Perhaps...but right now I am enjoying the prospects of a long run in the US Open Cup and post-season play.

Salsi in the Top 25

Posted by espo On 5:02 PM 0 comments

The USL website is running a feature which lists out the top-25 most influential players in the history of the USL's second division. They've named our skipper as the 11th most influential player!

# 11: Nathan Salsi

A veteran of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Salsi joined the club in its first season in the USL Second Division in 2004 and has been a defensive leader since. He earned All-League honors in his first two campaigns with the team and helped guide the Riverhounds to the regular season title in 2004 with a record of 17-2-1. It appeared his career had come to an end when the club departed the league in 2007, but he signed back on with their return in 2008 and has been a leader the past two years, playing all 40 games. For his five-year career, the dependable back has only missed three regular season matches. He has also chipped in a bit on the offensive end with at least one goal each year for a total of seven.

pittsburgh riverhounds, USL |

Evans Named Gaffer

Posted by espo On 3:22 PM 0 comments

Justin Evans has replaced Gene Klein as the gaffer as Klein moves up to Technical Director.

full story here http://www.riverhounds.com/home/392604.html

Hounds Shakeup in 2010 ?

Posted by espo On 5:33 PM 2 comments

I'm hearing lots of rumors about some changes that could be announced this week by the Pittsburgh Riverhounds Football Club. Given the current strife between USL, NASL and USSF, rumors and speculation are bound to run rampant.

The Hounds did quietly make a few changes to the front office late in 2009. My buddy John "Don't Call me Jeff" Rotz has been promoted to Director of Football. Meghan Arrico has been added to the team on a full time basis as well. She's a marketing major who should be able to help in an area where most USL teams struggle. These two moves alone have shown us that the Hounds are investing in the club's future.

As for this week's major announcement, we're still in the cold...efforts have been made a feelers cast but the Hounds are too tight-lipped (and killing us). We do have some sketchy details about an email sent out this morning that cannot be confirmed. Personally, I am hoping that a new venue for home games will be revealed. A few others in the Steel Army are speculating the signing of a few quality players.

I'm headed to the Greentree Sportsplex tonight for some indoor footy action. I've already warned one member of the front office that I'll be ransacking desks for clues!

pittsburgh riverhounds |

Unleash the Hounds in 2010 !!!

Posted by espo On 2:06 PM 0 comments

I can now confirm that the Pittsburgh Riverhounds will indeed be playing in the USL's 2nd division during the upcoming 2010 season. In related news, the Hounds have announced open player tryouts in December.

pittsburgh riverhounds, USL |

Pittsburgh Soccer in the Community

Posted by espo On 11:52 AM 0 comments

Through soccer I've been fortunate to have met some solid individuals over the past few years. One common thing binds everyone together; our passion for the beautiful game. Not many have shown as much passion as James Meara, co-president of Pittsburgh Soccer in the Community (www.pittsburghsoccer.org/). James and his partner, Mark Taylor, have partnered with several local organizations to bring soccer to over 500 kids who otherwise wouldn't have had the chance to discover the game. Summer and winter camps take kids from neighborhoods such as East Liberty, Homestead and Hazelwood and give them the opportunity to learn and play soccer in a safe and caring environment. However, it doesn't end there. James and Mark then bring in some of Pittsburgh's finest to talk to the kids about life, responsibility and respect. These "lifestyle" sessions are just as important as giving the kids a chance to experience the beautiful game. The program is sponsored and supported by the Mayor's Office, Project Weed and Seed, PNC Bank, UPMC and many other charitable donations. Last summer, the Bayer Foundation teamed up with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds to bring some of James' kids out to a game (www.riverhounds.com/home/361028.html). This past Saturday evening I talked my wife into attending the 5th Annual Fundraiser with me, hosted by the James Gallery located in Pittsburgh's West End. It was a great event with all proceeds going to fund next year's programs and camps. Hearing some of the kid's stories from James and Mark was the highlight of the evening and I was glad to have been able to contribute to such a wonderful cause on behalf of the Steel Army.

Formation of a New League?

Posted by espo On 10:44 AM 0 comments

Rumor has it that the infamous TOA is going to break away from the USL and form a new league in 2010. Montreal, Vancouver, Miami, Minnesota and Carolina will leave the USL and form a new 8 team league with St. Louis, Tampa Bay and former USL franchise Atlanta. If this happens, it will cripple the current USL First Division and potentially suspend play for the 2010 season.

So what can be done? Well, here is my proposed solution to the current dilemma!

First of all, what the league will need after the exodus is stability and improved product to strengthen the USL brand. Improving the product will mean adding better players at higher salaries. To do this, the league will need to cut the costs incurred by its franchises. The league should look to consolidate the remaining USL franchises into a single, regional division. Say goodbye to Bermuda, Western Mass, Portland, Puerto Rico and Austin because of the travel involved (Portland and Puerto Rico could potentially join the MLS). This leaves the USL with the following 10 teams to compete as a single division in 2010:

Cleveland
Rochester
Charleston
Pittsburgh
Harrisburg
Real Maryland
Crystal Palace Baltimore
Charlotte
Wilmington
Richmond

This division is full of natural rivalries and the close proximity would keep travel costs at a minimum. Teams could use that extra cash to strengthen rosters and increase marketing. If the USL is not willing to discuss lowering franchise fees and costs, these 10 teams would be wise to form a new owner-controlled league.

Stay tuned for more on this as things continue to develop over the next few weeks.

- edit -

the new configuration could also include the New York USL expansion franchise

E-terview: Manager Gene Klein

Posted by espo On 2:51 PM 0 comments

Recently I sent the gaffer an email asking a few questions, my first ever e-terview...nothing ground breaking, just trying to get a bit of insight on the team and his assessment of the 2009 season. Thanks again Gene!

me: What formation were the Hounds playing for the most part in 2009 and what dictates the decision to play a certain formation?

Klein: Each system was designed to try and fit our personnel. We started with a 4-5-1 that became a 4-1-4-1 once Niko Katic entered the line-up. We then went to a 4-3-3 in an effort to get more numbers in the attack. When Randolf Jerome had to leave because of visa problems, we went to a 4-4-2 because we did not really have anyone to fill Jerome's role. There were often injuries, suspensions or just different players making their way into the line-up, and as a result we had to tweak things to fit what we believed were our best 11 for that day.

me: Are you often forced to switch up the formation and tactics when players pick up injuries or do you try to plug in a player who can fill a specific role?

Klein: We don't like to switch up the formation too much because we want to maintain continuity, so normally we would try to look for someone to [fill] a role. However, as mentioned, that was not always possible, so the system may have changed. The best example of that would've been the last game versus Crystal Palace Baltimore. Due to injuries and three suspensions, we were forced to start with three in the back for the first time all season. Sometimes it was more subtle, maybe just the shape of our midfield.

me: As tough as it is missing out on the playoffs, were you happy with the team's improved record from 2008 to 2009? What enabled the team to play so well away from home this season?

Klein: We still lost ten games and missed the playoffs, so no I was not happy with the results, but I was usually happy with the effort. The league has done a good job insisting team hotels to adhere to late check-out policies. That makes things a little easier as far as getting proper rest and a pre-game meal. I also think the veterans on the team did a great job setting the proper attitude.

me: Moving forward into 2010, who/what do you see as the core strength of the Riverhounds and where could we improve the most on the pitch?

Klein: Strength - We were pleased with our attitude, commitment and focus. We also hope the fans saw we attempted to play good soccer with proper team shape, collective defending and good combination play. Improvement - We need to find players who can finish consistently, as well as breaking down opponents with the dribble. We gave up too many soft goals at the wrong time and they have to be eliminated. We weren't quite dangerous enough to make up for any mistakes.

me: We were very impressed with Randolph Jerome in 2009. What made you pursue him after watching him play for Cleveland in 2008?

Klein: We played Cleveland three times last year and he showed he could play as a target with his back to the goal. We had been looking for a player like that. He was a fine talent and would do whatever was asked of him.

me: How were your assistant coaches able to help throughout the course of the season?

Klein: Justin Evans was great. He was truly a coach on the field. I also enjoyed discussing different options with him and found we were almost always on the same page. His contributions were vital. Paul Child could always give me a honest "outside" prospective. he could sit back and offer unique insights that only come from his 40 years in pro soccer. Jeroen Walstra would ask challenging questions that made you think and provide another view. In the end it was my decision, but everyone had input.

me: Who really stood out this season on the field?

Klein: Justin Evans just made 2nd team all-league, he still commands tremendous respect from the league's coaches.

me: Who was the season's biggest surprise?

Klein: Our rookies, Niko Katic, Tommy Gray and Tony Labudovski, although not a huge surprise because we knew they could play, they still made a significant contribution and we were very happy with their performance and attitude.

me: What, if anything, was this season's biggest disappointment?

Klein: Aside from not making the playoffs, the lack of support from the soccer community. Too many people were more interested in criticizing our short-comings than providing us with some support to try and make pro soccer work in Pittsburgh.

me: In your opinion, what does it mean to the players to have the support of the Steel Army?

Klein: It is so important for the players to know that we have a group of supporters who are with them through thick and thin. it was also great to hear the special cheers for the Justins, Salsis, Haydens, etc. I personally was very gratified to know that the Army recognized that the bulk of our crowd were young children and their families.

me: If you could sign any one player from any USL2 team for next season, who would it be and why?

Klein: Matt Delicate. He is dominant in the air, very effective on the ground and does a great job of bringing other players into the game, not to mention he scored a ton of goals. Unfortunately too many were against the Hounds.

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