Referee: Jason White
Assistant Referees: John Safar, Eric Blackburn
Weather: Clear

Team Summary - Real Maryland Monarchs

Players

Brian Levey, Remak Safi (Williams 36' [Darvill 75']), Gareth Evans, Mason Trafford, Kenneth Sola, Ben Hunter, Nicki Paterson, Nate Baker, Alan Sanchez, Jyler Noviello (Senior 63'), Andre Alpan (Sesay 75')

Players not used- Brian Visser, Tom Ryan & Sean Rush

Shots: 5
Saves: 4
Fouls: 12
Offsides: 0
Corners: 0
Cautions: Evans - UB (25'), Hunter - DT (86')

Team Summary - Pittsburgh Riverhounds

Players

Hunter Gilstrap,  Jason Kutney (Pierce 82') , Niko Katic, Nathan Salsi (Kouadio-Tobey 88') , Sterling Flunder, Louie Rolko, Matt Baker (Gazda 78'), Tommy Gray, Travis MacKenzie, Matt Tuttle, Alex Weekes

Players not used - Eddie Hayden, Mike Seth & Jason Stenta

Edinboro, PA - Traveling north of Pittsburgh for their match against Maryland, the Riverhounds (3-3-5) finished two goals in the first half to break the stalemate previously held with the Monarchs (3-4-5). The two Clubs were featured in the PA West Youth Tournament held at Edinboro University as the “night cap” match in Sox Harrison Stadium where 869 spectators enjoyed the professional atmosphere.

The Riverhounds came out with an attacking mindset, focusing on using the outside channels and serving dangerous balls into the penalty area. In the 25th minute, the Monarchs conceded a corner to the Hounds and Tommy Gray’s back post service for Nate Salsi resulted in a penalty kick. The challenge from Monarch’s defender, Gareth Evans was careless as his elbow flew into Salsi’s head. Riverhounds rookie, Alex Weekes stepped up to the stripe and converted the penalty with confidence.

Three minutes later Weekes played a cross to the back post for an on running Travis MacKenzie. The service was behind the Monarch’s defense, but MacKenzie’s header went inches wide of the goal.

Outside back, Sterling Flunder left his mark on the match in the 32nd minute when his individual effort found the back of the net. Flunder, overlapping Matt Tuttle down the left flank, was played a long penetrating pass from Louie Rolko. Flunder’s first touch brought him inside of the closing defender and provided enough space to prepare his body for a strike from 30 yards out. His right footed blast slid passed the diving Monarch’s goal keeper, Brian Levey at the near post and put the Hounds up two.

The remainder of the match the Riverhounds continued to attack as they received six corners in the second half, but could not score a third goal and distance themselves from the most dangerous score in soccer, 2-0.

The Riverhounds defense was solid throughout the match, only allowing one shot on goal. Goal keeper, Hunter Gilstap picked up his 4th shutout in league play and 5th on the season. The Hounds back four composed of Jason Kutney, Niko Katic, Louie Rolko and Sterling Flunder stifled the Monarchs attack and controlled the tempo of the match by confidently intercepting passes and locking down the opposition.

The Riverhounds look to continue their 5-game unbeaten streak this Friday against the Charlotte Eagles (4-5-3). The match will be held at Chartiers Valley Stadium, with Kick-Off set for 7:00 pm.

For ticket information, visit riverhounds.com or call the Riverhounds Office 412.539.1191.

Go HOUNDS!!