United Soccer Leagues announced the USL Second Division Team of the Week today, honoring midfielder Travis MacKenzie of the Pittsburgh Riverhounds as Player of the Week. MacKenzie was instrumental in Pittsburgh picking up four points in two matches. The Pittsburgh native helped control the tempo in the Riverhounds’ win against Richmond last Thursday, and he then put in another solid performance against Harrisburg, assisting on the game-tying goal.

Joining MacKenzie in the Team of the Week are Pittsburgh teammates Hunter Gilstrap, Shintaro Harada, and Chad Severs. Riverhounds keeper Gilstrap played 180 minutes in net last week, recording a clean sheet win against Richmond and making 13 saves combined in the matches. Shintaro Harada helped anchor the Pittsburgh backline that conceded only one goal in two matches. Chad Severs delivered the offense, scoring three goals in two matches for the Riverhounds. The efforts of these Pittsburgh players help keep the side in the tight race for the third and final playoff spot.

The table-topping Charleston Battery continued their hot play, downing Real Maryland, 1-0, on Friday. Leading the charge was Lamar Neagle, who scored the game winner in Friday’s victory. Alioune Gueye contributed as well, controlling the midfield play in the win. Helping backstop the clean sheet win was Colin Falney, who led the defensive effort.

Charlotte is currently in the final playoff spot and Leo Gibson helped ensure they held that position this weekend. The forward led the Eagles offense, staying dangerous in front of the net and assisting on a goal.

Harrisburg entered Saturday’s Keystone State Derby looking to get into the playoff picture. Midfielder Kai Kasiguran helped the City Islanders earn a valuable point, assisting on a goal and playing solid defense as well. Anthony Calvano also had a standout defensive match for Harrisburg.

Real Maryland’s Nicki Patterson had an outstanding week helping propel the team’s attack from the midfield, as the Monarchs grabbed a valuable point from Charlotte.