Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (15-4-10) sets up shop along the Monongahela River for a showdown with Indy Eleven (17-7-5) at 7 p.m. this Saturday at Highmark Stadium.
This marks the third meeting between the clubs this season. The Riverhounds defeated the Eleven 1-0 in Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup play on May 29 at Highmark Stadium whereas Indy bested the Black and Gold, 2-1, on June 1 at Lucas Oil Stadium in league play.
Sore Legs
Neither team will have the luxury of rest as both Pittsburgh and Indy dueled in midweek showdowns prior to this Saturday’s meeting. The Hounds defeated Memphis 901 FC, 1-0, Tuesday night on a lone goal from defender Joe Greenspan. On the other hand, the Eleven dropped their match against Atlanta United 2, 2-1, Wednesday night in Kennesaw, Georgia.
Tight Race to the Finish
Currently, one point separates five teams at the top of the table in the USL Championship Eastern Conference standings. The Riverhounds sit fifth place in the rankings, one spot out of a home playoff match in the playoffs. Indy Eleven currently reside second in the standings, a prime position for the club to make a considerable push for the title. This matchup will play a key part in determining the final standings in the Eastern Conference.
Control Pasher
Midfielder Tyler Pasher leads Indy Eleven with 10 goals in league play, including one goal scored against the Riverhounds in May. Pasher’s presence on the attack will be a significant focus for Pittsburgh defenders.
By the Numbers: 6
The Hounds collected a team-record six consecutive clean sheets after Tuesday’s victory in Memphis. Sensational goalkeeping from Kyle Morton and Austin Pack contributed to the Hounds’ success this season, collecting 12 clean sheets between the two keepers.
Key to Victory: Home Sweet Home
It has been a long time since the Riverhounds dropped a match at Highmark Stadium, a 23-game consecutive streak in regular season play dating back to the 2018 campaign. Highmark Stadium is a difficult venue to succeed in, as most of the Eastern Conference has been a victim to this vicious trend. The Hounds will need to use the home environment to their advantage.
