Coming off just its second defeat of the season, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (9-2-7) will put its undefeated road record (4-0-4) to the test in a match at North Carolina FC (6-8-5) at 7 p.m. on Saturday at WakeMed Soccer Park. The Hounds won their first meeting this season, 2-0, and this upcoming match will be televised on Pittsburgh’s CW.
Bounce Back
After the Hounds’ first defeat this season against Nashville SC on May 30, they bounced back with a strong showing against the Richmond Kickers. Pittsburgh defeated Richmond, 2-1, and recorded a season-high 20 total shots. The Hounds will look to replicate this performance against North Carolina FC.
Chasing the Cheetah
Last time out against the Charleston Battery, Christiano François led the Hounds’ offense. The attacking winger tied for the team lead or paced the club in shots (three), shots on target (two) and chances created (two). Leading Pittsburgh midfielders with 22 shots this season, François should once again be at the center of the Hounds’ attack this weekend.
Ball Burglary
Playing in the heart of the Hounds’ formation, Thomas Vancaeyezeele has lived in opposing passing lanes this season. The rookie tied for the team lead with two interceptions last time out against Charleston and ranks first on the club with a total of 47 interceptions this campaign. Not missing a match yet this year, Vancaeyezeele will aim to continue his success at stealing possession for the Hounds.
Goalkeeper Dan Lynd has nine shutouts this season. With one more clean sheet, he will set the club single-season record.
Over the course of the season, the Hounds have outshot their opponents, 210-137, although this margin decreases to 100-91 when looking at just the second half of play. Pittsburgh, which has allowed seven of its eight goals in 2018 during the second half of play, will need to keep up the pressure in the final-45 minutes this weekend.
