Since the start of training camp in mid-January, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds have worked to form team chemistry and improve upon different intricacies in coach Dave Brandt’s system. After nearly a month of training, the Hounds turn their focus to a seven-game preseason slate.
WEEK 1: Trip to the Tar Heel State
Pittsburgh kicks off its preseason with a trip to North Carolina, playing North Carolina FC on Feb. 18 and Duke University on Feb. 19. North Carolina FC, a member of the North American Soccer League, held a 7-10-5 record last year. At the collegiate level, Duke went 7-8-2 in its 2016 season.
WEEK 2: Highmark Homecoming
The Hounds return to Pittsburgh for the second week of the preseason. The first of back-to-back game days occurs on Feb. 25 at Highmark Stadium, as the Hounds battle the University of Akron. This is the third-straight year Akron is on the preseason schedule.
In the second game, the Black and Gold face off against Duquesne University on Feb. 26 at the Allegheny Health Network Sports Complex in Bethel Park. In their last preseason meeting, the Hounds defeated the Dukes, 4-0. Midfielder Kevin Kerr tallied a goal in this 2015 contest.
WEEK 3: College Foes
When the calendar flips to March, the Hounds will remain in the Pittsburgh area. On March 4, the team will travel across the Monongahela River for a clash with the University of Pittsburgh. The Hounds last shut out the Panthers, 2-0, in a 2014 preseason match.
For their final preseason home game, the Hounds will host the alma mater of Hounds great Rob Vincent, the University of Charleston, on March 5 at Highmark Stadium. Pittsburgh won their most recent meeting, 5-1, during the 2015 preseason.
WEEK 4: USL Preview
The Hounds will square off against their first USL foe in their final tune-up before the 2017 regular season. On March 13, Pittsburgh will hit the road for a match against long-time Eastern Conference rival Rochester Rhinos. After their preseason match, the Rhinos and Hounds will clash three more times during the regular season.
For start times and more preseason schedule information, click here.
