After battling Toronto FC II to a 1-1 draw, the Riverhounds (4-5-4) look to stay undefeated on their two-game road trip as they ready for a showdown against Louisville City FC (6-1-4) at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday. Pittsburgh lost a close game earlier this season to Louisville by a score of 1-0 at Highmark Stadium.
Free Parke-ing
Last time out against Toronto FC II, Romeo Parkes recorded a season-high four shots on goal and netted his first tally of the season. In the 87th minute, Parkes blasted a free kick from atop the arc past the opposing goalkeeper. His goal served as the equalizer, helping the Hounds to a 1-1 draw. Starting the past three games for Pittsburgh, Parkes seems to be heating up as the summer months arrive.
Friendly confines?
Though the past two seasons have seen Louisville consistently rank near the top in the conference standings, finishing second in both 2015 and 2016, the Hounds have had surprising success against their Derby City foes on the road. In two matches played at Louisville Slugger Stadium, Pittsburgh holds a 1-0-1 record, outscoring Louisville with a 3-to-2 advantage in goals. A victory, or draw for that matter, won’t come easy though, as Lou City is 1-0-2 at home so far in 2017.
Owning the score sheet
Brian Ownby racked up the points for Louisville City FC in its previous game against New York Red Bulls II. The midfielder assisted on one tally and later scored a goal of his own. Ownby has been a consistent offensive threat throughout this season, totaling three goals and two assists for the Eastern Conference foe. The Hounds must keep track of him on Saturday.
The Hounds have 155 shots this season, which is sixth most in the Eastern Conference. Despite the high-shot total, Pittsburgh sits in 11th place of 15 teams in goals forwarded, as of June 12. The Black-and-Gold will try to increase its success rate this Saturday against Louisville City FC.
Thus far into the 2017 campaign, Louisville City FC’s defense has shut down its opponents, allowing only nine goals this season – the best mark in the Eastern Conference. As a team, Louisville also is tied for first in the conference with six clean sheets. The Hounds offense will need to capitalize on its scoring chances come Saturday, as opportunities may be more limited than usual.
