Typically preventing offensive breaks, Tobi Adewole found himself on one late in the second half during last week’s match against Ottawa Fury FC.
Already in the offensive third due to a recent corner kick opportunity, Adewole bolted into the 18-yard box and stationed himself directly in front of the goal line. So when Kevin Kerr sent a ball in his direction, the defender was more than ready to lunge by an opposing player and poke the ball into the back of the net.
“The No. 1 thing I was thinking was attack the ball,” Adewole said. “Be dangerous in the box cause I have size. Got to contribute to the team anyway I can. Keeping shutouts is one thing, but getting a goal is another thing, which I’m blessed to get.”
The Ashton, Maryland native’s first professional goal became the game-winner for Riverhounds SC in its 1-0 victory against Ottawa. Pittsburgh (2-0-2) now turns its focus to FC Cincinnati (2-1-1), as the two teams will clash at 7 p.m. on Saturday at Nippert Stadium.
With his tally last time out, the center back has scored more goals than the Hounds have allowed this year – an impressive feat for a defender, especially heading into the fifth game of the season.
Another remarkable accomplishment the George Washington University product has under his belt is having started all 19 career appearances he has made for the Hounds since he began his professional career with the club in 2017. Pittsburgh has recorded a clean sheet in seven, or more than one-third, of his games played.
“Decision making on the ball,” Adewole said about an area of his game he’s improved on from his rookie campaign. “Just knowing when to kick it versus when to keep the ball. Communication, which was big last year, and I’m trying to get that even bigger in my game this year.”
As he works to perfect these qualities of his game, Adewole has shown notable signs of improving his leadership qualities. His consistent play and work ethic has led him to play every minute of the 2018 season thus far – something only two other Hounds have accomplished (defender Ray Lee and midfielder Thomas Vancaeyezeele). He also is tied for the team lead with eight interceptions and is second on the club with 22 clearances on the season.
With FC Cincinnati looming on the schedule, Adewole and the backline look to lock down yet another offense. The Hounds’ current streak of four straight shutouts to start 2018 is their longest such streak in club history during the current era of the USL (since 2011).
Adewole said the team is working on keeping its shape on the field to help prevent and generate better runs heading into its showdown with FC Cincinnati at the imposing Nippert Stadium.
Despite the hostile environment, the defender, as well as the entire club, will be up for the challenge.
“Every day is a battle on and off the field,” Adewole said. “Not getting complacent. Playing every game like it’s my last. Playing every practice like it’s my last.”
