Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (3-2-7) will play New York Red Bulls II (9-3-2) at 7 p.m. this Saturday night at Highmark Stadium. The Hounds are coming off an impressive performance against Atlanta United 2, scoring five unanswered goals in a 5-0 victory last weekend. They are set to take on high-powered Red Bulls II, winner of three straight matches.
The Season So Far
New York Red Bulls II has been one of the most impressive teams in USL Championship action this season, gaining points in 11 of its 14 games. Red Bulls II currently sits second in the USL Championship Eastern Conference standings with 29 total points.
Players to Watch
Midfielder Jared Stroud has been one of the constants for Red Bulls II this season. He leads New York in assists, shots and chances created. Stroud also is second on the team with five goals in 14 appearances.
Defensively for Red Bulls II, Jordan Scarlett has led the way for New York. In Scarlett’s 12 appearances with New York this season, he has been the team leader in clearances, blocks and interceptions.
Strength – Scoring Production
The strength has been on the offensive front for Red Bulls II this season. New York leads the USL Championship in total shots and ranks first in the Eastern Conference with 31 goals scored. Red Bulls II has had five players who have scored three goals or more on the year. Pittsburgh will need to defend New York’s strikes from all angles around the box.
Weakness – Accuracy
Red Bulls II may have the most shots in all of the USL Championship, but the squad currently ranks last in passing accuracy in the Eastern Conference with a 70 percent success rate. If Pittsburgh can exploit New York’s passing rhythm, the Hounds could turn the tables and create offensive chances for themselves.
