Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (3-2-7) kicks off a three-game homestand at 7 p.m. this Saturday, hosting the New York Red Bulls II (9-3-2) at Highmark Stadium.
New York ranks second on the Eastern Conference leaderboard with 29 points. The club carries a three-game winning streak into Saturday’s match.
Bulls on Parade
New York Red Bulls II brings in a loaded arsenal of offensive weapons. The club leads the Eastern Conference in shots (262) and in goals (31). New York has put up a combined eight goals in its last three games, and Pittsburgh’s defenders will have their hands full on Saturday when trying to slow them down.
Brilliant Brett
Pittsburgh forward Neco Brett is on a roll, and is finding the back of the net with ease of late. The 27-year-old has converted opportunities in both of the club’s most recent USL Championship matches. With four tallies on the season, Brett is currently tied for the team lead in goals with Kevin Kerr.
Clean as a Whistle
Kyle Morton earned a clean sheet in last weekend’s 5-0 win over Atlanta United 2. The result was the first clean sheet for Morton this year but the club’s fourth overall. Ben Lundgaard and Austin Pack recorded the other three.
It is unsure which goalkeeper will man the cage for the Hounds this weekend, but the club has reason to be confident in whoever earns the starting duties.
By the Numbers: 19
Neco Brett, with 19 career goals in the Black and Gold, is one goal away from becoming the ninth Hound all-time to reach the 20-goal mark with the club.
Key to Victory: Lockdown
New York is a club that will take advantage of any and every offensive chance that it is given. Pittsburgh’s defensive core will need to put out an almost flawless effort against Red Bulls II in order to limit the opposition’s attack.
Red Bulls II’s attack is dangerous, but a strong showing from the Hounds’ backline could be enough to grab a victory on Saturday.
