Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (4-2-7) will take on Birmingham Legion FC (3-8-4) at 7 p.m. this upcoming Saturday at Highmark Stadium. The Riverhounds come into Saturday night riding a two-game winning streak after a 3-0 victory against New York Red Bulls II last Saturday. Legion FC will have a quick turnaround this week, first playing Indy Eleven this Wednesday in Indianapolis.
The Season So Far
Birmingham Legion FC has had an inconsistent season thus far in USL Championship action. Birmingham collected points in four of its first six matches, securing three victories during the stretch. However, since its initial early season success, Birmingham has had difficulty earning points on the pitch. Legion FC has not won a league match since April 27, earning only a single point in USL Championship action in the month of June.
Legion FC has been more successful on the road compared to at home, securing points in four matches on the road compared to three at home.
Players to Watch
Birmingham forward Chandler Hoffman is the No. 1 player the Hounds backline should be concerned with going into Saturday night. Hoffman leads Legion FC in chances created and is tied for the team lead in goals and total shots.
Midfielder Mikey Lopez has been effective on the defensive end for Birmingham, leading the team in tackles with 42 and tackles won with 26. Lopez also is second on the team with 22 total interceptions this season. Defender Mathieu Laurent is another player to watch out for as he leads Birmingham with 42 total clearances on the year, eight more than the next closest Legion FC player.
Strength – Inside the Box
Legion FC has been effective with scoring chances within the 18-yard-box this season. Of the 14 goals scored this season by Birmingham, nine have been within the 18-yard box.
Weakness – Goal Production
The biggest issue with Birmingham Legion FC comes in the goal department. Legion FC currently ranks second to last in goals scored in the Eastern Conference with 13 total tallies. Hoffman and Prosper Kasim are the only players who have scored three or more goals for Birmingham this season.
