February 25, 2023 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC News Release
PITTSBURGH – Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC extended its preseason run to four matches without a loss by holding off the University of Pittsburgh, 2-1, tonight at Highmark Stadium.
Robbie Mertz, the Hounds’ Pittsburgh native, scored the game-winning goal in the 61st minute.Edward Kizza, a former Pitt player himself, opened the scoring for the Hounds beforeFilip Mirkovicpulled the Panthers – national semifinalists in last year’s NCAA Tournament – level just before halftime.
The Hounds began the game on the front foot, and Kizza got his first goal of the preseason just 11 minutes into the game by making a central run and touching home a short cross from the left side. The Hounds continued to threaten in the half, as new signingLangston Blackstockforced a good save and later pushed an open chance barely wide of the post, but the score remained 1-0.
Moments before halftime, Mirkovic found space in the midfield and tied the game for Pitt by curling a shot inside the right post from 30 yards out. The goal ended a run of 314 minutes without conceding by the Hounds.
The second half saw a number of scripted changes by the Hounds, including the introduction of captainKenardo Forbesand Mertz, both of whom were slated to play 45 minutes on the day. The second half also saw the return of defenderNate Dossantos, who played 30 minutes in his first action at Highmark Stadium since his 2022 season was ended by a knee injury.
The winning goal began withMarc Ybarraworking into the left side of the penalty area and driving a low shot at goal. The Panthers’ goalkeeper made the save, but the ball fell to Mertz, who blasted his first goal of the preseason into the top of the net.
The Hounds have one week remaining in their preseason, which will end with a final tune-up against Louisville City FC in a rematch of the 2022 USL Championship Eastern Conference Semifinals. The teams will meet Saturday, March 4 at 2 p.m. at Highmark Stadium; the match is open to the public and admission is free.
• Discuss this story on the United Soccer League Championship message board…
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.