USL Richmond Kickers

Kickers Pick Up Three Points in Pittsburgh

Published on June 26, 2009 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Richmond Kickers News Release


EDINBORO, PA - The Richmond Kickers closed out a five-game road stand with a 2-1 win over the Pittsburgh Riverhounds Friday night. Forward Matthew Delicâte gave the visitors an early lead but Pittsburgh forward Randolph Jerome registered soon after to bring the score level. Delicâte struck again before the end of the first half to break the stalemate and the Kickers held the opposition after the restart to preserve the win. The Kickers return to the University of Richmond Stadium next Saturday, July 4th to host the Charlotte Eagles at 1:00 p.m.

The Kickers connected early when they capitalized on a defensive miscommunication in the 6th minute. Midfielder Adrian Bumbut delivered a cross from the right side, catching the defense and goalkeeper Danny Waltman off guard. As Waltman fumbled the ball, Delicâte snuck in and buried it from close range.

Celebrations did not last long as the Riverhounds leveled the score in the 22nd minute. Midfielder Jason Kutney received a nice through ball at the touchline. He played a well-placed cross back to Jerome who turned quickly and fired from eight yards out, connecting with the far corner of the target.

Before the close of the first half, the Kickers reclaimed the advantage when Delicâte unleashed the eventual game-winner. Midfielder Mike Burke delivered a corner from the right side, finding Gerson dos Santos in the air. His header lofted across the box to Delicâte, positioned at point-blank range, allowing the Kickers leading scorer to tuck it into the upper 90.

After the restart, the Kickers nearly added a third tally on the night when midfielder Joey Worthen intercepted a pass at midfield. Carrying the ball down the flank, he challenged the last defender 1v1 and was pushed to the edge of the box. Regardless, he lined up the tough-angled shot but his determined strike found the side netting.

Later, in the 72nd minute, Riverhounds forward Thomas Gray collected the ball on the left wing. Cutting inside, he fired a 25-yard rocket, forcing Kickers goalkeeper Ronnie Pascale to make a diving save to touch the ball around the post.

As the final minutes of regulation neared, Pittsburgh bombarded the penalty box with several long balls, throw-ins and a succession of corner kicks but the Kickers defensive unit withstood the attack to preserve the win.

The Kickers return to the University of Richmond Stadium next Saturday, July 4th after a month-long road stand to host an Independence Day Celebration and the Charlotte Eagles. Festivities including a splash zone, inflatables, live music and games begin at 11:00 a.m. and kickoff is slated for 1:00 p.m. Click HERE to download a coupon for $4.00 admission and visit RichmondKickers.com for more information.

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United Soccer League Championship Stories from June 26, 2009


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