USL Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC

3 Things: #CLTvPIT

August 13, 2021 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC News Release


After a crushing second half against Miami that led to the Hounds' first loss in more than a month, it's a swift turnaround to get ready to face the Charlotte Independence at 7 p.m. Saturday in a road match that will be shown on 22 The Point and ESPN+.

With such a short time to prepare, we aren't going to linger on the introduction and get straight to the 3 Things ... ready for it?

1.) Shake it off

For a team that was riding a string of excellent results and getting wins even when they didn't have their A-plus game, to lose in the fashion they did against Miami - letting a 2-0 lead go over the final 40 minutes - could cause a little shell shock.

Of course, one of the things Bob Lilley prides himself on is his teams bouncing back from losses, as evidenced by the fact his Hounds teams have only lost consecutive matches on two occasions in his four seasons in charge.

Still, this match will be a test of character for the Hounds, who have about 72 hours to go from disappointment to getting back on track.

2.) The 1

The Hounds No. 1, Danny Vitiello, is almost certain to be back in goal after Jake Leeker got the nod Wednesday against Miami, but it's the goalkeeping situation on the other end that provides a little intrigue.

Brandon Miller has stymied the Hounds in both prior matchups by turning away 11 of 12 shots on goal, but Miller left the team's Aug. 6 match with Loudoun because of injury and missed the next game against New York.

Former Hounds goalkeeper Austin Pack is Miller's deputy, and while Pack is a competent net-minder, not having a former USL Goalkeeper of the Year like Miller is a loss for the Independence. However, Miller is not listed on the injury report for Saturday, which means he could be back in net for Charlotte.

3.) Fifteen

The Hounds' injury situation continues to be a problem, after the club only had 15 field players active for the game against Miami. That led Lilley to include third goalkeeper Chris Morrish on the team sheet Wednesday, writing his name to avoid leaving a blank space.

Already ruled out for the Charlotte game are Jelani Peters (illness), Jordan Dover (lower body), Tom Judge (head) and Josh Gatt (knee), while Albert Dikwa and Mekeil Williams remain questionable on the injury report.

Williams seems closest to a return from his lower body injury, and fresh legs along the back line is exactly what the Hounds need currently, so look for the Trinidadian veteran to make his return - possibly even to the starting 11 - on Saturday.

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