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USL North Carolina FC

NCFC Looks to Continue Momentum against Pittsburgh Riverhounds

July 3, 2018 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
North Carolina FC News Release


CARY, N.C. - North Carolina FC will travel north to take on the Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the first-ever meeting between the two clubs on Wednesday, July 4 at Highmark Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pa., at 7 p.m. ET.

The Riverhounds will be a tough road test for NCFC, as the club has earned 28 points from its first 15 matches in 2018. Pittsburgh currently sits in second place in the USL Eastern Conference standings. The team is coming off an impressive 1-0 victory on the road over the defending USL Cup champions in Louisville City FC.

Pittsburgh is led by a dominant backline that has only conceded seven goals and contributed to 10 clean sheets on the season. The team's style of play has been an effective way to pick up points, while relying on the staunch defensive unit. NCFC will lean on the Eastern Conference's co-leader in goals scored in forward Daniel Rios as the team looks to solve the puzzle that has proven to be difficult for many opposing teams.

NCFC's success on the road against the Richmond Kickers will bring confidence heading into the match in Pittsburgh. The team has earned points in three of its last four matches in the push toward an Eastern Conference playoff spot. A result against Pittsburgh could be a stepping stone for NCFC as the team aims to maintain its momentum following a string of positive results.

Last Time Out:

NCFC came away with a vital 3-1 victory over regional rival Richmond Kickers on Saturday night. Following an early opening goal by Richmond, NCFC controlled much of the match. Three second-half goals proved to be the difference in an important win on the road.

Players to Watch:

#9 Neco Brett

Brett has enjoyed a strong start to his first season with the Riverhounds as the forward has scored eight goals and added three assists in 15 appearances for the club. He joined Pittsburgh for the 2018 season following two seasons with Portland Timbers II. Brett was a second-round selection in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft by the Portland Timbers, where he made his MLS debut as a substitute on May 22, 2016.

#6 Austin da Luz

Austin da Luz is coming off a strong performance in NCFC's last match, where he scored one goal and played a key part in another. The midfielder has two goals and one assist on the season, while also being second on the team with 21 chances created thus far. He was also named to the USL Team of the Week for his performance. Look for da Luz to be a threat with his crossing from the wings and his finishing ability in the box.

Coming Up Next:

NCFC returns home to Sahlen's Stadium at WakeMed Soccer Park to face the Charleston Battery for Wizard Night on Saturday, July 7 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available online, over the phone at 919-459-8144 or in person at the Coastal Credit Union Box Office.

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