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| Credit: NYtimes.com |
Unleashed
By Teddy Krzywiecki
The time has finally come. After 13 long seasons of searching, Pittsburgh's only professional soccer team has finally found its home. And let me tell you...it is a beauty.
Located in Pittsburgh's southside, Highmark Stadium sits on the opposite side of the Mon River in Pittburgh with a fantastic view of the city. After recently merging with the USL Pro, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds provide professional players with the opportunity to play in a developing soccer market, with a brand new stadium, in a highly competitive league. This option is appeasing for players on their way up to the top ranks, along with players who may have fallen out of favor with teams at the upper level. So what exactly is the deal with the Hounds, and what can we expect in 2013? Here's a few things to consider:
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| credit: Riverhounds.com |
- After an abysmal season in 2012, the Riverhounds are looking to rebound with improvements to the squad under the reign of head coach Justin Evans. Evans, head coach since 2010, brings playing experience from the highest level of soccer in the United States having a playing stint at the San Jose Earthquakes (MLS).
- It is unclear what players will be staying or going, as rosters won't be finalized till spring 2013...so it could be difficult for the Hounds to build team chemistry as they move into their new home on the southside.
- With the new stadium capacity being roughly 3,500, it will be interesting to see what sort of numbers turn up to the Hounds games when the season kicks off on Saturday April 6th. Personally I anticipate a packed house, with ravenous fans. Wishful thinking? Maybe. Attendance averages over the past year have been close to 1,000. However the Hounds have been doing an impressive job in their marketing efforts throughout the city so attendance for their inaugural year at Highmark Stadium shouldn't be an issue. Team performance however, may be.
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| Credit: thecup.us |
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