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First Riverhounds-City Islanders Keystone Derby Clash Postponed

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The Steel Army weathered the elements, and were rocking Highmark Stadium in frigid 2015 home opener (March 2015)


Apparently there will be no repeat of the first Keystone Derby match from a year-ago, which was played in Arctic conditions.
 
In anticipation of extreme weather conditions expected to sweep through Western Pennsylvania this weekend — the United Soccer League has agreed to postpone this Saturday’s game between the Pittsburgh Riverhounds and Harrisburg City Islanders at Highmark Stadium.
The game has been rescheduled to Sunday, July 17.  Kickoff will be announced at a later date. Tickets for Saturday’s game will be honored at the rescheduled contest.
This was probably the right move.
Last year, the Riverhounds defeated Harrisburg 5-2 in conditions that included 17 degree temperatures and a wind-chill that was close to zero.   Kevin Kerr and Rob Vincent combined for all of the scoring (Kerr 3 goals; Vincent 2).
Very few fans showed up for that one.
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Turnpike Cup is currently in possession of the Riverhounds after taking 3 of 4 matches in 2015. 


On the heels of a home opening 1-0 loss to Rochester that also had a number of no-shows and lackluster attendance, this is the smart move.
This will enable the Riverhounds to capitalize on moving this game to a time of the year when they are getting their largest crowds of the season.
In addition, it provides the team with another week of training without a match, which is not ideal, but will keep the team fairly healthy and well-rested early in the season.
Pittsburgh’s defense of the Keystone Derby Cup presented by the Pennsylvania Lottery and K&L Gates will now begin on July 4 when the Hounds host their instate rival at Highmark Stadium.
Next up for the Riverhounds will be a trip to Canada next Sunday, as they take on Toronto FC II at Ontario Soccer Centre, Toronto with a 4 p.m. kickoff.
 
 

John Krysinsky has covered soccer and other sports for many years for various publications and media outlets. He is also author of 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a book about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which chronicles the club, particularly the early years of Highmark Stadium with the narrative leading up to and centered around a remarkable match that helped provide a spark for the franchise. John has covered sports for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, DK Pittsburgh Sports, Pittsburgh Sports Report, has served as color commentator on Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC broadcasts, and worked with OPTA Stats and broadcast teams for US Open Cup and International Champions Cup matches held in the US. Krysinsky also served as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at his alma mater, Point Park University, where he led the Pioneers to the first-ever winning seasons and playoff berths (1996-98); head coach of North Catholic boys (2007-08), associate head coach of Shady Side Academy boys (2009-2014).

Glory on the Grass

Riverhounds MF Kenardo Forbes

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