Riverhounds Release Vargas, Harlley

by
John Krysinsky
August 30, 2016

Riverhounds Release Vargas, Harlley

by
John Krysinsky
August 30, 2016

Mauricio Vargas slides to save the ball during the FC Cincinnati vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds game at Nippert Stadium on Saturday May 14, 2016. FC Cincinnati won the game at 1-0 (Photo courtesy of Phil Didion for WCPO-Cincinnati).

From Pittsburgh Riverhounds report

The Pittsburgh Riverhounds have announced that they’re parting ways with two more players that started the season with the team — goalkeeper Mauricio Vargas and midfielder AlexNyarko Harlley.

Originally signed through the 2017 season, Vargas requested his release from the team to return home to his family in Costa Rica and continue his playing career in Central America.

“In recent days I have made the decision to return home to Costa Rica; I left in 2010 and haven’t been back since. Right now, I would really like to be close to my family again and hopefully continue my soccer career,” Vargas said. “I want to thank the city of Pittsburgh for the amazing time I had here. I want to thank a great institution, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, for opening the doors to my professional career.”

The keeper joined the Riverhounds after competing for F.C. Wichita in the National Premier Soccer League. He made his USL debut at FC Cincinnati on May 14, stopping eight of nine shots in a 1-0 defeat.

In total this season, Vargas made for 12 starts for the Hounds (3-8-1), stopping 41 of 61 shots faced on net for a .672 save percentage and 1.67 goals-against average. He recorded one clean sheet, stopping all four shots in a 0-0 draw against the Harrisburg City Islanders on July 4.

Head coach Dave Brandt thanked Vargas for his contributions to the club this season.

“Mauricio has a strong desire to go home to Costa Rica and pursue his career there. It’s something that we’re happy to help him do,” Brandt said. “We value and appreciate his contribution to the club this year.”

For Harlley, he departs the club after making five appearances this season, totaling 86 minutes. The Lomé, Togo native joined the Hounds prior to this season following a stint with the NASL’s Atlanta Silverbacks.

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John Krysinsky

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).

From Pittsburgh Riverhounds report

Originally signed through the 2017 season, Vargas requested his release from the team to return home to his family in Costa Rica and continue his playing career in Central America.

“In recent days I have made the decision to return home to Costa Rica; I left in 2010 and haven’t been back since. Right now, I would really like to be close to my family again and hopefully continue my soccer career,” Vargas said. “I want to thank the city of Pittsburgh for the amazing time I had here. I want to thank a great institution, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, for opening the doors to my professional career.”

Head coach Dave Brandt thanked Vargas for his contributions to the club this season.

“Mauricio has a strong desire to go home to Costa Rica and pursue his career there. It’s something that we’re happy to help him do,” Brandt said. “We value and appreciate his contribution to the club this year.”