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Hotspurs can’t shake Syracuse FC, settle for 3-3 draw in home finale

Nick Kolarac scored the match's opening tally, as Hotspurs drew Syracuse FC on Sunday at Ellis Field (Photo credit: Brad Oskowski)

Pittsburgh Hotspurs 3, Syracuse FC 3

Match Report / Stats 

The Pittsburgh Hotspurs raced out to an early two-goal lead, but would have to settle for a draw as Syracuse FC rallied as the two squads battled to a 3-3 draw in their National Premier Soccer League match at Ellis School on Sunday.

The Hotspurs opened the scoring with team captain Nick Kolarac converted a penalty kick in the 16th minute.  Building on its momentum, the Hotspurs didn’t waste any time doubling the lead, when Matt Cillo converted a cross into the box from Tate Mohney.

Syracuse cut the lead just before the end of the first half, as Samuel Fuller scored in the 45th, then leveled the match in the 58th minute,

The Hotspurs responded with an Ethan Hackenberg goal in the 67nd minute.

Playing in its final home match of the season, the Hotspurs couldn’t shake off Syracuse FC, as additional pressure contributed to a penalty kick conversion from Sam Daniel. 

That would be the last of the scoring, despite both side pushing for the game-winner in the late moments.

The Hotspurs (1-5-2) will conclude its season with two games on the road, first at front-running Cleveland, before ending the season with a return match at Syracuse.

Hotspurs Starting XI

Keasel Broome (G), Matt Cillo, Max Flick, Marc Alexander, Matt Rytel, Marc Alexander, Nick Kolarac, Noah Mehta, Ethan Hackenberg, Lamine Balde

Reserves used:

Sean Abraham, Lucas Alese, Mohammedi Alkhateeb, Nathaniel Rondinelli, Kevin Stoffle

Syracuse FC Lineup

Today’s roster: Jack Klawitter, Mike Lantry, Caleb Munski, Josh Card, Jeorgio Kocevski, Sam Daniel, AJ Sinclair, Jake Munski, Jake Sherline, Manny Chanelo, Sam Fuller, Parker Scholl, Connor Hamilton, Issak Somow, Connor McGoldrick.

 

With vets guiding youth, Pittsburgh Hotspurs building toward strong finish in its first NPSL season

 

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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