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Photo Gallery: Mertz returns, Pitt honored, but it was Cicerone’s hat trick which stole the show

The Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC hosted a festive, entertaining, at times chippy and momentous match against Atlanta United 2 on Sunday night at Highmark Stadium.

The Hounds took care of business on the field, taking command of the contest despite a back-and-forth pace early in the match, to come away with a 4-1 win.

Final: Riverhounds SC 4, Atlanta United 1

It was a momentus night as Upper St. Clair native Robbie Mertz returned to play for his former team, with numerous fans — including many family and friends — in attendance and a bunch wearing his jersey.

 

 

Pitt men’s soccer team was honored at halftime, while one of it former players who helped lead them to the College Cup, Bryce Washington, was starting at center back for Atlanta.

But on the field, the night belonged to Russell Cicerone and Alex Dixon, who helped lead the Hounds victory, and keep Pittsburgh (now 11-6-4) in first place in the Atlantic Division standings for the moment (Tampa Bay plays at Loudoun on Monday evening).

The Hounds dynamic duo continue to produce at a high rate.  Cicerone had his first professional career hat trick to improve to 11 goals for the season (now tied for second in the league). Dixon added two more assists to his team leading total of seven helpers for the season.

Here’s Ed Thompson’s photo gallery which captured the action on and off the field at Highmark Stadium on Sunday.

Ed Thompson Photo Gallery 

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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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