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Pittsburgh Riverhounds

Sounding Off on Soccer: Previewing Hounds-Memphis showdown with Daily Memphian’s John Varlas

Phillip Goodrum is among the leaders in USL Championship with 13 goals scored (photo courtesy Memphis 901 FC)

This Saturday, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (13-6-4) will face a challenging home match versus much improved Memphis 901 FC with an opportunity to jump ahead to third place in the standings.

In the season opener in Memphis, the Hounds handled 901 FC, with a convincing 3-0 victory.

The second time around, it will likely not be as easy for Pittsburgh.

PSN’s John Krysinsky caught up with The Daily Memphian’s John Varlas, who covers the club which boasts former USMNT/EPL keeper Tim Howard as Sporting Director and part-owner, and has suddenly surged forward to become a serious contender in the USL Championship for the first time in its four-year existence,

Valas talks about how Memphis’ Head Coach Ben Pirrman has surprised many in revamping his team’s attacking tactics and brought more international flavor which has boosted this squad which only returned four players from last year’s first-ever playoff appearance in franchise history.

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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