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Hounds build fitness, unleash trialists in 120 minute preseason friendly at Columbus

Photo courtesy Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC

From Riverhounds SC report

The Hounds played the first competitive minutes of their preseason this afternoon with a visit to face the Columbus Crew of MLS at the OhioHealth Performance Center indoor bubble, located on the site of Historic Crew Stadium.

The first meeting between the two teams since the 2020 preseason gave the sides an opportunity to give their full rosters a workout by playing 120 minutes divided between four half-hour periods.

The Hounds, who have 11 players signed to the roster, used the scrimmage to get a closer look at numerous players who’ve been brought on trial.

“This helps make decisions.  We did go with only two starters in first 60 minutes,” Head Coach Bob Lilley said following the match.

“It’s more about evaluating them.  For 120 minutes it was good to see where we were fitness wise.  Good to see where trialists were in terms of in high-tempo game. An MLS team is going to put you under the gun.  It was beneficial for players as well as staff. We had a good first week of practice.  We expected a little bit better (today).”

At the host’s request prior to the game, match and scoring details were kept behind closed doors for the scrimmage.

The Hounds return to training Monday at AHN Montour and will play their first home match of the preseason on Saturday, Feb. 11 at 4 p.m. when they host Penn State at Highmark Stadium. Home preseason matches are open to the public and free of charge to attend.
Look for more coverage to come in our first preseason edition of Hounds Notebook to come early next week.

 

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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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