NPSL

Photo Gallery: Steel City FC come out charging, but fall short in US Open Cup debut

by
John Krysinsky
March 22, 2024

Photo courtesy Jared Todhunter

The stage was set for Steel City FC to take down the Michigan Stars FC in the first round of the 2024 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup tournament at Ambrose Urbanic Field on Thursday night.

Pittsburgh’s National Premier Soccer League squad emerged as the sharper and more energized of the two sides in the 45 minutes, dominating most facets of the game. Unfortunately, Steel City couldn’t convert on its chances, giving way for the NISA Cup 2022 champions to find a late goal on a set piece that would prove to be the difference in 1-0 win.

FINAL: Michigan Stars FC 1, Steel City FC 0 (US Open Cup First Round)

Michigan will advance to the tournament’s second round, while Steel City FC can learn for their first experience in the National Tournament with plenty of positives to take away.

PSN’s Jared Todhunter was on hand to capture the action, and delivers some great photos from this historical match, as Steel City FC were the first amateur side from Pittsburgh to play in the proper Open Cup tournament since Tartan Devils Oak Avalon advanced to the second round in 2017.

Jared Todhunter Photo Gallery (US Open Cup 2024 — First Round — Steel City FC vs Michigan Stars FC)

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Related TopicsAmbrose Urbanic Field Jared Todhunter Michigan Stars FC NISA NPSL PITT Steel City FC US Open Cup US Soccer

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).