Canadian Crusaders hand Bridge City FC first loss, 7-4

MLIS Soccer 

FINAL: Toronto Canadian Crusaders 7, Bridge City FC 4

Match Box Score 

Once again playing before a packed house, Bridge City FC returned to action, losing for the first time in club history, 7-4, in a battle of unbeaten squads, with Toronto Canadian Crusaders holding off a late charge from the Pittsburgh team in a MLIS league match.

Scoring goals for the home side included Josh Luchini (North Allegheny / Pitt and Lehigh) and Jamie Luchini (North Allegheny with first half goals, along with Jack Shearer (Central Valley / Duquesne and St. John’s) and Nate Dragisich (West Allegheny / Duquesne) scoring fourth quarter goals that cut into the deficit.

The visitors were in control for large stretches of the match, testing Bridge City keeper Grant Glorioso (North Allegheny / RMU) throughout the night, holding a 42-17 shots advantage.  Glorioso made a whopping 29 saves in the match.

With the victory, Toronto (6-0-0, 18 points) extends its lead in the standings to 12 points over Bridge City (2-1-0, 6 points) and its opponent next week, Cleveland (2-0-0, 6 points).

Next week’s match will be played at Sewickley Sports Arena (7 p.m. kickoff).

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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).