Riverhounds Director of Media Relations Matt Grubba on his native Australia vs US, inside USL title experience in Tulsa, watch parties & more

On the latest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer, host John Krysinsky is joined in the studio by a familiar face from the local press box: Pittsburgh Riverhounds Director of Media Relations, Matt Grubba.

With their combined coverage of the Riverhounds stretching back over decades—spanning the entire era of Highmark (now F.N.B.) Stadium and well beyond—John and Matt sit down to chop up the massive soccer storylines unfolding both globally and locally.

From the Press Box to the Title in Tulsa

Riverhounds Director of Media Relations, Matt Grubba

Before diving into international play, the duo reflects on the incredible evolution of the sport in Western Pennsylvania. Matt, who spent over a decade reporting for the Tribune-Review and DK Pittsburgh Sports before shifting to the inside of the Hounds’ front office six years ago, gives listeners an incredible, behind-the-scenes look at the night the Riverhounds captured the USL Championship title in Tulsa.

From the quiet intensity of the press box during the penalty shootout to walking through the tunnel past owner Tuffy Shallenberger for an emotional post-game celebration, Grubba’s firsthand account is an absolute must-listen for anyone who has followed the club from its humble four-row supporter section days.

USMNT vs. Australia: The Ultimate Tactical Chess Match

The conversation then shifts to Friday’s massive Group D World Cup clash in Seattle. Matt, a dual citizen born in Sydney, brings a completely unique dual perspective to the match.

While the USMNT completely outclassed Paraguay 4-1 in their opener, Australia pulled off a spectacular 2-0 tactical heist against Turkey—surrendering 72% of the possession but striking ruthlessly on the counter. John and Matt break down whether Mauricio Pochettino’s aggressive wingback system will play directly into the Socceroos’ defensive trap, highlighting young Aussie keeper Patrick Beach and lightning-fast 20-year-old winger Nestory Irankunda.

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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).