Riverhounds Make First Trip to USL Finals With 1-0 Win

Image Credit – Pittsburgh Riverhounds

The Riverhounds kicked off their first appearance in the Eastern Conference Final against Rhode Island FC with a record attendance of 6,693 at Highmark. Advancing tonight would mark their first final in any league or cup. The vibe going into this matchup was to win in 90!

The Riverhounds had won the last two playoff matches on penalties. This was the fourth time they faced Rhode Island FC this season, and they swept the season series, despite losing to them in the Jagermeister Cup. The first half was a stalemate on both sides, much like it has been throughout this postseason. However, the Riverhounds controlled possession 59% to 41%.

The second half started more aggressively for the Riverhounds, culminating in Robbie Mertz’s goal in the 55th minute from a Dani Griffin assist, with Mertz finishing from 12 yards.

That goal proved enough, as the Riverhounds secured a 1-0 win and advanced to the USL Championship on the road against FC Tulsa, who defeated New Mexico United 3-0.