Coming into Indianapolis on a three-game unbeaten streak in USL play, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds looked to extend their strong run of form. As is typical of their style, the Hounds began the match by building patiently from the back and establishing possession. Both sides showed defensive discipline through the opening 10 minutes. In the 17th minute, the match saw its first real chances, with both teams producing quality shots that were well saved. The next two opportunities fell to Pittsburgh: M Danny Griffin had a shot blocked before reaching Indy’s goalkeeper, and F Auggie Williams saw his effort, following a pass from M Robbie Mertz, similarly denied. The Hounds were forced into a change in the 27th minute when D Illal Osumanu left the field with an apparent injury, replaced by D Beto Ydrach. Despite the disruption, the Riverhounds defense regrouped and held firm, keeping Indy off the scoreboard despite conceding six shots in the first half. However, disaster struck just before halftime. In stoppage time (45+3’), D Perrin Barnes slipped, surrendering possession in a dangerous area. Indy Eleven capitalized, with M Jack Blake scoring after being set up by M Aodhan Quinn. The first half ended with Indy holding a 1-0 lead, reflected both on the scoreboard and in the match statistics.
The Riverhounds opened the second half with a substitution, bringing on M Charles Ahl in place of M Bradley Sample. Indy Eleven picked up where they left off, maintaining their attacking pressure and forcing the Hounds’ backline to stay alert. Despite the relentless attempts from Indy, Pittsburgh’s defense remained composed. D Luke Biasi was especially crucial, breaking up a dangerous attack in the 59th minute to prevent what looked like a sure scoring opportunity. While the Hounds held strong at the back, their play in possession lacked the sharpness seen in the first half. Attempts to build out from the midfield were stifled by Indy’s pressing, and clear chances for the Hounds remained limited as the second half progressed. As the Hounds began to find their rhythm and apply pressure of their own, Indy responded by introducing three fresh substitutes to blunt any momentum shift. The Hounds pushed forward, looking to connect on long balls and stretch the Indy defense, but the home side was well-prepared. In the 80th minute, the Hounds made an aggressive triple substitution in search of an equalizer.
06/14/2025
IUPUI Michael A. Carroll Stadium
Indianapolis, IN
Photo: Trevor Ruszkowski
06/14/2025
IUPUI Michael A. Carroll Stadium
Indianapolis, IN
Photo: Trevor Ruszkowski
06/14/2025
IUPUI Michael A. Carroll Stadium
Indianapolis, IN
Photo: Trevor Ruszkowski
Despite a late push and continued pressing into the final minutes, the Hounds couldn’t find the back of the net and ultimately came up short. Next up for the Hounds is Tampa Bay at home.
