GAME SUMMARY

Saturday, July 24, 2010        Richmond City Stadium
Richmond Kickers                   1 (Foglesong 8’)
Pittsburgh Riverhounds          0

RICHMOND, VA – (Saturday, July 24, 2010) – The Richmond Kickers (7-5-5, 26 points) placed a firm grasp on second place Saturday night with a convincing home decision, 1-0 over the Pittsburgh Riverhounds (5-5-6, 21 points) at City Stadium.  Despite an absolutely scorching temperature which cleared triple digits before kickoff, the Richmond faithful numbered over 1,700 as part of the Richmond SPCA Paws at the Pitch gala.

Man’s best friend along with man himself was subjected to sweltering temperatures and stifling humidity.  The endurance of both teams was put to the test, as nine of ten possible substitutions were exhausted throughout the course the game.

From the initial whistle, it was evident the home side were made aware of this match’s significance on the overall playoff picture.  After acquiring three points yesterday in Charlotte, the Riverhounds trailed the Kickers by just two points heading into this forthcoming bout.  The structure of the USL Second Division postseason format grants the second place team home field advantage against the third for the initiation of the championship run.

The first half saw the Kickers dominate possession and create nearly all of the offensive scoring opportunities.  The contest was just eight minutes young before the home side were able to pull out in front.

A connection between David Hertel and Mike Burke on the right side resulted in a cross from Burke into the mix.  A challenge in the box left the ball at the feet of Bobby Foglesong, who buried a volley from 18 yards out.

The 23rd minute forced a strain upon the game plan of the Kickers as the league’s leading scorer, Matthew Delicâte, was taken off due to an injury.

Foglesong nearly made it two when he received a cross-field lob pass and cleverly beat his defender.  Sprung loose into the box, his attempt was saved by the visiting keeper, who kept his side within leveling distance.

Chances were few and far between as the second half of play began to progress.  Substitute Ross MacKenzie played a beautiful ball over the Pittsburgh defense that found the head of Edson Elcock.  Elcock was able to muster some pop on his effort, but it was directed straight at goalkeeper Hunter Gilstrap.

Stephen Nserko’s play was outstanding following his second half introduction into the confrontation.  The Winthrop University graduate continually wreaked havoc down his side of the pitch and sent several threatening crosses into the box, which went unanswered.

Pittsburgh’s best equalizing chance of the match came in the 89th minute, when Jeremy Deighton was left unmarked at the back post and connected with a header from a well-placed service.  Deighton guided the ball down to the ground as Pascale sprang into action and made an incredible save. 

Richmond’s collection of the match treasures places them five points ahead of the fast-approaching Riverhounds, who own a game in hand.  With just three matches remaining on this season’s campaign, every point is critical.

The Kickers will remain within the confines of City Stadium for another weekend, as they entertain the Harrisburg City Islanders on Saturday, July 31st at 7:00 p.m.  Fans who donate non-perishable foods, to benefit the Central Virginia Food Bank, will receive a $5.00 off admission coupon.  For more details, visit Richmondkickers.com.   
 
Box Score      First Half     Second Half     Final
Richmond            1                   0                1         
Pittsburgh           0                   0                0

Starting Lineups
Kickers:  GK Ronnie Pascale, Sascha Görres, Henry Kalungi, William Yomby, David Hertel, Luke Vercollone, Bobby Foglesong  (Ross Mackenzie – 59’), Johnny Villanueva  (Stephen Nserko – 59’), Mike Burke  (Neil Barlow – 88’), Edson Elcock, Matthew Delicâte  (Gerson Dos Santos – 23’)

Riverhounds:  GK Hunter Gilstrap, Sterling Flunder, Louie Rolko, Nate Salsi, Jason Kutney (Matt Tuttle – 68’), Tommy Gray (Ryan Pierce – 45’), Alex Weekes  (Tony Labudovski – 45’), Travis MacKenzie  (Niko Katic – 63’), Matt Baker, Lee Kouadio-Tobey, Chad Severs  (Jeremy Deighton – 81’)

Shots                    Saves                    Fouls                       Corners
Riverhounds: 4     Riverhounds: 6      Riverhounds: 8        Riverhounds:  3
Kickers:  16          Kickers:  3              Kickers:  4               Kickers:  7

Cautions:
36th minute:  Lee Kouadio-Tobey (Riverhounds)
53rd minute:  Travis MacKenzie  (Riverhounds)

Ejections:
None

Referee:    Bryan Roslund
Assistant Referees:   Steve Thur, Peter Walden
Fourth Official:   David Drake
Attendance:    1,712 
Weather:    102°, humid 
Stadium:    City Stadium, Richmond, Virginia
Union First Market Man of the Match:  Bobby Foglesong