GAME DAY: PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC AT NM UNITED
Saturday, 2 p.m., 101.7 FM, ESPN+ (streaming), Estrella TV PLAYERS TO WATCH Pittsburgh (0-0-0):
The Riverhounds posted a lot of impressive numbers in 2023, most notably their 67 points and 19-5-10 record were best in the USL Championship. They also featured league scoring leader Albert Dikwa (20 goals) and goalkeeper Jahmali Waite (10 clean sheets) anchoring a defense that allowed the second-fewest goals (29) in the USLC. But after a first-round playoff loss to Detroit City, Pittsburgh has overhauled its roster. Dikwa moved on to Rhode Island, Waite is playing for El Paso and veteran coach Bob Lilley will look to reload with a new cast. Still, like New Mexico, Pittsburgh does return a group of key veterans. Midfielder Kenardo Forbes ranked second in the USLC with 10 assists and led the ‘Hounds with 55 chances created. Midfielder Robbie Mertz and forward Edward Kizza also played key roles.
New Mexico (0-0-0): United opens the season with a slew of newcomers and it’s difficult to say which will be first to grab the spotlight. Midfielder Marco Micaletto seems a safe bet as he was one of the club’s first offseason signings and has played a key role throughout the preseason. Forwards Mukwelle Akale, Dayonn Harris and Abu Dinaldi also figure to have opportunities as NMU looks to replace the scoring and creativity of since-departed Amando Moreno. Despite the roster changes, United fans can expect to see familiar faces in key roles, including midfielders Sergio Rivas, Daniel Bruce and defender Harry Swartz, all of whom posted solid attacking numbers last season. Veterans Kalen Ryden (who was recently named team captain for 2024) and Will Seymore will anchor the back line in front of goalkeeper Alex Tambakis. NOTEWORTHY: United will play three straight road matches after Saturday’s opener and is looking to make the most of its only March home date. The club is hosting a tailgate bash with a free concert (featuring Red Light Cameras) beginning at 11 a.m. on the south side of Avenida Cesar Chavez adjacent to Isotopes Park. Prizes will be awarded to the first 100 cars to arrive. Fans joining the “March to the Match” at 1 p.m. will receive United flags. United is expecting a crowd of around 12,000 for the match.