For the first time since Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC moved to Highmark Stadium in 2013, it will host a home playoff game at its home venue. The Hounds (15-5-14) will face off against Bethlehem Steel FC (14-12-8) at 7 p.m. on Saturday at Highmark Stadium in what will be a historical showdown on the banks of the Monongahela River.

Not Your Average Joes

In their regular season finale against New York Red Bulls II, the Hounds received a Joe-to-Joe connection for their lone tally. Serving in a corner kick, Joe Holland found the head of Joe Greenspan, who notched his third goal of the 2018 campaign. Both players could very well continue to impact games into the postseason, as Greenspan has been an anchor for the Pittsburgh backline throughout the year whereas Holland has created a number of chances for the club in a reserve role.

Bet on Brett

Neco Brett finished as the Hounds’ leading goalscorer in 2018, posting a career-high 15 goals. Of this total, three tallies were scored against Steel FC in two prior meetings. The striker will look to continue his success against the in-state foe this weekend.

Return of the Archer

Last time out against New York Red Bulls II, Kevin Kerr returned to the pitch after sustaining a lower-body injury. The Pittsburgh veteran had not played in a match since Aug. 4 (Toronto FC II) prior to then. Holding two goals and four assists in 20 games played, Kerr could play a key role in the Black and Gold’s playoff run.

Finishing the regular season with a 0.81 goals-against average, goalkeeper Dan Lynd has the best career mark in club history.

In their past three games, the Hounds have totaled 18 shots on goal but have only scored twice despite their consistent pressure in the attacking third. This Saturday, Pittsburgh will need to up its conversion rate against Bethlehem, which it has had prior success against. The last time the Black and Gold faced Steel FC, four of its nine shots on target hit the twine.