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After getting into football just a few short months ago, I was looking forward to attending my first football match. The Pittsburgh Riverhounds have existed since 1999, but this was to be their first time playing in the brand new (just finished construction last week) High Mark Stadium in downtown Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As this was the first leg of the Keystone Derby, I figured it would be perfect for my first match.
Highmark Stadium is set along the Monongahela River in Station Square. Station Square is set across from downtown and features many shops and restaurants. The stadium currently holds 4000 (3,500 seated), but is expected to be expanded into the future for a possible MLS franchise. The South side of the stadium is home to a single stand that spans the length of the pitch with the middle sections sitting a bit higher. The East end is home to two or three much smaller general admission stands that hold the supporters section. The North side remains open for standing-room only and a view of the Pittsburgh skyline. The Western end is home to many suites and the locker rooms.
The first half of the match was absolutely nothing to write home about. I believe both teams had jitters and there were a few missed opportunities on both sides. The second half featured all of the scoring. In the 68th minute, Matthew Dallman and Jose Angula entered the game for Pittsburgh. Just a few seconds later, Dallman crossed the ball into the box from the right side and Angulo headed the ball into the left side of the net for the first ever goal at Highmark Stadium. Ten minutes later, a through ball on the right side was tracked down and tapped through the legs of Pittsburgh goalkeeper, Hunter Gilstrap, by Harrisburg City's Sainey Touray. With just a handful of minutes left to play, a few slick moves by Harrisburg's Christhian Hernandez let Lucky Mkosana tap in a volley from the left side. With seconds left to play, a trickling shot by Ryan Kinne scooted just wide of Harrisburg's right post. Pittsburgh was unable to get the equalizing goal.
With talks of Newcastle United possibly coming to play a pre-season friendly in July, Highmark Stadium is sure to be a top ground to visit in the near future.
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