The anticipation and excitement were contagious.  A near perfect preseason capped a successful off-season highlighted by the infusion of top talent.  The Hounds had recently returned from a dominating road performance at perennial league contender Richmond that should have resulted in three points.  The Miracle on the Mon opened its gates to a capacity crowd, and for 78 minutes the Pittsburgh Riverhounds dominated keystone state rivals Harrisburg City.  The defenders were imposing, Gilstrap made key saves, the midfield set the tempo and the forwards created havoc.  In the blink of an eye, a counter attack changed everything.  Then atmosphere was completely siphoned from the stadium 12 minutes later, reducing some to tears.

A week later, the short four-and-a-half hour drive to Beaver Creek Stadium provided an opportunity to right the ship.  Again the stars aligned as The Dutch Lions were reduced to ten men after 30 minutes of play.  Just before the half, Dayton grabbed a goal against the run of play which was quickly answered.  The Hounds finally had wind in their sails.  The second half saw the Hounds generate countless chances to take the lead.  However, as the current began to change, those chances became more direct and predictable.  Suddenly, a small crack appeared in the hull and the Lions capitalized.  Another gut wrenching loss in the closing minutes.

A road trip to the Carolinas might have been exactly what the team needed; a chance to get away and leave past results in their wake.  Three days later, there isn’t much positive to say.  Two more defeats and numerous squandered chances have left the ship virtually rudderless.  Someone, anyone, please grab the wheel and take command before we slam into the old Point Bridge’s remaining stone piers.