Echoing the blackout post earlier in the week- the team isn’t looking too good lately, and morale is obviously down. Doubly so after the loss last night against Lansdowne Bhoys. Even though we’re feeling down, it shouldn’t stop us as supporters from being just that- supporters.
Soccer is a crowd sport. In intimate settings like Highmark Stadium supporters can play as much of a hand in wins and losses as the team on the pitch. Supporters are the most passionate fans and the harshest critics. It’s no secret that we’re tired of the Hounds losing as much as they are. The team can hear us loud and clear. Last night there was quite a bit of anger thrown around. It wasn’t entirely undeserved either. However, we have to remember the players on the field are not the enemy. If there’s anger to be had it should be directed at the FO and coaching staff (both of whom we have plenty of questions for). We support the players. We’re not saying don’t be mad, or disappointed, or silent on the current state of affairs. We just can’t let it define us.
It’s time we reminded everyone who the Steel Army is. We’re the insane jagoffs who chanted for 15 minutes straight in Harrisburg to carry the Hounds to a crucial victory. We’re the warpaint clad yinzers that stood against DC United for 100+ minutes and showed the world that this can be a soccer town. We’re the ones who signed up for and went on a crazy 24 hour bus trip to New York in the playoffs last year. We love this team. We fight alongside them. We feel the same heartache and jubilation that they do. Our passion for Pittsburgh soccer is why we’re here. Not because we’re glory hunters (though we really do want to win a championship). We’re here because we support this team. That’s what the Steel Army is all about.
Like we mentioned earlier in the week, the Steel Army is calling for a show of solidarity on Saturday. We are calling for a second blackout. We are calling for our members to get out there and show support of the Riverhounds, OUR team.
The Hounds take on Toronto FC II Saturday night at 7:00 pm. Tailgate starts at 4:00 pm.
#UNLEASH
