The Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC have reached the midpoint of their 2025 USL Championship season with a record of 6 wins, 6 losses, and 3 draws. Positioned in the middle of the Eastern Conference standings, the team has shown a level of consistency, though not dominance, across its first 15 matches. Their goal differential sits at zero, with 14 goals scored and 14 conceded, reflecting a balanced but unspectacular performance.
Tactical Approach and Coaching
Head coach Bob Lilley continues to implement a structured, defense-first system. The team has leaned on compact formations and disciplined positioning, often prioritizing containment over creativity. While this approach has kept matches close, it has also limited offensive output. The Riverhounds have struggled to generate high-quality chances consistently, and several matches have ended in low-scoring outcomes.
Player Contributions
Midfielders Robbie Mertz and Danny Griffin have been among the more productive players. Mertz leads the team with 4 goals, while Griffin has added 3 goals and 1 assist. Forward Augustine Williams has chipped in with 3 goals, though the attack overall has lacked variety and depth.
Defensively, Luke Biasi and Max Broughton have provided stability, and veteran Kenardo Forbes, now 37, remains a steady presence in the midfield rotation. Newcomers such as Brigham Larsen, Charles Ahl, and Jorge Garcia have seen limited minutes but offer potential for future development.
Cup Performances
In the U.S. Open Cup, the Riverhounds advanced past NYCFC with a late winner from Roberto Ydrach, but were eliminated in the next round by Philadelphia Union, 4–1. Their Jägermeister Cup campaign has been modest, with one win and two losses in group play.
Outlook
With 21 points from 15 matches, the Riverhounds remain in playoff contention but will need to improve their attacking efficiency to climb the standings. Upcoming fixtures against Detroit City FC, Miami FC, and Rhode Island FC present opportunities to gain ground. However, unless the team finds more consistent scoring options, their ceiling may be limited to a lower playoff seed.
The remainder of the season will likely hinge on whether Lilley’s system can adapt to generate more offensive output without compromising defensive structure. For now, the Riverhounds are competitive—but not particularly threatening.