Joseph Farrell scores in the final minute to steal a draw for Rochester.
By Chris Hockman / uslsoccer.com
PITTSBURGH, PA. — The Pittsburgh Riverhounds very nearly managed a vital win but a late equalizer could cost them dearly as the Rochester Rhinos scored late to seal a 1-1 draw at Highmark Stadium on Saturday night.
A poor pass allowed Pittsburgh to jump in to the lead as the Riverhounds pounced on the ball allowing Kay Banjo to exchange passes with Kevin Kerr, who was given the space to shoot across the face and in to the back of the net.
Joseph Farrell broke the home fans hearts in the 90th minute, after a great cross from Christiano Francois found the wide open Rhinos defender, who easily headed home the late equalizer.
Rhinos midfielder Wal Fall had the first chance of the match in the 34th minute from a corner kick, as he leaped the highest, heading it to goal but he could only find the crossbar. That sparked the Rhinos in to action, as they started getting the ball in to the box more frequently. Kevin Kerr hit the back of the net for the Riverhounds in the 59th minute with a good chip, but he made his run too early, the goal being chalked off for an offside.
Kenardo Forbes found space in the 63rd minute to shoot at goal but was denied by the Riverhounds goalkeeper Matt Perrella to keep things scoreless.
Three Things That Matter:
1. Rochester has a strong defense having not conceded more than one goal since August 5th and not conceded more than two since April 15th, the only time that occurred this season. While the Rhinos fell in the match, they managed to retain that defensive record, restricting the Riverhounds to just one goal.
2. The Rochester Rhinos recent domination very nearly didn’t continue but the late goal kept a strong run for the Rhinos against their USL Eastern Conference rivals. With the draw Rochester has now avoided defeat against Pittsburgh in eight straight matches.
3. Pittsburgh needed a win to get back in to the USL Cup Playoffs places but they just couldn’t do it, falling at the very death. While a draw is not as big a problem as a loss for the Riverhounds, depending on results this weekend they could be as much as four points adrift from the Playoffs places.
Upcoming Games:
Rochester Rhinos at Louisville City FC – Sept. 20, 7:30 pm