Same Place, Different Story. Steel City FC Defeats Riverhounds 2, 2-0 at FNB Stadium
By Zander Plizga
Pittsburgh, PA – The Steel City FC men’s first team moved to 1-0-1 on the season with a dominant 2-0 win over crosstown rival Pittsburgh Riverhounds 2, Wednesday night at FNB Stadium. SCFC’s triple threat attack up front provided the offensive spark, while the midfield and defensive unit remained in control and connected in front of standout goalkeeper Josh Lane (Robert Morris ’27), who recorded his second clean sheet of the season.
Photo Cred: Randy Warner
Three-Headed Monster
Steel City FC’s front three were electric throughout the match and broke the deadlock early in the second half. Jaxon Ervin (Duquesne ’26) scored a header in the 55th minute off a deep cross from Jake Lane (Old Dominion ’27) to open the scoring. Quick decisions and line-breaking passing led Lane into a one-on-one situation at the left edge of the box. With a dazzling display of footwork to beat multiple defenders, Lane clipped a ball deep to the back post, where the on-running Ervin banged a header past the Hounds’ keeper.
Just two minutes later, SCFC used a relentless repress to create another scoring opportunity. Mathieu Brick (Duquesne ’27) cut out a pass in the middle of the park and immediately found Nathan Prex (Lebanon Valley ’26) in an advanced position. Prex shifted the ball and defender, then slipped in Ervin through on goal, one-on-one with the keeper. Ervin calmly slotted his shot neatly into the bottom left corner to double the lead.
“We fought hard and together to win possession, and the work rate on the defensive side of the ball helped provide Jax and me with our 1v1 opportunities,” said Jake Lane. “It [our chemistry] is through the roof right now. This is a special club to be a part of.”
Defense Staying Clean
Josh Lane recorded his second clean sheet of the year, making a handful of key saves and punching clear dangerous crosses from the opposition. He commanded both the box and the defenders in front of him as the Steel City back line remained structured and in control for long stretches of the game. Everyone played their role and contributed to something bigger than themselves to pull off the derby win.
For the second consecutive match, SCFC started three homegrown talents – Luke Fiscus (Duquesne ’29), Sean Regan (John Carroll ’30), and Zander Plizga (Mount Union ’26). This backline was accompanied by the experienced Ashwin Menon (Duquesne ’26), who covered extensive ground on both sides of the ball, helping Steel City transition from defense to attack.
Marvelous Midfield
Captain Ryan Kopay (FDU ’27) was all over the pitch, winning fifty-fifty balls, numerous duels, and helping to control the flow of the game with his presence in the midfield. Cam Teritto (Duquesne ’23) and Mathieu Brick (Duquesne ’27) also provided standout play of their own, covering ridiculous ground with their defensive responsibilities and transition to the attack. Their fluidity and movement both on and off the ball kept Steel City structured and on the front foot for most of the match.
Photo Cred: Randy Warner
Sava Catlett (Oregon State ’28) subbed in for the second half of action and immediately made an impact, winning countless header duels and blocking Hounds’ penetrating balls. His size posed a new problem for the opposition, who found it difficult to play direct against him.
Up Next
Steel City FC, winners of three consecutive conference championships, return to action on Saturday, May 30, when they host Akron City FC at Founders Field. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m., and tickets are available HERE.
Saturday’s game will also be broadcast on SportsEngine.