Match Preview | Steel City FC vs Cleveland SC

A familiar foe, a different name

Cleveland SC will be making its way to Cheswick, Pennsylvania, just northeast of downtown Pittsburgh, to take on conference leaders Steel City FC this afternoon in search of their fourth consecutive victory. However, this encounter carries a unique significance as Steel City FC has transformed from its previous identity as the Pittsburgh Hotspurs. The match is set to kick off at 5:00 pm EST on Sunday, June 25th, at Founders Field in Cheswick, PA.

Fresh off a thrilling come-from-behind 4-3 win against Akron City FC on Friday evening, Cleveland SC will need to regroup quickly for a challenging showdown with Steel City FC, a team that has remained undefeated throughout the season.

This will be the first meeting of the season between the two clubs, and it promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams have consistently vied for the top positions in the past two seasons. The last time they faced each other was in the NPSL Midwest Quarterfinals playoff game at Krenzler Field on the campus of Cleveland State University, where Cleveland emerged victorious with a dramatic stoppage-time goal by Dakota Jonke, resulting in a 2-1 win. Historically, Cleveland has had the upper hand in the series with seven wins and two losses. However, Steel City FC has made an impressive mark in the 2023 season, showcasing their determination to claim their first NPSL conference trophy. With both teams eager to secure a victory, fans can anticipate an electrifying and fiercely competitive match this afternoon.

Ticket details

If you're a Cleveland fan in the area or planning to travel, tickets for this afternoon's match can be purchased at the gate. Prices are set at $8 for adults and $2 for youth aged 15 and under.

Follow the match live

Those unable to attend in person can still catch all the action live on Eleven Sports. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 pm. Make sure to access the live stream link here to cheer on Cleveland SC, from the comfort of your home.

Our opponent

Steel City FC, formerly known as the Pittsburgh Hotspurs, is led by Head Coach Dan Brower. They are currently enjoying their best start since joining the NPSL in 2019, boasting eight wins and one draw, and are currently ranked fourth in the nation. They secured a 3-1 victory over Carpathia FC on the road in their most recent match. Notably, Carpathia FC had previously drawn 1-1 with Steel City FC on June 4th at Founders Field. Steel City FC's attacking prowess is spearheaded by Tate Mohney, Eben McIntyre, and Nathan Prex, each with four goals to their name. Founders Field, their home ground, is a unique venue as it is the home of the Pittsburgh Harlequins Rugby Football Club and stands as the only natural grass pitch in our conference.

Club Notes

Under the guidance of Head Coach Vlad Muresan, Cleveland SC boasts a strong squad as they prepare for the upcoming match in Cheswick, PA. With three consecutive victories under their belt, the team aims to disrupt Steel City FC's chances of the conference title and solidify their current playoff position as third in the table with only three matches remaining. Tom Beck and Bojan Kolevski have been in impressive form, collectively scoring seven goals in the past three matches. Their form will be crucial as Cleveland SC looks to maintain its winning momentum at Founders Field this afternoon.

Cleveland SC encourages all supporters in the Pittsburgh area to join them and show their support for the squad as they go head-to-head with Steel City FC.

Single Match Tickets can be purchased at clevelandsc.com/tickets

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