News

The Playoffs are HERE! Tonight at 7 PM the Boys in Green will host Saint Louis FC in the first ever playoff match in Club history. Hartford comes into this match undefeated in six consecutive matches, with wins in five. They'll look to use that momentum as they face one of their toughest tests of the season.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (10-3-2) vs SAINT LOUIS FC (7-5-4)

Date: Saturday, October 10th

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Dillon Stadium, Hartford, CT

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

Program: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/program

LAST TIME OUT:

Hartford Athletic took down New York Red Bulls II, 2-0 and finished the 2020 regular season at the top of the Group F table. After a scoreless first half, Tyreke Johnson took over in the second half. In the 65th minute, Ever Guzmán sent a ball back to the far post where Johnson was lurking uncovered and poked it past the keeper for the first goal of the night. Ten minutes later, Johnson worked himself free of Red Bull defenders and found Conor McGlynn who had come on merely seconds earlier. McGlynn took a quick touch, teed it up and uncorked an absolute rocket to the far top corner for the second goal of the night! Hartford players celebrated in the far corner and even Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi ran from his coaches box to celebrate with the Boys.

GOODBYE TYREKE:

On Thursday, loanee Tyreke Johnson was recalled by Southampton FC. Johnson, who played a mix of Left Wingback and Forward for Hartford, played in 15 of 16 matches this season, starting 11. He scored 2 goals, most memorably a highlight reel goal in the home opener against Loudoun United where he put defender Adam Lundegard though the spin cycle. It is expected that Gabriel Torres will start in Johnson’s place. 

A HARTFORD PLAYOFF STORY:

Saturday will mark the first time a professional team in Hartford will host a postseason game since 2015 when the Wolfpack, AHL affiliate of the New York Rangers, hosted the Eastern Conference Finals of the Calder Cup. The NHL’s Hartford Whalers last appeared in the postseason in 1992 when they lost to the Montreal Canadiens in Game seven of the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Hartford Yard Goats, AA affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, have yet to qualify for the postseason as a Hartford-based franchise. 

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Alex Dixon, F, #11: 

Dixon is running in arguably his best form as a member of Hartford Athletic. This season he's scored 6 goals and has become the leading scorer in Club history. While he hasn't scored since September 20, he has been the most steady presence among the Hartford forward group and has worked well with his striking partner to create chances. Saint Louis doesn't score a ton of goals, but they don't allow many either, and taking advantage of any chances will be imperative if Hartford is to win tomorrow night.

Saint Louis FC, Wal Fall, MF, #5:

It's no secret that Athletic has struggled with athletic midfields this season and Fall is at the center of Saint Louis's success this season. In 15 games this season he has recorded 2 goals, 3 assists, and 10 key passes. He will be important in getting the ball to scorers Tyler Blackwood and Russell Cicerone for the Saint Louis attack. 

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Saint Louis FC comes into this match prepared for the pressure of the playoffs. They defeated Indy Eleven 2-1 in a win-or-go-home match on Saturday to take second place in Group E. The 2020 season will be the final season for Saint Louis FC, citing financial difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic. Hartford and Saint Louis have not met this season. Last year, Hartford earned their first home USL Championship victory against Saint Louis when Phil Rasmussen scored a PK in the 85th minute to go up 2-1.

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

Can’t watch? Stay in touch with our live commentary @hfdathletic or by following #HFDvSTL

The Playoffs are HERE! Tonight at 7 PM the Boys in Green will host Saint Louis FC in the first ever playoff match in Club history. Hartford comes into this match undefeated in six consecutive matches, with wins in five. They’ll look to use that momentum as they face one of their toughest tests of the season.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (10-3-2) vs SAINT LOUIS FC (7-5-4)

Date: Saturday, October 10th

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Dillon Stadium, Hartford, CT

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

Program: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/program

LAST TIME OUT:

Hartford Athletic took down New York Red Bulls II, 2-0 and finished the 2020 regular season at the top of the Group F table. After a scoreless first half, Tyreke Johnson took over in the second half. In the 65th minute, Ever Guzmán sent a ball back to the far post where Johnson was lurking uncovered and poked it past the keeper for the first goal of the night. Ten minutes later, Johnson worked himself free of Red Bull defenders and found Conor McGlynn who had come on merely seconds earlier. McGlynn took a quick touch, teed it up and uncorked an absolute rocket to the far top corner for the second goal of the night! Hartford players celebrated in the far corner and even Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi ran from his coaches box to celebrate with the Boys.

GOODBYE TYREKE:

On Thursday, loanee Tyreke Johnson was recalled by Southampton FC. Johnson, who played a mix of Left Wingback and Forward for Hartford, played in 15 of 16 matches this season, starting 11. He scored 2 goals, most memorably a highlight reel goal in the home opener against Loudoun United where he put defender Adam Lundegard though the spin cycle. It is expected that Gabriel Torres will start in Johnson’s place. 

A HARTFORD PLAYOFF STORY:

Saturday will mark the first time a professional team in Hartford will host a postseason game since 2015 when the Wolfpack, AHL affiliate of the New York Rangers, hosted the Eastern Conference Finals of the Calder Cup. The NHL’s Hartford Whalers last appeared in the postseason in 1992 when they lost to the Montreal Canadiens in Game seven of the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Hartford Yard Goats, AA affiliate of the Colorado Rockies, have yet to qualify for the postseason as a Hartford-based franchise. 

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Alex Dixon, F, #11: 

Dixon is running in arguably his best form as a member of Hartford Athletic. This season he’s scored 6 goals and has become the leading scorer in Club history. While he hasn’t scored since September 20, he has been the most steady presence among the Hartford forward group and has worked well with his striking partner to create chances. Saint Louis doesn’t score a ton of goals, but they don’t allow many either, and taking advantage of any chances will be imperative if Hartford is to win tomorrow night.

Saint Louis FC, Wal Fall, MF, #5:

It’s no secret that Athletic has struggled with athletic midfields this season and Fall is at the center of Saint Louis’s success this season. In 15 games this season he has recorded 2 goals, 3 assists, and 10 key passes. He will be important in getting the ball to scorers Tyler Blackwood and Russell Cicerone for the Saint Louis attack. 

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Saint Louis FC comes into this match prepared for the pressure of the playoffs. They defeated Indy Eleven 2-1 in a win-or-go-home match on Saturday to take second place in Group E. The 2020 season will be the final season for Saint Louis FC, citing financial difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic. Hartford and Saint Louis have not met this season. Last year, Hartford earned their first home USL Championship victory against Saint Louis when Phil Rasmussen scored a PK in the 85th minute to go up 2-1.

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

Can’t watch? Stay in touch with our live commentary @hfdathletic or by following #HFDvSTL

Welcome back to the mailbag! You send in questions, we give you answers! If you want to submit a question for a player, a coach, or the front office, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/mailbag. This mailbag comes to you just two days before our first ever playoff match against Saint Louis FC at Dillon Stadium at 7 PM. Let's get to your questions!

Jessica G. asks, "How can I get tickets for Saturday's match?"

Unfortunately, tickets for Saturday's match are already sold out. However, you can enter to win 2 tickets to the match by clicking here! In the event we have more playoff matches at Dillon Stadium this year, you can guarantee your seat for the playoffs by placing a deposit on 2021 Season Tickets. Visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/seasontickets for more information.

Edison C. asks, "I'm new to the playoff system, how does it work?"

Thanks for asking Edison, we're all somewhat new to the playoff system this year as it has been slightly adjusted for COVID-19. Upon the restart of the season, all teams were placed in geographic groups. Teams rarely traveled outside of their groups but most teams had one or two crossover games with the closest group geographically. The top two teams in each group qualify for the playoffs, with the winners of each group hosting the first round. We are hosting Saint Louis, the second place team in Group E, the closest group to ours geographically. If we were to win, we would advance to the second round where we would play the winner of Louisville City FC (first place in Group E) and Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (second place in Group F). This is done to keep travel to a minimum. As you advance in the playoffs the team with the higher point total hosts the match. The winner of USL Championship Final wins the cup. There is no promotion/relegation in American soccer.

Sean M. asks, "I saw capacity is increased to 40% for this match. What measures are in place to make sure I will be safe at the stadium?"

Hi Sean, we want to start by saying thank you to all our fans who have supported us and come to our matches throughout the season. Our fans have followed our rules without any complaints and have shown a real consideration for others. Now, to answer your question, all of our original protocols remain in place. Masks must be worn at all times unless actively eating or drinking, fans must remain socially distant in their seats and in lines (this will be marked for you), and security and cleaning crews have been increased to ensure our fans can enjoy the game safely. For the full list of stadium protocols, please visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/dillon-stadium.

Armin A. asks, "What made you a soccer player?"

Mike Novotny: When I was really young, my brother was a goalkeeper and he went to goalkeeper training every Saturday. I would just come along and hang out on the side and kick the ball around. Then one day, the goalie coach asked me if I wanted to hop in, and to this day I've always been a goalkeeper and that coach has actually been my goalie coach ever since. 

Alex Lara: I guess you can say soccer has always been a part of my life. My two older brothers played soccer for a really long time and my dad also played soccer, so did my grandpa. Growing up, soccer was always a part of my life and I knew it was what I wanted to do. I was so passionate about it and from a really young age, I was already in the soccer world and knew I wanted to be a professional and make a career out of it. Just seeing my older brothers and my dad, watching games with them, going to their games, and watching them play, that's how I got into it. 

@forzamike asks, "Can you reveal if the club is in talks to bring Gunnersaurus Rex to the Dill?"

At this time we have no comment on Gunnersaurus. We are always evaluating all options to make this club as good as it can possibly be. While it is unlikely that Gunnersaurus would join Hartford, never say never…

Welcome back to the mailbag! You send in questions, we give you answers! If you want to submit a question for a player, a coach, or the front office, visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/mailbag. This mailbag comes to you just two days before our first ever playoff match against Saint Louis FC at Dillon Stadium at 7 PM. Let’s get to your questions!

Jessica G. asks, “How can I get tickets for Saturday’s match?”

Unfortunately, tickets for Saturday’s match are already sold out. However, you can enter to win 2 tickets to the match by clicking here! In the event we have more playoff matches at Dillon Stadium this year, you can guarantee your seat for the playoffs by placing a deposit on 2021 Season Tickets. Visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/seasontickets for more information.

Edison C. asks, “I’m new to the playoff system, how does it work?”

Thanks for asking Edison, we’re all somewhat new to the playoff system this year as it has been slightly adjusted for COVID-19. Upon the restart of the season, all teams were placed in geographic groups. Teams rarely traveled outside of their groups but most teams had one or two crossover games with the closest group geographically. The top two teams in each group qualify for the playoffs, with the winners of each group hosting the first round. We are hosting Saint Louis, the second place team in Group E, the closest group to ours geographically. If we were to win, we would advance to the second round where we would play the winner of Louisville City FC (first place in Group E) and Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (second place in Group F). This is done to keep travel to a minimum. As you advance in the playoffs the team with the higher point total hosts the match. The winner of USL Championship Final wins the cup. There is no promotion/relegation in American soccer.

Sean M. asks, “I saw capacity is increased to 40% for this match. What measures are in place to make sure I will be safe at the stadium?”

Hi Sean, we want to start by saying thank you to all our fans who have supported us and come to our matches throughout the season. Our fans have followed our rules without any complaints and have shown a real consideration for others. Now, to answer your question, all of our original protocols remain in place. Masks must be worn at all times unless actively eating or drinking, fans must remain socially distant in their seats and in lines (this will be marked for you), and security and cleaning crews have been increased to ensure our fans can enjoy the game safely. For the full list of stadium protocols, please visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/dillon-stadium.

Armin A. asks, “What made you a soccer player?”

Mike Novotny: When I was really young, my brother was a goalkeeper and he went to goalkeeper training every Saturday. I would just come along and hang out on the side and kick the ball around. Then one day, the goalie coach asked me if I wanted to hop in, and to this day I’ve always been a goalkeeper and that coach has actually been my goalie coach ever since. 

Alex Lara: I guess you can say soccer has always been a part of my life. My two older brothers played soccer for a really long time and my dad also played soccer, so did my grandpa. Growing up, soccer was always a part of my life and I knew it was what I wanted to do. I was so passionate about it and from a really young age, I was already in the soccer world and knew I wanted to be a professional and make a career out of it. Just seeing my older brothers and my dad, watching games with them, going to their games, and watching them play, that’s how I got into it. 

@forzamike asks, “Can you reveal if the club is in talks to bring Gunnersaurus Rex to the Dill?”

At this time we have no comment on Gunnersaurus. We are always evaluating all options to make this club as good as it can possibly be. While it is unlikely that Gunnersaurus would join Hartford, never say never…

Hartford Athletic announced today that Midfielder Tyreke Johnson has been recalled by Southampton FC.

Johnson joined the club on loan on February 24th. He played in 15 of the club's 16 matches, starting 11. Johnson played mostly left wing back but did make a few appearances as a forward for Athletic. He scored 2 goals and assisted on another. He will be remembered for the goal he scored against Loudoun United FC in the home opening match of 2020, putting Loudoun defender Adam Lundegard through the spin cycle and curling a beautiful ball to the far post to put Hartford up 3-0. We wish Tyreke all the best as he continues his career back in England.

Hartford Athletic announced today that Midfielder Tyreke Johnson has been recalled by Southampton FC.

Johnson joined the club on loan on February 24th. He played in 15 of the club’s 16 matches, starting 11. Johnson played mostly left wing back but did make a few appearances as a forward for Athletic. He scored 2 goals and assisted on another. He will be remembered for the goal he scored against Loudoun United FC in the home opening match of 2020, putting Loudoun defender Adam Lundegard through the spin cycle and curling a beautiful ball to the far post to put Hartford up 3-0. We wish Tyreke all the best as he continues his career back in England.

HARTFORD, Conn. (October 7, 2020) – In a historic finish to the 2020 USL Championship Regular Season, Hartford Athletic has emerged as the winner of Group F and the second seed in the Eastern Conference as it heads into the Playoffs. In its first ever playoff match, Hartford will take on Saint Louis FC on October 10th at 7pm at Dillon Stadium. The Hartford Athletic Playoffs are presented by Cigna.

“Clinching our first playoff berth and hosting our first round match is a monumental moment for Hartford Athletic, the City of Hartford, and the State of Connecticut,” said Hartford Athletic Chairman Bruce Mandell. “This match will be the biggest game in Hartford professional sports since 1986, and we are so proud to host it at Dillon Stadium. Thank you to the State and City for their leadership throughout this season, making it possible to welcome fans safely and enjoyably. Thank you to our amazing fans, players, staff, and partners for their unparalleled passion and dedication. Dillon Stadium has the best homefield advantage in the league, and I wouldn't want to play us right now. It's win or go home time, and we plan on winning.”

Single game tickets go on sale to the public at 10 AM today. Fans interested in purchasing tickets can visit www.hartfordathletic.com/single. Pursuant to the State of Connecticut’s Phase Three Reopening plan, Hartford Athletic matches at Dillon Stadium have been approved by both the State of Connecticut and the City of Hartford to host fans at 40% capacity. Full health protocols will continue to be in place including masks required at all times in stadium, cleaning crews sanitizing throughout the match, designated entry and exit based on seating section, increased stadium staff and security, and many more to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. For more information on Dillon Stadium protocols and procedures, click here.

HARTFORD, Conn. (October 7, 2020) – In a historic finish to the 2020 USL Championship Regular Season, Hartford Athletic has emerged as the winner of Group F and the second seed in the Eastern Conference as it heads into the Playoffs. In its first ever playoff match, Hartford will take on Saint Louis FC on October 10th at 7pm at Dillon Stadium. The Hartford Athletic Playoffs are presented by Cigna.

“Clinching our first playoff berth and hosting our first round match is a monumental moment for Hartford Athletic, the City of Hartford, and the State of Connecticut,” said Hartford Athletic Chairman Bruce Mandell. “This match will be the biggest game in Hartford professional sports since 1986, and we are so proud to host it at Dillon Stadium. Thank you to the State and City for their leadership throughout this season, making it possible to welcome fans safely and enjoyably. Thank you to our amazing fans, players, staff, and partners for their unparalleled passion and dedication. Dillon Stadium has the best homefield advantage in the league, and I wouldn’t want to play us right now. It’s win or go home time, and we plan on winning.”

Single game tickets go on sale to the public at 10 AM today. Fans interested in purchasing tickets can visit www.hartfordathletic.com/single. Pursuant to the State of Connecticut’s Phase Three Reopening plan, Hartford Athletic matches at Dillon Stadium have been approved by both the State of Connecticut and the City of Hartford to host fans at 40% capacity. Full health protocols will continue to be in place including masks required at all times in stadium, cleaning crews sanitizing throughout the match, designated entry and exit based on seating section, increased stadium staff and security, and many more to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. For more information on Dillon Stadium protocols and procedures, click here.

Hartford Athletic took down New York Red Bulls II, 2-0 and finished the 2020 regular season at the top of the Group F table!

This one played tight early on. Red Bulls II had the first chance of the match. Sebastian Elney collected a loose ball on the left flank, dribbled free to the top of the box and ripped a shot toward the net. Parfait Mandanda, who started the 2020 season with a clean sheet against these very same Red Bulls, made a diving save to deny Elney and keep the game scoreless early on. Mandanda had four saves on the night. RBII had the lion's share of the chances early on, but it was their defense that stood out, shutting down multiple attempts from Hartford to beat them over the top and in transition. The teams took a scoreless tie into halftime.

In the second half, Man of the Match Tyreke Johnson took over. In the 65th minute, Alex Dixon played a beautiful ball through the RBII back line and into the box for Ever Guzmán. Guzmán sent it back to the far post where Johnson was lurking uncovered and poked it past the keeper for the first goal of the night. 

Ten minutes later, Johnson created offense again. Working on the left flank, Johnson worked himself free of Red Bull defenders and found Conor McGlynn who had come on merely seconds earlier. McGlynn  took a quick touch, teed it up and uncorked an absolute rocket to the far top corner for the second goal of the night! Hartford players celebrated in the far corner and even Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi ran from his coaches box to celebrate with the Boys. 

Hartford will head back home to host Saint Louis FC at Dillon Stadium in the first playoff match in club history on Saturday October 10th at 7 PM. Saint Louis defeated Indy Eleven 2-1 on Saturday night to earn second place in Group E. Click here to join a waiting list for playoff tickets. 

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford Athletic 10 (6) – 14 (5) New York

Corners: Hartford Athletic 3-8 New York

Fouls: Hartford Athletic 14-13 New York

Offsides: Hartford Athletic 1-2 New York

Possession: Hartford Athletic 41.5%-58.5% New York

Passing Accuracy: Hartford Athletic 57.9%-70.7% New York

Saves: Hartford Athletic 4-4 New York

SCORING SUMMARY:

65' – Tyreke Johnson (Ever Guzmán) 0-1

75' – Conor McGlynn (Tyreke Johnson) 0-2

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

39' – Alex Lara (Yellow)

48' – Samad Bounthong (Yellow)

55' – Omar Sowe (Yellow)

83' – Cherif Dieye (Yellow)

90' – Sam Strong (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

35 (GK) Parfait Mandanda; 24 (D) Sam Strong, 4 (D) Kevin Politz, 2 (D) Alex Lara; 25 (MF) Idan Cohen (Arthur Rogers 77'), 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 80 (MF) Justin Haak, 23 (MF) Aiden Mesias (Conor McGlynn 72'), 88 (MF) Tyreke Johnson (Gabriel Torres); 99 (F) Ever Guzmán (Alfonso Vazquez), 11 (F) Alex Dixon (Dre Deas 77')

NEW YORK RED BULLS II STARTING LINEUP:

50 (GK) Luca Lewis (Ciaran Dalton 71'); 47 (D) John Tolkin, 73 (D) Joe Fala, 83 (D) Bo Cummins (Edgardo Rito 71'), 85 (D) Joey Zalinsky; 64 (MF) Jake LaCava (Deri Corfe 71'), 67 (MF) Omar Sowe, 76 (MF) Kenan Hot, 96 (MF) Dantouma Toure (Cherif Dieye 66'), 97 (MF) Samad Bounthong; 39 (F) Sebastian Elney

Hartford Athletic took down New York Red Bulls II, 2-0 and finished the 2020 regular season at the top of the Group F table!

This one played tight early on. Red Bulls II had the first chance of the match. Sebastian Elney collected a loose ball on the left flank, dribbled free to the top of the box and ripped a shot toward the net. Parfait Mandanda, who started the 2020 season with a clean sheet against these very same Red Bulls, made a diving save to deny Elney and keep the game scoreless early on. Mandanda had four saves on the night. RBII had the lion’s share of the chances early on, but it was their defense that stood out, shutting down multiple attempts from Hartford to beat them over the top and in transition. The teams took a scoreless tie into halftime.

In the second half, Man of the Match Tyreke Johnson took over. In the 65th minute, Alex Dixon played a beautiful ball through the RBII back line and into the box for Ever Guzmán. Guzmán sent it back to the far post where Johnson was lurking uncovered and poked it past the keeper for the first goal of the night. 

Ten minutes later, Johnson created offense again. Working on the left flank, Johnson worked himself free of Red Bull defenders and found Conor McGlynn who had come on merely seconds earlier. McGlynn  took a quick touch, teed it up and uncorked an absolute rocket to the far top corner for the second goal of the night! Hartford players celebrated in the far corner and even Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi ran from his coaches box to celebrate with the Boys. 

Hartford will head back home to host Saint Louis FC at Dillon Stadium in the first playoff match in club history on Saturday October 10th at 7 PM. Saint Louis defeated Indy Eleven 2-1 on Saturday night to earn second place in Group E. Click here to join a waiting list for playoff tickets. 

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford Athletic 10 (6) – 14 (5) New York

Corners: Hartford Athletic 3-8 New York

Fouls: Hartford Athletic 14-13 New York

Offsides: Hartford Athletic 1-2 New York

Possession: Hartford Athletic 41.5%-58.5% New York

Passing Accuracy: Hartford Athletic 57.9%-70.7% New York

Saves: Hartford Athletic 4-4 New York

SCORING SUMMARY:

65′ – Tyreke Johnson (Ever Guzmán) 0-1

75′ – Conor McGlynn (Tyreke Johnson) 0-2

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

39′ – Alex Lara (Yellow)

48′ – Samad Bounthong (Yellow)

55′ – Omar Sowe (Yellow)

83′ – Cherif Dieye (Yellow)

90′ – Sam Strong (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

35 (GK) Parfait Mandanda; 24 (D) Sam Strong, 4 (D) Kevin Politz, 2 (D) Alex Lara; 25 (MF) Idan Cohen (Arthur Rogers 77′), 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 80 (MF) Justin Haak, 23 (MF) Aiden Mesias (Conor McGlynn 72′), 88 (MF) Tyreke Johnson (Gabriel Torres); 99 (F) Ever Guzmán (Alfonso Vazquez), 11 (F) Alex Dixon (Dre Deas 77′)

NEW YORK RED BULLS II STARTING LINEUP:

50 (GK) Luca Lewis (Ciaran Dalton 71′); 47 (D) John Tolkin, 73 (D) Joe Fala, 83 (D) Bo Cummins (Edgardo Rito 71′), 85 (D) Joey Zalinsky; 64 (MF) Jake LaCava (Deri Corfe 71′), 67 (MF) Omar Sowe, 76 (MF) Kenan Hot, 96 (MF) Dantouma Toure (Cherif Dieye 66′), 97 (MF) Samad Bounthong; 39 (F) Sebastian Elney

It's all on the line on Sunday night when Hartford Athletic takes on New York Red Bulls II with a chance to finish the season at the Top of Group F. With a Pittsburgh win on Saturday night, the Boys in Green must claim three points to top the Group. A top of the table finish means a home playoff game next weekend (you can sign up for a playoff wait list here), and what would be sweeter than the first playoff game in Club history at Dillon?

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (10-3-2) at NEW YORK RED BULLS II (5-10-0)

Date: Sunday, October 4th

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: MSU Soccer Park, Montclair, NJ

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

LAST TIME OUT:

Hartford took down Philadelphia Union II 3-2 on Wednesday night. In the 7th minute, Alex Dixon was taken down by the keeper after his first touch in the box and the referee pointed to the spot. Mads Jørgensen stepped up and calmly dispatched his penalty past the Union ll keeper to put Hartford one-nil up! In the 14th minute, Jørgensen swung in a corner and the flicked on header found the boot of Alex Lara who tapped in his first Athletic goal to make it two-nil! Union II came storming back to tie the game at 2, but in the 90th minute, Danny Barrera scored one of the most bizarre goals of the USL season and The Immaculate Deflection was born. When the clock struck 90’, the Union ll keeper picked up the ball in his box. Barrera stood on the edge of the box, stuck out his leg, and deflected the keeper’s throw in the air and into the empty net to make it three to two Athletic! 

THE IMMACULATE DEFLECTION:

Danny Barrera’s incredible goal on Wednesday night caught the eye of just about the entire world. You could find Barrera at number 2 on SportsCenter’s Top 10 Plays as well as BBC Sports, Barstool Sports, 433 and many others. “I do weird stuff like that at practice all the time,” Barrera said on the Nutmeg State podcast on Thursday. “Even at home, I don’t know how many diapers I’ve ninja kicked or tried to ninja kick into the trash and finally I got one in.” Barrera is a father of 3 and is expecting a fourth child.

DEFENSE TO OFFENSE:

In 2019, Hartford Athletic was known for scoring goals from outside the box. The script has flipped in 2020. 24 of the 29 Hartford goals this season have come inside the box. Much of that comes from Head Coach Radhi Jaidi’s strategy which often targets larger center backs in the box on set pieces. Defenders Sam Strong, Matheus Silva, Kevin Politz, and Alex Lara have all scored off of set pieces this season. Lara scored his first professional goal on Wednesday running free to the far post on a corner kick, beautifully delivered by Mads Jørgensen.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Alex Lara, D #2: 

Matheus Silva will miss this match for a Yellow Card accumulation suspension and it's likely that Alex Lara will start in his place. The right-footed Lara may be asked to play the left center back position in  Radhi Jaïdi's typical 3 center back system. It won't be the first time he's asked to do this, but this particular match provides a bit more pressure and with a Red Bulls attack that has proven at times that they can be explosive, it will be more important than ever this year that the back line is in top form.

New York Red Bulls II, Jake LaCava, F #64:

In a 3-1 win the last time these two teams met, LaCava made the play that put RBII on the board putting himself in an advantageous position to fire one past Parfait Mandanda. LaCava is second on the squad with five goals this season and third with three assists. He makes plays and should certainly be a focal point of the Hartford Athletic back line. 

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

2020 will be the first year since 2015 that New York Red Bulls II will miss the postseason. RBII have a record of 5-10-0 but have played Hartford close in all three matches this season. Like Athletic, New York will come in on short rest having played a neutral site match in Virginia against North Carolina FC on Wednesday night. The big question is which Red Bulls II attack we’ll see on Sunday. The one that scored 8 goals in two matches against Atlanta United 2 and Philadelphia Union II, or the one that was shut out against NCFC a few days ago?

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

Can’t watch? Stay in touch with our live commentary @hfdathletic or by following #NYvHFD

It’s all on the line on Sunday night when Hartford Athletic takes on New York Red Bulls II with a chance to finish the season at the Top of Group F. With a Pittsburgh win on Saturday night, the Boys in Green must claim three points to top the Group. A top of the table finish means a home playoff game next weekend (you can sign up for a playoff wait list here), and what would be sweeter than the first playoff game in Club history at Dillon?

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (10-3-2) at NEW YORK RED BULLS II (5-10-0)

Date: Sunday, October 4th

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: MSU Soccer Park, Montclair, NJ

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

LAST TIME OUT:

Hartford took down Philadelphia Union II 3-2 on Wednesday night. In the 7th minute, Alex Dixon was taken down by the keeper after his first touch in the box and the referee pointed to the spot. Mads Jørgensen stepped up and calmly dispatched his penalty past the Union ll keeper to put Hartford one-nil up! In the 14th minute, Jørgensen swung in a corner and the flicked on header found the boot of Alex Lara who tapped in his first Athletic goal to make it two-nil! Union II came storming back to tie the game at 2, but in the 90th minute, Danny Barrera scored one of the most bizarre goals of the USL season and The Immaculate Deflection was born. When the clock struck 90’, the Union ll keeper picked up the ball in his box. Barrera stood on the edge of the box, stuck out his leg, and deflected the keeper’s throw in the air and into the empty net to make it three to two Athletic! 

THE IMMACULATE DEFLECTION:

Danny Barrera’s incredible goal on Wednesday night caught the eye of just about the entire world. You could find Barrera at number 2 on SportsCenter’s Top 10 Plays as well as BBC Sports, Barstool Sports, 433 and many others. “I do weird stuff like that at practice all the time,” Barrera said on the Nutmeg State podcast on Thursday. “Even at home, I don’t know how many diapers I’ve ninja kicked or tried to ninja kick into the trash and finally I got one in.” Barrera is a father of 3 and is expecting a fourth child.

DEFENSE TO OFFENSE:

In 2019, Hartford Athletic was known for scoring goals from outside the box. The script has flipped in 2020. 24 of the 29 Hartford goals this season have come inside the box. Much of that comes from Head Coach Radhi Jaidi’s strategy which often targets larger center backs in the box on set pieces. Defenders Sam Strong, Matheus Silva, Kevin Politz, and Alex Lara have all scored off of set pieces this season. Lara scored his first professional goal on Wednesday running free to the far post on a corner kick, beautifully delivered by Mads Jørgensen.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Alex Lara, D #2: 

Matheus Silva will miss this match for a Yellow Card accumulation suspension and it’s likely that Alex Lara will start in his place. The right-footed Lara may be asked to play the left center back position in  Radhi Jaïdi’s typical 3 center back system. It won’t be the first time he’s asked to do this, but this particular match provides a bit more pressure and with a Red Bulls attack that has proven at times that they can be explosive, it will be more important than ever this year that the back line is in top form.

New York Red Bulls II, Jake LaCava, F #64:

In a 3-1 win the last time these two teams met, LaCava made the play that put RBII on the board putting himself in an advantageous position to fire one past Parfait Mandanda. LaCava is second on the squad with five goals this season and third with three assists. He makes plays and should certainly be a focal point of the Hartford Athletic back line. 

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

2020 will be the first year since 2015 that New York Red Bulls II will miss the postseason. RBII have a record of 5-10-0 but have played Hartford close in all three matches this season. Like Athletic, New York will come in on short rest having played a neutral site match in Virginia against North Carolina FC on Wednesday night. The big question is which Red Bulls II attack we’ll see on Sunday. The one that scored 8 goals in two matches against Atlanta United 2 and Philadelphia Union II, or the one that was shut out against NCFC a few days ago?

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

Can’t watch? Stay in touch with our live commentary @hfdathletic or by following #NYvHFD

Hartford Athletic and New York Red Bulls II announced today that the Sunday, October 4th match at Montclair State University has changed kickoff times. The match will now kickoff at 7 PM. It was originally scheduled for a 5 PM kickoff time. 

As always, Hartford Athletic fans can watch the match on WCTX-MyTV9 or at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/watch. The match can also be seen on ESPN+ for those with the subscription.

With a win on Sunday, Hartford Athletic finish the season at the top of the Group F table and would host a playoff match. For those wishing to put themselves on a wait list for playoff tickets, please visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/single.

Hartford Athletic and New York Red Bulls II announced today that the Sunday, October 4th match at Montclair State University has changed kickoff times. The match will now kickoff at 7 PM. It was originally scheduled for a 5 PM kickoff time. 

As always, Hartford Athletic fans can watch the match on WCTX-MyTV9 or at https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/watch. The match can also be seen on ESPN+ for those with the subscription.

With a win on Sunday, Hartford Athletic finish the season at the top of the Group F table and would host a playoff match. For those wishing to put themselves on a wait list for playoff tickets, please visit https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/single.

Thanks to Danny Barrera’s bizarre goal in the 90th minute, Hartford took down Philadelphia Union II three goals to two and are just one win away from a home playoff match in the first round!

Hartford looked good in the opening minutes of the match. Mads Jørgensen, Idan Cohen, and Alex Dixon combined to create a great opportunity in the 7th minute. Cohen put in a cutthroat pass between two Union defenders that found the feet of the speedy Dixon. Dixon was taken down by the keeper right after his first touch and the referee pointed to the spot. Mads Jørgensen stepped up and the Athletic 2nd-year calmly dispatched his penalty past the Union ll keeper to put Hartford one-nil up!  

In the 14th minute, Hartford won a couple of corner kicks. The first corner was swung in by Gabriel Torres which was deflected out for another corner. Jørgensen swung in the second ball and the flicked on header found the boot of Alex Lara who tapped in his first Athletic goal to make it two-nil! 

In the 21st minute, Philadelphia Union won a corner, and the dangerous Paxten Aaronson stood over it. The Union ll midfielder swung in an inviting corner and Cohen’s attempted clearance went past goalkeeper Mike Novotny to cut the Athletic lead in half.  

In the second half of their sixth match in nineteen days, Athletic were feeling the fatigue. So much so that In the 59th minute, Union’s Caleb Stafford was put through on goal and flicked it in past Notovny to level it at two. In the 77th minute, Union II would find a way through the Hartford defense again. Matheus Silva came in with a late challenge and the referee pointed to the spot. The hero of the last match, Mike Notovny, was up to the task again! The second-year keeper dove the right way and saved to keep it notched at two!  

In the 82nd minute, Danny Barrera came on and scored one of the most bizarre goals of the USL season. When the clock struck 90’, the Union ll keeper picked up the ball in his box. Barrera stood on the edge of the box, stuck out his leg, and deflected the keeper's throw into the Philadelphia sky and  into the empty net to make it three to two Athletic!  

Thanks to an unbelievable ending, Hartford still controls their own destiny in group F. If the Boys in Green defeat New York Red Bulls II on Sunday, they will top the group and host the first round of the playoffs at Dillon Stadium!

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford Athletic 8 (3) -10 (3) Philadelphia

Corners: Hartford Athletic 6-5 Philadelphia

Fouls: Hartford Athletic 14-14 Philadelphia

Offsides: Hartford Athletic 5-3 Philadelphia

Possession: Hartford Athletic 49.1%-50.9% Philadelphia

Passing Accuracy: Hartford Athletic 71.9%-69.1% Philadelphia

Saves: Hartford Athletic 2-0 Philadelphia

SCORING SUMMARY:

8' – Mads Jørgensen 0-1

15' – Alex Lara 0-2

22' – Idan Cohen (Own Goal) 1-2

60' – Caden Stafford 2-2

90' – Danny Barrera 2-3

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

7' – Mitch Bulder (Yellow)

25' – Alex Dixon (Yellow)

42' – Anthony Sorenson (Yellow)

54' – Sam Strong (Yellow)

78' – Matheus Silva (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

18 (GK) Mike Novotny; 24 (D) Sam Strong, 2 (D) Alex Lara, 3 (D) Matheus Silva (Danny Barrera 81'); 25 (MF) Idan Cohen (Conor McGlynn 57'); 6 (MF) Arthur Rogers, 80 (MF) Justin Haak, 8 (MF) Mads Jørgensen (Aiden Mesias 57'), 16 (MF) Gabriel Torres (Tyreke Johnson 69'); 17 (F) Alfonso Vazquez (Markus Naglestad 69'), 11 (F) Alex Dixon

PHILADELPHIA UNION II STARTING LINEUP:

57 (GK) Mitch Budler; 62 (D) Anthony Sorenson, 50 (D) Brandan Craig, 61 (D) Dante Huckaby, 60 (D) Nathan Harriel; 13 (MF) Cole Turner (Danny Flores 75'), 65 (MF) Jack McGlynn, 70 (MF) Paxten Aaronson (Zachary Zandi 75'), 14 (MF) Jack de Vries (Issa Rayyan 64'); 52 (F) Patrick Bohui (Axel Picazo 75'), 68 (F) Caden Stafford (Quinn Sullivan 89')

Thanks to Danny Barrera’s bizarre goal in the 90th minute, Hartford took down Philadelphia Union II three goals to two and are just one win away from a home playoff match in the first round!

Hartford looked good in the opening minutes of the match. Mads Jørgensen, Idan Cohen, and Alex Dixon combined to create a great opportunity in the 7th minute. Cohen put in a cutthroat pass between two Union defenders that found the feet of the speedy Dixon. Dixon was taken down by the keeper right after his first touch and the referee pointed to the spot. Mads Jørgensen stepped up and the Athletic 2nd-year calmly dispatched his penalty past the Union ll keeper to put Hartford one-nil up!  

In the 14th minute, Hartford won a couple of corner kicks. The first corner was swung in by Gabriel Torres which was deflected out for another corner. Jørgensen swung in the second ball and the flicked on header found the boot of Alex Lara who tapped in his first Athletic goal to make it two-nil! 

In the 21st minute, Philadelphia Union won a corner, and the dangerous Paxten Aaronson stood over it. The Union ll midfielder swung in an inviting corner and Cohen’s attempted clearance went past goalkeeper Mike Novotny to cut the Athletic lead in half.  

In the second half of their sixth match in nineteen days, Athletic were feeling the fatigue. So much so that In the 59th minute, Union’s Caleb Stafford was put through on goal and flicked it in past Notovny to level it at two. In the 77th minute, Union II would find a way through the Hartford defense again. Matheus Silva came in with a late challenge and the referee pointed to the spot. The hero of the last match, Mike Notovny, was up to the task again! The second-year keeper dove the right way and saved to keep it notched at two!  

In the 82nd minute, Danny Barrera came on and scored one of the most bizarre goals of the USL season. When the clock struck 90’, the Union ll keeper picked up the ball in his box. Barrera stood on the edge of the box, stuck out his leg, and deflected the keeper’s throw into the Philadelphia sky and  into the empty net to make it three to two Athletic!  

Thanks to an unbelievable ending, Hartford still controls their own destiny in group F. If the Boys in Green defeat New York Red Bulls II on Sunday, they will top the group and host the first round of the playoffs at Dillon Stadium!

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford Athletic 8 (3) -10 (3) Philadelphia

Corners: Hartford Athletic 6-5 Philadelphia

Fouls: Hartford Athletic 14-14 Philadelphia

Offsides: Hartford Athletic 5-3 Philadelphia

Possession: Hartford Athletic 49.1%-50.9% Philadelphia

Passing Accuracy: Hartford Athletic 71.9%-69.1% Philadelphia

Saves: Hartford Athletic 2-0 Philadelphia

SCORING SUMMARY:

8′ – Mads Jørgensen 0-1

15′ – Alex Lara 0-2

22′ – Idan Cohen (Own Goal) 1-2

60′ – Caden Stafford 2-2

90′ – Danny Barrera 2-3

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

7′ – Mitch Bulder (Yellow)

25′ – Alex Dixon (Yellow)

42′ – Anthony Sorenson (Yellow)

54′ – Sam Strong (Yellow)

78′ – Matheus Silva (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

18 (GK) Mike Novotny; 24 (D) Sam Strong, 2 (D) Alex Lara, 3 (D) Matheus Silva (Danny Barrera 81′); 25 (MF) Idan Cohen (Conor McGlynn 57′); 6 (MF) Arthur Rogers, 80 (MF) Justin Haak, 8 (MF) Mads Jørgensen (Aiden Mesias 57′), 16 (MF) Gabriel Torres (Tyreke Johnson 69′); 17 (F) Alfonso Vazquez (Markus Naglestad 69′), 11 (F) Alex Dixon

PHILADELPHIA UNION II STARTING LINEUP:

57 (GK) Mitch Budler; 62 (D) Anthony Sorenson, 50 (D) Brandan Craig, 61 (D) Dante Huckaby, 60 (D) Nathan Harriel; 13 (MF) Cole Turner (Danny Flores 75′), 65 (MF) Jack McGlynn, 70 (MF) Paxten Aaronson (Zachary Zandi 75′), 14 (MF) Jack de Vries (Issa Rayyan 64′); 52 (F) Patrick Bohui (Axel Picazo 75′), 68 (F) Caden Stafford (Quinn Sullivan 89′)

Hartford Athletic hits the road for the second of three road matches to finish the 2020 campaign. The Boys in Green are coming off a huge victory over Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on Saturday night and now control their destiny in the chase for Group F. Two wins guarantee the top of the table and a home playoff spot and it starts tomorrow night in Philadelphia.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (9-3-2) at PHILADELPHIA UNION II (2-9-3)

Date: Wednesday, September 30th

Time: 7:30 PM ET

Location: Subaru Park, Chester, PA

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

LAST TIME OUT:

In the third meeting with Pittsburgh Riverhounds this season, Hartford Athletic notched a massive 1-0 victory holding on even though down to 10 men for the final 26 minutes of the match. In the 35th minute, Ever Guzmán was slipped in by strike partner Alex Dixon and with a sliding finish dispatched a right-footed shot into the back of the net. In the second half, after a 50/50 sliding challenge, Parfait Mandanda found himself in a scuffle behind the net. Mandanda was given a red card. Second year goalkeeper Mike Novotny came in to make his USL Championship debut replacing Mandanda. He and the backline stood tall with multiple clearances and goal lines saves in the last fifteen minutes. 

DESTINY CONTROLLED:

With Saturday’s win against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, Hartford now controls its own destiny in Group F. Wins in the final two matches for Hartford clinch the top spot in the table and a home playoff match in the first round. If Hartford were to lose either match, it would need a Pittsburgh loss to clinch the top spot. 

WHO IS MIKE NOVOTNY?:

Goalkeeper Parfait Mandanda was issued a Red Card in the 71st minute on Saturday night which brought the debut of backup GK Mike Novotny. Novotny has been part of Hartford Athletic for the past two seasons, but the 17 minutes he played on Saturday night were the first minutes of USL Championship action he’s gotten since joining the club. He will be called on for the full 90 minutes on Wednesday night, his first regular-season start since playing for Stode IF in Sweden during the 2018 season (Novotny started and played 45 minutes in the club’s friendly match with Jamaican side Portmore United last fall). With no goalies under contract for 2021, this could be an audition of sorts for the young Novotny. If you want to learn more about him, check out our 20 Questions series!

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Sam Strong, D, #24: 

Hartford's back line has found its best form of the season at the perfect time. Over the past three matches, Hartford has only conceded one goal and the back trio of Strong, Matheus Silva, and Kevin Politz have done a masterful job shutting down opponents. Strong's play has been quality, but he also brings an extra element offensively on set pieces. He is a big body and is often a target on corners. Strong scored Hartford's only goal against Philadelphia last match, his effort on both sides of the ball will be important in this one.

Philadelphia Union II, Paxten Aaronson, MF, #70:

It would be too easy to put Jack McGlynn who has 3 goals in his last 2 matches (see below), so we'll take it another direction. Aaronson is just 17 years old but has made an immediate impact in the Philadelphia midfield. He has a goal and an assist this season but has also taken 15 shots (3rd on the team) and created 10 chances (5th on the team). He's a player who has caught the eye of Hartford Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi and is someone with a very bright future in the Philadelphia system.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Despite only taking one point in the last 3 matches, Philadelphia Union II have some momentum heading into the match. Last Wednesday, a late Jack McGlynn goal leveled the score and saw Union II leave Hartford with a point. Saturday evening, Union II took a tough loss to NYRBII 5-4 despite being down a man for almost 60 minutes. Two of the four goals came from McGlynn (brother of Hartford midfielder Conor) who should be the focal point of the Hartford defense.

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

Can’t watch? Stay in touch with our live commentary @hfdathletic or by following #PHIvHFD

Hartford Athletic hits the road for the second of three road matches to finish the 2020 campaign. The Boys in Green are coming off a huge victory over Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on Saturday night and now control their destiny in the chase for Group F. Two wins guarantee the top of the table and a home playoff spot and it starts tomorrow night in Philadelphia.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (9-3-2) at PHILADELPHIA UNION II (2-9-3)

Date: Wednesday, September 30th

Time: 7:30 PM ET

Location: Subaru Park, Chester, PA

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://sportsengine-staging.go-vip.net/hartfordathletic/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

LAST TIME OUT:

In the third meeting with Pittsburgh Riverhounds this season, Hartford Athletic notched a massive 1-0 victory holding on even though down to 10 men for the final 26 minutes of the match. In the 35th minute, Ever Guzmán was slipped in by strike partner Alex Dixon and with a sliding finish dispatched a right-footed shot into the back of the net. In the second half, after a 50/50 sliding challenge, Parfait Mandanda found himself in a scuffle behind the net. Mandanda was given a red card. Second year goalkeeper Mike Novotny came in to make his USL Championship debut replacing Mandanda. He and the backline stood tall with multiple clearances and goal lines saves in the last fifteen minutes. 

DESTINY CONTROLLED:

With Saturday’s win against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, Hartford now controls its own destiny in Group F. Wins in the final two matches for Hartford clinch the top spot in the table and a home playoff match in the first round. If Hartford were to lose either match, it would need a Pittsburgh loss to clinch the top spot. 

WHO IS MIKE NOVOTNY?:

Goalkeeper Parfait Mandanda was issued a Red Card in the 71st minute on Saturday night which brought the debut of backup GK Mike Novotny. Novotny has been part of Hartford Athletic for the past two seasons, but the 17 minutes he played on Saturday night were the first minutes of USL Championship action he’s gotten since joining the club. He will be called on for the full 90 minutes on Wednesday night, his first regular-season start since playing for Stode IF in Sweden during the 2018 season (Novotny started and played 45 minutes in the club’s friendly match with Jamaican side Portmore United last fall). With no goalies under contract for 2021, this could be an audition of sorts for the young Novotny. If you want to learn more about him, check out our 20 Questions series!

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Sam Strong, D, #24: 

Hartford’s back line has found its best form of the season at the perfect time. Over the past three matches, Hartford has only conceded one goal and the back trio of Strong, Matheus Silva, and Kevin Politz have done a masterful job shutting down opponents. Strong’s play has been quality, but he also brings an extra element offensively on set pieces. He is a big body and is often a target on corners. Strong scored Hartford’s only goal against Philadelphia last match, his effort on both sides of the ball will be important in this one.

Philadelphia Union II, Paxten Aaronson, MF, #70:

It would be too easy to put Jack McGlynn who has 3 goals in his last 2 matches (see below), so we’ll take it another direction. Aaronson is just 17 years old but has made an immediate impact in the Philadelphia midfield. He has a goal and an assist this season but has also taken 15 shots (3rd on the team) and created 10 chances (5th on the team). He’s a player who has caught the eye of Hartford Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi and is someone with a very bright future in the Philadelphia system.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Despite only taking one point in the last 3 matches, Philadelphia Union II have some momentum heading into the match. Last Wednesday, a late Jack McGlynn goal leveled the score and saw Union II leave Hartford with a point. Saturday evening, Union II took a tough loss to NYRBII 5-4 despite being down a man for almost 60 minutes. Two of the four goals came from McGlynn (brother of Hartford midfielder Conor) who should be the focal point of the Hartford defense.

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

Can’t watch? Stay in touch with our live commentary @hfdathletic or by following #PHIvHFD