The Pittsburgh Riverhounds have revealed their first offeseason roster changes this evening. These changes show a focus on finding a goalie after both Ryan Thompson and Calle Brown moved on from Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh has also managed to retain key pieces to their offense and added a young midfielder to their roster.
“Hi Everyone, My Name is Mauricio Vargas”
Mauricio Vargas is a 23-year-old goaltender from Costa Rica who has been seen as a highly talented and athletic player. Vargas was invited to Costa Rica’s national team program in the Under-15 level. In 2009 he played consistently for Los Ticos FIFA U-17 and played again in the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
The video below is a small sampling of what Vargas is capable of and how well he attacks the ball.
Here’s a quick look at our new goalkeeper @mau1vargas representing Costa Rica at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2011. https://t.co/M8Lp84cC90
— PghRiverhounds (@PghRiverhounds) January 5, 2016
Former keepers Thompson and Brown ended up finding new homes. Thompson defended the Hounds’ net for 10 games before playing for the Jamaican national team. Brown is calling Houston his new home after signing a contract with the Dynamos of the MLS.
Pittsburgh has also signed Alex Harlley, a 23-year-old midfielder who played at the collegiate level at Yavapai College in Arizona. Harlley first played professionally for the Atlanta Silverbacks in 2014. The young athlete was also listed as one of North American Soccer League’s 11 Young Players to Watch last season.
Vini Dantas and the Riverhounds have also separated. Dantas contributed seven points to the Hound’s offense scoring two goals and assisting three times.
They’re Back
Pittsburgh will be bringing back many pieces of the puzzle back for next year. Both Rob Vincent and Kevin Kerr will be returning to the Riverhounds and will look to repeat last year where combined they scored over 50 percent of the team’s goals.
Surrounding players such as Lebo Moloto, Stephen Okai, Sterling Flunder, Nick Kolarac, and Drew Russell are all expected to return for the 2016 season.
It is expected that the club will continue making announcements over the next few weeks as USL and U.S. Soccer Federation approvals are received.
Photo Credit: @PGHRiverhounds
