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HARTFORD, Conn. (August 31, 2020) – Hartford Athletic announced today that Founding Partner Stanley Black & Decker will serve as the Presenting Partner of the 2nd annual Match for a Cause. The match will take place on September 20th, the final regular season home match of the 2020 season for Hartford Athletic.

"Stanley Black & Decker’s support of Greater Hartford is so important to our community. We are grateful to call them a Founding Partner as we get set to host our second annual Match for a Cause,” said Jordan Charlupski, Hartford Athletic Vice President of Revenue and Strategic Initiatives. “Stanley Black & Decker and Hartford Athletic are the perfect team as we strive to make our community the best place to live, work, and play. We are thrilled to work together to support this year’s cause: Youth Education.”

Quality Youth Education, the United Nations Global Goal number 4, has been selected as this year’s cause with Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford chosen as this year’s community partner and beneficiary.

“We are honored and excited that our Clubs were selected as this year’s Match for a Cause beneficiary,” said Matthew Broderick, Vice President of Development for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford which is celebrating its 160th anniversary in 2020.  “Whether its academic assistance, skills-based development or experiential learning in the workplace, education is a key focus of our Clubs.  We are so proud to partner with Hartford Athletic and Stanley Black & Decker who share our commitment to improving young lives and making opportunities available to those we serve.”

Hartford Athletic will auction player issued jerseys from the final regular season home match on September 20th. Stanley Black & Decker will match all proceeds raised from the auction with all funds raised donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford. Due to COVID-19, this year’s auction will be held virtually. Fans interested in making a donation can visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/matchforacause.

“We’re honored to collaborate with Hartford Athletic to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford,” said Stanley Black & Decker’s Director of Public Affairs, Abigail Dreher. “COVID-19 has created many significant challenges for working parents, and as students head back to school – either in-person or virtually – families need the support of the club more than ever before.”

In 2019, the Hartford Athletic Match for a Cause supported Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment. The players wore orange uniforms in association with UN Global Goal number 5 and fittingly earned a 5-1 victory. Hartford Athletic and Stanley Black & Decker teamed up to raise over four thousand dollars for Girls For Technology that evening.

ABOUT STANLEY BLACK & DECKER

Stanley Black & Decker is a $14 Billion revenue, purpose-driven industrial organization. Stanley Black & Decker has 61,000 employees in more than 60 countries and operates the world's largest tools and storage business, the world's second largest commercial electronic security, a leading engineered fastening business, as well as Oil and Gas and Infrastructure business. The company's iconic brands include Black & Decker, Bostich, CRAFTSMAN, DEWALT, FACOM, Irwin, Lenox, Porter Cable and Stanley. Stanley Black & Decker is a company for the makers and innovators, the craftsmen and the caregivers, and those doing the hard work to make the world a better place. 

ABOUT BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF HARTFORD

As the founding organization of the national Boys & Girls Clubs movement, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford (founded in 1860) impacts the lives of nearly 10,000 Hartford children annually, Club programming focuses on academic success and workforce development, health, fitness and nutrition and character and leadership development.  The Clubs’ mission is to enable all young people, especially those most in need, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.  For more information, please visit www.bgchartford.org.

HARTFORD, Conn. (August 31, 2020) – Hartford Athletic announced today that Founding Partner Stanley Black & Decker will serve as the Presenting Partner of the 2nd annual Match for a Cause. The match will take place on September 20th, the final regular season home match of the 2020 season for Hartford Athletic.

“Stanley Black & Decker’s support of Greater Hartford is so important to our community. We are grateful to call them a Founding Partner as we get set to host our second annual Match for a Cause,” said Jordan Charlupski, Hartford Athletic Vice President of Revenue and Strategic Initiatives. “Stanley Black & Decker and Hartford Athletic are the perfect team as we strive to make our community the best place to live, work, and play. We are thrilled to work together to support this year’s cause: Youth Education.”

Quality Youth Education, the United Nations Global Goal number 4, has been selected as this year’s cause with Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford chosen as this year’s community partner and beneficiary.

“We are honored and excited that our Clubs were selected as this year’s Match for a Cause beneficiary,” said Matthew Broderick, Vice President of Development for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford which is celebrating its 160th anniversary in 2020.  “Whether its academic assistance, skills-based development or experiential learning in the workplace, education is a key focus of our Clubs.  We are so proud to partner with Hartford Athletic and Stanley Black & Decker who share our commitment to improving young lives and making opportunities available to those we serve.”

Hartford Athletic will auction player issued jerseys from the final regular season home match on September 20th. Stanley Black & Decker will match all proceeds raised from the auction with all funds raised donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford. Due to COVID-19, this year’s auction will be held virtually. Fans interested in making a donation can visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/matchforacause.

“We’re honored to collaborate with Hartford Athletic to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford,” said Stanley Black & Decker’s Director of Public Affairs, Abigail Dreher. “COVID-19 has created many significant challenges for working parents, and as students head back to school – either in-person or virtually – families need the support of the club more than ever before.”

In 2019, the Hartford Athletic Match for a Cause supported Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment. The players wore orange uniforms in association with UN Global Goal number 5 and fittingly earned a 5-1 victory. Hartford Athletic and Stanley Black & Decker teamed up to raise over four thousand dollars for Girls For Technology that evening.

ABOUT STANLEY BLACK & DECKER

Stanley Black & Decker is a $14 Billion revenue, purpose-driven industrial organization. Stanley Black & Decker has 61,000 employees in more than 60 countries and operates the world’s largest tools and storage business, the world’s second largest commercial electronic security, a leading engineered fastening business, as well as Oil and Gas and Infrastructure business. The company’s iconic brands include Black & Decker, Bostich, CRAFTSMAN, DEWALT, FACOM, Irwin, Lenox, Porter Cable and Stanley. Stanley Black & Decker is a company for the makers and innovators, the craftsmen and the caregivers, and those doing the hard work to make the world a better place. 

ABOUT BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF HARTFORD

As the founding organization of the national Boys & Girls Clubs movement, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford (founded in 1860) impacts the lives of nearly 10,000 Hartford children annually, Club programming focuses on academic success and workforce development, health, fitness and nutrition and character and leadership development.  The Clubs’ mission is to enable all young people, especially those most in need, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.  For more information, please visit www.bgchartford.org.

Athletic suffered its first loss at Dillon Stadium and in Group F falling three nil to Pittsburgh.  

In a game where Soccer was secondary, the players on the field came together to send a powerful message. In the 7th minute the two teams joined each other in the middle of the field in peaceful protest of Jacob Blake and racial injustice.  

Not long after in the 10th minute, Hartford went down 1-0. The ball rolled to the back post and Ryan James was there to smash it in past Goalkeeper Parfait Mandanda. In the 22nd minute Pittsburgh doubled their lead, Connecticut born Danny Griffin put in a rebound that was too hot to handle.  

Hartford went into halftime down two nil, just like the previous fixture against Loudoun. They couldn't produce the magic again. Shortly after halftime, Pittsburgh tacked on another, James scored his second of the match vollying in at the back post. 

Jaïdi made multiple changes and striker Ever Guzmán made his return to the field. However, throughout the second half Hartford couldn't find an answer. Pittsburgh saw the game out and walked away with three goals and three points. Hartford still has two games in hand on the Riverhounds; who they will play two more times before the season is over.

The Boys in Green are back home next Saturday against Loudoun United at 7 PM. This will be the fourth time this season that Hartford and Loudoun have matched up, all at Dillon Stadium. To purchase tickets, click here.

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford Athletic 10 (4) – 9 (4) Pittsburgh

Corners: Hartford Athletic 6-1 Pittsburgh

Fouls: Hartford Athletic 15-7 Pittsburgh

Offsides: Hartford Athletic 0-2 Pittsburgh

Possession: Hartford Athletic 42.9%-57.1% Pittsburgh

Passing Accuracy: Hartford Athletic 79.2%-84.8% Pittsburgh

Saves: Hartford Athletic 1-3 Pittsburgh

SCORING SUMMARY:

11' – Ryan James (Anthony Velarde) 0-1

22' – Danny Griffin 0-2

50' – Ryan James (Jordan Dover) 0-3

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

7' – Tomas Gomez (Yellow)

83' – Alex Lara (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

35 (GK) Parfait Mandanda; 24 (D) Sam Strong, 4 (D) Kevin Politz (Nicky Downs 45'), 3 (D) Matheus Silva; 33 (MF) Harry Swartz (Alex Lara 42'), 6 (MF) Arthur Rogers, 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 8 (MF) Mads Jørgensen (Gabriel Torres 45'), 88 (MF) Tyreke Johnson (Aiden Mesias, 70'); 20 (F) Markus Naglestad (Ever Guzmán, 62'), 11 (F) Alex Dixon

PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC STARTING LINEUP:

18 (GK) Tomas Gomez; 23 (D) Ray Lee (Mark Lindstrom, 76'), 17 (D) Thomas Vancaeyezeele, 34 (D) Skylar Thomas (Patrick Bunk-Anderson, 82'); 7 (MF) Ryan James, 11 (MF) Kenardo Forbes (Ropapah Mensah, 10'), 14 (MF) Robbie Mertz, 12 (MF) Danny Griffin, 15 (MF) Anthony Velarde (Mark Forrest 82'), 5 (MF) Jordan Dover; 10 (F) Steevan Dos Santos (Dakota Barnathan, 76')

Athletic suffered its first loss at Dillon Stadium and in Group F falling three nil to Pittsburgh.  

In a game where Soccer was secondary, the players on the field came together to send a powerful message. In the 7th minute the two teams joined each other in the middle of the field in peaceful protest of Jacob Blake and racial injustice.  

Not long after in the 10th minute, Hartford went down 1-0. The ball rolled to the back post and Ryan James was there to smash it in past Goalkeeper Parfait Mandanda. In the 22nd minute Pittsburgh doubled their lead, Connecticut born Danny Griffin put in a rebound that was too hot to handle.  

Hartford went into halftime down two nil, just like the previous fixture against Loudoun. They couldn’t produce the magic again. Shortly after halftime, Pittsburgh tacked on another, James scored his second of the match vollying in at the back post. 

Jaïdi made multiple changes and striker Ever Guzmán made his return to the field. However, throughout the second half Hartford couldn’t find an answer. Pittsburgh saw the game out and walked away with three goals and three points. Hartford still has two games in hand on the Riverhounds; who they will play two more times before the season is over.

The Boys in Green are back home next Saturday against Loudoun United at 7 PM. This will be the fourth time this season that Hartford and Loudoun have matched up, all at Dillon Stadium. To purchase tickets, click here.

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford Athletic 10 (4) – 9 (4) Pittsburgh

Corners: Hartford Athletic 6-1 Pittsburgh

Fouls: Hartford Athletic 15-7 Pittsburgh

Offsides: Hartford Athletic 0-2 Pittsburgh

Possession: Hartford Athletic 42.9%-57.1% Pittsburgh

Passing Accuracy: Hartford Athletic 79.2%-84.8% Pittsburgh

Saves: Hartford Athletic 1-3 Pittsburgh

SCORING SUMMARY:

11′ – Ryan James (Anthony Velarde) 0-1

22′ – Danny Griffin 0-2

50′ – Ryan James (Jordan Dover) 0-3

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

7′ – Tomas Gomez (Yellow)

83′ – Alex Lara (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

35 (GK) Parfait Mandanda; 24 (D) Sam Strong, 4 (D) Kevin Politz (Nicky Downs 45′), 3 (D) Matheus Silva; 33 (MF) Harry Swartz (Alex Lara 42′), 6 (MF) Arthur Rogers, 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 8 (MF) Mads Jørgensen (Gabriel Torres 45′), 88 (MF) Tyreke Johnson (Aiden Mesias, 70′); 20 (F) Markus Naglestad (Ever Guzmán, 62′), 11 (F) Alex Dixon

PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC STARTING LINEUP:

18 (GK) Tomas Gomez; 23 (D) Ray Lee (Mark Lindstrom, 76′), 17 (D) Thomas Vancaeyezeele, 34 (D) Skylar Thomas (Patrick Bunk-Anderson, 82′); 7 (MF) Ryan James, 11 (MF) Kenardo Forbes (Ropapah Mensah, 10′), 14 (MF) Robbie Mertz, 12 (MF) Danny Griffin, 15 (MF) Anthony Velarde (Mark Forrest 82′), 5 (MF) Jordan Dover; 10 (F) Steevan Dos Santos (Dakota Barnathan, 76′)

The stage is set for a clash at the top of the Group F table as Hartford Athletic hosts Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on Friday night. Hartford and Pittsburgh each have 16 points this season with the Hounds holding first place due to the goal differential tiebreaker. With two games in hand, this is a huge chance for the Boys in Green to separate themselves from Pittsburgh and earn home-field in the first round of the playoffs.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (5-1-1) vs PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC (5-3-1)

Date: Friday, August 28th

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Dillon Stadium, Hartford, CT

Tickets: https://bit.ly/31pq5zo 

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

Program: https://www.hartfordathletic.com/program

LAST TIME OUT:

Two Markus Nagelstad free kicks saw Hartford claw their way back to a 2-2 draw against Loudoun United. Down 2-0 late in the match, things looked done and dusted until Hartford won a string of free kicks in a position outside of the box. The first, in the 84th minute, the Norwiegan stuck it in the top corner to cut the lead in half. Hartford won another free kick in the same area in the 88th minute. Naglestad stepped up and struck the crossbar, Alex Dixon followed up and headed it in to bring things level. Hartford continued to press in extra time but couldn’t find the winner, but thanks to Naglestad, Hartford walked away with an important point. 

A NEW LEADER:

With Ever Guzmán absent the past two matches, the majority of the attacking chances have gone to Alex Dixon and he has made the most of them. Dixon has scored in back-to-back matches and has passed Wojciech Wojcik as the all-time leader in goals scored in club history with 8. Despite an injury riddled campaign, Dixon still managed to score 5 goals in 2019. This season, he’s already scored 3 in just 6 matches.

HOME COOKING:

When the doors to Dillon Stadium opened last year, Hartford Athletic found a real home-field advantage. The 2019 version of the Boys in Green earned 5 of their 8 wins at Dillon and finished with an overall record of 5-4-1. This season, they’re on an even better pace. Athletic has a 4-0-1 record at home, the one draw coming last Sunday night against Loudoun United FC. Pittsburgh, however, was immune to last season’s success, defeating Hartford 4-2 on a swelteringly hot July afternoon. 

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Markus Naglestad, F #20: 

Naglestad proved to be the hero on Saturday night, but he may be called on for more tomorrow. With the health of Ever Guzmán in question, it's quite possible Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi inserts Markus into the starting lineup. His finishing ability will be necessary against a Pittsburgh group that has only allowed 8 goals in 9 matches this season.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, Ray Lee, D, #23:

If the name looks familiar, it should. Lee started 30 matches at Left Back for Hartford Athletic in 2019 and will be the first player from last season's roster to return to Dillon Stadium in a different uniform. Ray was a mainstay on the Hartford backline, starting 30 matches and finishing the season third in Clearances, Blocks, Interceptions, and Duels Won. He also finished second in Tackles Won. Since joining Pittsburgh shortly after the restart, he has played in 3 matches, starting all three and recorded an assist in a 4-1 victory over New York Red Bulls II.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC are the defending Eastern Conference Regular Season champions and entered the restart as the favorite to win Group F. Pittsburgh holds the top spot in Group F thanks to a goal differential of 14. That is in large part due to their 6-0 and 4-0 victories over Philadelphia Union II this season, but they have quality wins as well, including a 3-1 win against Louisville City FC in the opening of their new stadium. Pittsburgh’s attack is led by Kenardo Forbes who has 7 assists this season. Steevan Dos Santos, who scored 3 times in 2 matches against Hartford last season, and Robbie Mertz lead the goal scorers with 5 and 4 respectively. Wethersfield native Danny Griffin has also made a big impact for the Hounds, appearing in every match this season. He was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week in Week 4. 

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

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

The stage is set for a clash at the top of the Group F table as Hartford Athletic hosts Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on Friday night. Hartford and Pittsburgh each have 16 points this season with the Hounds holding first place due to the goal differential tiebreaker. With two games in hand, this is a huge chance for the Boys in Green to separate themselves from Pittsburgh and earn home-field in the first round of the playoffs.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (5-1-1) vs PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC (5-3-1)

Date: Friday, August 28th

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Dillon Stadium, Hartford, CT

Tickets: https://bit.ly/31pq5zo 

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

Program: https://www.hartfordathletic.com/program

LAST TIME OUT:

Two Markus Nagelstad free kicks saw Hartford claw their way back to a 2-2 draw against Loudoun United. Down 2-0 late in the match, things looked done and dusted until Hartford won a string of free kicks in a position outside of the box. The first, in the 84th minute, the Norwiegan stuck it in the top corner to cut the lead in half. Hartford won another free kick in the same area in the 88th minute. Naglestad stepped up and struck the crossbar, Alex Dixon followed up and headed it in to bring things level. Hartford continued to press in extra time but couldn’t find the winner, but thanks to Naglestad, Hartford walked away with an important point. 

A NEW LEADER:

With Ever Guzmán absent the past two matches, the majority of the attacking chances have gone to Alex Dixon and he has made the most of them. Dixon has scored in back-to-back matches and has passed Wojciech Wojcik as the all-time leader in goals scored in club history with 8. Despite an injury riddled campaign, Dixon still managed to score 5 goals in 2019. This season, he’s already scored 3 in just 6 matches.

HOME COOKING:

When the doors to Dillon Stadium opened last year, Hartford Athletic found a real home-field advantage. The 2019 version of the Boys in Green earned 5 of their 8 wins at Dillon and finished with an overall record of 5-4-1. This season, they’re on an even better pace. Athletic has a 4-0-1 record at home, the one draw coming last Sunday night against Loudoun United FC. Pittsburgh, however, was immune to last season’s success, defeating Hartford 4-2 on a swelteringly hot July afternoon. 

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Markus Naglestad, F #20: 

Naglestad proved to be the hero on Saturday night, but he may be called on for more tomorrow. With the health of Ever Guzmán in question, it’s quite possible Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi inserts Markus into the starting lineup. His finishing ability will be necessary against a Pittsburgh group that has only allowed 8 goals in 9 matches this season.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, Ray Lee, D, #23:

If the name looks familiar, it should. Lee started 30 matches at Left Back for Hartford Athletic in 2019 and will be the first player from last season’s roster to return to Dillon Stadium in a different uniform. Ray was a mainstay on the Hartford backline, starting 30 matches and finishing the season third in Clearances, Blocks, Interceptions, and Duels Won. He also finished second in Tackles Won. Since joining Pittsburgh shortly after the restart, he has played in 3 matches, starting all three and recorded an assist in a 4-1 victory over New York Red Bulls II.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC are the defending Eastern Conference Regular Season champions and entered the restart as the favorite to win Group F. Pittsburgh holds the top spot in Group F thanks to a goal differential of 14. That is in large part due to their 6-0 and 4-0 victories over Philadelphia Union II this season, but they have quality wins as well, including a 3-1 win against Louisville City FC in the opening of their new stadium. Pittsburgh’s attack is led by Kenardo Forbes who has 7 assists this season. Steevan Dos Santos, who scored 3 times in 2 matches against Hartford last season, and Robbie Mertz lead the goal scorers with 5 and 4 respectively. Wethersfield native Danny Griffin has also made a big impact for the Hounds, appearing in every match this season. He was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week in Week 4. 

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

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

Two Marcus Nagelstad debut free kicks rescued a 2-2 draw for Hartford against Loudoun United. 

In the beginning stages Loudoun United looked the more dangerous side. Loudoun peppered Parfait Mandanda’s net with shots and in the 21st minute, the visitors won a free kick. A lofted ball to the back post was headed in by Shane Wiedt for his first career goal. Hartford did not trouble Loudoun United after conceding the goal, Athletic only registered 3 shots in total in the first half.

In the second half, Hartford made a switch that proved to be a decisive moment. Norwigen and former University of Bridgeport star Markus Naglestad entered the game for his debut. The excitement of the change was quickly drawn out when Loudoun United went 2-0 up in the 72nd minute. The dangerous Elvis Amoh fired in a rocket of a left footed strike past a diving Mandanda.  

The game looked done and dusted until Hartford won a string of free kicks in a position outside of the box. The first free kick was sent over the bar from Danny Barrera. The second free kick however, the captain let debutant Naglestad take. In the 84th minute, the Norwiegan stuck it in the top corner to cut the lead in half! 

Hartford won another free kick in the same area in the 88th minute, it was an easy decision who was going to take it. Naglestad stepped up and smacked the crossbar, Alex Dixon followed up and headed it in to tie it up! Hartford continued to press in extra time but couldn't find the winner, but thanks to Naglestad, Hartford walked away with a gracious point.  

Hartford now sits at 16 points in Group F, tied with Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC at the top of the table. The Hounds come to Dillon Stadium on Friday night at 7 PM for a huge matchup. Tickets are still available, click here to get yours!

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford Athletic 11 (6) – 9 (4) Loudoun

Corners: Hartford Athletic 4-6 Loudoun

Fouls: Hartford Athletic 14-22 Loudoun

Offsides: Hartford Athletic 2-2 Loudoun

Possession: Hartford Athletic 49.5%-50.5% Loudoun

Passing Accuracy: Hartford Athletic 70.8%-70.0% Loudoun

Saves: Hartford Athletic 2-4 Loudoun

SCORING SUMMARY:

22' – Shane Wiedt (Jeremy Garay) 0-1

74' – Elvis Amoh 0-2

86' – Markus Naglestad 1-2

89' – Alex Dixon 2-2

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

23' – Ali Ndour (Yellow)

28' – Harry Swartz (Yellow)

44' – Kairou Amoustapha (Yellow)

68' – Danny Barrera (Yellow)

69' – Matheus Silva (Yellow)

70' – Head Coach Ryan Martin (Yellow)

85' – Elvis Amoh (Yellow)

88' – Jacob Greene (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

35 (GK) Parfait Mandanda; 24 (D) Sam Strong (Aiden Mesias 72'), 4 (D) Kevin Politz, 3 (D) Matheus Silva; 33 (MF) Harry Swartz, 6 (MF) Arthur Rogers, 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 8 (MF) Mads Jørgensen (Nicky Downs 72'), 16 (MF) Gabriel Torres (Markus Naglestad, 45'); 88 (F) Tyreke Johnson, 11 (F) Alex Dixon (Dre Deas 90+4')

LOUDOUN UNITED FC STARTING LINEUP:

40 (GK) Simon Lefebvre; 33 (D) Jacob Greene, 29 (D) Timothy Mehl, 5 (D) Shane Wiedt, 20 (D) Allexon Saravia (Eremuse Momoh 90+1'); 24 (MF) Jeremy Garay, 10 (MF) Michael Gamble (Ted Ku-DiPietro 58'), 7 (MF) Elvis Amoh, 21 (MF) Joshua Fawole (Christian Sorto 90+1'), 12 (MF) Kairou Amoustapha (Peabo Doue 82'); 9 (F) Ali Ndour

Two Marcus Nagelstad debut free kicks rescued a 2-2 draw for Hartford against Loudoun United. 

In the beginning stages Loudoun United looked the more dangerous side. Loudoun peppered Parfait Mandanda’s net with shots and in the 21st minute, the visitors won a free kick. A lofted ball to the back post was headed in by Shane Wiedt for his first career goal. Hartford did not trouble Loudoun United after conceding the goal, Athletic only registered 3 shots in total in the first half.

In the second half, Hartford made a switch that proved to be a decisive moment. Norwigen and former University of Bridgeport star Markus Naglestad entered the game for his debut. The excitement of the change was quickly drawn out when Loudoun United went 2-0 up in the 72nd minute. The dangerous Elvis Amoh fired in a rocket of a left footed strike past a diving Mandanda.  

The game looked done and dusted until Hartford won a string of free kicks in a position outside of the box. The first free kick was sent over the bar from Danny Barrera. The second free kick however, the captain let debutant Naglestad take. In the 84th minute, the Norwiegan stuck it in the top corner to cut the lead in half! 

Hartford won another free kick in the same area in the 88th minute, it was an easy decision who was going to take it. Naglestad stepped up and smacked the crossbar, Alex Dixon followed up and headed it in to tie it up! Hartford continued to press in extra time but couldn’t find the winner, but thanks to Naglestad, Hartford walked away with a gracious point.  

Hartford now sits at 16 points in Group F, tied with Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC at the top of the table. The Hounds come to Dillon Stadium on Friday night at 7 PM for a huge matchup. Tickets are still available, click here to get yours!

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford Athletic 11 (6) – 9 (4) Loudoun

Corners: Hartford Athletic 4-6 Loudoun

Fouls: Hartford Athletic 14-22 Loudoun

Offsides: Hartford Athletic 2-2 Loudoun

Possession: Hartford Athletic 49.5%-50.5% Loudoun

Passing Accuracy: Hartford Athletic 70.8%-70.0% Loudoun

Saves: Hartford Athletic 2-4 Loudoun

SCORING SUMMARY:

22′ – Shane Wiedt (Jeremy Garay) 0-1

74′ – Elvis Amoh 0-2

86′ – Markus Naglestad 1-2

89′ – Alex Dixon 2-2

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

23′ – Ali Ndour (Yellow)

28′ – Harry Swartz (Yellow)

44′ – Kairou Amoustapha (Yellow)

68′ – Danny Barrera (Yellow)

69′ – Matheus Silva (Yellow)

70′ – Head Coach Ryan Martin (Yellow)

85′ – Elvis Amoh (Yellow)

88′ – Jacob Greene (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

35 (GK) Parfait Mandanda; 24 (D) Sam Strong (Aiden Mesias 72′), 4 (D) Kevin Politz, 3 (D) Matheus Silva; 33 (MF) Harry Swartz, 6 (MF) Arthur Rogers, 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 8 (MF) Mads Jørgensen (Nicky Downs 72′), 16 (MF) Gabriel Torres (Markus Naglestad, 45′); 88 (F) Tyreke Johnson, 11 (F) Alex Dixon (Dre Deas 90+4′)

LOUDOUN UNITED FC STARTING LINEUP:

40 (GK) Simon Lefebvre; 33 (D) Jacob Greene, 29 (D) Timothy Mehl, 5 (D) Shane Wiedt, 20 (D) Allexon Saravia (Eremuse Momoh 90+1′); 24 (MF) Jeremy Garay, 10 (MF) Michael Gamble (Ted Ku-DiPietro 58′), 7 (MF) Elvis Amoh, 21 (MF) Joshua Fawole (Christian Sorto 90+1′), 12 (MF) Kairou Amoustapha (Peabo Doue 82′); 9 (F) Ali Ndour

The Boys in Green are back at Dillon Stadium on Sunday night for the first of three consecutive home matches. First up is Loudoun United who Hartford has already defeated twice this season. Loudoun comes into the match having lost two in a row, but tasted victory for the first time this season against New York Red Bulls II just 10 days ago. With a gigantic Friday night matchup against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC looming, Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi's squad will need to be focused on the task at hand to keep pace with the first place 'Hounds.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (5-1-0) vs LOUDOUN UNITED FC (1-4-1)

Date: Sunday, August 23rd

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Dillon Stadium, Hartford, CT

Tickets: https://bit.ly/32gU5gf

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

Program: https://www.hartfordathletic.com/program

LAST TIME OUT:

A headbanded Sam Strong scored what turned out to be the winning goal in Hartford Athletic’s 2-1 victory vs Red Bull ll at Dillon Stadium. Alex Dixon put Hartford on the board first when Danny Barrera found an angle and dug out a precise out swinging cross. The ball found the head of Dixon who glanced in to put Athletic in front! Later in the half, Hartford forced a corner kick. Red Bulls II’s Debutant keeper spilled Barrera’s ball into the box and Strong gratefully put the loose ball in and celebrated with his famous headband among the supporters! 

PERFECTO:

Hartford Athletic owns a perfect 4-0-0 record all-time against Loudoun United with two games left against the club this season. In the last meeting between these two teams, Hartford kept up a trend against Loudoun, scoring early. Ever Guzmán scored in the eighth minute assisted by Danny Barrera, which marks the 5th goal the club has scored in the first 10 minutes against Loudoun all time. Earlier this season, defender Kevin Politz scored in the 4th minute, and last season at Dillon Stadium, Hartford scored 3 times in the first 10 minutes which included goals by Alex Dixon and Barrera.

SOMEBODY'S CLOSER:

Despite a number of players who have shown the ability to score from long range, 13 of the 14 Hartford goals this season have come from inside the box. Generating quality chances from inside the box seems to be the desired result for Head Coach Radhi Jaidi’s offense. “We had 10 shots in the box which is a good number for us,” Jaidi said after Saturday’s match. “Obviously we scored two from there including the set plays which is something we prepare for.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Arthur Rogers, MF #6: 

When midfielder Conor McGlynn went down with a knee injury the last time Loudoun United came to Hartford, there were questions about who would take his spot in the starting lineup. Arthur Rogers has stepped in quite admirably since and has really controlled the midfield functioning as a CDM. Although he's yet to score or assist on a goal this season, Rogers brings incredible ability on the attacking side as well and paired with Mads Jørgensen, Hartford have two lethal free kick specialists. Expect him to have a big impact on Sunday's match.

Loudoun United FC, Adam Lundegard, D, #36:

At just 16 years old, Lundegard has been a mainstay on the Loudoun back line this season. He's considered a promising piece of the future for DC United, but for now, he'll need to figure out how to sharpen up the Loudoun defensive effort. They've conceded two goals in each of their past two matches and have conceded seven goals to Hartford this season. United have scored more than one goal in a match once this season, it will be on Lundegard and the back line to tighten things up.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Loudoun United come into the match on short rest, falling to Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC 2-0 on Wednesday night. United picked up their first win of the season, a 2-1 road victory against New York Red Bulls II, a week ago Wednesday. Elvis Amoh’s goal in the 65th minute proved to be the difference. It was his third goal of the season, the other two both coming against Hartford via penalty kicks in the clubs’ two matchups this season. Amoh’s offensive presence will be necessary as Loudoun has been shutout in two consecutive matches.

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

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

The Boys in Green are back at Dillon Stadium on Sunday night for the first of three consecutive home matches. First up is Loudoun United who Hartford has already defeated twice this season. Loudoun comes into the match having lost two in a row, but tasted victory for the first time this season against New York Red Bulls II just 10 days ago. With a gigantic Friday night matchup against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC looming, Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi’s squad will need to be focused on the task at hand to keep pace with the first place ‘Hounds.

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (5-1-0) vs LOUDOUN UNITED FC (1-4-1)

Date: Sunday, August 23rd

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Dillon Stadium, Hartford, CT

Tickets: https://bit.ly/32gU5gf

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

Program: https://www.hartfordathletic.com/program

LAST TIME OUT:

A headbanded Sam Strong scored what turned out to be the winning goal in Hartford Athletic’s 2-1 victory vs Red Bull ll at Dillon Stadium. Alex Dixon put Hartford on the board first when Danny Barrera found an angle and dug out a precise out swinging cross. The ball found the head of Dixon who glanced in to put Athletic in front! Later in the half, Hartford forced a corner kick. Red Bulls II’s Debutant keeper spilled Barrera’s ball into the box and Strong gratefully put the loose ball in and celebrated with his famous headband among the supporters! 

PERFECTO:

Hartford Athletic owns a perfect 4-0-0 record all-time against Loudoun United with two games left against the club this season. In the last meeting between these two teams, Hartford kept up a trend against Loudoun, scoring early. Ever Guzmán scored in the eighth minute assisted by Danny Barrera, which marks the 5th goal the club has scored in the first 10 minutes against Loudoun all time. Earlier this season, defender Kevin Politz scored in the 4th minute, and last season at Dillon Stadium, Hartford scored 3 times in the first 10 minutes which included goals by Alex Dixon and Barrera.

SOMEBODY’S CLOSER:

Despite a number of players who have shown the ability to score from long range, 13 of the 14 Hartford goals this season have come from inside the box. Generating quality chances from inside the box seems to be the desired result for Head Coach Radhi Jaidi’s offense. “We had 10 shots in the box which is a good number for us,” Jaidi said after Saturday’s match. “Obviously we scored two from there including the set plays which is something we prepare for.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Arthur Rogers, MF #6: 

When midfielder Conor McGlynn went down with a knee injury the last time Loudoun United came to Hartford, there were questions about who would take his spot in the starting lineup. Arthur Rogers has stepped in quite admirably since and has really controlled the midfield functioning as a CDM. Although he’s yet to score or assist on a goal this season, Rogers brings incredible ability on the attacking side as well and paired with Mads Jørgensen, Hartford have two lethal free kick specialists. Expect him to have a big impact on Sunday’s match.

Loudoun United FC, Adam Lundegard, D, #36:

At just 16 years old, Lundegard has been a mainstay on the Loudoun back line this season. He’s considered a promising piece of the future for DC United, but for now, he’ll need to figure out how to sharpen up the Loudoun defensive effort. They’ve conceded two goals in each of their past two matches and have conceded seven goals to Hartford this season. United have scored more than one goal in a match once this season, it will be on Lundegard and the back line to tighten things up.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Loudoun United come into the match on short rest, falling to Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC 2-0 on Wednesday night. United picked up their first win of the season, a 2-1 road victory against New York Red Bulls II, a week ago Wednesday. Elvis Amoh’s goal in the 65th minute proved to be the difference. It was his third goal of the season, the other two both coming against Hartford via penalty kicks in the clubs’ two matchups this season. Amoh’s offensive presence will be necessary as Loudoun has been shutout in two consecutive matches.

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

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

HARTFORD, Conn. (August 20, 2020) – Today, Hartford Athletic launched Shop For A Cause, a new community initiative dedicated to helping local businesses get back on their feet as they continue to navigate the economic challenges of COVID-19. The event runs from October 9-11th.  All participating businesses will donate a portion of their proceeds to Foodshare. 

“We are so excited to launch Shop For A Cause as we continue to grow and deepen our community presence,” said Hartford Athletic CEO Jim Burda. “It is important that we, as a community, show our support to the many retail businesses and restaurants that have been challenged financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Shop For A Cause is a great opportunity to support both local businesses and Foodshare, whose employees have worked tirelessly during this pandemic to make sure everyone has food on their table.”  

Participating businesses will display blue and green balloons outside of their locations to show customers they are participating in the event, and may run a special if they so choose. For more information or to sign up your business for Shop For A Cause, visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/shop-for-a-cause.  

HARTFORD, Conn. (August 20, 2020) – Today, Hartford Athletic launched Shop For A Cause, a new community initiative dedicated to helping local businesses get back on their feet as they continue to navigate the economic challenges of COVID-19. The event runs from October 9-11th.  All participating businesses will donate a portion of their proceeds to Foodshare. 

“We are so excited to launch Shop For A Cause as we continue to grow and deepen our community presence,” said Hartford Athletic CEO Jim Burda. “It is important that we, as a community, show our support to the many retail businesses and restaurants that have been challenged financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Shop For A Cause is a great opportunity to support both local businesses and Foodshare, whose employees have worked tirelessly during this pandemic to make sure everyone has food on their table.”  

Participating businesses will display blue and green balloons outside of their locations to show customers they are participating in the event, and may run a special if they so choose. For more information or to sign up your business for Shop For A Cause, visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/shop-for-a-cause.  

Hartford Athletic’s match against Philadelphia Union II tonight has been postponed.  

Proceeding with an abundance of caution, the postponement comes after a covered person in the Philadelphia Union II organization tested positive for COVID-19. There have not been any positive tests among Hartford Athletic players and staff.  

A rescheduling of this match, as well as the August 9th match which was postponed, will be announced as soon as it is available.

Hartford Athletic’s match against Philadelphia Union II tonight has been postponed.  

Proceeding with an abundance of caution, the postponement comes after a covered person in the Philadelphia Union II organization tested positive for COVID-19. There have not been any positive tests among Hartford Athletic players and staff.  

A rescheduling of this match, as well as the August 9th match which was postponed, will be announced as soon as it is available.

The Boys in Green are in first place and looking to keep the momentum rolling as they hit the road to take on Philadelphia Union II on Wednesday night. This is the second game in a stretch of four games in fourteen days for Athletic who are coming off a 2-1 win over New York Red Bulls II on Saturday night. Wednesday's match is just the third road match of the season for Hartford who are 1-1-0 away from Dillon Stadium this season. 

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (5-1-0) vs PHILADELPHIA UNION II (1-4-1)

Date: Wednesday, August 19th

Time: 7:30 PM ET

Location: Subaru Park, Philadelphia, PA

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

LAST TIME OUT:

A headbanded Sam Strong scored what turned out to be the winning goal in Hartford Athletic’s 2-1 victory vs Red Bull ll at Dillon Stadium. Alex Dixon put Hartford on the board first when Danny Barrera found an angle and dug out a precise out swinging cross. The ball found the head of Dixon who glanced in to put Athletic in front! Later in the half, Hartford forced a corner kick. Red Bulls II’s Debutant keeper spilled Barrera’s ball into the box and Strong gratefully put the loose ball in and celebrated with his famous headband among the supporters! 

RISING UP THE RANKS:

It only took until the second match of the season for Danny Barrera to become the club’s all-time leader in assists. Barrera now has 10 career assists and is six assists clear of second place. Alex Dixon has also climbed to the top of the goals scored charts with his goal on Saturday night against New York Red Bulls II. He now has 7 career goals in Green and Blue, tied with Wojciech Wojcik for most in club history.

ROCKET MADS:

Mads Jørgensen made a name for himself in his first season in Green and Blue, largely for his ability to produce highlight reel goals. Jørgensen scored 3 goals in USL Championship play and 2 goals in the US Open Cup and friendlies, all 5 of which came from outside the box. While he’s taken the most shots of any player on the team this season with 13, Jørgensen finally found the back of the net the last time these two teams met. In the 44th minute, Mads teed one up from beyond the edge of the box and powered it past the keeper for the second Hartford goal of the night and his first of 2020.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Markus Naglestad, F #20:

The Hartford Forward group isn't a deep one and Naglestad is a welcome addition. Just 3 days ago, Alex Dixon and Tyreke Johnson played 87 minutes at the Forward position, in part due to injuries to Mac Steeves and Cheno Guzmán – both of whom are questionable for this match. Markus's rested legs and goal scoring prowess are exactly what the doctor ordered for this group. 

Philadelphia Union II, Axel Picazo, MF, #59:

You'll never forget a name like his, but most Hartford fans, and surely those on the field at Dillon Stadium just over 3 weeks ago remember Picazo bagging a goal to give the visitors a two goal lead early in the match. Picazo's involvement in the offense has continued since then, setting up Jack McGlynn's equalizing goal in their match against NYRBII, the first win of the season for Philadelphia. Those on the Hartford back line will have to keep their eyes on Picazo in order to keep Union II off the board on Wednesday.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Philadelphia Union II enter this match having not played since August 5th. Hartford was supposed to travel to Philadelphia for a match on August 9th, but the match was postponed when a covered person in the Union II organization tested positive for COVID-19. Despite the long layoff, Philadelphia will look to capitalize on the positive momentum generated on August 5th, a 3-2 win over New York Red Bulls II, their first win of the season. Jack McGlynn, younger brother of Hartford midfielder Conor McGlynn, scored his first professional goal in the match and was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week for his play in the match.

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

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

The Boys in Green are in first place and looking to keep the momentum rolling as they hit the road to take on Philadelphia Union II on Wednesday night. This is the second game in a stretch of four games in fourteen days for Athletic who are coming off a 2-1 win over New York Red Bulls II on Saturday night. Wednesday’s match is just the third road match of the season for Hartford who are 1-1-0 away from Dillon Stadium this season. 

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (5-1-0) vs PHILADELPHIA UNION II (1-4-1)

Date: Wednesday, August 19th

Time: 7:30 PM ET

Location: Subaru Park, Philadelphia, PA

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Streaming: https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch or ESPN+

International Viewers: YouTube

LAST TIME OUT:

A headbanded Sam Strong scored what turned out to be the winning goal in Hartford Athletic’s 2-1 victory vs Red Bull ll at Dillon Stadium. Alex Dixon put Hartford on the board first when Danny Barrera found an angle and dug out a precise out swinging cross. The ball found the head of Dixon who glanced in to put Athletic in front! Later in the half, Hartford forced a corner kick. Red Bulls II’s Debutant keeper spilled Barrera’s ball into the box and Strong gratefully put the loose ball in and celebrated with his famous headband among the supporters! 

RISING UP THE RANKS:

It only took until the second match of the season for Danny Barrera to become the club’s all-time leader in assists. Barrera now has 10 career assists and is six assists clear of second place. Alex Dixon has also climbed to the top of the goals scored charts with his goal on Saturday night against New York Red Bulls II. He now has 7 career goals in Green and Blue, tied with Wojciech Wojcik for most in club history.

ROCKET MADS:

Mads Jørgensen made a name for himself in his first season in Green and Blue, largely for his ability to produce highlight reel goals. Jørgensen scored 3 goals in USL Championship play and 2 goals in the US Open Cup and friendlies, all 5 of which came from outside the box. While he’s taken the most shots of any player on the team this season with 13, Jørgensen finally found the back of the net the last time these two teams met. In the 44th minute, Mads teed one up from beyond the edge of the box and powered it past the keeper for the second Hartford goal of the night and his first of 2020.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Markus Naglestad, F #20:

The Hartford Forward group isn’t a deep one and Naglestad is a welcome addition. Just 3 days ago, Alex Dixon and Tyreke Johnson played 87 minutes at the Forward position, in part due to injuries to Mac Steeves and Cheno Guzmán – both of whom are questionable for this match. Markus’s rested legs and goal scoring prowess are exactly what the doctor ordered for this group. 

Philadelphia Union II, Axel Picazo, MF, #59:

You’ll never forget a name like his, but most Hartford fans, and surely those on the field at Dillon Stadium just over 3 weeks ago remember Picazo bagging a goal to give the visitors a two goal lead early in the match. Picazo’s involvement in the offense has continued since then, setting up Jack McGlynn’s equalizing goal in their match against NYRBII, the first win of the season for Philadelphia. Those on the Hartford back line will have to keep their eyes on Picazo in order to keep Union II off the board on Wednesday.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Philadelphia Union II enter this match having not played since August 5th. Hartford was supposed to travel to Philadelphia for a match on August 9th, but the match was postponed when a covered person in the Union II organization tested positive for COVID-19. Despite the long layoff, Philadelphia will look to capitalize on the positive momentum generated on August 5th, a 3-2 win over New York Red Bulls II, their first win of the season. Jack McGlynn, younger brother of Hartford midfielder Conor McGlynn, scored his first professional goal in the match and was named to the USL Championship Team of the Week for his play in the match.

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

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

Have a listen as Hartford Athletic Chairman Bruce Mandell joins Uncle Sam's Soccer podcast to talk state of the Club, the Southampton FC partnership, and more.

Have a listen as Hartford Athletic Chairman Bruce Mandell joins Uncle Sam’s Soccer podcast to talk state of the Club, the Southampton FC partnership, and more.