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ATHLETIC LOOKS TO KEEP UNBEATEN STREAK ALIVE

 

Hartford Athletic, fresh off its first home win in club history last weekend, will host top-three side Nashville SC on Sunday afternoon. Hartford is currently riding a four-match unbeaten run, and it will hope to add more fuel to its playoff push with a positive result against one of the Eastern Conference’s top teams. Here’s what you need to know:

HARTFORD ATHLETIC vs NASHVILLE SC

Date: Sunday, June 16

Time: 3:00 PM ET

Location: Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field

Tickets: https://bit.ly/2MQE6Rw Use the promo code HAFDAY for a special Buy One Get One offer!

Streaming: ESPN+

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

WHERE TO WATCH: 

Thomas Hooker Brewery at Colt, 140 Huyshope Ave., Hartford

City Steam Brewery and Cafe, 942 Main St., Hartford

TK's American Cafe, 255 White St., Danbury 

2nd Bridge Brewing Co., 642 Hilliard St., Manchester

Lakeview Restaurant & Bar, 50 Lake St., Coventry

V's Trattoria, 280 Trumbull St, Hartford, CT 06103

LAST TIME OUT: 

Hartford Athletic defeated Saint Louis FC at Rentschler Field last Saturday night, earning a come-from-behind, 2-1 victory. The visitors struck first in the 16th minute, when Saint Louis fullback Matt Bahner’s first-time, curling effort off a weak Hartford clearance hit the top left post and fell into the back of the net. Hartford equalized 11 minutes later, as Harry Swartz acrobatically dinked Wojciech Wojcik’s diagonal cross past the diving Jake Fenalson. Swartz, Sebastian Dalgaard, and company largely controlled the rest of the match and created numerous threatening chances, and their efforts were finally rewarded in the 84th minute. Dalgaard fielded an awkward cross and was clipped by Bahner as he cut inside, winning a penalty for Hartford. Substitute Philip Rasmussen calmly blasted the spot-kick into the top-left corner, powering the Athletic to its first-ever home win.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic – Sebastian Dalgaard, MF 

Dalgaard, a winger, easily possesses one of the squad’s more dangerous skillsets. The 27-year old is a phenomenal distributor, whipping in the most crosses on the team this season (31) while also tying for the team lead in key passes (13). Additionally, Dalgaard is extremely skilled with the ball at his feet, skipping past defenders on the wing and making incisive runs toward goal. The Dane was arguably Hartford’s best attacking player on Saturday night, creating 3 chances and winning the eventual go-ahead penalty. He must maintain his confidence and assertiveness if Hartford hopes to create against Nashville’s rock-solid back line. 

Nashville SC – Daniel Ríos, FW 

Ríos is one of the USL Championship’s most prolific attackers. The Mexican forward, who earned 2018 All-League First Team honors, has picked up right where he left off this season, hitting the back of the net 8 times in 14 matches (T-4th in the league). He is a complete menace in the penalty area, getting on the end of teammates’ crosses and turning them goalward. Hartford must try to close down Nashville wingers and minimize Ríos’ service in order to stymie one of the league’s best attacking sides.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Nashville SC currently occupies 3rd place in the Eastern Conference standings, trailing New York Red Bulls II and the league-best Tampa Bay Rowdies by 1 and 4 points, respectively. The “Music City” side is unbeaten in its last five league matches, winning three and drawing two over that span. The visitors are also one of the more well-rounded teams in the USL Championship, currently top ten in goals scored and goals conceded. While forward Daniel Ríos leads the team with 8 goals, South African midfielder Lebo Moloto is the side’s best assist man (4).

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

Updates on the match will be provided via Twitter at @hfdathletic or by following #HFDvNSH.

ATHLETIC LOOKS TO KEEP UNBEATEN STREAK ALIVE

 

Hartford Athletic, fresh off its first home win in club history last weekend, will host top-three side Nashville SC on Sunday afternoon. Hartford is currently riding a four-match unbeaten run, and it will hope to add more fuel to its playoff push with a positive result against one of the Eastern Conference’s top teams. Here’s what you need to know:

HARTFORD ATHLETIC vs NASHVILLE SC

Date: Sunday, June 16

Time: 3:00 PM ET

Location: Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field

Tickets: https://bit.ly/2MQE6Rw Use the promo code HAFDAY for a special Buy One Get One offer!

Streaming: ESPN+

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

WHERE TO WATCH: 

Thomas Hooker Brewery at Colt, 140 Huyshope Ave., Hartford

City Steam Brewery and Cafe, 942 Main St., Hartford

TK’s American Cafe, 255 White St., Danbury 

2nd Bridge Brewing Co., 642 Hilliard St., Manchester

Lakeview Restaurant & Bar, 50 Lake St., Coventry

V’s Trattoria, 280 Trumbull St, Hartford, CT 06103

LAST TIME OUT: 

Hartford Athletic defeated Saint Louis FC at Rentschler Field last Saturday night, earning a come-from-behind, 2-1 victory. The visitors struck first in the 16th minute, when Saint Louis fullback Matt Bahner’s first-time, curling effort off a weak Hartford clearance hit the top left post and fell into the back of the net. Hartford equalized 11 minutes later, as Harry Swartz acrobatically dinked Wojciech Wojcik’s diagonal cross past the diving Jake Fenalson. Swartz, Sebastian Dalgaard, and company largely controlled the rest of the match and created numerous threatening chances, and their efforts were finally rewarded in the 84th minute. Dalgaard fielded an awkward cross and was clipped by Bahner as he cut inside, winning a penalty for Hartford. Substitute Philip Rasmussen calmly blasted the spot-kick into the top-left corner, powering the Athletic to its first-ever home win.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic – Sebastian Dalgaard, MF 

Dalgaard, a winger, easily possesses one of the squad’s more dangerous skillsets. The 27-year old is a phenomenal distributor, whipping in the most crosses on the team this season (31) while also tying for the team lead in key passes (13). Additionally, Dalgaard is extremely skilled with the ball at his feet, skipping past defenders on the wing and making incisive runs toward goal. The Dane was arguably Hartford’s best attacking player on Saturday night, creating 3 chances and winning the eventual go-ahead penalty. He must maintain his confidence and assertiveness if Hartford hopes to create against Nashville’s rock-solid back line. 

Nashville SC – Daniel Ríos, FW 

Ríos is one of the USL Championship’s most prolific attackers. The Mexican forward, who earned 2018 All-League First Team honors, has picked up right where he left off this season, hitting the back of the net 8 times in 14 matches (T-4th in the league). He is a complete menace in the penalty area, getting on the end of teammates’ crosses and turning them goalward. Hartford must try to close down Nashville wingers and minimize Ríos’ service in order to stymie one of the league’s best attacking sides.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Nashville SC currently occupies 3rd place in the Eastern Conference standings, trailing New York Red Bulls II and the league-best Tampa Bay Rowdies by 1 and 4 points, respectively. The “Music City” side is unbeaten in its last five league matches, winning three and drawing two over that span. The visitors are also one of the more well-rounded teams in the USL Championship, currently top ten in goals scored and goals conceded. While forward Daniel Ríos leads the team with 8 goals, South African midfielder Lebo Moloto is the side’s best assist man (4).

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

Updates on the match will be provided via Twitter at @hfdathletic or by following #HFDvNSH.

Welcome back to the Mailbag! Thank you to everyone who submitted questions! If you want to submit a question to the mailbag, click here. Let's get right to it:

Joe C. asks, "When can I buy tickets for matches at Dillon Stadium?"

Joe, great news! You can do that right now! Click here!

AthleticGreenMonster asks Harry Swartz and Wojciech Wójcik, "What your favorite spot to get pizza in New Haven? Also how does it feel to get your first home win in franchise history this week?

Harry: Such a great feeling winning in front of our unbelievable fans! Now we just have to build off Saturday and keep moving forward. As for pizza, I actually tried Modern Pizza in New Haven last night and I think that takes home the trophy for me!

Woj: Feels amazing! We’re ready to put in work this weekend! As for the pizza, Frank Pepe is my choice.

@TheRazor51 asks, "Will the Club endorse playing high school championships at Dillon?"

Absolutely! We'd love to have any number of high school events at Dillon. State Championships, the Thanksgiving Day football game, you name it, we want it to be played at Dillon. The stadium is an important community asset and we want it to be utilized as much as possible.

@CTSoccerMike asks, "If you could ask your pets any question, what would it be?"

This is another question where we'll give you a sampling of answers from people in our front office:

"Do you actually like me?"

"What is the most annoying thing I've ever done in your presence?"

"Why do you keep barking?"

"Who is your favorite person in the family?"

"What is your birth name?"

John M asks, "Are you going to eventually have more/different HA gear for the public?"

For this year, you'll mostly see the gear we've had all year long. However, there may be some exclusive gear available for purchase at a particularly important game this year…

@WhaleCity_FC asks, "When's the next $2 beer night?"

Unfortunately we don't know when the next $2 beer night is. However, for BOTH of our final matches at Rentschler Field, we'll have $5 draft beers from when the gates open until the 19th minute. We know it's not $2, but a discount is a discount right?

NEXT HOME MATCH:

Speaking of, join us on Sunday for a special Father's Day edition of Hartford Athletic soccer. Click here and use the promo code HAFDAY for an exclusive buy-one-get-one free offer! That's right, two tickets for you and Dad for the price of one! Gates at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field open at 2 PM. Get ready to #RockTheRent!

Welcome back to the Mailbag! Thank you to everyone who submitted questions! If you want to submit a question to the mailbag, click here. Let’s get right to it:

Joe C. asks, “When can I buy tickets for matches at Dillon Stadium?”

Joe, great news! You can do that right now! Click here!

AthleticGreenMonster asks Harry Swartz and Wojciech Wójcik, “What your favorite spot to get pizza in New Haven? Also how does it feel to get your first home win in franchise history this week?

Harry: Such a great feeling winning in front of our unbelievable fans! Now we just have to build off Saturday and keep moving forward. As for pizza, I actually tried Modern Pizza in New Haven last night and I think that takes home the trophy for me!

Woj: Feels amazing! We’re ready to put in work this weekend! As for the pizza, Frank Pepe is my choice.

@TheRazor51 asks, “Will the Club endorse playing high school championships at Dillon?”

Absolutely! We’d love to have any number of high school events at Dillon. State Championships, the Thanksgiving Day football game, you name it, we want it to be played at Dillon. The stadium is an important community asset and we want it to be utilized as much as possible.

@CTSoccerMike asks, “If you could ask your pets any question, what would it be?”

This is another question where we’ll give you a sampling of answers from people in our front office:

“Do you actually like me?”

“What is the most annoying thing I’ve ever done in your presence?”

“Why do you keep barking?”

“Who is your favorite person in the family?”

“What is your birth name?”

John M asks, “Are you going to eventually have more/different HA gear for the public?”

For this year, you’ll mostly see the gear we’ve had all year long. However, there may be some exclusive gear available for purchase at a particularly important game this year…

@WhaleCity_FC asks, “When’s the next $2 beer night?”

Unfortunately we don’t know when the next $2 beer night is. However, for BOTH of our final matches at Rentschler Field, we’ll have $5 draft beers from when the gates open until the 19th minute. We know it’s not $2, but a discount is a discount right?

NEXT HOME MATCH:

Speaking of, join us on Sunday for a special Father’s Day edition of Hartford Athletic soccer. Click here and use the promo code HAFDAY for an exclusive buy-one-get-one free offer! That’s right, two tickets for you and Dad for the price of one! Gates at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field open at 2 PM. Get ready to #RockTheRent!

Hartford Athletic announced the signing of Danny Barrera (Thousand Oaks, CA) for the rest of the season today, pending league and federation approval. Barrera, a 29 year-old midfielder who was born in Colombia, has totaled 97 career USL Championship appearances. Barrera played for Sacramento Republic FC from 2015-2017 and continued his career in the Championship with Fresno FC in 2018.

He made 62 appearances scoring 6 goals during his time with Sacramento. Barrera, who is the Sacramento Republic all-time leader in assists, was also named Captain of the Club. 

Prior to his professional career, Barrera made multiple appearances with the United States U17 and U18 teams. Barrera attended UC-Santa Barbara for 3 seasons where he scored 10 goals and notched 22 assists in 66 matches.

Barrera will be available for selection on Sunday at 3 PM when Hartford Athletic hosts Nashville SC. For tickets click here and use the promo code HAFDAY for a Buy One Get One Free ticket offer!

Hartford Athletic announced the signing of Danny Barrera (Thousand Oaks, CA) for the rest of the season today, pending league and federation approval. Barrera, a 29 year-old midfielder who was born in Colombia, has totaled 97 career USL Championship appearances. Barrera played for Sacramento Republic FC from 2015-2017 and continued his career in the Championship with Fresno FC in 2018.

He made 62 appearances scoring 6 goals during his time with Sacramento. Barrera, who is the Sacramento Republic all-time leader in assists, was also named Captain of the Club. 

Prior to his professional career, Barrera made multiple appearances with the United States U17 and U18 teams. Barrera attended UC-Santa Barbara for 3 seasons where he scored 10 goals and notched 22 assists in 66 matches.

Barrera will be available for selection on Sunday at 3 PM when Hartford Athletic hosts Nashville SC. For tickets click here and use the promo code HAFDAY for a Buy One Get One Free ticket offer!

Sebastian Dalgaard has been named to the USL Championship's Team of the Week for Week 14. Dalgaard drew a critical foul in the 84th minute that led to Phil Rasmussen's go-ahead penalty kick in Saturday's 2-1 win over Saint Louis FC. Dalgaard is the second Athletic player to be named to the Team of the Week after Jose Angulo in Week 11. 

USL Championship Team of the Week: 

GK – Brandon Miller, Charlotte Independence: Miller recorded a six-save shutout against the Swope Park Rangers that included a penalty-kick save to help his side earn a point on the road. 

D – Kosuke Kimura, Nashville SC: Kimura scored a second-half goal and won 8 of 9 duels while making five recoveries in NSC’s 4-1 road victory against Bethlehem Steel FC. 

D – Ish Jome, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC: Jome completed 4 of 4 dribbles, won 6 of 7 duels and recorded three key passes in addition to his late goal in the Switchbacks’ 3-0 win against Tacoma Defiance. 

D – James Kiffe, El Paso Locomotive FC: Kiffe recorded a pair of assists, completed 76 of 87 passes overall and made 10 recoveries in Locomotive FC’s 3-0 win against the LA Galaxy II. 

M – Sebastian Dalgaard, Hartford Athletic: Dalgaard notched three key passes, completed six dribbles won 14 of 20 duels and won a penalty kick that produced the game-winning goal in the Athletic’s 2-1 win against Saint Louis FC. 

M – Dre Fortune, North Carolina FC: Fortune struck twice, made four interceptions and completed 21 of 27 passes as North Carolina handed the Tampa Bay Rowdies their first loss of the season. 

M – Jose Gallegos, San Antonio FC: The 17-year-old recorded four key passes and 9 of 10 passes overall, completed three dribbles and scored the game-winning goal after coming on as a halftime substitute in SAFC’s 3-2 win against Reno 1868 FC. 

M – Chris Lema, New York Red Bulls II: Lema notched a pair of assists, recorded seven key passes overall and made 10 recoveries as the Red Bulls II cruised to a 3-1 victory against ATL UTD 2. 

F – Junior Flemmings, Phoenix Rising FC: Flemmings scored twice, won a penalty kick and completed 16 of 19 passes to lead Rising FC’s romp to a 5-0 victory against Tulsa Roughnecks FC at Casino Arizona Field. 

F – Cameron Iwasa, Sacramento Republic FC: Iwasa recorded the opening and closing goal in Republic FC’s 3-0 road victory against Western Conference-leader New Mexico United on Saturday night. 

F – Douglas Martinez, Real Monarchs SLC: Martinez notched two goals, one assist and three key passes as the Monarchs took a 5-3 victory against Rio Grande Valley FC at Zions Bank Stadium. 

Bench: Callum Irving (OTT), Solomon Asante (PHX), Kenney Walker (IND), Griffin Yow (LDN), Maikel Chang (SLC), Jerome Kiesewetter (ELP), Deshorn Brown (OKC)

Sebastian Dalgaard has been named to the USL Championship’s Team of the Week for Week 14. Dalgaard drew a critical foul in the 84th minute that led to Phil Rasmussen’s go-ahead penalty kick in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Saint Louis FC. Dalgaard is the second Athletic player to be named to the Team of the Week after Jose Angulo in Week 11. 

USL Championship Team of the Week: 

GK – Brandon Miller, Charlotte Independence: Miller recorded a six-save shutout against the Swope Park Rangers that included a penalty-kick save to help his side earn a point on the road. 

D – Kosuke Kimura, Nashville SC: Kimura scored a second-half goal and won 8 of 9 duels while making five recoveries in NSC’s 4-1 road victory against Bethlehem Steel FC. 

D – Ish Jome, Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC: Jome completed 4 of 4 dribbles, won 6 of 7 duels and recorded three key passes in addition to his late goal in the Switchbacks’ 3-0 win against Tacoma Defiance. 

D – James Kiffe, El Paso Locomotive FC: Kiffe recorded a pair of assists, completed 76 of 87 passes overall and made 10 recoveries in Locomotive FC’s 3-0 win against the LA Galaxy II. 

M – Sebastian Dalgaard, Hartford Athletic: Dalgaard notched three key passes, completed six dribbles won 14 of 20 duels and won a penalty kick that produced the game-winning goal in the Athletic’s 2-1 win against Saint Louis FC. 

M – Dre Fortune, North Carolina FC: Fortune struck twice, made four interceptions and completed 21 of 27 passes as North Carolina handed the Tampa Bay Rowdies their first loss of the season. 

M – Jose Gallegos, San Antonio FC: The 17-year-old recorded four key passes and 9 of 10 passes overall, completed three dribbles and scored the game-winning goal after coming on as a halftime substitute in SAFC’s 3-2 win against Reno 1868 FC. 

M – Chris Lema, New York Red Bulls II: Lema notched a pair of assists, recorded seven key passes overall and made 10 recoveries as the Red Bulls II cruised to a 3-1 victory against ATL UTD 2. 

F – Junior Flemmings, Phoenix Rising FC: Flemmings scored twice, won a penalty kick and completed 16 of 19 passes to lead Rising FC’s romp to a 5-0 victory against Tulsa Roughnecks FC at Casino Arizona Field. 

F – Cameron Iwasa, Sacramento Republic FC: Iwasa recorded the opening and closing goal in Republic FC’s 3-0 road victory against Western Conference-leader New Mexico United on Saturday night. 

F – Douglas Martinez, Real Monarchs SLC: Martinez notched two goals, one assist and three key passes as the Monarchs took a 5-3 victory against Rio Grande Valley FC at Zions Bank Stadium. 

Bench: Callum Irving (OTT), Solomon Asante (PHX), Kenney Walker (IND), Griffin Yow (LDN), Maikel Chang (SLC), Jerome Kiesewetter (ELP), Deshorn Brown (OKC)

Hartford Athletic got their first win at home in Club history with a 2-1 victory over top 10 ranked Saint Louis FC.

Hartford came out strong controlling possession right from kickoff with a corner kick opportunity and some great defensive stops. In the 17th minute Hartford looked to clear the ball but Saint Louis rebounded with a quick shot at the top of the box from Matt Bahner, putting them on the board with a score of 1-0. 

Shortly after, in the 27th minute Hartford was able to answer with an incredible finish from Harry Swartz, his second goal in two matches, off of a great cross from Wojciech Wojcik. The score would remain tied going into halftime.

Hartford came out of the locker room for the second half ready to prove themselves to the fans and the league. Multiple chances from Nicky Downs and Sebastian Dalgaard kept the momentum going but the defensive stops proved to keep Hartford in the game. In the 85th minute Dalgaard took it to goal in the box and went down on a penalty. Philip Rasmussen blasted a penalty kick into the upper corner to give Hartford the 2-1 lead. 

With four minutes of extra time added to the second half it was safe to say that Hartford fans were on the edge of their seats and ready to celebrate a huge win. Hartford hustled through the last second and brought home the Club's first victory at home. 

Hartford Athletic is back home at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field this Sunday, June 16 for a match against Nashville SC at 3 PM.  Join us on Pratt St. in Hartford before the match for the Women’s World Cup Watch Party! From there you can head right to The Rent. Don't miss out on our Father's Day buy one get one offer. Use code HAFDAY to get your tickets. 

STATS:

Shots: 11-10 HFD

Shots on Target: 4-2 HFD

Corner Kicks: 5-3 HFD

Fouls Committed: 9-7 HFD

Saves: 2-1 STL

Offside: 2-1 HFD

Possession: 52-48 STL

Passing Accuracy: 81-80 HFD

SCORING SUMMARY

STL – Matt Bahner 17'

HFD – Harry Swartz 27'

HFD – Philip Rasmussen 85'

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY

79' – Guy Abend (Yellow)

86' – Nicky Downs (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP

Frederik Due; Raymond Lee (c.), Logan Gdula, Sem de Wit, Kyle Curinga; Nicky Downs, Mads Jørgensen, Harry Swartz (Alex Dixon 76'), Sebastian Dalgaard (Mac Steeves 88'); Jose Angulo, Wojciech Wojcik (Philip Rasmussen 76').

SAINT LOUIS FC STARTING LINEUP

Jake Fenlason; Phanuel Kavita, Paris Gee (Bradley Kamdem 45'), Sam Fink (c.), Matt Bahner; Guy Abend, Oscar Umar, Lewis Hilton; Albert Dikwa (Austin Martz 81'), Russell Cicerone, Kadeem Dacres (Caleb Calvert 45').

Hartford Athletic got their first win at home in Club history with a 2-1 victory over top 10 ranked Saint Louis FC.

Hartford came out strong controlling possession right from kickoff with a corner kick opportunity and some great defensive stops. In the 17th minute Hartford looked to clear the ball but Saint Louis rebounded with a quick shot at the top of the box from Matt Bahner, putting them on the board with a score of 1-0. 

Shortly after, in the 27th minute Hartford was able to answer with an incredible finish from Harry Swartz, his second goal in two matches, off of a great cross from Wojciech Wojcik. The score would remain tied going into halftime.

Hartford came out of the locker room for the second half ready to prove themselves to the fans and the league. Multiple chances from Nicky Downs and Sebastian Dalgaard kept the momentum going but the defensive stops proved to keep Hartford in the game. In the 85th minute Dalgaard took it to goal in the box and went down on a penalty. Philip Rasmussen blasted a penalty kick into the upper corner to give Hartford the 2-1 lead. 

With four minutes of extra time added to the second half it was safe to say that Hartford fans were on the edge of their seats and ready to celebrate a huge win. Hartford hustled through the last second and brought home the Club’s first victory at home. 

Hartford Athletic is back home at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field this Sunday, June 16 for a match against Nashville SC at 3 PM.  Join us on Pratt St. in Hartford before the match for the Women’s World Cup Watch Party! From there you can head right to The Rent. Don’t miss out on our Father’s Day buy one get one offer. Use code HAFDAY to get your tickets. 

STATS:

Shots: 11-10 HFD

Shots on Target: 4-2 HFD

Corner Kicks: 5-3 HFD

Fouls Committed: 9-7 HFD

Saves: 2-1 STL

Offside: 2-1 HFD

Possession: 52-48 STL

Passing Accuracy: 81-80 HFD

SCORING SUMMARY

STL – Matt Bahner 17′

HFD – Harry Swartz 27′

HFD – Philip Rasmussen 85′

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY

79′ – Guy Abend (Yellow)

86′ – Nicky Downs (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP

Frederik Due; Raymond Lee (c.), Logan Gdula, Sem de Wit, Kyle Curinga; Nicky Downs, Mads Jørgensen, Harry Swartz (Alex Dixon 76′), Sebastian Dalgaard (Mac Steeves 88′); Jose Angulo, Wojciech Wojcik (Philip Rasmussen 76′).

SAINT LOUIS FC STARTING LINEUP

Jake Fenlason; Phanuel Kavita, Paris Gee (Bradley Kamdem 45′), Sam Fink (c.), Matt Bahner; Guy Abend, Oscar Umar, Lewis Hilton; Albert Dikwa (Austin Martz 81′), Russell Cicerone, Kadeem Dacres (Caleb Calvert 45′).

HARTFORD HOPES TO BUILD ON BUDDING LEAGUE MOMENTUM

Hartford Athletic hosts its third straight USL Championship match on Saturday night, facing off against Saint Louis FC. Hartford is unbeaten in its last three league matches, but the Boys in Green are still seeking their first win at Rentschler Field. On Saturday night, fans will be able to purchase $2 draught beers and $2 hot dogs until the 19th minute, in honor of our inaugural season. Here’s what you need to know:

HARTFORD ATHLETIC vs SAINT LOUIS FC

Date: Saturday, June 8

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field

Tickets: https://bit.ly/2IgKY5a

Streaming: ESPN+

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

WHERE TO WATCH: 

Thomas Hooker Brewery at Colt, 140 Huyshope Ave., Hartford

City Steam Brewery and Cafe, 942 Main St., Hartford

TK's American Cafe, 255 White St., Danbury 

2nd Bridge Brewing Co., 642 Hilliard St., Manchester

Lakeview Restaurant & Bar, 50 Lake St., Coventry

V's Trattoria, 280 Trumbull St, Hartford, CT 06103

LAST TIME OUT: 

Hartford Athletic took the fight to North Carolina FC last Saturday, drawing 1-1 in the friendly confines of Rentschler Field. Harry Swartz got Athletic on the scoresheet 17 seconds after the opening kick-off; Jose Angulo beat his defender to the touchline and Swartz tapped the forward’s near-perfect low cross into the North Carolina net. Hartford had multiple chances to double its advantage, but the Boys in Green couldn’t quite put the finishing touches on any of their remaining goalscoring opportunities. NCFC eventually made the home side pay in the 58th minute, when Hartford struggled to clear its lines from a set piece and Yamikani Chester curled his shot past a diving Frederik Due. Both squads pushed aggressively for a winner, but neither side managed to hit the back of the net before the final whistle sounded.

PLAYERS TO WATCH: 

Hartford Athletic – Harry Swartz, MF 

Swartz operates predominantly on the wing, seeking to sprint at the opposition and leave defenders in the dust. The 23-year old was easily Hartford’s most dangerous player on Saturday night, opening the scoring, making numerous incisive on-ball runs, and earning Cigna Man of the Match honors for his efforts. Athletic will need Swartz to replicate his good form this weekend in order to maximize pressure on the Saint Louis back line. 

Saint Louis FC – Lewis Hilton, MF 

Hilton is a midfield metronome, serving as a crucial cog in St. Louis’ buildup machine. The Englishman is largely known for his distribution skills, recording a team-high 2 assists and 17 key passes. However, he also puts in a solid shift defensively, as evidenced by his 12-interception (T-2nd on team) tally this season. If Hartford hopes to curb Hilton’s influence going forward, it must cut off his forward passing lanes and apply on-ball pressure whenever he touches the ball. 

ABOUT THE OPPONENT: 

Saint Louis is set to contest its first match in all competitions since May 29, when it earned a 3-1 victory over Forward Madison FC in the 3rd Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Saint Louis is currently riding a six-match unbeaten run, and the squad has only suffered one loss all season. However, the boys from “The Gateway City” have drawn four of their 10 league matches this season, leaving them in 8th in the Eastern Conference standings (10 points back of the 1st-place Tampa Bay Rowdies). Forward Russell Cicerone and defender Sam Fink lead the squad in goals (3 each), and both will hope to be on target as Saint Louis seeks its first USL Championship win since April 27.

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

Updates on the match will be provided via Twitter at @hfdathletic or by following #HFDvSTL.

HARTFORD HOPES TO BUILD ON BUDDING LEAGUE MOMENTUM

Hartford Athletic hosts its third straight USL Championship match on Saturday night, facing off against Saint Louis FC. Hartford is unbeaten in its last three league matches, but the Boys in Green are still seeking their first win at Rentschler Field. On Saturday night, fans will be able to purchase $2 draught beers and $2 hot dogs until the 19th minute, in honor of our inaugural season. Here’s what you need to know:

HARTFORD ATHLETIC vs SAINT LOUIS FC

Date: Saturday, June 8

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field

Tickets: https://bit.ly/2IgKY5a

Streaming: ESPN+

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

WHERE TO WATCH: 

Thomas Hooker Brewery at Colt, 140 Huyshope Ave., Hartford

City Steam Brewery and Cafe, 942 Main St., Hartford

TK’s American Cafe, 255 White St., Danbury 

2nd Bridge Brewing Co., 642 Hilliard St., Manchester

Lakeview Restaurant & Bar, 50 Lake St., Coventry

V’s Trattoria, 280 Trumbull St, Hartford, CT 06103

LAST TIME OUT: 

Hartford Athletic took the fight to North Carolina FC last Saturday, drawing 1-1 in the friendly confines of Rentschler Field. Harry Swartz got Athletic on the scoresheet 17 seconds after the opening kick-off; Jose Angulo beat his defender to the touchline and Swartz tapped the forward’s near-perfect low cross into the North Carolina net. Hartford had multiple chances to double its advantage, but the Boys in Green couldn’t quite put the finishing touches on any of their remaining goalscoring opportunities. NCFC eventually made the home side pay in the 58th minute, when Hartford struggled to clear its lines from a set piece and Yamikani Chester curled his shot past a diving Frederik Due. Both squads pushed aggressively for a winner, but neither side managed to hit the back of the net before the final whistle sounded.

PLAYERS TO WATCH: 

Hartford Athletic – Harry Swartz, MF 

Swartz operates predominantly on the wing, seeking to sprint at the opposition and leave defenders in the dust. The 23-year old was easily Hartford’s most dangerous player on Saturday night, opening the scoring, making numerous incisive on-ball runs, and earning Cigna Man of the Match honors for his efforts. Athletic will need Swartz to replicate his good form this weekend in order to maximize pressure on the Saint Louis back line. 

Saint Louis FC – Lewis Hilton, MF 

Hilton is a midfield metronome, serving as a crucial cog in St. Louis’ buildup machine. The Englishman is largely known for his distribution skills, recording a team-high 2 assists and 17 key passes. However, he also puts in a solid shift defensively, as evidenced by his 12-interception (T-2nd on team) tally this season. If Hartford hopes to curb Hilton’s influence going forward, it must cut off his forward passing lanes and apply on-ball pressure whenever he touches the ball. 

ABOUT THE OPPONENT: 

Saint Louis is set to contest its first match in all competitions since May 29, when it earned a 3-1 victory over Forward Madison FC in the 3rd Round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. Saint Louis is currently riding a six-match unbeaten run, and the squad has only suffered one loss all season. However, the boys from “The Gateway City” have drawn four of their 10 league matches this season, leaving them in 8th in the Eastern Conference standings (10 points back of the 1st-place Tampa Bay Rowdies). Forward Russell Cicerone and defender Sam Fink lead the squad in goals (3 each), and both will hope to be on target as Saint Louis seeks its first USL Championship win since April 27.

FOLLOW ONLINE: 

Updates on the match will be provided via Twitter at @hfdathletic or by following #HFDvSTL.

Hartford Athletic announced today that Jonathan Brown has been loaned to OKC Energy FC for the remainder of the season, pending league approval. Brown appeared in 11 USL Championship matches for Hartford this season, starting seven. Brown scored a beautiful sliding goal against Louisville City FC to put Hartford ahead early in the 3rd match of the season. He also was tied for second on the team with 10 chances created. The versatile Brown also spent some time at Right Back for Athletic where he recorded 10 tackles and won 47% of his duels.

Collin Martin has returned to Minnesota United FC. Martin still has an option to return to Hartford. Martin has started 6 Championship matches while in the Green and Blue. Collin completed 87.5% of his passes and created 9 chances, 4th best on the team.

Tyler David underwent season-ending surgery on his groin. David suffered an injury during an April 17th match against New York Red Bulls II. David had started 6 matches prior to his injury.

Hartford Athletic announced today that Jonathan Brown has been loaned to OKC Energy FC for the remainder of the season, pending league approval. Brown appeared in 11 USL Championship matches for Hartford this season, starting seven. Brown scored a beautiful sliding goal against Louisville City FC to put Hartford ahead early in the 3rd match of the season. He also was tied for second on the team with 10 chances created. The versatile Brown also spent some time at Right Back for Athletic where he recorded 10 tackles and won 47% of his duels.

Collin Martin has returned to Minnesota United FC. Martin still has an option to return to Hartford. Martin has started 6 Championship matches while in the Green and Blue. Collin completed 87.5% of his passes and created 9 chances, 4th best on the team.

Tyler David underwent season-ending surgery on his groin. David suffered an injury during an April 17th match against New York Red Bulls II. David had started 6 matches prior to his injury.

Welcome back to the mailbag! Thank you to everyone who submitted a question. If you want to submit a question to the mailbag, click here. Let's get right to it:

Cuong N. writes, "I know you guys are often really busy but it would it be awesome for you players to meet and greet at the main entrances of either Rentschler or Dillion before each game or after the game."

Cuong, one of the things I've been most impressed with is how our players treat the fans after every single game. It's not a standard "meet and greet" but when the final whistle blows, all the players go over to the fans and give high fives and take selfies with every person in every who asks as they make their way into the locker room. Two weeks in a row now, the coaching staff had to tell players to come in to the locker room, and those players came back out from the locker room after the post-match discussion was over. We're very proud of our players for doing that without any direction. We also have a lot of events in the community that our players attend. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates on where our players will be and when!

Zlatan I. (we know that's not your real name) asks, "What's the deal with Dillon Stadium? Will fans be allowed to tailgate? What kind of food and drinks will be in the stadium?"

First of all, if your real name is Zlatan I, I apologize, and I'd like to meet you. Maybe for lunch at The Palm? Secondly, "the deal" with Dillon is it's going to be freaking awesome. Tailgating is ***strongly encouraged***. We're planning an awesome pre-party in the Coltsville area for all of our home matches. When you get in the stadium we're going to have rotating food trucks, a beer garden, and liquor as well. We can't wait until July 13th.

Mecca asks, "Where do the players hang out when not playing?"

Mac Steeves: West Hartford is very nice, there are lots of places to eat and it's a great area to walk around, especially when the weather's nice.

Alex Dixon: One of my favorite spots is the West Hartford Reservoir. I'll go down there with my dog and just walk for a while. It's quiet and peaceful and I really enjoy spending an afternoon there.

Giuseppe Gentile: I like to spend some of my time at a local spot called Rebel Dog Cafe. It's a small, cozy coffee shop near our practice facility where I'll go to FaceTime my friends and family while I'm enjoying my daily cup of coffee.

NEXT HOME MATCH:

Join us on Saturday night, June 8th for $2 Hot Dog and $2 Draft Beers until the 19th minute, in honor of our inaugural season. Gates at Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field open at 6 PM. Tickets are just $10 and can be purchased here. Get ready to #RockTheRent!

Welcome back to the mailbag! Thank you to everyone who submitted a question. If you want to submit a question to the mailbag, click here. Let’s get right to it:

Cuong N. writes, “I know you guys are often really busy but it would it be awesome for you players to meet and greet at the main entrances of either Rentschler or Dillion before each game or after the game.”

Cuong, one of the things I’ve been most impressed with is how our players treat the fans after every single game. It’s not a standard “meet and greet” but when the final whistle blows, all the players go over to the fans and give high fives and take selfies with every person in every who asks as they make their way into the locker room. Two weeks in a row now, the coaching staff had to tell players to come in to the locker room, and those players came back out from the locker room after the post-match discussion was over. We’re very proud of our players for doing that without any direction. We also have a lot of events in the community that our players attend. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates on where our players will be and when!

Zlatan I. (we know that’s not your real name) asks, “What’s the deal with Dillon Stadium? Will fans be allowed to tailgate? What kind of food and drinks will be in the stadium?”

First of all, if your real name is Zlatan I, I apologize, and I’d like to meet you. Maybe for lunch at The Palm? Secondly, “the deal” with Dillon is it’s going to be freaking awesome. Tailgating is ***strongly encouraged***. We’re planning an awesome pre-party in the Coltsville area for all of our home matches. When you get in the stadium we’re going to have rotating food trucks, a beer garden, and liquor as well. We can’t wait until July 13th.

Mecca asks, “Where do the players hang out when not playing?”

Mac Steeves: West Hartford is very nice, there are lots of places to eat and it’s a great area to walk around, especially when the weather’s nice.

Alex Dixon: One of my favorite spots is the West Hartford Reservoir. I’ll go down there with my dog and just walk for a while. It’s quiet and peaceful and I really enjoy spending an afternoon there.

Giuseppe Gentile: I like to spend some of my time at a local spot called Rebel Dog Cafe. It’s a small, cozy coffee shop near our practice facility where I’ll go to FaceTime my friends and family while I’m enjoying my daily cup of coffee.

NEXT HOME MATCH:

Join us on Saturday night, June 8th for $2 Hot Dog and $2 Draft Beers until the 19th minute, in honor of our inaugural season. Gates at Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field open at 6 PM. Tickets are just $10 and can be purchased here. Get ready to #RockTheRent!

Hartford Athletic ended the night on Saturday with a 1-1 draw against rivals North Carolina FC, a club ranked 6th in the USL Championship.

Hartford dominated the match from quite literally the very first minute. Right from the kickoff Jose Angulo was able to make a low and precise cross into the box where Harry Swartz was there to finish it and put Hartford on the board in the first 15 seconds of play. With this great start to the match, Hartford controlled the entire first half with great chances from Angulo, Wojciech Wojcik & Mads Jørgensen. The score would remain 1-0 going into halftime.

North Carolina was able to answer with a goal in the 58th minute after getting a touch off of a short clear from Hartford. Hartford didn't let that stop them with great defensive stops and chances on goal throughout the second half. A few tough plays and the fast paced game kept Hartford from scoring another despite dominating the field over their 6th ranked opponents. A hard fight from Hartford ended with a 1-1 draw.

Hartford Athletic is back home at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field this Saturday, June 8 for a match against Saint Louis FC at 7 PM.  To show our appreciation for our fans we will be offering $2 draft beers and $2 hot dogs through the 19th minute. 

STATS:

Shots: 14-11 NC

Shots on Target: 4-2 NC

Corner Kicks: 6-5 HFD

Fouls Committed: 13-10 HFD

Saves: 3-1 HFD

Offside: 2-2 HFD | NC

Possession: 51-49 NC

Passing Accuracy: 84-83 NC

SCORING SUMMARY

HFD – Harry Swartz 1'

NC – Yamikani Chester 58'

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY

23' – Kyle Curinga (Yellow)

57' – Raymond Lee (Yellow)

61' – Aaron Guillen (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP

Frederik Due; Raymond Lee (c.), Logan Gdula, Sem de Wit, Kyle Curinga; Collin Martin, Mads Jørgensen, Harry Swartz (Jonathan Brown 72'), Sebastian Dalgaard; Jose Angulo (Alex Dixon 72'), Wojciech Wojcik (Nicky Downs 86').

NORTH CAROLINA FC STARTING LINEUP

Alex Tambakis; Alexander Comsia, Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, D.J. Taylor; Benjamin Speas (Andre Fortune 82'), Steven Miller (c.), Nazmi Albadawi, Yamikani Chester, Viktor Igbekoyi (Graham Smith 68'); Robert Kristo. 

Hartford Athletic ended the night on Saturday with a 1-1 draw against rivals North Carolina FC, a club ranked 6th in the USL Championship.

Hartford dominated the match from quite literally the very first minute. Right from the kickoff Jose Angulo was able to make a low and precise cross into the box where Harry Swartz was there to finish it and put Hartford on the board in the first 15 seconds of play. With this great start to the match, Hartford controlled the entire first half with great chances from Angulo, Wojciech Wojcik & Mads Jørgensen. The score would remain 1-0 going into halftime.

North Carolina was able to answer with a goal in the 58th minute after getting a touch off of a short clear from Hartford. Hartford didn’t let that stop them with great defensive stops and chances on goal throughout the second half. A few tough plays and the fast paced game kept Hartford from scoring another despite dominating the field over their 6th ranked opponents. A hard fight from Hartford ended with a 1-1 draw.

Hartford Athletic is back home at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field this Saturday, June 8 for a match against Saint Louis FC at 7 PM.  To show our appreciation for our fans we will be offering $2 draft beers and $2 hot dogs through the 19th minute. 

STATS:

Shots: 14-11 NC

Shots on Target: 4-2 NC

Corner Kicks: 6-5 HFD

Fouls Committed: 13-10 HFD

Saves: 3-1 HFD

Offside: 2-2 HFD | NC

Possession: 51-49 NC

Passing Accuracy: 84-83 NC

SCORING SUMMARY

HFD – Harry Swartz 1′

NC – Yamikani Chester 58′

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY

23′ – Kyle Curinga (Yellow)

57′ – Raymond Lee (Yellow)

61′ – Aaron Guillen (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP

Frederik Due; Raymond Lee (c.), Logan Gdula, Sem de Wit, Kyle Curinga; Collin Martin, Mads Jørgensen, Harry Swartz (Jonathan Brown 72′), Sebastian Dalgaard; Jose Angulo (Alex Dixon 72′), Wojciech Wojcik (Nicky Downs 86′).

NORTH CAROLINA FC STARTING LINEUP

Alex Tambakis; Alexander Comsia, Aaron Guillen, Sam Brotherton, D.J. Taylor; Benjamin Speas (Andre Fortune 82′), Steven Miller (c.), Nazmi Albadawi, Yamikani Chester, Viktor Igbekoyi (Graham Smith 68′); Robert Kristo.