Among the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup tournaments going on this weekend, is one where the Hampton Roads Mariners visit the Pittsburgh Riverhounds. This is a crucial series.
For the Mariners, a win is important because of their current financial situation. They are still winless in the season and in financial trouble. A win would help give their fans some hope that all is not lost and it would give their players and staff hope for the future.
For the 'hounds, their last win came on opening night and they struggle with a 3-game losing streak. They have the home field advantage tonite, but they know that they can't overlook the Mariners, since a winless team can be just as dangerous as a first place team. Especially since all the Mariners games have been close.
The 'hounds have the advantage, with so many former M.L.S. players on their roster, including one who was just signed, in Abdul Thompson Conteh.
Either team can gain more confidence with a win. The 'hounds can reach the top spot in the Northeast Division, though, since this counts in the standings too. It should be a good battle.
