Hearts of Pine Season Check-In

Following the Heart’s opening game against FC Naples on March 29th (score 0-0), the Hearts have been playing matches every week and regularly contributing the excitement of USL 1 soccer.

Portland Hearts of Pine vs. Rhode Island FC (matches available on Youtube and Paramount+)

Unfortunately, on April 2nd, the Hearts of Pine’s dream of making the 4th round of the US Open Cup were squashed by Rhode Island FC (based out of Pawtucket). Rhode Island is in the USL Championship, one league above the Hearts. The game itself was very exciting. Rhode Island scored 2 early goals at the 34th and 37th minute. Going into the second half is was clear that the Hearts needed to up their offensive output.

Maybe Head Coach Bobby Murphy had some choice words to say in the locker room? Whatever it was it worked. Titus Washington scores a goal for the Hearts at the 65th minute. There is an immediate tone shift on the crowd. Winning this game might just be possible. The Hearts continue to fall on good fortune as Rhode Island FC player, Karifa Yao, gets a red card at the 78th minute. 11 on 10 advantage, the Hearts must have this in the bag!

Nope! Nine minutes later veteran forward Mikey Lopez receives a red card as well. This one is a real shame as Lopex is supposed to provide experience and league knowledge to the team. Receiving a red card during a clutch moment of play is the opposite of what is expected. The Hearts lose this match to Rhode Island 2-1 and are officially eliminated from the US Open Cup.

The lack of offensive production mentioned previously is indicative of a larger pattern in the Heart’s playing style at the moment. Having only produced one goal (against South Georgia Tormenta FC) in their last three league matches despite having equal to or over 50% possession in all games indicates the need for an offensive shakeup. The team cannot continue to be so passive.

Portland Fans in Naples, FL

To Maine fan’s credit, they have been showing up and showing out to all away games. If the Hearts play a team in Florida it just gives Mainer’s an excuse to leave the cold early Spring days for just a moment, right? On the Hearts of Pine Instagram there are regular updates about away busses to more local teams such as Hartford or Rhode Island.

Additionally, some fans may not even have to travel far as it seems the Hearts of Pine are eager to attract fans from New England as a whole to their organization as well.

The Hearts of Pine play their next game against One Knoxville on May 4. This will be the first ever official home game for the Hearts of Pine. Fitzpatrick Stadium, the Heart’s home grounds and site of Portland High School Athletics, is up and running following extensive renovations. Portland is sure to show up and show out in order to support their Hearts. Lets hope the team does the same!

Will home support get the Heart's offense going?

• Yes - the spirit of Maine will HYPE THEM UP!
• Its on the players, the fans do not have enough impact