USL2 Match Recap: at LVU Rush 2-1 Comeback Win

Celebrating 30 Years, Reading United AC Starts Slow and Finishes with a Rush

Reading United Rallies to Win 2025 USL2 Season Opener Against Lehigh Valley United

ALLENTOWN, PA (24 May 2025) – Reading United AC’s Men’s 1st Team opened their 2025 USL2 season and 30th year with a 2-1 comeback victory over Mid-Atlantic Division Rival Lehigh Valley United Rush at Muhlenberg College.

The first half was a back and forth effort resulting in a scoreless draw. Reading United’s most dangerous scoring chance came in the 43’ with striker Brian Akongo creating an opportunity resulting in a shot from left winger Junior Kome. However the momentum was short lived, with LVU Rush’s Wilson Bibiano scoring an early second half goal at the 51’ mark.

Just under 12 minutes later, a mad scramble in front of the LVU net resulted in a Brian Akongo goal at the 63’ mark tying the match at 1-1. The goal was the first of the season for Akongo, a recent Rider University graduate, who was also named Player of the Match.

“We knew going to the Lehigh Valley would be tough, and that’s exactly what it was,” said Akongo. “We came from behind and showed grit and togetherness to come back from 1-0 down”.

Will Pierce, a rising senior at Fairfield University, capitalized on another mad scramble in front of the LVU net, burying the game winner at the 70’ mark, scoring his first goal of the season. But the win would not come without stress.

At the 82’ mark, Reading United goalkeeper Francisco Ranieri made a brilliant save on a dangerous LVU attack. The entire defense followed the keeper’s lead, playing strong and closing out the game.

“We’re happy to grab three points on the road but LVU made it difficult for us,” said Reading United Head Coach Casey Moore. “We got big saves from our goalkeeper, strong defensive stands, and key tackles in big moments. I was happy with our mentality to battle back after going down a goal.”

Additionally, Berks County native Davin Millisock was rostered for his first USL2 Game but did not play. Millisock, a Fleetwood High School graduate, was named a Boys High School All-American in 2024 and will attend LaSalle University in the fall.

Reading United AC starts their season 1-0 and next plays at West Chester United Tuesday May 27th at 7:00 PM. Reading’s home opener is set for Saturday 5/31 at 7:00 PM against Real Central NJ.