Rhode Island FC secured a 1-0 victory over Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on Friday night, with J.J. Williams scoring the only goal of the game in the 62nd minute.

The first half produced little in the way of decisive action. Neither side managed to find the back of the net, though the period wasn't without its edge — Rhode Island's Agustín Rodríguez picked up a yellow card right before the halftime whistle for his part in what was becoming an increasingly physical contest.

The deadlock broke just past the hour mark. Nicholas Scardina played in Williams, who made no mistake with the finish to put Rhode Island ahead. It was a clinical moment in what had otherwise been a tight, cagey affair.

Pittsburgh pushed for an equalizer in the final third of the match, but frustration crept in. Joao Victor Souza was booked in the 72nd minute as the Riverhounds struggled to create clear-cut chances against a Rhode Island side content to protect its lead.

The home side couldn't find an answer in the closing stages. Rhode Island's defense held firm, and the visitors saw out the result without any late scares.

The win gives Rhode Island FC a valuable three points on the road — always difficult to come by in the USL Championship — and adds to what has been a disappointing run of home results for Pittsburgh, who will need to regroup quickly as the season enters its stretch run.