Republic FC is back on the road this week, heading to the Rockies to face off with Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. It’s the first meeting between the two clubs this season, coming after an exciting victory in Week 4 for Sacramento vs. Memphis 901 FC. All time, Republic FC and Switchbacks have each claimed six wins, and over the last two seasons, the two sides have split their head-to-head results in the regular season.
The match is Republic FC’s third road contest in four weeks. Sacramento secured a win and draw in its previous two away games this season, dominating possession at a near 60% clip and completing over 80% of its passes. Despite the challenge playing on the road presents, the club is unbeaten in its last three away contests and has one of the best away records in the league since the start of 2023.
“Being on the road is difficult, no matter where you go and no matter who you play,” said Head Coach Mark Briggs of Saturday’s match. “But the guys are the guys are in a good headspace. As long as we stick to the game plan, as long as we remain together, we give ourselves an opportunity for success.”
“They’re obviously a very dangerous team,” defender Conor Donovan said of Switchbacks FC. “They have some good attacking players and it’s a tough place to go and play. They’re a good team at home. It’s going to be a challenge, but we’re looking forward to it.”
Through the first four games, Sacramento remains one of the league’s best defensive teams, allowing just three scores – ranked third in the league. Sacramento showed well in its last outing, securing three points behind a late winner and a clean sheet performance, it’s second of the season to tie them for the league lead.
“Clean sheets are always important. It’s part of our DNA as a team to defend as 11 players,” Donovan said of the team’s mindset. “We found a way to win [against Memphis] and I think that adds confidence.”
“Every win is good, and every win with a clean sheet is even better,” said Trevor Amann. “Confidence is high right now and I think we’re in a good place to keep it rolling.”
Overall, Sacramento’s form to open 2024 has been strong. The club completed the first month of the campaign as one of just seven undefeated clubs with two wins and two draws. The squad has scored first in every contest this season and is one of just two sides that haven’t trailed through four weeks to open the campaign.
“We’re confident,” Briggs continued. “We understand the abilities we have, and the qualities we have. We’ve got to get our heads right, our mentality right, and then play our football and impose our game no matter who we play.”
