Republic FC gets back on the field this Wednesday, just a few days removed from a 1-1 draw with Las Vegas Lights FC. Lining up opposite the Indomitable Club will be New Mexico United, who after nearly two weeks without action will look to get right against a Sacramento team that’s hungry for a big breakthrough.
But amidst a busy stretch – which includes an East Coast trip and another contest in Open Cup action on May 11, Sacramento’s effort will again be a balancing act focused on keeping players healthy, while upping the intensity up top to turn those chances into goals scored. At training this week, that latter detail was on the minds of the squad, who thought they left some opportunities out there with the 25 shots they peppered on Las Vegas.
“[We showed] a lot of good stuff and a lot of pleasing things,” said Head Coach Mark Briggs about their Saturday performance. “We just have to keep the guys’ confidence and the goals will come. We just have to keep banging the door like we are.”
Maintaining confidence has been a collective effort the last three days for the squad – they know that not getting results from positive efforts can often be hard and take teams down. Reminding themselves to be patient, and that working even harder will eventually grant a reward has been a constant topic of conversation as they charge ahead.
“We’re looking to keep playing the same way,” said Jack Gurr on Monday. “The performances have been good, we’re just looking to keep creating them chances and I feel like a big result is coming for us soon.”
“It’s been really positive [this week],” said goalkeeper Danny Vitiello. “It’s been all about focusing in on us, how we play, and perfecting it.”
Briggs and his staff know that diligence will eventually pay off; they see and believe in the potential of the squad they have. However there’s one condition, and they’re already observing night in and night out – everyone needs to be on board and ready when their name is called.
“You need everyone to make plays, to push one another to create that culture, that environment and competition that gets the best out of people,” Briggs continued. “I’m not surprised that a number of guys are stepping up. But I know that this group has another 20-30% to give.”
