For the first time since 2019, Republic FC heads to the Centennial State to take on Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. The Rocky Mountain club has proven to be one of the Western Conference’s best this season, dropping points just three times entering the week and performing as well as any in the league offensively. Ahead of Sacramento’s first Friday night match of the season, get to know this week’s opponent:
Last Week’s Drama
Looking to notch their fourth straight victory, Colorado Springs dropped a tight 1-0 affair to San Antonio FC at home on June 24. It was the first time the club was held scoreless all season long, and the visitors lone tally on the scoresheet came as the result of a tough-luck own goal in the 48th minute. The defeat was just their third this year.
On the heels of their Saturday fixture, the club dropped consecutive games for the first time all season. Against a Hartford Athletic club looking for a fresh start under a new manager on Tuesday, the club fell 2-0 on the road after late scores from the hosts put the match away.
Switchbacks FC This Season
Colorado Springs has been one of the league’s top sides in 2022. As of Monday, the club is tied for the league lead in wins, and is one of just six clubs in USL with 30 goals on the season. With the exception of a second-half back and forth that didn’t go their way against Monterey Bay FC on May 28, each of their three losses have come to squads ranked first in their respective conference. The club has yet to split points with an opponent this season.
2021 Golden Boot winner Hadji Barry remains atop the club’s attack, and has been as dangerous as ever this season. Through 14 contests, Barry has netted six scores as a part of a dangerous attacking trio also including Elvis Amoh and Michee Ngalina. The group has combined to put in 19 of the clubs 30 goals on the year.
Head to Head
While Sacramento and Colorado Springs haven’t faced off in nearly three years, Friday’s match will be the 10th all-time match between the two. Republic FC has recorded 4 wins, 3 losses, and 2 draws in the all-time fixture, with the four wins coming in the pair’s last four contests. Sacramento has not allowed a goal in their last three head-to-head contests.
All-time scoring favors the Indomitable Club, which has netted 13 scores to Colorado Springs’ 9. In Colorado, Sacramento has claimed two wins and one draw, while falling just once.
