In their first meeting since Republic FC’s inaugural 2014 season, the Indomitable Club played Eastern Conference foe Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC to a 1-1 draw on Sunday afternoon and earned a crucial point. After snapping a three-game losing streak, Sacramento will look to carry momentum from Sunday’s match into the final game of the regular season and the 2022 USL Championship Playoffs presented by Hisense.
Every Point Matters
While Sacramento didn’t come away with a win on Sunday, the draw secured an important part for the club as it closes in on clinching a home playoff game. Head Coach Mark Briggs said it best following the match: “Every point is important, especially at this stage of the season.” The point puts Sacramento at 50 points on the season, right at the cusp of clinching 4th place in the Western Conference. The only club that could catch up at this point is New Mexico United, but if Republic FC earns at least a point in its regular season finale this Saturday or New Mexico doesn’t win out, fans can plan to catch a taste of the postseason at Heart Health Park.
Getting Back on Track
Sunday’s draw was a good indication that Republic FC is getting back into form following a three-game losing streak. The Indomitable Club held the advantage in most stat categories throughout the afternoon – including possession, shots on target, passes in the final target, and crosses – and was able to find the back of the net after being shut out for three consecutive matches. “It’s a positive to get some points this week,” said Republic FC Midfielder Rodrigo Lopez. “We trained hard and the mentality was right, and it showed today…we’re taking a step forward, which is very important.”
Home Field Advantage
There’s no place like home…especially when home is Heart Health Park, where Republic FC has been fantastic all season. “Our fans create an unbelievable atmosphere” Briggs said earlier in the season. “We need to continue what we’ve been doing, and keep getting the fans behind us to support us the way they do. It’s gotten us results all year.” Sunday’s match marked the 18th time this season that the squad has come away from a home bout with at least a point – only posting two losses in Sacramento this year. And with a potential home playoff game just weeks away, the team’s confidence at home could be a huge boost as Republic FC looks to return to the form that has brought success throughout most of the season.