A win for Republic FC punched the club a ticket to the Conference Semifinal round Saturday night. After New Mexico came out with a few early opportunities, Sacramento took control, logging the squad’s second clean sheet in as many contests. Head Coach Mark Briggs earned his first playoff victory with the Indomitable Club, and Rodrigo Lopez tallied his 50th career assist across all competitions. Sacramento now sets their sights on Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC in the next round – a club they conquered in their last meeting on August 17.
Control of the Match
After surrendering a few early chances, Sacramento was dominant on all fronts. For the match, New Mexico posted just a single attempt on frame – tied for their lowest total of the season. In the second half, the visitors were kept without a shot on target and tallied a scant four touches in Sacramento’s penalty area. The showing was a perfect example of what the Quails can achieve when they play their game.
“As the game went, we adjusted, and worked on the things that we needed to improve the match,” said Luis Felipe. “And [then had a] great second half. I think the guys that came in, the guys that were on the field already, we did a better job understanding their team and where we could exploit them.”
Halftime Adjustments
Each side had opportunities early on – but neither could find the net before the halftime whistle sounded. Following the intermission, the club sped up their pace and put their focus on making the right pass. The adjustment paid off almost immediately, when a first-touch through ball from Rodrigo Lopez put Maalique Foster in a footrace resulting in the club’s 47th minute goal. Great anticipation from Keko, and high pressure from Luther Archimede provided additional breakaway chances.
“Playoff games are hard, playoff games are difficult, and you’re not always going to play beautiful football,” Briggs told his squad at halftime. “Just remain focused, trust yourself, and we’ll come out on the right side of the result.”
None Allowed, Again
While the club’s attack took most of the headlines, Sacramento’s defense quietly continued its excellence. The 2-0 result was the Quails’ second straight clean sheet, 12th in league competitions and 16th on the year including the U.S. Open Cup. Across their last three contests, Mark Briggs’ Men have allowed only one score, and since September 3 the club has conceded twice in a match only one time.
