RECAP: Republic FC 2 - 1 Monterey Bay F.C. (Preseason Friendly)

Sacramento, Calif. – Republic FC defeated Monterey Bay F.C. 2-1 at Heart Health Park on Saturday afternoon to close out the preseason.

The Indomitable Club performed well in its final exhibition ahead of the start of the season next Saturday. Strong work on the ball and two scores – one from a set piece – helped the club to close out camp on a high note. Rodrigo Lopez tallied a goal and assist, while homegrown defender Chibi Ukaegbu recorded his first career goal with the club’s first team.

Sacramento was rewarded for its pressure early in the match. The club’s opening score in the 17^th minute came off the head of Lopez – his second score in as many games to close camp. After Jared Timmer switched the field – crosses from Dami Viader and Jack Gurr put the ball at the spot for the club’s captain.

The hosts kept control of possession throughout the second half as Monterey Bay’s chances were kept to a minimum. A pair of opportunities around the hour mark near nearly doubled the Quails’ lead – a Dami Viader shot from distance was sent away by the opposing goalkeeper, before a Rafa Jauregui cross nearly connected with Jack Gurr crashing the net.

Monterey Bay eventually evened the scoreline at the 65-minute mark, but Sacramento would answer back not ten minutes later. Chibi Ukaegbu netted his first professional goal on a Rodrigo Lopez corner kick – the ninth goal by a homegrown player in preseason camp. The score also marked the club’s fourth by way of a set piece in nine exhibitions this preseason.

Republic FC officially opens its 2024 campaign – the 11^th in club history – this coming Saturday, March 9 when Orange County SC visits Heart Health Park on USL Championship opening weekend. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m., and the match will be broadcast live on FOX40. Limited tickets remain available at SacRepublicFC.com/tickets.