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What to Watch This Weekend Across the USL: Week 11

The season marches on when Mark Briggs men travels to San Diego for the season’s first showdown with Loyal SC. The regular season fixture against Head Coach Landon Donovan’s SoCal club will be the USL ESPN Game of the Week which is scheduled to kickoff at 4 p.m. PT on ESPN2.

While Sacramento gets prepared to play its nationally televised match this weekend, there are a number of league-wide contests that are definitely worth keeping an eye on.

Pacific Division Update

While Republic FC and Phoenix Rising FC went head-to-head in Sacramento, a number of other Pacific Division clubs were in action over the weekend as well.

San Diego Loyal SC seized a 2-1 over Las Vegas Lights FC on Friday night in Sin City the day before Oakland Roots SC earned a point during a closed-door home match against Austin Bold in a scoreless draw.

On Sunday, Tacoma Defiance downed LA Galaxy II, 2-0, as Ray Serrano bagged a brace for the Pacific Northwest club.

The division featured one midweek matchup as San Diego Loyal SC snagged a 1-0 win at home over Oakland Roots SC on Tuesday night.

On Thursday, Orange County SC takes the pitch in Colorado Springs against Switchbacks in the league’s lone Thursday night fixture.

This Saturday after SRFC plays SD, Las Vegas Lights FC host Tacoma Defiance while La Galaxy II pay a visit to Phoenix Rising FC.

While Republic FC and Phoenix Rising FC went head-to-head in Sacramento, a number of other Pacific Division clubs were in action over the weekend as well.

On Sunday, Tacoma Defiance downed LA Galaxy II, 2-0, as Ray Serrano bagged a brace for the Pacific Northwest club.

The division featured one midweek matchup as San Diego Loyal SC snagged a 1-0 win at home over Oakland Roots SC on Tuesday night.

On Thursday, Orange County SC takes the pitch in Colorado Springs against Switchbacks in the league’s lone Thursday night fixture.

This Saturday after SRFC plays SD, Las Vegas Lights FC host Tacoma Defiance while La Galaxy II pay a visit to Phoenix Rising FC.

OKC Energy FC v FC Tulsa

Another chapter of the Black Gold Derby awaits this weekend.

After a sluggish start, OKC has rattled off three straight wins and now sits in fifth place with 13 points from 11 matches in a very competitive Eastern Conference Central Division. After triumphing 1-0 over Memphis 901 on the road, Energy claimed a 1-0 win over Sporting Kansas City II before a 2-1 win away from home on Sunday in Georgia against Atlanta United 2.

FC Tulsa has sole possession of third place in the standings with 15 points from nine games and has yet to play to a draw in 2021. The midwestern club is fresh off a 2-1 win in Texas against Rio Grande Valley FC last Friday night.

El Paso Locomotive FC v New Mexico United

Both El Paso and New Mexico are hot on the tails of first place RGVFC in the Western Conference Mountain Division, but they’ll need a win on Saturday to keep pace.

El Paso Locomotive FC was the only team in the entire league that has yet to be beaten in 2021 before falling to RGVFC on Wednesday night, 3-2. With a 4-1-3 record and sole possession of second place, El Paso still trails RGV by five points in the table. Locomotive FC has tasted victory in three of its last four matches including posting clean sheets against Austin Bold, 1-0, and Indy Eleven, 2-0, prior to yesterday’s defeat.

New Mexico United currently sits in fourth place with 14 points which is level with Colorado Springs Switchbacks but the club from Albuquerque has an inferior goal differential. Prior to being dealt a 3-1 loss at the hands of Switchbacks last Friday, New Mexico was undefeated in its last three matches and over the three-game unbeaten streak United managed to post a clean sheet in each one.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC v Charlotte Independence

Tampa Bay might be in first place in the Eastern Conference Atlantic Division, but Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC and Charlotte Independence are not far behind.

Charlotte currently sits in third place with 15 points from nine matches and just like FC Tulsa, Independence has yet to tie an opponent this season. After Charlotte slammed three goals by Charleston Battery for a 3-0 win on June 23, Independence was dealt a 2-1 loss at the hands of The Miami FC in Florida three days later. A win for Charlotte would see the side leapfrog Pittsburgh in the standings.

Riverhounds SC has claim to second place and trails Tampa Bay by four points. But the club from the Steel City will be looking for a quick rebound following Wednesday night’s 2-1 loss on the road against Loudoun United.

Know Your Opponent: San Diego Loyal SC

The boys in Old Glory Red returned to Sacramento this past weekend and competed against Phoenix Rising FC in front of over 7,000 fans inside Heart Health Park.

The match was Republic FC’s first home fixture in three weeks since a June 5 game against another Southern California club – Orange County SC.

But for this weekend’s fixture, Mark Briggs men hit the road for what will be the first of a handful of meetings between SRFC and San Diego during the 2021 regular season.

With a busy schedule on the horizon, Sacramento will be hoping to start the run of fixtures on a high note and bring a positive result back to the Indomitable City following this week’s USL ESPN Game of the Week that is scheduled for 4 p.m. PT on ESPN2.

The boys in Old Glory Red returned to Sacramento this past weekend and competed against Phoenix Rising FC in front of over 7,000 fans inside Heart Health Park.

The match was Republic FC’s first home fixture in three weeks since a June 5 game against another Southern California club – Orange County SC.

But for this weekend’s fixture, Mark Briggs men hit the road for what will be the first of a handful of meetings between SRFC and San Diego during the 2021 regular season.

Key Moves

2020 was San Diego Loyal SC’s inaugural campaign in the USL Championship and the side made a number of offseason acquisitions to continue building a competitive Western Conference club.

The most notable name Loyal SC lured to Southern California was veteran forward Corey Hertzog who ranks third all-time in Championship history with 69 goals during league play. The prolific striker previously played two seasons for Reno 1868 FC where in 2019 he scored 18 goals – the most he netted in a single season during his USL career.

San Diego’s top signing in the midfield had to be Jack Blake who captained the 2019 USL Championship title-winning Real Monarchs side. Recently on June 19 against Phoenix Rising FC, Blake bagged a brace and earned a spot on the USL Championship Team of the Week. He also currently leads the team with four goals this season.

Defensively, Loyal SC signed Thomas Vancaeyezeele who was a two-time All-League selection as a defender during his time on the backline for Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.

Head Coach Landon Donovan’s side also signed U.S. Youth National Team goalkeeper Trey Muse on-loan from Seattle Sounders FC.

Defensively, Loyal SC signed Thomas Vancaeyezeele who was a two-time All-League selection as a defender during his time on the backline for Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.

Head Coach Landon Donovan’s side also signed U.S. Youth National Team goalkeeper Trey Muse on-loan from Seattle Sounders FC.

San Diego This Season

Through 11 games this season, San Diego has managed to snag a total of 17 points and currently has sole possession of second place in the Pacific Division standings.

Loyal SC trails first-place Phoenix Rising FC by just two points.

After four consecutive defeats during league play, San Diego has found its form and is unbeaten in its last seven games. Of those seven showdowns, SD earned all three points in five of them including the last four straight fixtures. Most recently, Loyal SC picked up a 1-0 win over Oakland Roots SC on Tuesday night.

Through 11 games this season, San Diego has managed to snag a total of 17 points and currently has sole possession of second place in the Pacific Division standings.

Loyal SC trails first-place Phoenix Rising FC by just two points.

Head-to-Head

The Indomitable Club has only once previously played San Diego Loyal SC in league play.

The match was a scoreless draw in San Diego during the 2020 USL Championship campaign.

However, this season both clubs will clash a total of four times – twice at home and twice on the road. August 28 will be the first-ever time Republic FC will welcome San Diego to Sacramento for a Pacific Division showdown.

The match was a scoreless draw in San Diego during the 2020 USL Championship campaign.

Last Time They Met

On August 1, 2020, the Indomitable Club claimed a point on the road following the 0-0 result against Loyal SC in San Diego.

The match was the inaugural meeting between the two California clubs as 2020 was the first year Loyal SC competed in the USL Championship.

During the game, goalkeeper Rafael Diaz made his first start of the 2020 season and the shot-stopper set the tone for the rest of the season with his positive play by blanking the hosts on the road.

Saturday’s showdown in San Diego against Loyal SC is set to kickoff at 4:00 p.m. PT and will be broadcast exclusively on ESPN2.

On August 1, 2020, the Indomitable Club claimed a point on the road following the 0-0 result against Loyal SC in San Diego.

The match was the inaugural meeting between the two California clubs as 2020 was the first year Loyal SC competed in the USL Championship.

During the game, goalkeeper Rafael Diaz made his first start of the 2020 season and the shot-stopper set the tone for the rest of the season with his positive play by blanking the hosts on the road.

Saturday’s showdown in San Diego against Loyal SC is set to kickoff at 4:00 p.m. PT and will be broadcast exclusively on ESPN2.

Republic FC’s U17s, U19s March into Semifinals

The temperatures in Texas might be scorching hot but ice is running through the veins of the Republic FC Youth Academy U17 and U19 teams. Tuesday’s pair of wins showcased their courage under pressure during a penalty kick shootout in each of the sides’ MLS Next Playoffs Quarterfinal contests. The Indomitable Club marches on to the semi-finals this Thursday.

The U19s fell behind 8-seed CSA-Bergen when the New-Jersey based club found the back of the net in the 12th minute off of a precision header from a corner kick. Julian Lomeli brought Republic FC level when he rifled home a shot in the 42nd minute. Both sides exchanged chances in regulation before the fixture found its way to a penalty kick shootout.

19s Captain Ulises Esquivel opened the shootout and lifted his side to an early advantage. CSA-Bergen’s first penalty taker tried to match, but SRFC netminder Jesus “Chuy” Sanchez came up big with a crucial stop to gift his team the early advantage.

Cool and calm goals from the PK spot were delivered by Republic FC’s Alexander Medina and Nathan Jimenez before Armando Jimenez fired a flawless panenka by the goalkeeper to put Sacramento in the driver’s seat with a chance to win it with the next kick. The opponent netted each of its remaining attempts and after CSA-Bergen scored to survive in the fifth round, Aris Yang solidified the dramatic victory by steering his shot into the back of the net to send his side into the competition’s Semifinals.

The U17s played a morning thriller and earned an emotional Quarterfinal win over Colorado Rapids.

Sacramento opened the scoring in the 39th minute when Josemaria Barrera netted from the penalty spot. Colorado leveled the score in the 71st minute and managed to take the lead eight minutes later. But a resilient Republic FC side stormed back and in the 90th minute and equalized through Alan Gutierrez, who beat the Rapids’ shot-stopper leveling the game. After a full 90 minutes, the match headed to penalty kicks. The game was the second straight game the U17s were forced to find a win following a PK shootout.

Both teams, slotted home shots in the first round, but Republic FC goalkeeper Adan Corona comes up huge with a save in the second round. An unfortunate fourth round miss brought the teams even, but Corona held the line. His save to open the fifth round put Republic FC in the driver seat. Goalscorer Alan Gutierrez stepped up to the spot and punched Republic FC’s ticket to the semis with a right-footed finish into the back of the net.

The U17s played a morning thriller and earned an emotional Quarterfinal win over Colorado Rapids.

Next up for the U19s is a Semifinal showdown against Solar SC on July 1 at 9:05 am PT, while the U17s will face Orlando City SC at 6:05 p.m. PT. The streaming schedule is available at MLSsoccer.com/mlsnext/live. Republic FC is the only club to advance two teams to the semi-finals in the 17s and 19s age groups.

Around the Leagues: Abundance of Scintillating Summer Soccer

Whether it be domestic or abroad, there’s no question that the beautiful game is currently in full swing.

While the boys in Old Glory Red finally returned home this past Saturday night, it’s back on the road for Mark Briggs’ men this coming weekend when Republic FC visits San Diego Loyal SC. The match is scheduled to be the USL ESPN Game of the Week with kickoff set for 4 p.m. PT.

But before the Indomitable Club takes the pitch in sunny SoCal this coming weekend, there’s plenty of prime soccer to tune-in to including both clubs competing in league play and countries chasing continental glory.

Whether it be domestic or abroad, there’s no question that the beautiful game is currently in full swing.

Major League Soccer

The top tier of domestic soccer has produced plenty of entertaining matches in 2021 and this past weekend was no different.

League play kicked off on Friday night with a pair of Floridian clubs clashing in an evening fixture as Orlando City SC snagged a 2-1 come-from-behind win over Inter Miami with Nani netting the game-winner.

The top tier of domestic soccer has produced plenty of entertaining matches in 2021 and this past weekend was no different.

The following day, Sporting Kansas City claimed a 2-1 win over LAFC at home after falling behind early in the match before Chicago Fire and Philadelphia Union shared the spoils after a six-goal thriller than ended 3-3. Seattle Sounders and Vancouver Whitecaps also tied, 2-2, while LA Galaxy triumphed in the California Clasico after handing San Jose Earthquakes a 3-1 loss.

Four matches were played out on Sunday with both the Atlanta United-NY Red Bulls and Austin FC-Columbus Crew SC contests ending nil-nil. Complements of two late strikes in the closing minutes of the match, New York City FC earned a 2-1 win over D.C. United while FC Dallas’s Ricardo Pepi bagged a brace to ensure his side picked up all three points against New England Revolution following the 2-1 result.

MLS action returns this Thursday night when Austin welcome Portland Timbers to Texas.

National Women's Soccer League

National Women’s Soccer League

Five fixtures were on Saturday’s schedule in the National Women’s Soccer League and all five did anything but disappoint.

The day kicked off with Gotham FC handing OL Reign a 3-0 defeat before Racing Louisville beat Chicago Red Stars by the exact same score line. A Lynn Williams brace lifted North Carolina Courage to a 2-0 win over Portland Thorns while Houston Dash earned a 2-1 victory over Orlando Pride. Perhaps the best was saved for last when Washington Spirit overcame an early deficit to claim a 2-1 win over Kansas City with the game-winner finding the back of the net deep into stoppage time.

A trio of matches are set to take place this Friday when Gotham FC host Kansas City, Washington Spirit welcoming Chicago Red Stars to town before OL Reign pay a visit to Houston Dash. Saturday’s lone game is Racing Louisville taking on Portland Thorns while the Fourth of July fixture is North Carolina Courage heading to Florida for a showdown against Orlando Pride.

EURO 2020

On Saturday, the UEFA EURO 2020 Round of 16 officially kicked off with Denmark earning a 4-0 win over Wales before Italy triumphed 2-1 over Austria.

Sunday’s pair of matchups included the Netherlands being dealt a 2-0 defeat at the hands of the Czech Republic before Belgium bagged a 1-0 win over reigning EURO title-holders Portugal.

On Saturday, the UEFA EURO 2020 Round of 16 officially kicked off with Denmark earning a 4-0 win over Wales before Italy triumphed 2-1 over Austria.

Sunday’s pair of matchups included the Netherlands being dealt a 2-0 defeat at the hands of the Czech Republic before Belgium bagged a 1-0 win over reigning EURO title-holders Portugal.

Both of Monday’s fixtures needed extra time to see a winner prevail. After Croatia netted twice in the closing moments of regulation to level the contest 3-3, Spain scored twice in a three-minute span to secure a riveting 5-3 win.

The following match was equally as exciting, as Switzerland overcame a two-goal deficit to level the match late, 3-3. Neither side could break the deadlock in extra time so penalty kicks would decide the match. France’s Kylian Mbappe fired his PK on target but the attempt was saved by Yann Sommer to send the Swiss to the Quarterfinals.

It’s a heavyweight bout on Tuesday’s schedule when the day opens with England taking on Germany. After the two global powers go head-to-head, Sweden is set to play Ukraine at noon.

The competition’s Quarterfinals are set to start on Friday when Switzerland clashes with Spain before Italy takes on Belgium.

It’s a heavyweight bout on Tuesday’s schedule when the day opens with England taking on Germany. After the two global powers go head-to-head, Sweden is set to play Ukraine at noon.

The competition’s Quarterfinals are set to start on Friday when Switzerland clashes with Spain before Italy takes on Belgium.

Copa America

Countries are beginning to claim their places in the South American competition’s Quarterfinal which is scheduled to start this coming Friday.

Over the weekend, Brazil and Ecuador played to a 1-1 draw before Peru claimed a 1-0 victory over Venezuela.

Monday’s matchups saw Argentina fire four goals by Bolivia for a 4-1 win with Lionel Messi finding the back of the net twice and an Edinson Cavani strike from the penalty spot solidified a 1-0 win for Uruguay over Paraguay.

Over the weekend, Brazil and Ecuador played to a 1-1 draw before Peru claimed a 1-0 victory over Venezuela.

First up in the Quarterfinal round this Friday is Peru taking on Paraguay before Brazil are scheduled to clash with Chile in a mouth-watering matchup. The quarters continue on Saturday when Uruguay and Colombia go head-to-head before Argentina closes out the round with an encounter against Ecuador.

The Semifinals are slated for Monday and Tuesday of next week.

LGTBQ+ Focused Republic FC Kickstart Program Awards $10,500 in Grants to Local Small Businesses As Part of Teams Pride Month Celebration

Sacramento, Calif. – On Saturday, during Republic FC’s annual Pride Night, the five finalists of Republic FC Kickstart – the local grant program supporting small organizations throughout the region – announced its grand prize winner, as well as the prizes for the five finalists. With the support of Suncrest Bank, the fourth edition of Republic FC Kickstart awarded another $10,500 in cash grants, raising the total in grants to $42,000 with two more editions to take place before the end of the year.

Earlier this month, fans and community members cast nearly 1,000 ballots to narrow the field of 30 LGBTQ+ owned, crowdsourced nominees to five finalists – Lavender Library, Little Sparrow Childcare, Plant Daddy Co., Strapping and Sugar Sweetery. The five finalists selected by a public vote pitched their organization to a panel of LGBTQ+ advocates and business leaders – Uptown Studios President Tina Reynolds, Rainbow Chamber Foundation President Paul Weubbe and PHPR Owner Patrick Harbison, as well as April Funston from Suncrest Bank and Dustin Vicari from Republic FC.

As selected by the panel of judges, the finalists received:

Grand Prize Grant – $5,000 : Little Sparrow Childcare
Second Place Grant – $2,500 : Lavender Library
Third Place Grants – $1,000 : Plant Daddy Co., Sugar Sweetery, Strapping Store

“Thank you Sacramento Republic FC and Suncrest Bank for the incredible opportunity that gave the LGBTQ+ small businesses of Sacramento this chance to be part of the Kickstart grant program,” said Little Sparrow Childcare Owner and Operator Carin Humphrey. “The struggles small businesses faced during the pandemic were detrimental and to be able to be granted funds to help us get back on track is just amazing! The love and support from the community was more than I expected and I am deeply grateful for this experience. Thank you so much to everyone involved and all that believe in our vision of being the change for the better. We are overwhelmed with gratitude.”

“The resurgence of local businesses is vital as the region recovers from the impacts of the pandemic. Sacramento’s small business community mirrors the diversity of the region and we’re proud to celebrate LGBTQ+ businesses, and provide resources for the organizations that will help them flourish and grow,” said Republic FC Chief Revenue Officer Dustin Vicari. “Suncrest Bank has been a tremendous partner, helping lift up the region’s business community, and we’re excited to award more business grants for incredible examples of the indomitable spirit.”

“We are thrilled to support this group of businesses with another round of grant funds. We’ve been particularly impressed by the commitments of support between these businesses and other community members as a result of the program,” said Suncrest Bank Director of Marketing Elizabeth Zennadi. “This is a testament to the mission of Suncrest Bank which is to ‘Invest in People, Commit to Community and Succeed Together.’”

Each nominated business has an opportunity to access additional, free educational services and consulting resources to support growth and development. Later this year, Republic FC Kickstart will return for two more editions to support Asian & Pacific Islander- and veteran-owned businesses.

For more information about Republic FC Kickstart, visit www.sacrepublicfc.com/SuncrestBank.

Recap: Republic FC 1-2 Phoenix Rising FC

SACRAMENTO, California (June 26, 2021) – Sacramento Republic FC hosted to Phoenix Rising FC for the Indomitable Club’s first home match in three weeks. With fireworks at the end of the night – celebrating a full house, Dan Casey opened his account and bagged his first career goal with the club during Saturday night’s 2-1 defeat at Heart Health Park.

"[The result was] Frustrating, obviously, a number of things that are frustrating with that," Head Coach Mark Briggs said following the match. "But to end on a positive [note], and show the fight and desire that we did in the second half — we're down to 10 men… That's obviously something that we can move forward with … something we can build on and something that we can have a platform to move forward with."

“[The result was] Frustrating, obviously, a number of things that are frustrating with that,” Head Coach Mark Briggs said following the match. “But to end on a positive [note], and show the fight and desire that we did in the second half — we’re down to 10 men… That’s obviously something that we can move forward with … something we can build on and something that we can have a platform to move forward with.”

Sacramento’s sharp passes led to a quality possession in the final third nearly half an hour into the contest, only to be ended by a foul. Phoenix opened the scoring with a 31st-minute goal from Solomon Asante.

Down to ten men after a red card to Fatai Alashe in the 38th minute, Republic FC built a promising chance just before the half with a streaking Cam Iwasa down the left side.

Pete Pennanen nearly leveled the match after the half with a left footed shot from outside the box. Pennanen, who came into the match with a season-high three shots in his previous two outings, played his midfield role clinically with an 89.5 pass completion rate, his fifth match of the season with a pass completion rate of at least 87 percent.

Republic FC won a dangerous corner in the 51st minute that was cleared just to the edge of the 18-yard box before Dariusz Formella rifled the ball into the crowd.

Phoenix doubled its lead in the 63rd minute when David Egbo found the back of the net, on a cross-box pass dished by Solomon Asante.

SRFC got one back in the 72nd minute on a corner, as Dan Casey headed an inswinger from Pete Pennanen. It was Casey’s first career goal and Pennanen’s first career assist with the Indomitable Club.

Second half urgency was the name of the game for SRFC, who logged nine shots in the second half. Two came off the right foot of Formella. Tucker Bone almost put away another SRFC chance on a perfect through ball from Luis Felipe.

Sacramento Republic will face San Diego Loyal SC next week in Southern California before returning to Sacramento for the second regular season fixture in 2021 against Oakland Roots SC.

Republic FC won a dangerous corner in the 51st minute that was cleared just to the edge of the 18-yard box before Dariusz Formella rifled the ball into the crowd.

Phoenix doubled its lead in the 63rd minute when David Egbo found the back of the net, on a cross-box pass dished by Solomon Asante.

Sacramento Republic will face San Diego Loyal SC next week in Southern California before returning to Sacramento for the second regular season fixture in 2021 against Oakland Roots SC.

Sacramento Republic FC 1-2 Phoenix Rising FC
USL Championship
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California
June 26, 2021

Attendance: 7,112

Sacramento Republic FC 1-2 Phoenix Rising FC
USL Championship
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California
June 26, 2021

Attendance: 7,112

Scoring Summary: PHX – Solomon Asante 31’; PHX – David Egbo (Solomon Asante) 63’; SAC – Dan Casey (Pete Pennanen) 72’

Misconduct Summary: PHX – Kevon Lambert (caution) 29’; SAC – Fatai Alashe (red card) 38’; SAC – Luis Felipe (caution) 66’; PHX – Aodhan Quinn (caution) 75’; SAC – Dariusz Formella (caution) 77’; SAC – Mark Briggs (caution) 87’; PHX – Tobi Adewole (caution) 93’; PHX – Jon Bakero (caution) 96’

Sacramento Republic FC: Rafael Diaz (Tomas Gomez 45’), Shannon Gomez (Jaime Villarreal 83’), Hayden Sargis, Dan Casey, Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu (Luis Felipe 64’), Duke Lacroix, Fatai Alashe, Pete Pennanen, Dariusz Formella, Kharlton Belmar (Tucker Bone 64’), Cam Iwasa

Unused substitutes: Mario Penagos, Rafael Jauregui, Nabi Kibunguchy

Stats – Shots: 10, Shots on Goal: 1, Saves: 5, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 4, Offsides: 1.

Phoenix Rising FC: Andre Rawls, Darnell King, Joseph Farrell, James Musa, Kevon Lambert, Arturo Rodriguez (Jon Bakero 67’), Aodhan Quinn, Tate Schmitt (Tobi Adewole 91’), Santi Moar (Ryan Flood 82’) David Egbo (Prince Saydee 67’), Solomon Asante (Joey Calistri 82’)

Unused substitutes: Benjamin Lundt, Jeremy Kelly

Stats – Shots: 14, Shots on Goal: 7, Saves: 0, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 5, Offsides: 3

Scoring Summary: PHX – Solomon Asante 31’; PHX – David Egbo (Solomon Asante) 63’; SAC – Dan Casey (Pete Pennanen) 72’

Unused substitutes: Mario Penagos, Rafael Jauregui, Nabi Kibunguchy

Stats – Shots: 10, Shots on Goal: 1, Saves: 5, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 4, Offsides: 1.

Unused substitutes: Benjamin Lundt, Jeremy Kelly

Stats – Shots: 14, Shots on Goal: 7, Saves: 0, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 5, Offsides: 3

In Their Own Words: Having Fans Behind Us and Having the Stands Full is Everything

For the second time this season, Republic FC welcomes Phoenix Rising FC to Heart Health Park for a massive matchup between fellow Pacific Division foes.

With an evening kickoff at 8 p.m. PT, the weather might feel cool but the energy on the pitch will be scorching as the Indomitable Club looks to return to winning ways.

Before the squad takes the pitch Saturday night, the boss and a pair of his players shared their thoughts on the game this weekend.

For the second time this season, Republic FC welcomes Phoenix Rising FC to Heart Health Park for a massive matchup between fellow Pacific Division foes.

With an evening kickoff at 8 p.m. PT, the weather might feel cool but the energy on the pitch will be scorching as the Indomitable Club looks to return to winning ways.

Before the squad takes the pitch Saturday night, the boss and a pair of his players shared their thoughts on the game this weekend.

Head Coach Mark Briggs

On having a full-capacity crowd…
“It’ll be great. It’s been great having the small percentage of fans back in the building, it’ll be even better to have a full house tomorrow. It’s what we play for, it’s what we do and having fans behind us and having the stands full is everything.”

On how to keep the squad focused and fit…
“You have to keep the intensity. You have to keep the level high every single day, that’s the only way you can truly recreate that atmosphere. Can you create what happens matchday? No. But you can replay scenarios, you can put them in situations that they are going to face so they are better equipped to handle those situations and understand how to get out of those situations.”

On the support from traveling fans this past weekend…
“It was awesome. We went to leave on the team bus and we went over to say thank you to the fans who took their day and spent money traveling down to Oakland in various ways – some on the bus, some on the train, apparently somebody even biked! That tells you absolutely everything about our supporters and for the players to go and mix with them and for the fans to be able to meet some of our new players, for people to be playing the drums, and basically just enjoying one another’s company. It shows what a great atmosphere there is here at this club.”

Fatai Alashe

On training this week…
“Training was good, the guys are excited and ready to go. Obviously, it’s a big game for us, we haven’t been on our best form so we’re looking forward to trying to right the ship a little bit. We’ve been working hard and trying to work on ideas that we have on how we want to play so hopefully we can show that tomorrow.”

On what the squad has been doing to stay in form…
“Train. Train every day. That’s standard, I think you always want to make sure your fit. All the guys do a good job of making sure they’re working hard at training every day so when the game comes, you’re prepare to play in it. Not everyone can play 90 minutes every game, but I think all the guys that will start will be ready and also the guys that will play a role will be ready as well.”

Kharlton Belmar

On preparing for this week’s match…
“It’s been a very good week of training. We put in a lot of work this week, really just ready to get a result this weekend. I think everyone’s excited, there’s going to be more fans in the stadium so it’s going to be nice and loud and a big game – we’re after the three points and we’ll hopefully have a good night.”

On the confidence level in the locker room…
“We’re feeling pretty good. I think we’re all aware of what we need to do and what’s at stake and that’s three points. That’s what we’re after. I think the group is feeling well-rested and the guys are ready to get after it. We’re ready to get this season back on track.”

Fatai Alashe

Kharlton Belmar

Republic FC Kickstart Finalist: Little Sparrow Childcare

During Pride month, Republic FC and Suncrest Bank are teaming up to highlight and support LGBTQ+ businesses throughout the region. The fourth edition of Republic FC Kickstart will hand out another $10,500 in grants to support small businesses.

Little Sparrow Childcare offers nurturing care for children and allows kids to be comfortable in their own skin.

With many activities for children to stay busy, Little Sparrow Childcare believes in getting outside and getting active with heart-healthy activities like playing sports and other games.

Little Sparrow Childcare offers nurturing care for children and allows kids to be comfortable in their own skin.

With many activities for children to stay busy, Little Sparrow Childcare believes in getting outside and getting active with heart-healthy activities like playing sports and other games.

Owner Carin Humphrey said, “We are a place where kids become a crew and families blend. We focus on inclusiveness, social-emotional growth, and most of all being better humans.”

Kids at Little Sparrow learn how to play with others and learn how to be inclusive while having fun, staying active, and developing social skills.

“We are a place where people can feel comfortable being who they are,” Humphrey said in an interview with Comstock Magazine, “We talk about current community struggles and what we can do to make change for the better.

Owner Carin Humphrey said, “We are a place where kids become a crew and families blend. We focus on inclusiveness, social-emotional growth, and most of all being better humans.”

Kids at Little Sparrow learn how to play with others and learn how to be inclusive while having fun, staying active, and developing social skills.

For more information about Little Sparrow Childcare contact Carin Humphrey via email.

Republic FC Kickstart Finalist: Strapping Store

Strapping Store is a Sacramento gift shop that has everything from knick-knacks to specialty socks and everything in between.

Its vast selection includes candles, accessories, snacks, books, and stationery, and more and is the perfect place to find something to bring to a dinner party or a gag gift.

The store has witty and clever sayings on various items like pillows, coffee mugs, and socks that will sure to get a smile from the gift recipient.

Strapping Store is a Sacramento gift shop that has everything from knick-knacks to specialty socks and everything in between.

Its vast selection includes candles, accessories, snacks, books, and stationery, and more and is the perfect place to find something to bring to a dinner party or a gag gift.

The store has witty and clever sayings on various items like pillows, coffee mugs, and socks that will sure to get a smile from the gift recipient.

Strapping Store has two locations, one in Midtown at 1731 L Street and the other in Oak Park at 3405 Broadway.

With many Sacramento-themed decorations and themes throughout the store, customers who love the 916 will have plenty of options to choose from to represent their city.

The store’s mission is to provide customers with the most memorable shopping experience by offering the best variety of gifts and housewares at a fair price.

“We try to get something different and unique,” owner Susan Stewart said in an interview with Good Day Sacramento, “We have a little something for everybody, we have something for mom’s, dad’s, friends, and grandmas.”

Strapping Store has two locations, one in Midtown at 1731 L Street and the other in Oak Park at 3405 Broadway.

With many Sacramento-themed decorations and themes throughout the store, customers who love the 916 will have plenty of options to choose from to represent their city.

The store’s mission is to provide customers with the most memorable shopping experience by offering the best variety of gifts and housewares at a fair price.

For more information about Strapping Store, visit their two locations or visit their online store at strappingstore.com

SRFC Academy Teams Preparing for Postseason

Developmental academies around the country were finally able to return to competitive play in 2021 following the pandemic and the return to play was definitely a positive one for the Sacramento Republic FC Youth Academy sides.

All of Republic FC’s eligible teams to compete in the postseason not only solidified their spots in the MLS Next Playoffs, but the U15 and U17 sides stormed through the regular season to snag the top spot in each of their respective divisions.

The Republic FC U19s join the other two SRFC Academy age groups in the MLS Next Playoffs which kickoff on June 25 in Dallas.

Even though the U14 age group will not be competing in the postseason in Texas, Republic FC’s U14 team had a sensational regular season and earned first place in its respective division. There is no playoff for the U14 and U13 age groups.

The SRFC U13s finished the regular season with a positive 6-2-1 record which secured the side fourth place in the Northwest Division. Republic FC’s U13 team also capped off the campaign with a +31 goal differential and the Indomitable Club’s 42 goals scored was third-most in the division.

Sacramento’s U14 youth team finished fourth overall in the entire country after taking the top spot in the Northwest Division with a 9-1-0 record. In ten games, SRFC allowed just five goals while netting 42 of their own for a goal differential of +37. Of the U14 teams that finished the MLS Next campaign in the top six, Republic FC was the only non-MLS club and one of only three non-MLS clubs in the top ten.

  National U14 Rankings
1          LAFC 10-0-0
2          Philadelphia Union        10-0-0
3          FC Cincinnati 10-0-1
4          Republic FC    9-1-0

Republic FC’s U15s claimed first place in the Northwest CA Division with a 4-1-0 record and a +14 goal differential. Prior to heading into the upcoming postseason, the U15s are currently ranked 10thin the entire nation and are one of just four non-MLS clubs in the top ten.

Sacramento’s U17 team recently finished the regular season ranked 8thin the entire nation heading into the playoffs after the squad overcame a 3-1 deficit to score three goals in the closing twelve minutes of play to solidify first place in the Northwest CA Division.

     National U17 Rankings
1          Albion SC 8-0-0
2          Seattle Sounders 2-0-0
3          Cedar Stars Academy   7-0-1
4          FC Dallas    8-1-1
5          Orlando City SC 11-2-1
6          Republic FC 4-1-0

Sacramento’s U19s finished the campaign second in the Northwest CA Division with an unbeaten 2-0-2 record. In four fixtures, the U19 team surrendered just a single goal and finished the season ranked 16thin the entire nation.

The postseason competition will take place at Toyota Park for four age groups – U15, U16, U17 and U19. During the tournament, 25 fixtures will be streamed on MLSSoccer.com and six games are slated to take place on FC Dallas’ home pitch in Frisco, Texas. The tournament is a single-elimination bracket with 32 clubs in each group.

The Indomitable Club is the only Northern California club with a direct pathway to playing at the professional level with an academy that plays in the country’s premier youth soccer platform, MLS Next.

Three SRFC Academy players are currently logging first team minutes as professionals and five current academy players are earning priceless developmental opportunities in first team training and are also eligible to compete in USL Championship matches. Earlier this season, fourteen academy players were selected to participate in the U.S. Soccer Youth National Regional Identification Center in San Jose, CA, where players earn an opportunity to be identified by U.S. Soccer Talent Identification Managers.