Match Previews

Following a tough result in their return to Heart Health Park on Saturday, Sacramento Republic FC will face off with Tacoma Defiance for the second of four contests this season. Kickoff for Wednesday's contest up north is set for 7:00 p.m.  from Cheney Stadium.

Following a tough result in their return to Heart Health Park on Saturday, Sacramento Republic FC will face off with Tacoma Defiance for the second of four contests this season. Kickoff for Wednesday’s contest up north is set for 7:00 p.m.  from Cheney Stadium.

At a Glance: #SACvTAC

At a Glance: #SACvTAC

• Wednesday, September 22, 2021
• 7:00 p.m. PT kickoff
• Cheney Stadium, Tacoma, Washington
• How to watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV, ESPN+

• Wednesday, September 22, 2021
• 7:00 p.m. PT kickoff
• Cheney Stadium, Tacoma, Washington
• How to watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV, ESPN+

The Latest on the Team

The Latest on the Team

Republic FC is coming off a 1-0 loss on Saturday to San Antonio FC.

17- year old Patrick Weah made his club debut for Republic FC in the contest. The Minnesota United FC loanee logged a team-high three shots with one chance created. Emil Cuello also continued to impact the game on the offensive end for Sacramento, creating a team high five chances while completing 80% of his passes.

Republic FC currently sits four points behind Tacoma, and three points on Wednesday will give the club a much-welcomed momentum boost as the postseason draws closer.

Republic FC is coming off a 1-0 loss on Saturday to San Antonio FC.

17- year old Patrick Weah made his club debut for Republic FC in the contest. The Minnesota United FC loanee logged a team-high three shots with one chance created. Emil Cuello also continued to impact the game on the offensive end for Sacramento, creating a team high five chances while completing 80% of his passes.

Republic FC currently sits four points behind Tacoma, and three points on Wednesday will give the club a much-welcomed momentum boost as the postseason draws closer.

Opponent Report

Opponent Report

Tacoma is riding a three-game losing at a crucial point in the Pacific Division playoff race after going unbeaten in 11 of 13, and will look to bolster its playoff positioning against Sacramento on Wednesday.

The Defiance are one of 12 teams with an 80% passing completion rate this season. The Pacific Northwest side is 8-3-1 at Cheney Stadium this season and 7-1-1 overall when scoring first. The club has had 11 matches this season decided by one score or less but have suffered 3-1 defeats in two of their last three games.

Tacoma is sixth in the USL Championship with a 17% conversion rate.

Tacoma is riding a three-game losing at a crucial point in the Pacific Division playoff race after going unbeaten in 11 of 13, and will look to bolster its playoff positioning against Sacramento on Wednesday.

The Defiance are one of 12 teams with an 80% passing completion rate this season. The Pacific Northwest side is 8-3-1 at Cheney Stadium this season and 7-1-1 overall when scoring first. The club has had 11 matches this season decided by one score or less but have suffered 3-1 defeats in two of their last three games.

Tacoma is sixth in the USL Championship with a 17% conversion rate.

Head-to-Head

Head-to-Head

After two new opponents in as many weeks, the Indomitable Club is back to Pacific Division competition. Republic FC holds a 12-3-4 record against Tacoma all-time and a 3-3-2 mark at Cheney Stadium.

SRFC holds a 38-20 scoring advantage in the fixture, but Tacoma holds a 12-11 goals advantage on home turf.

Jerome Kiesewetter scored his first goal for the Boys in Old Glory Red in the clubs’ first meeting this season on August 5 in Tacoma, but a late goalfrom Tacoma’s Randy Mendozaforced both sides to settle for a 1-1 draw.

After two new opponents in as many weeks, the Indomitable Club is back to Pacific Division competition. Republic FC holds a 12-3-4 record against Tacoma all-time and a 3-3-2 mark at Cheney Stadium.

SRFC holds a 38-20 scoring advantage in the fixture, but Tacoma holds a 12-11 goals advantage on home turf.

Jerome Kiesewetter scored his first goal for the Boys in Old Glory Red in the clubs’ first meeting this season on August 5 in Tacoma, but a late goalfrom Tacoma’s Randy Mendozaforced both sides to settle for a 1-1 draw.

Sacramento Republic FC underwent its final tuneup before the final interdivision matchup of 2021 on Saturday, a 7:30 p.m. tilt with San Antonio FC at Heart Health Park. Saturday is Republic FC’s first game back in the Indomitable City in 21 days, and the Boys in Old Glory Red are primed for three points in front of the home fans once again. 

Sacramento Republic FC underwent its final tuneup before the final interdivision matchup of 2021 on Saturday, a 7:30 p.m. tilt with San Antonio FC at Heart Health Park. Saturday is Republic FC’s first game back in the Indomitable City in 21 days, and the Boys in Old Glory Red are primed for three points in front of the home fans once again. 

Republic FC Head Coach Mark Briggs

Republic FC Head Coach Mark Briggs

On the week’s training heading into Saturday…

“It's been nice to have a full week of training coming from a long day down in El Paso, a long trip. We gave the boys a day off early in the week and got them ramped up as we head into tomorrow. It’s been a good week. It's been a positive week. The players are ready and now we've got to go out and get three points at home.”

On the week’s training heading into Saturday…

“It’s been nice to have a full week of training coming from a long day down in El Paso, a long trip. We gave the boys a day off early in the week and got them ramped up as we head into tomorrow. It’s been a good week. It’s been a positive week. The players are ready and now we’ve got to go out and get three points at home.”

On the immediate impact of Carlos Saldaña and Patrick Weah…

“Carlos Saldaña is a goalkeeper who’s going to push Rafa Diaz, going to push Tomas, and going to compete. He's got a fantastic pedigree. He played at some very big clubs and he improves us. And then you look at young Patrick Weah we just got from Minnesota on loan. He’s just a fantastic athlete, has a fantastic attitude, and has great feet in the attacking third. I think he'll cause teams havoc. He’s extremely quick, extremely direct, and he has fantastic feet. He’s someone that I think will help us in getting behind teams and creating opportunities.”

On the club’s first game at home in 21 days…

“We've got an opportunity to make our home record better starting with tomorrow. It's a fantastic place to play. Our fans get behind us and we're going to need them tomorrow for every play, every single minute of the game. It’ll be nice to come home and hopefully bring everybody in the city three points.”

On the immediate impact of Carlos Saldaña and Patrick Weah…

“Carlos Saldaña is a goalkeeper who’s going to push Rafa Diaz, going to push Tomas, and going to compete. He’s got a fantastic pedigree. He played at some very big clubs and he improves us. And then you look at young Patrick Weah we just got from Minnesota on loan. He’s just a fantastic athlete, has a fantastic attitude, and has great feet in the attacking third. I think he’ll cause teams havoc. He’s extremely quick, extremely direct, and he has fantastic feet. He’s someone that I think will help us in getting behind teams and creating opportunities.”

On the club’s first game at home in 21 days…

“We’ve got an opportunity to make our home record better starting with tomorrow. It’s a fantastic place to play. Our fans get behind us and we’re going to need them tomorrow for every play, every single minute of the game. It’ll be nice to come home and hopefully bring everybody in the city three points.”

Republic FC Jerome Kiesewetter

Republic FC Jerome Kiesewetter

On training heading into Republic FC’s final interdivision matchup of the season…

“Training was good. I think we're very prepared for the game tomorrow. The guys worked really well in training, I have to say. And now it's just all about tomorrow and to win the game.”

On the approach to counter San Antonio’s defensive tactics…

“The end result has to be a win. It doesn't matter if they play five in the back, three, six, whatever, if they have a red card. Everything can change in the course of 10 minutes and you can throw your tactics away after 10 minutes sometimes. It's just about winning the game. And that's all we care about.”

On training heading into Republic FC’s final interdivision matchup of the season…

“Training was good. I think we’re very prepared for the game tomorrow. The guys worked really well in training, I have to say. And now it’s just all about tomorrow and to win the game.”

On the approach to counter San Antonio’s defensive tactics…

“The end result has to be a win. It doesn’t matter if they play five in the back, three, six, whatever, if they have a red card. Everything can change in the course of 10 minutes and you can throw your tactics away after 10 minutes sometimes. It’s just about winning the game. And that’s all we care about.”

Republic FC Nabi Kibunguchy

Republic FC Nabi Kibunguchy

On motivation for Saturday after last weekend in El Paso…

“It's a tough result. We have the motivation to bounce back because the points are up for grabs, and we just got to be up for the challenge against San Antonio. We're up for the challenge for sure.”

On the intensity of trainings with the inclusion of Carlos Saldaña and Patrick Weah…

“It's been good. They've been bringing a lot to the team, that extra bit of intensity and putting the spirits up. The guys work hard because this is the thick of the season. And we’ve got to get points.”

On motivation for Saturday after last weekend in El Paso…

“It’s a tough result. We have the motivation to bounce back because the points are up for grabs, and we just got to be up for the challenge against San Antonio. We’re up for the challenge for sure.”

On the intensity of trainings with the inclusion of Carlos Saldaña and Patrick Weah…

“It’s been good. They’ve been bringing a lot to the team, that extra bit of intensity and putting the spirits up. The guys work hard because this is the thick of the season. And we’ve got to get points.”

After wrapping up the longest road stretch of the 2021 season, the Boys in Old Glory Red return to heart Health Park for the final interdivision match of the season. San Antonio FC head west for their only trip to the Golden State this season for the Indomitable Club’s first home match in 20 days.

After wrapping up the longest road stretch of the 2021 season, the Boys in Old Glory Red return to heart Health Park for the final interdivision match of the season. San Antonio FC head west for their only trip to the Golden State this season for the Indomitable Club’s first home match in 20 days.

At a Glance: SACvSA

At a Glance: SACvSA

• Saturday, September 18
• 7:30 p.m. PT kickoff
• Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California
• How to watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento, ESPN+
• Tickets
• Tailgate Information

• Saturday, September 18
• 7:30 p.m. PT kickoff
• Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California
• How to watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento, ESPN+
• Tickets
• Tailgate Information

The Latest on the Team

The Latest on the Team

After the longest road trip of the season– which spanned a stretch of three in nine days– returning home to the comforts of Heart Health Park will be a welcome change of scenery for the Boys in Old Glory Red, who have played just three contests on their home field since mid July. Following a great second-half performance against Las Vegas, Republic FC had a rough go against Locomotive FC last Saturday, going down early on a 7th minute score and having trouble putting attempts on target.

After the longest road trip of the season– which spanned a stretch of three in nine days– returning home to the comforts of Heart Health Park will be a welcome change of scenery for the Boys in Old Glory Red, who have played just three contests on their home field since mid July. Following a great second-half performance against Las Vegas, Republic FC had a rough go against Locomotive FC last Saturday, going down early on a 7th minute score and having trouble putting attempts on target.

Opponent Report

Opponent Report

For San Antonio, Saturday’s match marks the end of arguably the toughest stretch of the season for any USL side. The contest will be their seventh in a three-week span, and their trip to the Capital City will be the final stop in a four game road trip that included a trek to the East Coast to take on New York Red Bulls II.

Despite the challenging schedule, San Antonio has taken three wins and a draw and loss apiece in their last five matches. Led by Week 20 Team of the Week honoree Marcus Epps, the squad has tallied at least 15 shots per match all but one contest and remained one of the league’s best on the defensive side of the ball, conceding the eighth fewest scores in the league as of September 14.

For San Antonio, Saturday’s match marks the end of arguably the toughest stretch of the season for any USL side. The contest will be their seventh in a three-week span, and their trip to the Capital City will be the final stop in a four game road trip that included a trek to the East Coast to take on New York Red Bulls II.

Despite the challenging schedule, San Antonio has taken three wins and a draw and loss apiece in their last five matches. Led by Week 20 Team of the Week honoree Marcus Epps, the squad has tallied at least 15 shots per match all but one contest and remained one of the league’s best on the defensive side of the ball, conceding the eighth fewest scores in the league as of September 14.

Head to Head

Head to Head

Republic FC holds the historical edge over San Antonio, taking three wins, two losses and two draws in their seven all-time meetings. The Indomitable Club has never lost at home in the fixture, claiming two victories and splitting points twice. The two sides last met in August of 2019, with Sacramento netting three first-half scores en route to a 3-2 win.

Republic FC holds the historical edge over San Antonio, taking three wins, two losses and two draws in their seven all-time meetings. The Indomitable Club has never lost at home in the fixture, claiming two victories and splitting points twice. The two sides last met in August of 2019, with Sacramento netting three first-half scores en route to a 3-2 win.

Following Sacramento’s thrilling come from behind victory against Las Vegas Lights FC, Mark Briggs’ men hit the road for the third straight week to take on El Paso Locomotive. Ahead of the club’s meeting with one of the USL’s best, Coach Mark Briggs, defender Jordan McCrary and midfielder Jaime Villarreal shared their thoughts on the week of training and the team’s approach to Saturday’s contest.

Following Sacramento’s thrilling come from behind victory against Las Vegas Lights FC, Mark Briggs’ men hit the road for the third straight week to take on El Paso Locomotive. Ahead of the club’s meeting with one of the USL’s best, Coach Mark Briggs, defender Jordan McCrary and midfielder Jaime Villarreal shared their thoughts on the week of training and the team’s approach to Saturday’s contest.

Head Coach Mark Briggs

Head Coach Mark Briggs

On the key to road to the Indomitable Club’s road success this season…

“There's no pressure when you go away from home. There are no expectations. It’s hard to get results when you're on the road. I think that that plays into it. There's no pressure, no expectations, and people play with a little more freedom. But whatever it is on the road, we have to bring that road form to our home stadium.”

On the challenge of facing a quality El Paso team on the road…

“They’ve got good height. They have high level footballers all over the field – even on the bench – they’ve got players that have played in Liga MX and MLS. It's going to be a game that we're going to be stretched in. Those are the games you want to play in, you want to play against the best and you want to pit yourselves against the best and see where your cards fall. It is a very good measuring stick.”

On the key to road to the Indomitable Club’s road success this season…

“There’s no pressure when you go away from home. There are no expectations. It’s hard to get results when you’re on the road. I think that that plays into it. There’s no pressure, no expectations, and people play with a little more freedom. But whatever it is on the road, we have to bring that road form to our home stadium.”

On the challenge of facing a quality El Paso team on the road…

“They’ve got good height. They have high level footballers all over the field – even on the bench – they’ve got players that have played in Liga MX and MLS. It’s going to be a game that we’re going to be stretched in. Those are the games you want to play in, you want to play against the best and you want to pit yourselves against the best and see where your cards fall. It is a very good measuring stick.”

Defender Jordan McCrary

Defender Jordan McCrary

On the team’s approach to El Paso’s strong defense…

“For us, we need to just be patient and really take our time to find the right moments and not force the attack. They are a good defensive team, but as long as we are patient and can move the ball around I think we’ll have success.”

On preparing for a team the club hasn’t seen yet this season…

“We have to prep the same as if we had played against them. We watch video, see what they typically do and get a read on their common passing tactics. We’re going to attack them just like we attack anybody else, whether it’s Phoenix, Tacoma, San Diego, we’re going to come out here and try to be the dog that we are any take away points.”

On the team’s approach to El Paso’s strong defense…

“For us, we need to just be patient and really take our time to find the right moments and not force the attack. They are a good defensive team, but as long as we are patient and can move the ball around I think we’ll have success.”

On preparing for a team the club hasn’t seen yet this season…

“We have to prep the same as if we had played against them. We watch video, see what they typically do and get a read on their common passing tactics. We’re going to attack them just like we attack anybody else, whether it’s Phoenix, Tacoma, San Diego, we’re going to come out here and try to be the dog that we are any take away points.”

Midfielder Jaime Villarreal

Midfielder Jaime Villarreal

On the team’s mindset this week…

“We’re doing well. Coming off the win I think everyone is in good spirits. These last couple days have gone very well- our intensity and energy have been up just like it was in the second half against Vegas. I think El Paso is going to be a great test for us as a team.”

On the importance of remaining confident against a strong opponent…

“We need to be confident on the ball, and be confident in our teammates to move for each other. We have the quality to be able to compete against any of these teams, so it is important we realize that and use it to our advantage so we can keep moving forward.”

On the team’s mindset this week…

“We’re doing well. Coming off the win I think everyone is in good spirits. These last couple days have gone very well- our intensity and energy have been up just like it was in the second half against Vegas. I think El Paso is going to be a great test for us as a team.”

On the importance of remaining confident against a strong opponent…

“We need to be confident on the ball, and be confident in our teammates to move for each other. We have the quality to be able to compete against any of these teams, so it is important we realize that and use it to our advantage so we can keep moving forward.”

SACRAMENTO, California (September 9, 2021) – Sacramento Republic FC concludes its season-long three-week road trip on Saturday, September 11 against one of the USL Championship’s best in El Paso Locomotive FC. The Boys in Old Glory Red are coming off their fourth win of the season over Las Vegas Lights FC and enter the weekend on an eight-game road unbeaten streak, matching a club record.

SACRAMENTO, California (September 9, 2021) – Sacramento Republic FC concludes its season-long three-week road trip on Saturday, September 11 against one of the USL Championship’s best in El Paso Locomotive FC. The Boys in Old Glory Red are coming off their fourth win of the season over Las Vegas Lights FC and enter the weekend on an eight-game road unbeaten streak, matching a club record.

The Latest on the Team

Republic FC is coming off a 3-1 win on Sunday over host Las Vegas Lights FC, logging all three goals in the second half. SRFC held a 53 percent edge in possession for the match, thanks to 11 Republic FC players recording an 80 percent or better pass completion rate. Luis Felipe smashed home the game winner and landed a spot on the Team of the Week. Sacramento Native and SRFC Academy product Julian Chavez closed out the match with a curler to secure his second USL Championship goal – first in 2021 –  while recording three shots with three chances created in 45 minutes of action.

The Latest on the Team

Republic FC is coming off a 3-1 win on Sunday over host Las Vegas Lights FC, logging all three goals in the second half. SRFC held a 53 percent edge in possession for the match, thanks to 11 Republic FC players recording an 80 percent or better pass completion rate. Luis Felipe smashed home the game winner and landed a spot on the Team of the Week. Sacramento Native and SRFC Academy product Julian Chavez closed out the match with a curler to secure his second USL Championship goal – first in 2021 –  while recording three shots with three chances created in 45 minutes of action.

At the top of the Mountain Division table, the Locos have held opponents scoreless eight times this season, second best in the league. In cross-division play, El Paso sits 2-0-2, including a 2-goal draw with Orange County last Friday. The offense is potent, scoring 10 goals in their last five matches, finishing 2-1-2.

At the top of the Mountain Division table, the Locos have held opponents scoreless eight times this season, second best in the league. In cross-division play, El Paso sits 2-0-2, including a 2-goal draw with Orange County last Friday. The offense is potent, scoring 10 goals in their last five matches, finishing 2-1-2.

Head-to-Head

Republic FC is 0-3-0 all-time against the west Texas side, with two of the three games taking place in El Paso. Last time the two teams met, Locomotive FC found the net three times to close out Republic FC’s 2019 playoff campaign in the Western Conference Semifinals.

Head-to-Head

Republic FC is 0-3-0 all-time against the west Texas side, with two of the three games taking place in El Paso. Last time the two teams met, Locomotive FC found the net three times to close out Republic FC’s 2019 playoff campaign in the Western Conference Semifinals.

Sacramento Republic FC takes their seven-game road unbeaten streak to Cashman Field on Sunday to square off with Las Vegas Lights FC. With players coming back from injury and new faces gelling well with the Boys in Old Glory Red, Sunday is another prime chance to take three points and inch closer to the right side of the Pacific Division playoff line. 

Sacramento Republic FC takes their seven-game road unbeaten streak to Cashman Field on Sunday to square off with Las Vegas Lights FC. With players coming back from injury and new faces gelling well with the Boys in Old Glory Red, Sunday is another prime chance to take three points and inch closer to the right side of the Pacific Division playoff line. 

Republic FC Head Coach Mark Briggs

Republic FC Head Coach Mark Briggs

On Duke Lacroix’s first goal with the club…

“It's great. I think I think he's performed extremely well over the last few weeks. I thought again in first half and second half he got a little bit tired, but he was a threat for us in the first half. He’s constantly playing forward and constantly being aggressive with the ball trying to take people on, which is which is what you want. We’re really happy with the performance and the consistency of his performances and glad he got his first goal.”

On Emil Cuello’s performance with the team in his week and a half…

“I think he's a fantastic footballer. He's clean on the ball and composed in possession. He played a great through ball to Cameron Iwasa the other night and played three or four great deliveries in at the end of the game in set pieces. He just has quality.”

On having Cuello and Mario Penagos teamed up in the midfield together…

“I thought they gave us a little different balance. We almost played with two No. 10’s, which helped us in the attacking third. You also want your fullbacks to give you that give you that width, which we did at times. Mario and Emil are both good footballers and we’ve got to get all our good footballers on the field.”

On Duke Lacroix’s first goal with the club…

“It’s great. I think I think he’s performed extremely well over the last few weeks. I thought again in first half and second half he got a little bit tired, but he was a threat for us in the first half. He’s constantly playing forward and constantly being aggressive with the ball trying to take people on, which is which is what you want. We’re really happy with the performance and the consistency of his performances and glad he got his first goal.”

On Emil Cuello’s performance with the team in his week and a half…

“I think he’s a fantastic footballer. He’s clean on the ball and composed in possession. He played a great through ball to Cameron Iwasa the other night and played three or four great deliveries in at the end of the game in set pieces. He just has quality.”

On having Cuello and Mario Penagos teamed up in the midfield together…

“I thought they gave us a little different balance. We almost played with two No. 10’s, which helped us in the attacking third. You also want your fullbacks to give you that give you that width, which we did at times. Mario and Emil are both good footballers and we’ve got to get all our good footballers on the field.”

Republic FC Cam Iwasa

Republic FC Cam Iwasa

On training for the week…

“It's an opportunity for us to bounce back. Obviously, the game on the weekend against San Diego didn't go our way. And we feel like we should have gotten more out of that game on Wednesday against LA.”

On his recent success with five goals in four games…

“The confidence is there, matching up fitness with confidence and form. I feel like every game I should be trying to get on the scoresheet, and trying to keep this run going and keep doing it. Obviously, the ultimate goal is to win games. I don't really care if I score or who scores, but obviously when I'm scoring it puts the team in a good position.”

On training for the week…

“It’s an opportunity for us to bounce back. Obviously, the game on the weekend against San Diego didn’t go our way. And we feel like we should have gotten more out of that game on Wednesday against LA.”

On his recent success with five goals in four games…

“The confidence is there, matching up fitness with confidence and form. I feel like every game I should be trying to get on the scoresheet, and trying to keep this run going and keep doing it. Obviously, the ultimate goal is to win games. I don’t really care if I score or who scores, but obviously when I’m scoring it puts the team in a good position.”

Republic FC Luis Felipe

Republic FC Luis Felipe

On the approach to facing a Las Vegas side they’ve had success against this season…

“We'll have to approach the match as any other game with the right mentality. And we obviously know them a lot as we've played them multiple times, but we have to come in with a strong mentality and you have to win there.”

On new faces stepping into the rotation…

“They’re great. They fit in very well. They help us on the ball – off the ball, they work hard. It’s definitely something we can use in upcoming matches.”

On the approach to facing a Las Vegas side they’ve had success against this season…

“We’ll have to approach the match as any other game with the right mentality. And we obviously know them a lot as we’ve played them multiple times, but we have to come in with a strong mentality and you have to win there.”

On new faces stepping into the rotation…

“They’re great. They fit in very well. They help us on the ball – off the ball, they work hard. It’s definitely something we can use in upcoming matches.”

Republic FC secured a point in an eventful contest Wednesday, extending their road winning streak to seven and getting back on track after a tough home loss to San Diego. The club returns to the pitch again this Sunday to take on Las Vegas Lights FC for the final time this season.

Republic FC secured a point in an eventful contest Wednesday, extending their road winning streak to seven and getting back on track after a tough home loss to San Diego. The club returns to the pitch again this Sunday to take on Las Vegas Lights FC for the final time this season.

At a Glance: #SACvLV

At a Glance: #SACvLV

• Sunday, September 5
• 7:00 p.m. PT kickoff
• Cashman Field, Las Vegas, Nevada
• How to Watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento, ESPN+
• Listen: Sirius XM FC (Channel 157)

• Sunday, September 5
• 7:00 p.m. PT kickoff
• Cashman Field, Las Vegas, Nevada
• How to Watch: KQCA My58, Estrella TV Sacramento, ESPN+
• Listen: Sirius XM FC (Channel 157)

The Latest on the Team

The Latest on the Team

Sacramento’s Duke Lacroix thrived in a shift to an attacking role in Wednesday’s draw, working well to create chances for Republic FC’s offense as a part of the midfield unit. For the match, Lacroix tallied two shots and scored his first goal with Republic FC, which was also his first goal since July of 2019.  

Emil Cuello continued to show excellence in his first start with the team, meshing well with Jaime Villarreal and Mario Penagos in Republic FC’s midfield.

Wednesday’s contest in Los Angeles marked the seventh straight road matchup in which the club has claimed points. A win or tie on Sunday would extend that streak to eight, passing the 2015 squad that also took seven straight road matches in USL play, to mark a new club record.

Sacramento’s Duke Lacroix thrived in a shift to an attacking role in Wednesday’s draw, working well to create chances for Republic FC’s offense as a part of the midfield unit. For the match, Lacroix tallied two shots and scored his first goal with Republic FC, which was also his first goal since July of 2019.  

Emil Cuello continued to show excellence in his first start with the team, meshing well with Jaime Villarreal and Mario Penagos in Republic FC’s midfield.

Wednesday’s contest in Los Angeles marked the seventh straight road matchup in which the club has claimed points. A win or tie on Sunday would extend that streak to eight, passing the 2015 squad that also took seven straight road matches in USL play, to mark a new club record.

How About Our Opponents?

How About Our Opponents?

Las Vegas enters Sunday’s match on a tough streak. The Nevadan club has lost five in a row, three of which have been decided by one score or less. They’ve struggled to keep their opponents out of the net during that stretch, conceding multiple scores in each of their last six contests dating to July 27th.

Despite the club’s defensive struggles, Las Vegas has been an exceptionally accurate passing team this season. Led by Frank Daroma and Daniel Crisostomo, who both hold clips close to 90%, Lights FC has completed over 81% of their passes in 2021- good for tenth in the league. Goalkeeper Alex Rando has also been a bright spot for Las Vegas, entering Sunday’s contest ranked second in USL in saves with 72.

Las Vegas enters Sunday’s match on a tough streak. The Nevadan club has lost five in a row, three of which have been decided by one score or less. They’ve struggled to keep their opponents out of the net during that stretch, conceding multiple scores in each of their last six contests dating to July 27th.

Despite the club’s defensive struggles, Las Vegas has been an exceptionally accurate passing team this season. Led by Frank Daroma and Daniel Crisostomo, who both hold clips close to 90%, Lights FC has completed over 81% of their passes in 2021- good for tenth in the league. Goalkeeper Alex Rando has also been a bright spot for Las Vegas, entering Sunday’s contest ranked second in USL in saves with 72.

Head to Head

Head to Head

Entering the eighth all-time meeting between Sacramento and Las Vegas, Republic FC holds the head to head advantage with four wins, one loss, and two draws. Sacramento has taken three points each time they’ve matched up with Lights FC this season, most recently in a 2-1 comeback win on August 14th at Heart Health Park.

Entering the eighth all-time meeting between Sacramento and Las Vegas, Republic FC holds the head to head advantage with four wins, one loss, and two draws. Sacramento has taken three points each time they’ve matched up with Lights FC this season, most recently in a 2-1 comeback win on August 14th at Heart Health Park.

The Indomitable Club is on the road for another division matchup against a Southern California side, this time facing a team they’ve had much success against in LA Galaxy II. History may be on SRFC’s side, but Republic FC’s focus is on Wednesday night’s showdown at Dignity Health Sports Park in the pursuit of three more points towards the playoffs.

The Indomitable Club is on the road for another division matchup against a Southern California side, this time facing a team they’ve had much success against in LA Galaxy II. History may be on SRFC’s side, but Republic FC’s focus is on Wednesday night’s showdown at Dignity Health Sports Park in the pursuit of three more points towards the playoffs.

Republic FC Head Coach Mark Briggs

Republic FC Head Coach Mark Briggs

On a quick turnaround ahead of the second meeting with LA Galaxy II…“It’s just about recovery and getting the players as fresh as we can with a 48-hour turnaround. From a training standpoint, it's just about getting them fresh, getting the legs back, getting the energy back and getting them refocused.”

On a quick turnaround ahead of the second meeting with LA Galaxy II…“It’s just about recovery and getting the players as fresh as we can with a 48-hour turnaround. From a training standpoint, it’s just about getting them fresh, getting the legs back, getting the energy back and getting them refocused.”

On the versatility of the roster after putting out a different XI every game of the unbeaten run…

“It gives opportunity for some of the younger players. You saw Amjot Narang come onto the field on Saturday night, he’s another Academy product. We’ve got Mario doing well. We’ll have to look at it again tomorrow and give other players opportunities based on the scenarios that we’re facing. I trust every player in the squad and it’s all about giving opportunities.”

On the spark subs are creating for the team…

“Football is about opportunities and taking those opportunities. I was really happy with Amjot to come in on his professional debut. He affected the game, he played without fear and he wanted to get on the ball. It showed what a great job we're doing in our academy being able to introduce these younger players to professional minutes. That’s what we’re looking for. We’re looking to implement the younger players and get points on the board.”

On the versatility of the roster after putting out a different XI every game of the unbeaten run…

“It gives opportunity for some of the younger players. You saw Amjot Narang come onto the field on Saturday night, he’s another Academy product. We’ve got Mario doing well. We’ll have to look at it again tomorrow and give other players opportunities based on the scenarios that we’re facing. I trust every player in the squad and it’s all about giving opportunities.”

On the spark subs are creating for the team…

“Football is about opportunities and taking those opportunities. I was really happy with Amjot to come in on his professional debut. He affected the game, he played without fear and he wanted to get on the ball. It showed what a great job we’re doing in our academy being able to introduce these younger players to professional minutes. That’s what we’re looking for. We’re looking to implement the younger players and get points on the board.”

On Emil Cuello’s club debut…

“He gave us a spark with his shots. I think he showed his quality on the ball, and we’re looking for that quality and composure in the final third, which is why we brought him here. I think he’ll go from strength to strength. He’s a very good footballer. There’s a lot of quality in his left foot. He’s going to bring something to the table, and hopefully he can continue to add the spark he did on Saturday night.”

On Emil Cuello’s club debut…

“He gave us a spark with his shots. I think he showed his quality on the ball, and we’re looking for that quality and composure in the final third, which is why we brought him here. I think he’ll go from strength to strength. He’s a very good footballer. There’s a lot of quality in his left foot. He’s going to bring something to the table, and hopefully he can continue to add the spark he did on Saturday night.”

Republic FC Amjot Narang

Republic FC Amjot Narang

On his professional debut…

“It was a huge moment that really attested to all the work only I’ve put in, but that the club, my family, my friends, teammates and coaches have put in to help me develop as a player.”

On six Academy-developed players appearing for Republic FC…

“It speaks to the club’s investment into the youth. It shows that not only is the club willing to play the youth, but we’re able to produce players. It’s great for the club, the players and the community as a whole.”

On his professional debut…

“It was a huge moment that really attested to all the work only I’ve put in, but that the club, my family, my friends, teammates and coaches have put in to help me develop as a player.”

On six Academy-developed players appearing for Republic FC…

“It speaks to the club’s investment into the youth. It shows that not only is the club willing to play the youth, but we’re able to produce players. It’s great for the club, the players and the community as a whole.”

Republic FC Dan Casey

Republic FC Dan Casey

On confidence in the defensive unit  …

“We know how we can play when we’re at it, we just need to make sure we’re at it from the start. We just need to start fast and go from there.”

On the locker room feeling around the club’s historical success against LA Galaxy II…

“I don’t think anyone looks into whatever happened in the past. We just need to look into the next game now and go from there.”

On confidence in the defensive unit  …

“We know how we can play when we’re at it, we just need to make sure we’re at it from the start. We just need to start fast and go from there.”

On the locker room feeling around the club’s historical success against LA Galaxy II…

“I don’t think anyone looks into whatever happened in the past. We just need to look into the next game now and go from there.”