Match Recaps

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (July 14, 2018) — Villyan Bijev headed home a first-half free kick to see Sacramento Republic FC defeat Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC 1-0 at Weidner Field on Saturday night. 

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (July 14, 2018) — Villyan Bijev headed home a first-half free kick to see Sacramento Republic FC defeat Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC 1-0 at Weidner Field on Saturday night. 

Before either team had really settled into the game, central referee Joe Wykowsk was forced to suspend the match in the eighth minute due to the presence of lightning.

The match resumed an hour later and Republic FC was the first to threaten with an excellent chance in the 28th minute. Emrah Klimenta, making his first start for the club in 2018, sent a driven ball into the box across the face of goal, but Christian Eissele was unable to properly connect with it and head it on target.

Switchbacks FC had their best chance of the half on a three-on-one fast break in the 32nd minute. Miscommunication between Adam Moffat and Mitchell Taintor turned the ball over to AJ Ajeakwa and left Taintor isolated against three attackers. Ajeakwa drew Taintor’s mark and laid the ball off to Martin Maybin who was open at the top of the box, but the forward fired his shot well over the bar when he had just Josh Cohen to beat.

Bijev then put Republic FC ahead in the 37th minute, heading home a perfectly placed cross from Jaime Villarreal’s free kick after Shannon Gomez was fouled on the left flank.

The goal was Bijev’s third of the season and the former Liverpool FC player could have easily had a hat trick before the two teams entered halftime.

Just two minutes after his goal, Bijev received a long ball on the left wing and dribbled past two Colorado Springs players into the box before firing a shot on goal that was blocked just in front of the goal line by a Switchbacks FC defender. With seconds to play in the half, Gomez found Bijev unmarked at the top of the box, but the midfielder’s left-footed shot went inches wide of Steward Ceus’ right post.

Bijev had another opportunity in the 64th minute after receiving a pass from Cameron Iwasa in the box, beating his defender and firing a shot at the near post, but Ceus’ diving save kept Sacramento’s lead at one goal.

Two minutes later, Bijev maneuvered into the box and laid a square ball to an onrushing Iwasa, but the Sacramento native was only able to skiff the ball over the crossbar after two defenders tackled him on the play.

Bijev and Iwasa linked up again in the 76th minute, with the former collecting a ball on the left wing and sending a cross in. Iwasa connected with the pass, but his header was off target.

Cohen made a key save just minutes later to keep Republic FC’s lead intact after coming off his line to block an open shot on goal from Ajeakwa. The keeper was called into action once more in the seventh and final minute of stoppage time, making a low, diving save on a Nicholas Amoako effort to preserve Sacramento’s second straight win on the road.

Republic FC return home next week to face Oklahoma City Energy on Saturday, July 21, at Papa Murphy’s Park. Tickets to the match are available via Ticketmaster.com.

Before either team had really settled into the game, central referee Joe Wykowsk was forced to suspend the match in the eighth minute due to the presence of lightning.

The match resumed an hour later and Republic FC was the first to threaten with an excellent chance in the 28th minute. Emrah Klimenta, making his first start for the club in 2018, sent a driven ball into the box across the face of goal, but Christian Eissele was unable to properly connect with it and head it on target.

Switchbacks FC had their best chance of the half on a three-on-one fast break in the 32nd minute. Miscommunication between Adam Moffat and Mitchell Taintor turned the ball over to AJ Ajeakwa and left Taintor isolated against three attackers. Ajeakwa drew Taintor’s mark and laid the ball off to Martin Maybin who was open at the top of the box, but the forward fired his shot well over the bar when he had just Josh Cohen to beat.

Bijev then put Republic FC ahead in the 37th minute, heading home a perfectly placed cross from Jaime Villarreal’s free kick after Shannon Gomez was fouled on the left flank.

The goal was Bijev’s third of the season and the former Liverpool FC player could have easily had a hat trick before the two teams entered halftime.

Just two minutes after his goal, Bijev received a long ball on the left wing and dribbled past two Colorado Springs players into the box before firing a shot on goal that was blocked just in front of the goal line by a Switchbacks FC defender. With seconds to play in the half, Gomez found Bijev unmarked at the top of the box, but the midfielder’s left-footed shot went inches wide of Steward Ceus’ right post.

Bijev had another opportunity in the 64th minute after receiving a pass from Cameron Iwasa in the box, beating his defender and firing a shot at the near post, but Ceus’ diving save kept Sacramento’s lead at one goal.

Two minutes later, Bijev maneuvered into the box and laid a square ball to an onrushing Iwasa, but the Sacramento native was only able to skiff the ball over the crossbar after two defenders tackled him on the play.

Bijev and Iwasa linked up again in the 76th minute, with the former collecting a ball on the left wing and sending a cross in. Iwasa connected with the pass, but his header was off target.

Cohen made a key save just minutes later to keep Republic FC’s lead intact after coming off his line to block an open shot on goal from Ajeakwa. The keeper was called into action once more in the seventh and final minute of stoppage time, making a low, diving save on a Nicholas Amoako effort to preserve Sacramento’s second straight win on the road.

Republic FC return home next week to face Oklahoma City Energy on Saturday, July 21, at Papa Murphy’s Park. Tickets to the match are available via Ticketmaster.com.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC 0:1 Sacramento Republic FC
USL Match
Weidner Park – Colorado Springs, CO
July 14, 2018
Attendance: 3,808
 

Scoring Summary: SAC – Villyan Bijev (Jaime Villarreal) 37.

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Villyan Bijev (caution) 35, Cole Seiler (caution) 85, Emrah Klimenta (caution) 90+6; COS – Kip Colvey (caution) 58, Tobenna Uzo (caution) 88.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Emrah Klimenta, Mitchell Taintor (Jeremy Hall 61), Justin Schmidt, Shannon Gomez, Adam Moffat, Jaime Villarreal, Luis Espino (Cole Seiler 80), Cameron Iwasa, Villyan Bijev, Christian Eissele (Wilson Kneeshaw 70).

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Elliott Hord, Josh Turnley, Quincy Butler.

Stats: Shots: 15, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 2, Fouls: 9, Corner Kicks: 10, Offside: 1.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC –  Steward Ceus, Jordan Burt, Jamal Jack, Kip Colvey, Josh Suggs, Shane Malcolm (Saeed Robinson 54), Jordan Schweitzer, Sam Hamilton, AJ Ajeakwa, Karsten Hanlin (Nicholas Amoako 62), Martin Maybin (Tobenna Uzo 74).

Subs Not Used: Uriel Macias, Moise Pouaty, Luke Vercollone, Kim Tae-Seong.

Stats: Shots: 6, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 1, Fouls: 9, Corner Kicks: 3, Offside: 5.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC 0:1 Sacramento Republic FC
USL Match
Weidner Park – Colorado Springs, CO
July 14, 2018
Attendance: 3,808
 

Scoring Summary: SAC – Villyan Bijev (Jaime Villarreal) 37.

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Villyan Bijev (caution) 35, Cole Seiler (caution) 85, Emrah Klimenta (caution) 90+6; COS – Kip Colvey (caution) 58, Tobenna Uzo (caution) 88.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Emrah Klimenta, Mitchell Taintor (Jeremy Hall 61), Justin Schmidt, Shannon Gomez, Adam Moffat, Jaime Villarreal, Luis Espino (Cole Seiler 80), Cameron Iwasa, Villyan Bijev, Christian Eissele (Wilson Kneeshaw 70).

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Elliott Hord, Josh Turnley, Quincy Butler.

Stats: Shots: 15, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 2, Fouls: 9, Corner Kicks: 10, Offside: 1.

Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC –  Steward Ceus, Jordan Burt, Jamal Jack, Kip Colvey, Josh Suggs, Shane Malcolm (Saeed Robinson 54), Jordan Schweitzer, Sam Hamilton, AJ Ajeakwa, Karsten Hanlin (Nicholas Amoako 62), Martin Maybin (Tobenna Uzo 74).

Subs Not Used: Uriel Macias, Moise Pouaty, Luke Vercollone, Kim Tae-Seong.

Stats: Shots: 6, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 1, Fouls: 9, Corner Kicks: 3, Offside: 5.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 7, 2018) — Sacramento Republic FC saw out a scoreless draw with Western Conference leaders Real Monarchs SLC in front of a sell-out crowd at Papa Murphy’s Park on Saturday night.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 7, 2018) — Sacramento Republic FC saw out a scoreless draw with Western Conference leaders Real Monarchs SLC in front of a sell-out crowd at Papa Murphy’s Park on Saturday night.

Both teams had an opportunity to take the lead early on, but each were denied by the woodwork. First, it was James Moberg for the visitors who struck the post in the ninth minute before Cameron Iwasa followed suit with a header that hit the bar three minutes later.

Wilson Kneeshaw earned a penalty kick in the 52nd minute after he was taken down on by Monarchs keeper Jake Leeker. Iwasa just inside the box, who was celebrating his 25th birthday on the night, stepped up to take the kick and placed it to Leeker’s right hand side, but his shot struck the post for a second time.

Luis Espino also had a scoring chance on a breakaway with 10 minutes to go, but his shot skimmed just wide of the post.

Emrah Klimenta made his official return to the pitch for Republic FC when he came on as a substitute for Elliott Hord in the 77th minute, but was unable to place a free kick on target a few minutes after his introduction.

The match ended in a scoreless draw as Republic FC earn a point that sees them now place sixth in the Western Conference.

“Points dropped,” said Republic FC Head Coach Simon Elliott on the match. “Honestly, I thought we should have walked away with four points from our two matches with them and instead they have four and we have one.”

Both teams had an opportunity to take the lead early on, but each were denied by the woodwork. First, it was James Moberg for the visitors who struck the post in the ninth minute before Cameron Iwasa followed suit with a header that hit the bar three minutes later.

Wilson Kneeshaw earned a penalty kick in the 52nd minute after he was taken down on by Monarchs keeper Jake Leeker. Iwasa just inside the box, who was celebrating his 25th birthday on the night, stepped up to take the kick and placed it to Leeker’s right hand side, but his shot struck the post for a second time.

Luis Espino also had a scoring chance on a breakaway with 10 minutes to go, but his shot skimmed just wide of the post.

Emrah Klimenta made his official return to the pitch for Republic FC when he came on as a substitute for Elliott Hord in the 77th minute, but was unable to place a free kick on target a few minutes after his introduction.

The match ended in a scoreless draw as Republic FC earn a point that sees them now place sixth in the Western Conference.

“Points dropped,” said Republic FC Head Coach Simon Elliott on the match. “Honestly, I thought we should have walked away with four points from our two matches with them and instead they have four and we have one.”

Sacramento Republic FC 0:0 Real Monarchs SLC
USL Match
Papa Murphy’s Park – Sacramento, CA
July 7, 2018
Attendance: 11,569 (Sell-Out)

Scoring Summary: none.

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Adam Moffat (caution) 50; SLC – Sebastian Velasquez (caution) 66, James Moberg (caution) 73, Michael Gallagher (caution) 78

Real Monarchs SLC – Jacob Leeker, James Moberg, Andrew Brody, Rhys Williams (Michael Gallagher 58), Kalen Ryden, Charles Adams (Jack Blake 69), Justin Portillo, Maikel Chang, Mastanabal Kacher (Joshua Heard 84), Sebastian Velazquez, Chandler Hoffman.

Subs Not Used: Jacob Jackson, Juan Mare, Konrad Plewa, Jack Blake.

Stats: Shots: 14, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 6, Fouls: 14, Corner Kicks: 1, Offside: 1.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Justin Schmidt, Shannon Gomez, Mitchell Taintor, Elliott Hord (Emrah Klimenta 77), Adam Moffat, Jeremy Hall, Wilson Kneeshaw (Villyan Bijev 61), Jure Matjasic, Luis Espino, Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Josh Turnley, Christian Eissele, Cole Seiler, Jaime Villarreal.

Stats: Shots: 16, Shots on Goal: 6, Saves: 2, Fouls: 14, Corner Kicks: 9, Offside: 4.

Sacramento Republic FC 0:0 Real Monarchs SLC
USL Match
Papa Murphy’s Park – Sacramento, CA
July 7, 2018
Attendance: 11,569 (Sell-Out)

Scoring Summary: none.

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Adam Moffat (caution) 50; SLC – Sebastian Velasquez (caution) 66, James Moberg (caution) 73, Michael Gallagher (caution) 78

Real Monarchs SLC – Jacob Leeker, James Moberg, Andrew Brody, Rhys Williams (Michael Gallagher 58), Kalen Ryden, Charles Adams (Jack Blake 69), Justin Portillo, Maikel Chang, Mastanabal Kacher (Joshua Heard 84), Sebastian Velazquez, Chandler Hoffman.

Subs Not Used: Jacob Jackson, Juan Mare, Konrad Plewa, Jack Blake.

Stats: Shots: 14, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 6, Fouls: 14, Corner Kicks: 1, Offside: 1.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Justin Schmidt, Shannon Gomez, Mitchell Taintor, Elliott Hord (Emrah Klimenta 77), Adam Moffat, Jeremy Hall, Wilson Kneeshaw (Villyan Bijev 61), Jure Matjasic, Luis Espino, Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Josh Turnley, Christian Eissele, Cole Seiler, Jaime Villarreal.

Stats: Shots: 16, Shots on Goal: 6, Saves: 2, Fouls: 14, Corner Kicks: 9, Offside: 4.

FRESNO, Calif. (June 30, 2018) — Sacramento Republic FC drop points on the road, falling 2-0 to Fresno FC behind a first-half goal from Juan Pablo Caffa and Franck Tayou’s late 60-yard lob.

FRESNO, Calif. (June 30, 2018) — Sacramento Republic FC drop points on the road, falling 2-0 to Fresno FC behind a first-half goal from Juan Pablo Caffa and Franck Tayou’s late 60-yard lob.

The Foxes took the 1-0 lead in the 38th minute. Rony Argueta collected the ball just outside the box and cheekily slid a back-heeled through ball past the Republic FC defense and into the wake of Caffa. With Josh Cohen racing off his line, Caffa took his first touch laterally to beat the diving keeper as he turned towards goal and placed his shot into the back of the net.

The visitors nearly found the equalizer in the 53rd minute when Villyan Bijev made a timely tackle to intercept the ball and make a run toward the Fresno goal. Bijev took one touch before firing a shot on goal, but CJ Cochran got down low to block the shot away from danger. Jure Matjasic then attempted a difficult side volley on an Elliott Hord cross into the box after excellent build up play in the 60th minute, but the shot sailed over the crossbar.

Fresno FC put the game away in the 89th minute when Franck Tayou pounced on a loose ball in his own end, picked his head up and saw Cohen out of his box. The second-half substitute struck an inch-perfect 60-plus yard strike from behind the half field line that flew over Cohen’s head and bounced into the back of the net..

Republic FC return home next Saturday, July 7, as they face the top club in the West, Real Monarchs SLC, at Papa Murphy’s Park. The match is first of five #5YearsOfGlory Celebration matches. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. and the match will be broadcast live on KQCA My 58, Estrella TV, Sports 1140 KHTK and ESPN+. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.

The Foxes took the 1-0 lead in the 38th minute. Rony Argueta collected the ball just outside the box and cheekily slid a back-heeled through ball past the Republic FC defense and into the wake of Caffa. With Josh Cohen racing off his line, Caffa took his first touch laterally to beat the diving keeper as he turned towards goal and placed his shot into the back of the net.

The visitors nearly found the equalizer in the 53rd minute when Villyan Bijev made a timely tackle to intercept the ball and make a run toward the Fresno goal. Bijev took one touch before firing a shot on goal, but CJ Cochran got down low to block the shot away from danger. Jure Matjasic then attempted a difficult side volley on an Elliott Hord cross into the box after excellent build up play in the 60th minute, but the shot sailed over the crossbar.

Fresno FC put the game away in the 89th minute when Franck Tayou pounced on a loose ball in his own end, picked his head up and saw Cohen out of his box. The second-half substitute struck an inch-perfect 60-plus yard strike from behind the half field line that flew over Cohen’s head and bounced into the back of the net..

Republic FC return home next Saturday, July 7, as they face the top club in the West, Real Monarchs SLC, at Papa Murphy’s Park. The match is first of five #5YearsOfGlory Celebration matches. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. and the match will be broadcast live on KQCA My 58, Estrella TV, Sports 1140 KHTK and ESPN+. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.

Fresno FC 2:0 Sacramento Republic FC
USL Match
Chukchansi Park – Fresno, CA
June 30, 2018
Attendance: 4,571

Scoring Summary: FRS – Juan Pablo Caffa (Rony Argueta) 38, Franck Tayou 90+

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Shannon Gomez (caution) 31, Jeremy Hall (caution) 87; FRS – Alex Cooper (caution) 44, Mickey Daly (caution) 45, Pedro Ribeiro (caution) 87, Zachary Ellis-Hayden (caution) 90, Rony Argueta (caution) 90+, Franck Tayou (caution) 90+

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Carlos Rodriguez (Adam Moffat 80), Mitchell Taintor, Josh Turnley, Elliott Hord (Luis Espino 70), Jaime Villarreal, Jeremy Hall, Villyan Bijev (Wilson Kneeshaw 70), Cameron Iwasa, Jure Matjasic.

Subs Not Used: Rafa Diaz, Justin Schmidt, Cole Seiler, Christian Eissele.

Stats: Shots: 12, Shots on Goal: 5, Saves: 6, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 4, Offside: 2.

Fresno FC – C.J. Cochran, Mickey Daly, Alex Cooper, Ramon Martin Del Campo, Zachary Ellis-Hayden, Danny Barrera, Pedro Ribeiro, Noah Verhoeven (Jose Cuevas 72), Rony Argueta, Juan Pablo Caffa (Agustin Cazarez 81), Christian Chaney (Franck Tayou 72).

Subs Not Used: Sam Howard, Bradley Kamdem Fewo, Sam Strong, Renato Bustamante.

Stats: Shots: 20, Shots on Goal: 8, Saves: 5, Fouls: 19, Corner Kicks: 3, Offside: 2.

Fresno FC 2:0 Sacramento Republic FC
USL Match
Chukchansi Park – Fresno, CA
June 30, 2018
Attendance: 4,571

Scoring Summary: FRS – Juan Pablo Caffa (Rony Argueta) 38, Franck Tayou 90+

Misconduct Summary: SAC – Shannon Gomez (caution) 31, Jeremy Hall (caution) 87; FRS – Alex Cooper (caution) 44, Mickey Daly (caution) 45, Pedro Ribeiro (caution) 87, Zachary Ellis-Hayden (caution) 90, Rony Argueta (caution) 90+, Franck Tayou (caution) 90+

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Carlos Rodriguez (Adam Moffat 80), Mitchell Taintor, Josh Turnley, Elliott Hord (Luis Espino 70), Jaime Villarreal, Jeremy Hall, Villyan Bijev (Wilson Kneeshaw 70), Cameron Iwasa, Jure Matjasic.

Subs Not Used: Rafa Diaz, Justin Schmidt, Cole Seiler, Christian Eissele.

Stats: Shots: 12, Shots on Goal: 5, Saves: 6, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 4, Offside: 2.

Fresno FC – C.J. Cochran, Mickey Daly, Alex Cooper, Ramon Martin Del Campo, Zachary Ellis-Hayden, Danny Barrera, Pedro Ribeiro, Noah Verhoeven (Jose Cuevas 72), Rony Argueta, Juan Pablo Caffa (Agustin Cazarez 81), Christian Chaney (Franck Tayou 72).

Subs Not Used: Sam Howard, Bradley Kamdem Fewo, Sam Strong, Renato Bustamante.

Stats: Shots: 20, Shots on Goal: 8, Saves: 5, Fouls: 19, Corner Kicks: 3, Offside: 2.

Sacramento Republic FC conceded a late equalizer to draw 2-2 with Saint Louis FC at Papa Murphy’s Park on Saturday night. Cameron Iwasa’s brace put him within a goal of tying the all-time club scoring record in league play, but it was not enough as two late goals from the visitors limited Republic FC to taking just a point from the match.

Sacramento Republic FC conceded a late equalizer to draw 2-2 with Saint Louis FC at Papa Murphy’s Park on Saturday night. Cameron Iwasa’s brace put him within a goal of tying the all-time club scoring record in league play, but it was not enough as two late goals from the visitors limited Republic FC to taking just a point from the match.

After two near misses in the first 20 minutes, Cameron Iwasa produced the first goal in the 28th minute off a counterattack. The forward charged at the scrambling Saint Louis backline, beating defender Sean Reynolds cleanly before placing a perfectly placed left-footed shot past Tomas Gomez who could only watch as the ball went past him for the opening goal.

Iwasa added his second just minutes into the second half. In the 47th minute, Jaime Villarreal threaded a through ball that split the defense set Iwasa clear on goal. The forward sent another left-footed strike into the corner of the net to beat Gomez again and double his goal total. The two strikes add to Iwasa’s team-leading tally, giving him seven on the season and 19 all-time in USL for Republic FC. Iwasa trails only Rodrigo Lopez by one goal, who scored 20 USL goals for Sacramento. Iwasa nearly added a third just moments after his second strike, but was denied by the far post.

Saint Louis began their comeback in the 72nd minute. After an initial headed attempt on goal hit the crossbar, keeper Josh Cohen deflected a second shot, but Albert Dikwa was able to finish on the third chance. Dikwa’s shot from inside the box ricocheted off the Republic defense and into the back of the net. Midfielder Wal Fall nearly headed the equalizer home a few minutes after Dikwa, but Fall was not able to beat Cohen.

Fall would ultimately prove influential, grabbing the 90th-minute equalizer that spoiled Republic FC’s night and rescued a point for the visitors. After a foul was called on the edge of the Sacramento 18-yard box, Fall bent the free kick perfectly into the upper corner. Although Republic FC had a couple more chances in stoppage time, the match would end in a 2-2 draw.

“We dropped off,” said Republic FC Head Coach Simon Elliott of his team’s second-half display. “We needed to manage the game and keep the ball.”

Republic FC will continue their 2018 USL schedule when they travel to Fresno on Saturday, June 30.  Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Chukchansi Park and the match will be broadcast on KQCA My 58, Estrella TV, and ESPN+.

After two near misses in the first 20 minutes, Cameron Iwasa produced the first goal in the 28th minute off a counterattack. The forward charged at the scrambling Saint Louis backline, beating defender Sean Reynolds cleanly before placing a perfectly placed left-footed shot past Tomas Gomez who could only watch as the ball went past him for the opening goal.

Iwasa added his second just minutes into the second half. In the 47th minute, Jaime Villarreal threaded a through ball that split the defense set Iwasa clear on goal. The forward sent another left-footed strike into the corner of the net to beat Gomez again and double his goal total. The two strikes add to Iwasa’s team-leading tally, giving him seven on the season and 19 all-time in USL for Republic FC. Iwasa trails only Rodrigo Lopez by one goal, who scored 20 USL goals for Sacramento. Iwasa nearly added a third just moments after his second strike, but was denied by the far post.

Saint Louis began their comeback in the 72nd minute. After an initial headed attempt on goal hit the crossbar, keeper Josh Cohen deflected a second shot, but Albert Dikwa was able to finish on the third chance. Dikwa’s shot from inside the box ricocheted off the Republic defense and into the back of the net. Midfielder Wal Fall nearly headed the equalizer home a few minutes after Dikwa, but Fall was not able to beat Cohen.

Fall would ultimately prove influential, grabbing the 90th-minute equalizer that spoiled Republic FC’s night and rescued a point for the visitors. After a foul was called on the edge of the Sacramento 18-yard box, Fall bent the free kick perfectly into the upper corner. Although Republic FC had a couple more chances in stoppage time, the match would end in a 2-2 draw.

“We dropped off,” said Republic FC Head Coach Simon Elliott of his team’s second-half display. “We needed to manage the game and keep the ball.”

Republic FC will continue their 2018 USL schedule when they travel to Fresno on Saturday, June 30.  Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Chukchansi Park and the match will be broadcast on KQCA My 58, Estrella TV, and ESPN+.

Sacramento Republic FC 2:2 Saint Louis FC
USL Match
Papa Murphy’s Park – Sacramento, CA
June 23, 2018 – Attendance: 10,570

Scoring Summary: Cameron Iwasa 28, Cameron Iwasa (Jaime Villarreal) 47; STL – Albert Dikwa 72, Wal Fall 90

Misconduct Summary: SRFC – Luis Espino (caution) 41, Jeremy Hall (caution) 84; STL – Kyle Greig (caution) 50

Saint Louis FC – Tomas Gomez, Phanuel Kavita, Sean Reynolds, Sam Fink, Aedan Stanley, Joey Calistri (Seth Rudolph 60), Lewis Hinton, Wal Fall, Kyle Culbertson (Kadeem Dacres 59), Albert Dikwa (Austin Ledbetter 90), Kyle Greig.

Subs Not Used: Jake Fenlason, Austin Martz.

Stats: Shots: 13, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 3, Fouls: 10, Corner Kicks: 8, Offside: 2.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Josh Turnley (Justin Schmidt 78), Carlos Rodriguez, Mitchell Taintor, Shannon Gomez, Villyan Bijev (Adam Moffat 72), Jeremy Hall, Jaime Villarreal, Jure Matjasic (Wilson Kneeshaw 60), Luis Espino, Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Hayden Partain, Christian Eissele, Elliott Hord.

Stats: Shots: 16, Shots on Goal: 5, Saves: 1, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 4, Offside: 0.

Sacramento Republic FC 2:2 Saint Louis FC
USL Match
Papa Murphy’s Park – Sacramento, CA
June 23, 2018 – Attendance: 10,570

Scoring Summary: Cameron Iwasa 28, Cameron Iwasa (Jaime Villarreal) 47; STL – Albert Dikwa 72, Wal Fall 90

Misconduct Summary: SRFC – Luis Espino (caution) 41, Jeremy Hall (caution) 84; STL – Kyle Greig (caution) 50

Saint Louis FC – Tomas Gomez, Phanuel Kavita, Sean Reynolds, Sam Fink, Aedan Stanley, Joey Calistri (Seth Rudolph 60), Lewis Hinton, Wal Fall, Kyle Culbertson (Kadeem Dacres 59), Albert Dikwa (Austin Ledbetter 90), Kyle Greig.

Subs Not Used: Jake Fenlason, Austin Martz.

Stats: Shots: 13, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 3, Fouls: 10, Corner Kicks: 8, Offside: 2.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Josh Turnley (Justin Schmidt 78), Carlos Rodriguez, Mitchell Taintor, Shannon Gomez, Villyan Bijev (Adam Moffat 72), Jeremy Hall, Jaime Villarreal, Jure Matjasic (Wilson Kneeshaw 60), Luis Espino, Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Hayden Partain, Christian Eissele, Elliott Hord.

Stats: Shots: 16, Shots on Goal: 5, Saves: 1, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 4, Offside: 0.

Sacramento Republic FC’s run in the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open came to an end in heartbreaking fashion after falling 3-2 to LAFC at Banc of California Stadium. After Elliott Hord and Villyan Bijev had put Republic FC ahead twice, LAFC came back both times and scored the eventual winner in the 89th minute.

Sacramento Republic FC’s run in the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open came to an end in heartbreaking fashion after falling 3-2 to LAFC at Banc of California Stadium. After Elliott Hord and Villyan Bijev had put Republic FC ahead twice, LAFC came back both times and scored the eventual winner in the 89th minute.

Almost immediately from kickoff, the home side began peppering Josh Cohen’s goal with shots from distance.

In the 8th minute, LAFC nearly opened the scoring when Lee Nguyen fired a curling effort that bounced off the crossbar. Benny Feilhaber had a go himself minutes later, but Cohen was able to secure the MLS veteran’s shot.

Almost immediately from kickoff, the home side began peppering Josh Cohen’s goal with shots from distance.

In the 8th minute, LAFC nearly opened the scoring when Lee Nguyen fired a curling effort that bounced off the crossbar. Benny Feilhaber had a go himself minutes later, but Cohen was able to secure the MLS veteran’s shot.

Cameron Iwasa almost put his side ahead in the 24th minute, but his shot across goal flicked off the far post. The ball was looped back in across for Bijev who outmuscled his defender to fire a shot that went just wide of Tyler Miller’s near post.

In the 32nd minute, Cohen made the first of several big saves throughout the night, keeping Republic FC level with their opponents after lunging across goal to make a diving save on a Feilhaber free kick.

Elliott Hord then quieted the raucous home crowd in the 35th minute when he struck home a rebound to put Sacramento ahead 1-0. Bijev flicked a ball through to Jure Matjasic on a Republic FC counter attack and the Slovenian drove into the LAFC box and fired a shot that Miller saved at his near post. The rebound fell across goal to an onrushing Hord who calmly struck it into the untended net.

Republic FC’s lead would have been short lived if not for a heroic save from Cohen in the 44th minute. LAFC earned a penalty kick with two minutes left in the half after an attacker was brought down in the box. Feilhaber stepped up to take the kick, but Cohen read the LAFC captain’s shot and dove correctly to make the save without giving up a rebound.

Feilhaber eventually redeemed himself for his missed penalty kick when he fired home in the 58th minute to put things level at 1-1.

The advantage would only last seconds, however. Republic FC responded two minutes later after Matjasic and Bijev combined beautifully around the box, with the latter finding space to fire a shot past Miller and Sacramento up 2-1 in the 60th minute.

The match continued its breakneck pace with Diego Rossi equalizing for LAFC in the 67th minute. The Uruguayan international found space down the left flank to go one-on-one with Cohen and slotted home his side’s second of the night.

Rossi thought he had scored the winner for LAFC in the 85th minute after beating his mark to fire a curled effort past Cohen that struck the far post and rolled across goal before going out past the end line.

LAFC found the winner late with a minute left in the match. Rossi stormed into the box past two Republic FC defenders before laying off a low ball across goal to an onrushing Latif Blessing who outmuscled Hord’s mark to tap in LAFC’s third and bring Sacramento’s Open Cup run to a heartbreaking end.

Republic FC will have little time to dwell on the loss, as they return to Papa Murphy’s Park this Saturday, June 23, to resume USL play against Saint Louis FC. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. and the match will be broadcast live on KQCA My58, Estrella TV and Sports 1140 KHTK.

Cameron Iwasa almost put his side ahead in the 24th minute, but his shot across goal flicked off the far post. The ball was looped back in across for Bijev who outmuscled his defender to fire a shot that went just wide of Tyler Miller’s near post.

In the 32nd minute, Cohen made the first of several big saves throughout the night, keeping Republic FC level with their opponents after lunging across goal to make a diving save on a Feilhaber free kick.

Elliott Hord then quieted the raucous home crowd in the 35th minute when he struck home a rebound to put Sacramento ahead 1-0. Bijev flicked a ball through to Jure Matjasic on a Republic FC counter attack and the Slovenian drove into the LAFC box and fired a shot that Miller saved at his near post. The rebound fell across goal to an onrushing Hord who calmly struck it into the untended net.

Republic FC’s lead would have been short lived if not for a heroic save from Cohen in the 44th minute. LAFC earned a penalty kick with two minutes left in the half after an attacker was brought down in the box. Feilhaber stepped up to take the kick, but Cohen read the LAFC captain’s shot and dove correctly to make the save without giving up a rebound.

Feilhaber eventually redeemed himself for his missed penalty kick when he fired home in the 58th minute to put things level at 1-1.

The advantage would only last seconds, however. Republic FC responded two minutes later after Matjasic and Bijev combined beautifully around the box, with the latter finding space to fire a shot past Miller and Sacramento up 2-1 in the 60th minute.

The match continued its breakneck pace with Diego Rossi equalizing for LAFC in the 67th minute. The Uruguayan international found space down the left flank to go one-on-one with Cohen and slotted home his side’s second of the night.

Rossi thought he had scored the winner for LAFC in the 85th minute after beating his mark to fire a curled effort past Cohen that struck the far post and rolled across goal before going out past the end line.

LAFC found the winner late with a minute left in the match. Rossi stormed into the box past two Republic FC defenders before laying off a low ball across goal to an onrushing Latif Blessing who outmuscled Hord’s mark to tap in LAFC’s third and bring Sacramento’s Open Cup run to a heartbreaking end.

Republic FC will have little time to dwell on the loss, as they return to Papa Murphy’s Park this Saturday, June 23, to resume USL play against Saint Louis FC. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. and the match will be broadcast live on KQCA My58, Estrella TV and Sports 1140 KHTK.

LAFC 3:2 Sacramento Republic FC
U.S. Open Cup Match
Banc of California Stadium – Los Angeles, CA
June 20, 2018 – Attendance: 8,750

Scoring Summary: SAC – Elliott Hord 35, Villyan Bijev (Jaime Villarreal) 60; LAFC – Benny Feilhaber 58, Diego Rossi 67, Latif Blessing 89.

Misconduct Summary:  SAC – Carlos Rodriguez (caution) 18, Shannon Gomez (caution) 45+1, Jure Matjasic (caution) 67.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Mitchell Taintor, Carlos Rodriguez (Wilson Kneeshaw 37, Justin Schmidt, Elliott Hord, Jeremy Hall, Adam Moffat (Jaime Villarreal 59) , Jure Matjasic, Villyan Bijev, Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Josh Turnley, Luis Espino, Hayden Partain, Christian Eissele.

Stats: Shots: 12, Shots on Goal: 6, Saves: 5, Fouls: 16, Corner Kicks: 2, Offside: 1.

Los Angeles FC – Tyler Miller, Steven Beitashour, Tristan Blackmon, Walker Zimmerman, Joao Moutinho, Benny Feilhaber, Eduard Atuesta, Aaron Kovar (Calum Mallace 70), Lee Nguyen, Diego Rossi, Latif Blessing.

Subs Not Used: Jordan Harvey, Mark-Anthony Kaye, Shaft Brewer, Charlie Lyon, Dejan Jakovic, Laurent Ciman.

Stats: Shots: 21, Shots on Goal: 8, Saves: 4, Fouls: 10, Corner Kicks: 8, Offside: 9.

LAFC 3:2 Sacramento Republic FC
U.S. Open Cup Match
Banc of California Stadium – Los Angeles, CA
June 20, 2018 – Attendance: 8,750

Scoring Summary: SAC – Elliott Hord 35, Villyan Bijev (Jaime Villarreal) 60; LAFC – Benny Feilhaber 58, Diego Rossi 67, Latif Blessing 89.

Misconduct Summary:  SAC – Carlos Rodriguez (caution) 18, Shannon Gomez (caution) 45+1, Jure Matjasic (caution) 67.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Mitchell Taintor, Carlos Rodriguez (Wilson Kneeshaw 37, Justin Schmidt, Elliott Hord, Jeremy Hall, Adam Moffat (Jaime Villarreal 59) , Jure Matjasic, Villyan Bijev, Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Josh Turnley, Luis Espino, Hayden Partain, Christian Eissele.

Stats: Shots: 12, Shots on Goal: 6, Saves: 5, Fouls: 16, Corner Kicks: 2, Offside: 1.

Los Angeles FC – Tyler Miller, Steven Beitashour, Tristan Blackmon, Walker Zimmerman, Joao Moutinho, Benny Feilhaber, Eduard Atuesta, Aaron Kovar (Calum Mallace 70), Lee Nguyen, Diego Rossi, Latif Blessing.

Subs Not Used: Jordan Harvey, Mark-Anthony Kaye, Shaft Brewer, Charlie Lyon, Dejan Jakovic, Laurent Ciman.

Stats: Shots: 21, Shots on Goal: 8, Saves: 4, Fouls: 10, Corner Kicks: 8, Offside: 9.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (June 16, 2018) — A strong defensive performance from San Antonio FC doomed Sacramento Republic FC to a 0-1 loss on the road on Saturday night. The visitors outshot their opponents 37-8, but Diego Restrepo’s heroics in goal denied Republic FC any points from their trip to Toyota Field.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas (June 16, 2018) — A strong defensive performance from San Antonio FC doomed Sacramento Republic FC to a 0-1 loss on the road on Saturday night. The visitors outshot their opponents 37-8, but Diego Restrepo’s heroics in goal denied Republic FC any points from their trip to Toyota Field.

Villyan Bijev had his side’s first chance at goal in the third minute with a low, driven shot at the near post that marked the first of several saves to come from Restrepo.

Villyan Bijev had his side’s first chance at goal in the third minute with a low, driven shot at the near post that marked the first of several saves to come from Restrepo.

Jaime Villarreal had another opportunity after Wilson Kneeshaw sent a low ball into the box from the right flank. The cross was cleared out to the top of the box into Villarreal’s path, and unmarked, the former LA Galaxy player attempted to curl a side-footed shot to the top corner of the goal, but sent his effort wide of the post.

Josh Cohen was called into action in the 31st minute when Omar Gordon took on Shannon Gomez on the right wing and beat the defender’s mark to fire a low, powerful shot at the near post that the keeper saved comfortably.

Jure Matjasic had Republic FC’s best chance to score in the first half when he volleyed a cross from Elliott Hord toward goal, but the home keeper got a hand on the shot to parry it clear.

Jaime Villarreal had another opportunity after Wilson Kneeshaw sent a low ball into the box from the right flank. The cross was cleared out to the top of the box into Villarreal’s path, and unmarked, the former LA Galaxy player attempted to curl a side-footed shot to the top corner of the goal, but sent his effort wide of the post.

Josh Cohen was called into action in the 31st minute when Omar Gordon took on Shannon Gomez on the right wing and beat the defender’s mark to fire a low, powerful shot at the near post that the keeper saved comfortably.

Jure Matjasic had Republic FC’s best chance to score in the first half when he volleyed a cross from Elliott Hord toward goal, but the home keeper got a hand on the shot to parry it clear.

San Antonio opened the scoring against the run of the play just minutes before half time. Ethan Bryant sent a deep ball upfield and over the Sacramento defense to put Cesar Elizando one-on-one with Cohen. The forward was clinical in front of goal, firing past the keeper to tally his first USL goal and give his side the lead in the 43rd minute.

Republic FC completely controlled the second half both in chances created and possession, but their barrage on goal—22 shots in this half alone—was repeatedly met by an impenetrable defensive mural led by Cyprian Hendrick. Time after time, the visitors would drive into the box, usually by way of Bijev and Gomez on the left wing, but every shot and attempt was either saved or cleared away by the home defense.

Sacramento was denied an equalizer in the 56th minute when Restrepo made a point-blank save on Matjasic’s shot from inside the box.

San Antonio opened the scoring against the run of the play just minutes before half time. Ethan Bryant sent a deep ball upfield and over the Sacramento defense to put Cesar Elizando one-on-one with Cohen. The forward was clinical in front of goal, firing past the keeper to tally his first USL goal and give his side the lead in the 43rd minute.

Republic FC completely controlled the second half both in chances created and possession, but their barrage on goal—22 shots in this half alone—was repeatedly met by an impenetrable defensive mural led by Cyprian Hendrick. Time after time, the visitors would drive into the box, usually by way of Bijev and Gomez on the left wing, but every shot and attempt was either saved or cleared away by the home defense.

Sacramento was denied an equalizer in the 56th minute when Restrepo made a point-blank save on Matjasic’s shot from inside the box.

The goalkeeper was the hero once again, making another point blank save in the 70th minute on an improvised shot from Cameron Iwasa following quick ball into the box from Adam Moffat.

The goalkeeper was the hero once again, making another point blank save in the 70th minute on an improvised shot from Cameron Iwasa following quick ball into the box from Adam Moffat.

Sacramento had another close opportunity minutes later when Gomez whipped a cross from the left wing to Iwasa at the far post, but the forward’s header hit the top of the bar.

In the 86th minute, Bijev fired a long-range effort from outside the 18-yard box, but was denied once more by Restrepo.

With a minute left in stoppage, Luis Espino received the ball at the top of the box following a corner kick and fired a curling shot on his first touch that was headed clear off the goal line by a San Antonio defender.

Republic FC finished the match with 37 shots and 23 chances created, but Restrepo’s nine saves—and the 13 shots his backline blocked—denied Sacramento the much sought-after goal.

Next up for Republic FC is a midweek visit to Major League Soccer’s LAFC to dispute the Round of 16 in the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The club will then return home on Saturday, June 23, to resume USL play against St. Louis FC.

Sacramento had another close opportunity minutes later when Gomez whipped a cross from the left wing to Iwasa at the far post, but the forward’s header hit the top of the bar.

In the 86th minute, Bijev fired a long-range effort from outside the 18-yard box, but was denied once more by Restrepo.

With a minute left in stoppage, Luis Espino received the ball at the top of the box following a corner kick and fired a curling shot on his first touch that was headed clear off the goal line by a San Antonio defender.

Republic FC finished the match with 37 shots and 23 chances created, but Restrepo’s nine saves—and the 13 shots his backline blocked—denied Sacramento the much sought-after goal.

Next up for Republic FC is a midweek visit to Major League Soccer’s LAFC to dispute the Round of 16 in the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The club will then return home on Saturday, June 23, to resume USL play against St. Louis FC.

San Antonio FC 1:0 Sacramento Republic FC
USL Match
Toyota Field – San Antonio, TX
June 16, 2018 – Attendance: 6,613

Scoring Summary: SA – Cesar Elizondo (Ethan Bryant) 43.

Misconduct Summary:  SAC – Shannon Gomez (caution) 28, Villyan Bijev (caution) 43, Jeremy Hall (caution) 60, Adam Moffat (caution) 90+3; SA – Jose Escalante (caution) 90+3.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Elliott Hord (Christian Eissele 80), Mitchell Taintor, Justin Schmidt, Shannon Gomez, Jaime Villarreal (Adam Moffat 69), Jeremy Hall, Jure Matjasic, Wilson Kneeshaw (Luis Espino 69), Villyan Bijev, Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Carlos Rodriguez, Hayden Partain.

Stats: Shots: 37, Shots on Goal: 9, Saves: 3, Fouls: 9, Corner Kicks: 20, Offside: 2.

San Antonio FC – Diego Restrepo, Cyprian Hendrick, Ryan Feliz, Greg Cochrane, Omar Gordon (Charlie Ward 46), Mikey Lopez, Maxi Rodriguez, Jose Escalante, Connor Presley, Cesar Elizondo (Ryan Roushandel 75), Ethan Bryant (Kyle Murphy 81).

Subs Not Used: Matt Cardone, Mike Seth, Sonny Guadarrama, Alex Bruce.

Stats: Shots: 8, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 9, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 1, Offside: 1.

San Antonio FC 1:0 Sacramento Republic FC
USL Match
Toyota Field – San Antonio, TX
June 16, 2018 – Attendance: 6,613

Scoring Summary: SA – Cesar Elizondo (Ethan Bryant) 43.

Misconduct Summary:  SAC – Shannon Gomez (caution) 28, Villyan Bijev (caution) 43, Jeremy Hall (caution) 60, Adam Moffat (caution) 90+3; SA – Jose Escalante (caution) 90+3.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Elliott Hord (Christian Eissele 80), Mitchell Taintor, Justin Schmidt, Shannon Gomez, Jaime Villarreal (Adam Moffat 69), Jeremy Hall, Jure Matjasic, Wilson Kneeshaw (Luis Espino 69), Villyan Bijev, Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Carlos Rodriguez, Hayden Partain.

Stats: Shots: 37, Shots on Goal: 9, Saves: 3, Fouls: 9, Corner Kicks: 20, Offside: 2.

San Antonio FC – Diego Restrepo, Cyprian Hendrick, Ryan Feliz, Greg Cochrane, Omar Gordon (Charlie Ward 46), Mikey Lopez, Maxi Rodriguez, Jose Escalante, Connor Presley, Cesar Elizondo (Ryan Roushandel 75), Ethan Bryant (Kyle Murphy 81).

Subs Not Used: Matt Cardone, Mike Seth, Sonny Guadarrama, Alex Bruce.

Stats: Shots: 8, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 9, Fouls: 13, Corner Kicks: 1, Offside: 1.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 9, 2018) — Republic FC and Phoenix Rising FC battled to a 0-0 draw at Papa Murphy’s Park in their final meeting of 2018 USL regular season.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 9, 2018) — Republic FC and Phoenix Rising FC battled to a 0-0 draw at Papa Murphy’s Park in their final meeting of 2018 USL regular season.

Chances proved to be scarce in a what was a close affair between two teams competing for the top spot in the Western Conference. Sacramento had only a handful of clear attempts in the first half, with their front three of Cameron Iwasa, Jure Matjasic and Wilson Kneeshaw being largely blunted by the visitor’s physical back line.

Just moments before halftime, Republic FC were awarded a penalty kick after Matjasic was brought down in the box. Jeremy Hall, who converted the game-winning penalty kick against Orange County just a week ago, stepped up against Phoenix keeper Carl Woszczynski. After a delay due to players jostling on the edge of the box, Hall fired attempt just high of the crossbar and the teams entered halftime drawn at nil.

Josh Cohen was steadfast in goal again, making some tricky saves on a few deflected shots to keep the clean sheet. His best save came in the 18th minute when Gladson Awako ran onto a through ball into the box. Awako tried to beat Cohen with a low shot, but the keeper got down to block away the danger.

The match ended scoreless with both sides splitting points and leaving them with identical records in USL play. Phoenix has the slight advantage on goal differential as they sit in second place in the Western Conference, one spot above Sacramento.

“I thought we were a bit flat,” said Republic FC Head Coach Simon Elliott. “It was pretty clear what they were trying to do early on and it took us a little while to adjust. With that being said, we still kept a clean sheet and we still got a point out of the match.”

Chances proved to be scarce in a what was a close affair between two teams competing for the top spot in the Western Conference. Sacramento had only a handful of clear attempts in the first half, with their front three of Cameron Iwasa, Jure Matjasic and Wilson Kneeshaw being largely blunted by the visitor’s physical back line.

Just moments before halftime, Republic FC were awarded a penalty kick after Matjasic was brought down in the box. Jeremy Hall, who converted the game-winning penalty kick against Orange County just a week ago, stepped up against Phoenix keeper Carl Woszczynski. After a delay due to players jostling on the edge of the box, Hall fired attempt just high of the crossbar and the teams entered halftime drawn at nil.

Josh Cohen was steadfast in goal again, making some tricky saves on a few deflected shots to keep the clean sheet. His best save came in the 18th minute when Gladson Awako ran onto a through ball into the box. Awako tried to beat Cohen with a low shot, but the keeper got down to block away the danger.

The match ended scoreless with both sides splitting points and leaving them with identical records in USL play. Phoenix has the slight advantage on goal differential as they sit in second place in the Western Conference, one spot above Sacramento.

“I thought we were a bit flat,” said Republic FC Head Coach Simon Elliott. “It was pretty clear what they were trying to do early on and it took us a little while to adjust. With that being said, we still kept a clean sheet and we still got a point out of the match.”

Sacramento Republic FC 0-0 Phoenix Rising FC
USL Match
Papa Murphy’s Park – Sacramento, CA
June 9, 2018 – Attendance: 11,569 (sell-out)

Scoring Summary: None.

Misconduct Summary: PHX – Amadou Dia (caution) 13, Gladson Awako (caution) 54, Kevon Lambert (caution) 83; SRFC – Jaime Villarreal (caution) 53, Mitchell Taintor (caution) 85

Phoenix Rising FC – Carl Woszczynski, Kody Wakasa, Joseph Farrell, Mike Da Fonte, Amadou Dia, James Musa, Kevon Lambert, Gladson Awako (Evan Waldrep 78), Solomon Asante, Chris Cortez, Jason Johnson.

Subs Not Used: Zac Lubin, Doueugui Mala, Billy Forbes, Luca Ricci, Devante Dubose, Kevaughn Frater.

Stats: Shots: 8, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 0, Fouls: 17, Corner Kicks: 6, Offside: 3.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Mitchell Taintor, Carlos Rodriguez, Josh Turnley, Adam Moffat (Christian Eissele 88), Jeremy Hall, Jaime Villarreal, Jure Matjasic, Wilson Kneeshaw (Luis Espino 72), Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Justin Schmidt, Hayden Partain, Elliott Hord, Roberto Hategan.

Stats: Shots: 8, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 2, Fouls: 11, Corner Kicks: 2, Offside: 1.

Sacramento Republic FC 0-0 Phoenix Rising FC
USL Match
Papa Murphy’s Park – Sacramento, CA
June 9, 2018 – Attendance: 11,569 (sell-out)

Scoring Summary: None.

Misconduct Summary: PHX – Amadou Dia (caution) 13, Gladson Awako (caution) 54, Kevon Lambert (caution) 83; SRFC – Jaime Villarreal (caution) 53, Mitchell Taintor (caution) 85

Phoenix Rising FC – Carl Woszczynski, Kody Wakasa, Joseph Farrell, Mike Da Fonte, Amadou Dia, James Musa, Kevon Lambert, Gladson Awako (Evan Waldrep 78), Solomon Asante, Chris Cortez, Jason Johnson.

Subs Not Used: Zac Lubin, Doueugui Mala, Billy Forbes, Luca Ricci, Devante Dubose, Kevaughn Frater.

Stats: Shots: 8, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 0, Fouls: 17, Corner Kicks: 6, Offside: 3.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Mitchell Taintor, Carlos Rodriguez, Josh Turnley, Adam Moffat (Christian Eissele 88), Jeremy Hall, Jaime Villarreal, Jure Matjasic, Wilson Kneeshaw (Luis Espino 72), Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Justin Schmidt, Hayden Partain, Elliott Hord, Roberto Hategan.

Stats: Shots: 8, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 2, Fouls: 11, Corner Kicks: 2, Offside: 1.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 6, 2018) — Sacramento Republic FC advanced to the Round of 16 of the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup with a 2-1 victory over Seattle Sounders FC in extra time on Wednesday night. The win marks the second consecutive year the club has knocked out an MLS opponent to progress to the latter stages of the tournament

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 6, 2018) — Sacramento Republic FC advanced to the Round of 16 of the 2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup with a 2-1 victory over Seattle Sounders FC in extra time on Wednesday night. The win marks the second consecutive year the club has knocked out an MLS opponent to progress to the latter stages of the tournament

Republic FC enjoyed the majority of the chances in the first half, but both sides went into halftime scoreless. Villyan Bijev, Wilson Kneeshaw and Adam Moffat all had strong chances to score, with all three of them just missing the frame on separate occasions.

Sacramento broke the deadlock in the 60th minute after Bijev intercepted a ball in midfield. The former Liverpool player laid the ball off to Moffat who found Elliott Hord making a run into the box. Hord, who played his first full 90 minutes this year following off-season surgery, sent a low ball across goal to an on-rushing Cameron Iwasa who simply had to redirect the ball towards goal for the opener.

Moffat nearly doubled the lead a few minutes later if not for an acrobatic save from the visiting goalkeeper. Iwasa ran onto a long through ball in the air and muscled off a defender before beating an oncoming dive from Bryan Meredith. Iwasa’s touch took him away from goal and was forced to send a pass back to Moffat near the edge of the box. With the keeper out of position, Moffat hit a laser on frame, but Meredith was able to recover and make the difficult block on the shot.

Meredith proved to be Seattle’s best player on the pitch, making saves on Iwasa, Moffat, Bijev and Justin Schmidt to keep his side in the match.

The visiting keeper’s efforts ultimately paid off as Sounders FC snatched an equalizer in the final moments of the match. Second-half substitute Harry Shipp fired a shot toward goal that took a deflection to beat Josh Cohen who was diving the opposite way. The goal forced the match into two fifteen-minute halves of extra time.

Sacramento would not be denied the victory, however, scoring the winner with five minutes left to play. Bijev, who had been a threat all night, attacked the left wing before laying off a pass for Iwasa who fired a hard shot on goal. Meredith made the initial save, but let up a rebound that fell onto Jure Matjasic’s path. The second-half substitute tapped in his chance past keeper to send Republic FC on to the Round of 16 of the Open Cup for a second consecutive year.

Republic FC enjoyed the majority of the chances in the first half, but both sides went into halftime scoreless. Villyan Bijev, Wilson Kneeshaw and Adam Moffat all had strong chances to score, with all three of them just missing the frame on separate occasions.

Sacramento broke the deadlock in the 60th minute after Bijev intercepted a ball in midfield. The former Liverpool player laid the ball off to Moffat who found Elliott Hord making a run into the box. Hord, who played his first full 90 minutes this year following off-season surgery, sent a low ball across goal to an on-rushing Cameron Iwasa who simply had to redirect the ball towards goal for the opener.

Moffat nearly doubled the lead a few minutes later if not for an acrobatic save from the visiting goalkeeper. Iwasa ran onto a long through ball in the air and muscled off a defender before beating an oncoming dive from Bryan Meredith. Iwasa’s touch took him away from goal and was forced to send a pass back to Moffat near the edge of the box. With the keeper out of position, Moffat hit a laser on frame, but Meredith was able to recover and make the difficult block on the shot.

Meredith proved to be Seattle’s best player on the pitch, making saves on Iwasa, Moffat, Bijev and Justin Schmidt to keep his side in the match.

The visiting keeper’s efforts ultimately paid off as Sounders FC snatched an equalizer in the final moments of the match. Second-half substitute Harry Shipp fired a shot toward goal that took a deflection to beat Josh Cohen who was diving the opposite way. The goal forced the match into two fifteen-minute halves of extra time.

Sacramento would not be denied the victory, however, scoring the winner with five minutes left to play. Bijev, who had been a threat all night, attacked the left wing before laying off a pass for Iwasa who fired a hard shot on goal. Meredith made the initial save, but let up a rebound that fell onto Jure Matjasic’s path. The second-half substitute tapped in his chance past keeper to send Republic FC on to the Round of 16 of the Open Cup for a second consecutive year.

Republic FC is back in USL action on Saturday, June 9, against Phoenix Rising FC.  Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. at Papa Murphy's Park and tickets are available via Ticketmaster.com.

Republic FC is back in USL action on Saturday, June 9, against Phoenix Rising FC.  Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. at Papa Murphy’s Park and tickets are available via Ticketmaster.com.

Sacramento Republic FC 2:1 Seattle Sounders FC
2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Fourth Round Match
Papa Murphy’s Park – Sacramento, CA
June 6, 2018  

 

Scoring Summary: SAC – Cameron Iwasa (Elliott Hord) 60, Jure Matjasic 115; SEA – Harry Shipp 90

Misconduct Summary: SEA – Felix Chenkam (caution) 10, Alexander Roldan (caution) 61, Rodrigue Ele (caution) 82, David Olson (caution) 110; SRFC – Villyan Bijev (caution) 84, Jeremy Halll (caution) 85

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Mitchell Taintor, Carlos Rodriguez, Justin Schmidt, Elliott Hord (Jure Matjasic 76), Adam Moffat (Jaime Villarreal 94), Jeremy Hall, Wilson Kneeshaw (Luis Espino 108), Villyan Bijev, Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Christian Eissele, Cole Seiler, Josh Turnley.

Seattle Sounders FC – Bryan Meredith, Rodrigue Ele, Nick Hinds (David Olson 81), Tony Alfaro, Waylon Francis, Jordy Delem, Lamar Neagle (Alexander Roldan 41), Henry Wingo, Ray Saari, Shandon Hopeau (Harry Shipp 76), Felix Chenkam.

Subs Not Used: Calle Brown, Kelvin Leerdam, Nouhou, Marlon Vargas.

Sacramento Republic FC 2:1 Seattle Sounders FC
2018 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Fourth Round Match
Papa Murphy’s Park – Sacramento, CA
June 6, 2018  

 

Scoring Summary: SAC – Cameron Iwasa (Elliott Hord) 60, Jure Matjasic 115; SEA – Harry Shipp 90

Misconduct Summary: SEA – Felix Chenkam (caution) 10, Alexander Roldan (caution) 61, Rodrigue Ele (caution) 82, David Olson (caution) 110; SRFC – Villyan Bijev (caution) 84, Jeremy Halll (caution) 85

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Mitchell Taintor, Carlos Rodriguez, Justin Schmidt, Elliott Hord (Jure Matjasic 76), Adam Moffat (Jaime Villarreal 94), Jeremy Hall, Wilson Kneeshaw (Luis Espino 108), Villyan Bijev, Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Christian Eissele, Cole Seiler, Josh Turnley.

Seattle Sounders FC – Bryan Meredith, Rodrigue Ele, Nick Hinds (David Olson 81), Tony Alfaro, Waylon Francis, Jordy Delem, Lamar Neagle (Alexander Roldan 41), Henry Wingo, Ray Saari, Shandon Hopeau (Harry Shipp 76), Felix Chenkam.

Subs Not Used: Calle Brown, Kelvin Leerdam, Nouhou, Marlon Vargas.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 2, 2018)  — Sacramento Republic FC complete their season series against Orange County SC with a 1-0 victory at home on Saturday night. A penalty kick goal from Jeremy Hall and Josh Cohen’s third shutout of the season—his second against OCSC—earned Sacramento all three points.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (June 2, 2018)  — Sacramento Republic FC complete their season series against Orange County SC with a 1-0 victory at home on Saturday night. A penalty kick goal from Jeremy Hall and Josh Cohen’s third shutout of the season—his second against OCSC—earned Sacramento all three points.

The home side thought they had taken the lead in the 27th minute after Cameron Iwasa was able to get on the end of a free kick from Jure Matjasic. The goal was disallowed, however, as Iwasa was called for a hand ball.

Orange County SC’s best chance came from Nansel Selbol in the 53rd minute. Forward Thomas Enevoldsen was able to hold up play before sending a long through ball across the pitch to spring Selbol one-on-one against Cohen. The Sacramento keeper came off his line and did well to force Selbol’s shot wide of goal.

Republic FC scored just a few moments later after Villyan Bijev was brought down in the box and awarded a penalty kick. Jeremy Hall calmly stepped up to the spot and tucked a his shot into the bottom left corner of the net to beat OC keeper Andre Rawls and give Sacramento the 1-0 lead.

Orange County could not find the equalizer as they finished the match with 10-men after Joe Amico was shown his second yellow card in stoppage time. Sacramento took the 1-0 victory, their second such win over Orange County this year.

Republic FC next host MLS side Seattle Sounders FC in U.S. Open Cup play on Wednesday, June 6. Sacramento will then return to USL next weekend against Phoenix Rising FC.

The home side thought they had taken the lead in the 27th minute after Cameron Iwasa was able to get on the end of a free kick from Jure Matjasic. The goal was disallowed, however, as Iwasa was called for a hand ball.

Orange County SC’s best chance came from Nansel Selbol in the 53rd minute. Forward Thomas Enevoldsen was able to hold up play before sending a long through ball across the pitch to spring Selbol one-on-one against Cohen. The Sacramento keeper came off his line and did well to force Selbol’s shot wide of goal.

Republic FC scored just a few moments later after Villyan Bijev was brought down in the box and awarded a penalty kick. Jeremy Hall calmly stepped up to the spot and tucked a his shot into the bottom left corner of the net to beat OC keeper Andre Rawls and give Sacramento the 1-0 lead.

Orange County could not find the equalizer as they finished the match with 10-men after Joe Amico was shown his second yellow card in stoppage time. Sacramento took the 1-0 victory, their second such win over Orange County this year.

Republic FC next host MLS side Seattle Sounders FC in U.S. Open Cup play on Wednesday, June 6. Sacramento will then return to USL next weekend against Phoenix Rising FC.

Sacramento Republic FC 1 – 0 Orange County SC

USL Match

Papa Murphy's Park – Sacramento, CA

June 2, 2018
Attendance: 11,569 (sellout)

 

Scoring Summary:  SAC – Jeremy Hall 58.

Misconduct Summary: OC – Koji Hashimoto (caution) 10, Joe Amico (caution) 26, Owusu-Ansah Kontor (caution) 32, Thomas Juel-Nielsen (caution) 90, Joe Amico (caution + ejection) 90; SAC – Josh Turnley (caution) 80, Adam Moffat (caution) 81

Orange County SC – Andre Rawls, Joe Amico, Owusu-Ansah Kontor, Thomas Juel-Nielsen, Walker Hume, Christian Duke (Giovanni Godoy 78), Koji Hashimoto (Richard Chaplow 56), Aodhan Quinn, Mats Bjurman (Michael Seaton 46), Thomas Enevoldsen.

Subs Not Used:  Amirgy Pineda, Noah Powder, Casey Bayers, Nicolás Czornomaz.

Stats: Shots: 13, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 3, Fouls: 16, Corner Kicks: 6, Offside: 5.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Mitchell Taintor, Carlos Rodriguez, Josh Turnley (Justin Schmidt 85), Jaime Villarreal, Jeremy Hall, Wilson Kneeshaw, Villyan Bijev (Luis Espino 74), Jure Matjasic (Adam Moffat 73), Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Christian Eissele, Elliott Hord, Cole Seiler.

Stats: Shots: 11, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 4, Fouls: 10, Corner Kicks: 3, Offside: 2.

Sacramento Republic FC 1 – 0 Orange County SC

USL Match

Papa Murphy’s Park – Sacramento, CA

June 2, 2018
Attendance: 11,569 (sellout)

 

Scoring Summary:  SAC – Jeremy Hall 58.

Misconduct Summary: OC – Koji Hashimoto (caution) 10, Joe Amico (caution) 26, Owusu-Ansah Kontor (caution) 32, Thomas Juel-Nielsen (caution) 90, Joe Amico (caution + ejection) 90; SAC – Josh Turnley (caution) 80, Adam Moffat (caution) 81

Orange County SC – Andre Rawls, Joe Amico, Owusu-Ansah Kontor, Thomas Juel-Nielsen, Walker Hume, Christian Duke (Giovanni Godoy 78), Koji Hashimoto (Richard Chaplow 56), Aodhan Quinn, Mats Bjurman (Michael Seaton 46), Thomas Enevoldsen.

Subs Not Used:  Amirgy Pineda, Noah Powder, Casey Bayers, Nicolás Czornomaz.

Stats: Shots: 13, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 3, Fouls: 16, Corner Kicks: 6, Offside: 5.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Mitchell Taintor, Carlos Rodriguez, Josh Turnley (Justin Schmidt 85), Jaime Villarreal, Jeremy Hall, Wilson Kneeshaw, Villyan Bijev (Luis Espino 74), Jure Matjasic (Adam Moffat 73), Cameron Iwasa.

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Christian Eissele, Elliott Hord, Cole Seiler.

Stats: Shots: 11, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 4, Fouls: 10, Corner Kicks: 3, Offside: 2.

HERRIMAN, Utah (May 29, 2018) — A second-half goal from Chandler Hoffman and Jake Leeker’s save on Adam Moffat’s penalty kick condemned Sacramento Republic FC to just their third loss of the season.

HERRIMAN, Utah (May 29, 2018) — A second-half goal from Chandler Hoffman and Jake Leeker’s save on Adam Moffat’s penalty kick condemned Sacramento Republic FC to just their third loss of the season.

Real Monarch’s Maikel Chang nearly put his side ahead ten minutes into the match when he received the ball on the right wing, took on Justin Schmidt and cut onto his preferred left foot to fire a curling effort to the far post that sailed just wide by inches.

Republic FC responded seven minutes later when Shannon Gomez’s low cross from the left wing deflected onto Moffat’s path just on the edge of the box. The MLS veteran fired a first-time shot that forced a fingertip save from Leeker.

Three minutes into the second half, Republic FC had their best chance to open the scoring. Bijev made a run down the middle of the pitch and fired a shot from just outside the box that forced a diving save from Leeker. The rebound fell to Moffat, but before he could attempt a shot, the midfielder was brought down from behind by an SLC defender and a penalty kick was called in the visitors' favor. Moffat stepped up to take the spot kick, but his shot was saved by Leeker and the score remained tied at 0-0.

Real Monarch’s Maikel Chang nearly put his side ahead ten minutes into the match when he received the ball on the right wing, took on Justin Schmidt and cut onto his preferred left foot to fire a curling effort to the far post that sailed just wide by inches.

Republic FC responded seven minutes later when Shannon Gomez’s low cross from the left wing deflected onto Moffat’s path just on the edge of the box. The MLS veteran fired a first-time shot that forced a fingertip save from Leeker.

Three minutes into the second half, Republic FC had their best chance to open the scoring. Bijev made a run down the middle of the pitch and fired a shot from just outside the box that forced a diving save from Leeker. The rebound fell to Moffat, but before he could attempt a shot, the midfielder was brought down from behind by an SLC defender and a penalty kick was called in the visitors’ favor. Moffat stepped up to take the spot kick, but his shot was saved by Leeker and the score remained tied at 0-0.

The home side finally broke the deadlock in the 68th minute through second-half substitute Chandler Hoffman. Chang, who had been a threat all night on the wing, maneuvered his way down the right flank before filtering a weighted through ball into the box to Hoffman. The forward calmly slotted the ball past the onrushing Cohen with his first touch to give Real Monarchs the lead.

Bijev had a chance to equalize ten minutes after a deflected through ball fell to him in the box, but the winger’s shot was saved by a diving Leeker.

Republic FC continued to push forward as the match drew to a close, but was unable to break through the 7th-best defense in the league.

The results keeps Sacramento fourth in the Western Conference table going into the weekend. Next up for the club is a home matchup on Saturday, June 2nd, against Orange County SC, which sits just a point behind Republic FC in the standings. Kickoff at Papa Murphy’s Park is scheduled for 8 p.m. and tickets to the match can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com

The home side finally broke the deadlock in the 68th minute through second-half substitute Chandler Hoffman. Chang, who had been a threat all night on the wing, maneuvered his way down the right flank before filtering a weighted through ball into the box to Hoffman. The forward calmly slotted the ball past the onrushing Cohen with his first touch to give Real Monarchs the lead.

Bijev had a chance to equalize ten minutes after a deflected through ball fell to him in the box, but the winger’s shot was saved by a diving Leeker.

Republic FC continued to push forward as the match drew to a close, but was unable to break through the 7th-best defense in the league.

The results keeps Sacramento fourth in the Western Conference table going into the weekend. Next up for the club is a home matchup on Saturday, June 2nd, against Orange County SC, which sits just a point behind Republic FC in the standings. Kickoff at Papa Murphy’s Park is scheduled for 8 p.m. and tickets to the match can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com

Real Monarchs SLC 1 – 0 Sacramento Republic FC

USL Match

Zions Bank Stadium – Herriman, UT

May 29, 2018
Attendance: 1,137

 

Scoring Summary:  SLC – Chandler Hoffman (Maikel Chang) 68.

Misconduct Summary: SLC – Justin Portillo (caution) 33.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Cole Seiler (Christian Eissele 83), Mitchell Taintor, Justin Schmidt, Adam Moffat (Wilson Kneeshaw 65), Jaime Villarreal, Jeremy Hall, Villyan Bijev, Cameron Iwasa, Jure Matjasic (Luis Espino 76).

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Carlos Rodriguez, Josh Turnley, Elliott Hord.

Stats: Shots: 14, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 3, Fouls: 6, Corner Kicks: 6, Offsides: 6.

Real Monarchs SLC – Jake Leeker, Kalen Ryden, Andrew Brody, James Moberg, Michael Gallagher, Justin Portillo, Ricky Lopez-Espin (Jose Hernandez 45), Richard Ledezma (Sebastian Velasquez 80), Maikel Chang, Charlie Adams, Juan Ignacio Mare (Chandler Hoffman 65).

Subs Not Used: Konrad Plewa, David Ochoa, Glademir Mendoza, Mastanabal Kacher.

Stats: Shots: 13, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 4, Fouls: 8, Corner Kicks: 5, Offsides: 4. 

Real Monarchs SLC 1 – 0 Sacramento Republic FC

USL Match

Zions Bank Stadium – Herriman, UT

May 29, 2018
Attendance: 1,137

 

Scoring Summary:  SLC – Chandler Hoffman (Maikel Chang) 68.

Misconduct Summary: SLC – Justin Portillo (caution) 33.

Sacramento Republic FC – Josh Cohen, Shannon Gomez, Cole Seiler (Christian Eissele 83), Mitchell Taintor, Justin Schmidt, Adam Moffat (Wilson Kneeshaw 65), Jaime Villarreal, Jeremy Hall, Villyan Bijev, Cameron Iwasa, Jure Matjasic (Luis Espino 76).

Subs Not Used: Rafael Diaz, Carlos Rodriguez, Josh Turnley, Elliott Hord.

Stats: Shots: 14, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 3, Fouls: 6, Corner Kicks: 6, Offsides: 6.

Real Monarchs SLC – Jake Leeker, Kalen Ryden, Andrew Brody, James Moberg, Michael Gallagher, Justin Portillo, Ricky Lopez-Espin (Jose Hernandez 45), Richard Ledezma (Sebastian Velasquez 80), Maikel Chang, Charlie Adams, Juan Ignacio Mare (Chandler Hoffman 65).

Subs Not Used: Konrad Plewa, David Ochoa, Glademir Mendoza, Mastanabal Kacher.

Stats: Shots: 13, Shots on Goal: 4, Saves: 4, Fouls: 8, Corner Kicks: 5, Offsides: 4.