Republic FC takes on a familiar foe in Week 2 of the 2022 season in San Diego Loyal SC. Last season, Sacramento faced off with the SoCal side four times – each one resulting in a gritty contest. Ahead of the two squads first meeting this year, get a glimpse of what to expect from Landon Donovan’s men at Torero Stadium.
Offseason Recap
The club had an understated offseason; however, they still brought in some players sure to make an impact. Most notable among them are English
forward Kyle Vassell, who last featured for Cheltenham Town in the EFL Championship, and Evan Conway, who joins the club after winning the League One title last season with Union Omaha. San Diego also acquired New Zealand international Nikko Boxall, a big get for their backline. However, the defender was called into national team camp earlier this week as his country prepares for the last round of World Cup Qualifying, leaving him unavailable for the contest.
Loyal SC retained the services of Alejandro Guido and 2021 loanee Tumi Moshobane, which looks to keep their attacking unit strong. However, the club lost 2021 All-League selection Josh Yaro to MLS expansion side St. Louis City SC, leaving a bit of a hole on their backline.
Last Week’s Drama
Much like Republic FC last Saturday, San Diego provided some late fireworks. A 1-1 draw heading into stoppage time against Galaxy II was broken by forward Thomas Amang – who scored the first goal of the contest in the 78th – who had the touch on a 97th minute cross that was deflected in by Los Dos’ Jalen Neal. In front of their home fans at Torero Stadium, the result is sure to have the club confident against a Sacramento side they performed well against last season.
Head to Head
The two clubs have played each other tough in all five of their all-time contests. All but one match has been decided by one score or less, and the pair has split points three times. San Diego has taken three points in each of the other two matches, meaning that a win for Sacramento would be the first ever for the club over Landon Donovan’s squad.
