Match Recaps

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (August 14, 2021) – Sacramento Republic FC returned to Heart Health Park on Saturday against Las Vegas Lights FC and secured a 2-1 win with three more points in the Pacific Division race. Cam Iwasa nabbed his ninth career brace in the come from behind win.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (August 14, 2021) – Sacramento Republic FC returned to Heart Health Park on Saturday against Las Vegas Lights FC and secured a 2-1 win with three more points in the Pacific Division race. Cam Iwasa nabbed his ninth career brace in the come from behind win.

The Darek Formella to Iwasa connection turned into two early quality chances for the Indomitable Club within the first 17 minutes. Iwasa finished the night with a game-high eight shots, including a game-high four in the first half.

“We're pleased with the result,” head coach Mark Briggs said, “but for me, I'm more pleased with the collective performance. I felt tonight the collective performance from everybody, with and without the ball, was the best it's been this year. And I think you saw the amount of chances we created in the first half and then continued to create in the second half. I’m just really pleased with the collective performance of everybody."

Despite going down a goal in the 20th minute, the Indomitable Club’s offensive pursuit would not waver. 

A higher midfield and aggressive wing play from the opening whistle allowed the Boys in Old Glory Red to control possession in the first 45 minutes with a 13-1 shot advantage. Duke Lacroix made his 100th USL appearance and wore the Captain’s armband on Saturday, going for goal early in the ninth minute to record Republic FC’s first of 13 first-half shots.

SRFC’s shot tally reached 10 thanks to five attempts at Las Vegas in a seven-minute span late in the half, culminating with a right footed attempt from Kharlton Belmar in the 38th minute. 

The persistence of the Formella-Iwasa tandem paid off shortly after the resumption of play, as Iwasa padded his all-time goals record with an equalizer from Formella to the top corner in the 48th minute. It was Formella’s third assist of the year and Iwasa’s first goal since June 2 against Oakland Roots SC.

Refreshing faces made their ways onto the pitch in the 2-1 win, including Maalique Foster, Rafael Jauregui and Jaime Villarreal. Foster and Villarreal returned from the injury list, while Jauregui recorded his third appearance of the season. 

Villarreal was part of a busy and impressive midfield unit with Luis Felipe and Mario Penagos, whose high positioning from the opening whistle allowed for Republic FC to control the pace and possession of the game from whistle to whistle. 

Republic FC continued creating chances that ended with the ball in the box, replicating the first half’s late surge of shots with five shots in three minutes. Three of the five shots in the second-half push occurred within the penalty area, with Belmar accounting for two of the three.

Iwasa later cemented the Indomitable Club’s second consecutive home brace with a chip to the back of the net in the 73rd minute from Felipe. With career goal number 54 and the game winner, the Sacramento native moves into eighth on the USL Championship all-time scoring list. 

With three more points in hand, the Boys in Old Glory Red face a tall task next Saturday with a 7:30 p.m. kickoff at Phoenix Rising FC on ESPN+.

Sacramento Republic FC 2-1 Las Vegas Lights FC

USL Championship

Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California

August 14, 2021

 

Scoring Summary: SAC – Felipe (own goal) 20’; SAC – Iwasa (Formella) 48’; SAC – Iwasa (Felipe) 73’

Misconduct Summary: LV – Molina (caution) 25’; SAC – Villarreal (caution) 66’

Sacramento Republic FC: Tomas Gomez, Shannon Gomez, Dan Casey, Hayden Sargis, Duke Lacroix, Jaime Villarreal (Pete Pennanen 70’), Mario Penagos (Fatai Alashe 82’), Luis Felipe, Darek Formella (Rafael Jauregui 89’), Kharlton Belmar (Maalique Foster 82’), Cam Iwasa

Unused substitutes: Rafael Diaz, Julian Chavez, Nabi Kibunguchy

Stats – Shots: 24, Shots on Goal: 9, Saves: 2, Fouls: 12, Corner Kicks: 6 Offsides: 1.

Las Vegas Lights FC: Alex Rando, Tony Leon, Armando Avila, Chenenye “CC” Uche, Eric Iloski, Roberto Molina (Michael Yeboah 83’), Frank Daroma (Christopher Jaime ’75), Nathan Sepulveda, Cal Jennings (Christian Torres 60’), Bryce Duke (Bruce El-Masaari ’75), Danny Musovski (Danny Trejo 60’)

Unused substitutes: Donovan Palomares, Diego Rosales

Stats – Shots: 5, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 7, Fouls: 11, Corner Kicks: 6, Offsides: 3.

The Darek Formella to Iwasa connection turned into two early quality chances for the Indomitable Club within the first 17 minutes. Iwasa finished the night with a game-high eight shots, including a game-high four in the first half.

“We’re pleased with the result,” head coach Mark Briggs said, “but for me, I’m more pleased with the collective performance. I felt tonight the collective performance from everybody, with and without the ball, was the best it’s been this year. And I think you saw the amount of chances we created in the first half and then continued to create in the second half. I’m just really pleased with the collective performance of everybody.“

Despite going down a goal in the 20th minute, the Indomitable Club’s offensive pursuit would not waver. 

A higher midfield and aggressive wing play from the opening whistle allowed the Boys in Old Glory Red to control possession in the first 45 minutes with a 13-1 shot advantage. Duke Lacroix made his 100th USL appearance and wore the Captain’s armband on Saturday, going for goal early in the ninth minute to record Republic FC’s first of 13 first-half shots.

SRFC’s shot tally reached 10 thanks to five attempts at Las Vegas in a seven-minute span late in the half, culminating with a right footed attempt from Kharlton Belmar in the 38th minute. 

The persistence of the Formella-Iwasa tandem paid off shortly after the resumption of play, as Iwasa padded his all-time goals record with an equalizer from Formella to the top corner in the 48th minute. It was Formella’s third assist of the year and Iwasa’s first goal since June 2 against Oakland Roots SC.

Refreshing faces made their ways onto the pitch in the 2-1 win, including Maalique Foster, Rafael Jauregui and Jaime Villarreal. Foster and Villarreal returned from the injury list, while Jauregui recorded his third appearance of the season. 

Villarreal was part of a busy and impressive midfield unit with Luis Felipe and Mario Penagos, whose high positioning from the opening whistle allowed for Republic FC to control the pace and possession of the game from whistle to whistle. 

Republic FC continued creating chances that ended with the ball in the box, replicating the first half’s late surge of shots with five shots in three minutes. Three of the five shots in the second-half push occurred within the penalty area, with Belmar accounting for two of the three.

Iwasa later cemented the Indomitable Club’s second consecutive home brace with a chip to the back of the net in the 73rd minute from Felipe. With career goal number 54 and the game winner, the Sacramento native moves into eighth on the USL Championship all-time scoring list. 

With three more points in hand, the Boys in Old Glory Red face a tall task next Saturday with a 7:30 p.m. kickoff at Phoenix Rising FC on ESPN+.

Sacramento Republic FC 2-1 Las Vegas Lights FC

USL Championship

Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California

August 14, 2021

 

Scoring Summary: SAC – Felipe (own goal) 20’; SAC – Iwasa (Formella) 48’; SAC – Iwasa (Felipe) 73’

Misconduct Summary: LV – Molina (caution) 25’; SAC – Villarreal (caution) 66’

Sacramento Republic FC: Tomas Gomez, Shannon Gomez, Dan Casey, Hayden Sargis, Duke Lacroix, Jaime Villarreal (Pete Pennanen 70’), Mario Penagos (Fatai Alashe 82’), Luis Felipe, Darek Formella (Rafael Jauregui 89’), Kharlton Belmar (Maalique Foster 82’), Cam Iwasa

Unused substitutes: Rafael Diaz, Julian Chavez, Nabi Kibunguchy

Stats – Shots: 24, Shots on Goal: 9, Saves: 2, Fouls: 12, Corner Kicks: 6 Offsides: 1.

Las Vegas Lights FC: Alex Rando, Tony Leon, Armando Avila, Chenenye “CC” Uche, Eric Iloski, Roberto Molina (Michael Yeboah 83’), Frank Daroma (Christopher Jaime ’75), Nathan Sepulveda, Cal Jennings (Christian Torres 60’), Bryce Duke (Bruce El-Masaari ’75), Danny Musovski (Danny Trejo 60’)

Unused substitutes: Donovan Palomares, Diego Rosales

Stats – Shots: 5, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 7, Fouls: 11, Corner Kicks: 6, Offsides: 3.

Republic FC came away with points in their fifth straight contest on Wednesday, a 0-0 draw with Oakland Roots SC. Their 16th match this season puts the Indomitable club at the half-way mark of the 2021 campaign, and in the middle of a pack of opponents chasing playoff position in the Pacific Division.

Republic FC came away with points in their fifth straight contest on Wednesday, a 0-0 draw with Oakland Roots SC. Their 16th match this season puts the Indomitable club at the half-way mark of the 2021 campaign, and in the middle of a pack of opponents chasing playoff position in the Pacific Division.

Gomez With the Save

Gomez With the Save

Tomas Gomez had an excellent night for the Boys in Old Glory Red. The veteran goalkeeper tallied three saves on the night, all of which neutralized excellent scoring chances for the hosts. A 12th minute save stopped a close range shot from Jesus Enriquez, who managed put a difficult look from the end line on frame. Six minutes later, Gomez stopped an attempt from Yohannes Harish, who found space inside the penalty box after an Oakland corner.

None were more impressive, however, than his 64th minute effort. After a missed clearance, Gomez stopped Jeremy Bokila’s strike from point blank range before diving to save the ball from trickling in on the rebound. 

Tomas Gomez had an excellent night for the Boys in Old Glory Red. The veteran goalkeeper tallied three saves on the night, all of which neutralized excellent scoring chances for the hosts. A 12th minute save stopped a close range shot from Jesus Enriquez, who managed put a difficult look from the end line on frame. Six minutes later, Gomez stopped an attempt from Yohannes Harish, who found space inside the penalty box after an Oakland corner.

None were more impressive, however, than his 64th minute effort. After a missed clearance, Gomez stopped Jeremy Bokila’s strike from point blank range before diving to save the ball from trickling in on the rebound. 

Defensive Resilience  

Defensive Resilience  

Republic FC’s defense stayed strong in the draw, handling a late push from Oakland’s attacking unit well to record their third clean sheet of the season. Sacramento combined for 20 clearances on the night, five of which came from 19-year-old defender Hayden Sargis, while surrendering just seven shots to their Bay Area foes. 

The club’s fifth straight match without a loss also marked their third straight contest conceding one score or less. Since the start of July, Republic FC has conceded multiple goals just twice in eight matches. 

Republic FC’s defense stayed strong in the draw, handling a late push from Oakland’s attacking unit well to record their third clean sheet of the season. Sacramento combined for 20 clearances on the night, five of which came from 19-year-old defender Hayden Sargis, while surrendering just seven shots to their Bay Area foes. 

The club’s fifth straight match without a loss also marked their third straight contest conceding one score or less. Since the start of July, Republic FC has conceded multiple goals just twice in eight matches. 

Pacific Division Race

Pacific Division Race

Claiming at least a point in their fifth straight match moved Republic FC up one spot in the standings. At the season’s halfway mark, the Pacific Division race remains extraordinarily tight, as just seven points separate five clubs in the battle for playoff position. Through the remainder of the season, Mark Briggs’ men will face LA Galaxy II, Tacoma Defiance, and Las Vegas Lights a combined eight times – in 16 remaining games, making the goal of an 8thconsecutive playoff berth more than attainable. 

Claiming at least a point in their fifth straight match moved Republic FC up one spot in the standings. At the season’s halfway mark, the Pacific Division race remains extraordinarily tight, as just seven points separate five clubs in the battle for playoff position. Through the remainder of the season, Mark Briggs’ men will face LA Galaxy II, Tacoma Defiance, and Las Vegas Lights a combined eight times – in 16 remaining games, making the goal of an 8thconsecutive playoff berth more than attainable. 

LIVERMORE, California (August 11, 2021)- Building on a strong close out of July, Republic FC played to a 0-0 draw Wednesday in their third meeting of the season with their Northern California rivals. The Boys in Old Glory Red grow their unbeaten streak to five, and climb one spot up the Pacific Division table with the result.

LIVERMORE, California (August 11, 2021)- Building on a strong close out of July, Republic FC played to a 0-0 draw Wednesday in their third meeting of the season with their Northern California rivals. The Boys in Old Glory Red grow their unbeaten streak to five, and climb one spot up the Pacific Division table with the result.

An excellent performance in the goal from Tomas Gomez kept Republic FC’s unbeaten streak alive. The veteran goalkeeper notched his third clean sheet of the season, two of which have come against Oakland Roots SC.

Oakland would come close to pulling ahead twice in the first half. An attempt from Jesus Enriquez would sail high in the 12th minute, and Yohannes Harish’s 17th minute shot from close range would be deflected out by Gomez.

Gomez again would keep Oakland from breaking the tie in the 64th minute, when a Jeremy Bokila strike from point blank range went off his chest before Gomez would snap it off the line.

An excellent performance in the goal from Tomas Gomez kept Republic FC’s unbeaten streak alive. The veteran goalkeeper notched his third clean sheet of the season, two of which have come against Oakland Roots SC.

Oakland would come close to pulling ahead twice in the first half. An attempt from Jesus Enriquez would sail high in the 12th minute, and Yohannes Harish’s 17th minute shot from close range would be deflected out by Gomez.

Gomez again would keep Oakland from breaking the tie in the 64th minute, when a Jeremy Bokila strike from point blank range went off his chest before Gomez would snap it off the line.

Republic FC did well to mitigate pressure from Roots SC throughout the night. The Sacramento back line would surrender just seven shots for the evening, five of which would come from close range. Duke Lacroix would lead Sacramento’s defensive unit with seven tackles, while Hayden Sargis paced with five clearances.

Mark Briggs men have a quick turnaround when they return home to face Las Vegas Lights FC on Saturday, August 14. Tickets can be purchased here, and the match will be broadcast live on ESPN+.

Republic FC did well to mitigate pressure from Roots SC throughout the night. The Sacramento back line would surrender just seven shots for the evening, five of which would come from close range. Duke Lacroix would lead Sacramento’s defensive unit with seven tackles, while Hayden Sargis paced with five clearances.

Mark Briggs men have a quick turnaround when they return home to face Las Vegas Lights FC on Saturday, August 14. Tickets can be purchased here, and the match will be broadcast live on ESPN+.

Sacramento Republic 0 – 0 Oakland Roots SC
USL Championship
Las Positas College, Livermore, California
August 11, 2021

Sacramento Republic 0 – 0 Oakland Roots SC
USL Championship
Las Positas College, Livermore, California
August 11, 2021

Scoring Summary: SAC – None, OAK– None

Misconduct Summary: SAC– FataiAlashe (caution) 88’, Julian Chavez (caution) 90+4’

Sacramento Republic FC: Tomas Gomez, Jordan McCrary, Duke Lacroix, Dan Casey, Hayden Sargis, Fatai Alashe, Kharlton Belmar, Pete Pennanen, Darek Formella (Mario Penagos, 73’) Luis Felipe, Cameron Iwasa (Julian Chavez, 80’)

Unused substitutes: Rafael Diaz, Shannon Gomez, Mitch Taintor, Rafael Jauregui, Jaime Villarreal

Stats – Shots: 4, Shots on Goal: 0, Saves: 3, Fouls: 9, Corner Kicks: 2, Offsides: 0

Oakland Roots SC: Ariel Mbumba (Wal Fall, 63’) Soya Takahashi, Matias Fissore, Jesus Enriquez, Pul Blanchette, EmrahKlimenta, Danny Flores (Lindo Mfeka, 78’), Memo Diaz, Brandon Allen (Jeremy Bolika, 63’) Kai Greene, Yohannes Harish (Quincy Amarikwa, 59’)

Unused substitutes: Taylor Bailey, Saalih Muhammad, Akeem Ward,

Stats – Shots: 7, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 0, Fouls: 17, Corner Kicks: 4, Offsides: 1

Scoring Summary: SAC – None, OAK– None

Misconduct Summary: SAC– FataiAlashe (caution) 88’, Julian Chavez (caution) 90+4’

Sacramento Republic FC: Tomas Gomez, Jordan McCrary, Duke Lacroix, Dan Casey, Hayden Sargis, Fatai Alashe, Kharlton Belmar, Pete Pennanen, Darek Formella (Mario Penagos, 73’) Luis Felipe, Cameron Iwasa (Julian Chavez, 80’)

Unused substitutes: Rafael Diaz, Shannon Gomez, Mitch Taintor, Rafael Jauregui, Jaime Villarreal

Stats – Shots: 4, Shots on Goal: 0, Saves: 3, Fouls: 9, Corner Kicks: 2, Offsides: 0

Oakland Roots SC: Ariel Mbumba (Wal Fall, 63’) Soya Takahashi, Matias Fissore, Jesus Enriquez, Pul Blanchette, EmrahKlimenta, Danny Flores (Lindo Mfeka, 78’), Memo Diaz, Brandon Allen (Jeremy Bolika, 63’) Kai Greene, Yohannes Harish (Quincy Amarikwa, 59’)

Unused substitutes: Taylor Bailey, Saalih Muhammad, Akeem Ward,

Stats – Shots: 7, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 0, Fouls: 17, Corner Kicks: 4, Offsides: 1

TACOMA, Washington (August 5, 2021) – The first of four meetings with the Tacoma Defiance ended in a 1-1 draw on Thursday evening at Cheney Stadium, as Jerome Kiesewetter opened his Sacramento Republic FC scoring account. 

Republic FC have now secured eight points in their last four matches. 

Thursday’s matchup with Tacoma took a defensive tone from the opening whistle, starting out with short, conservative passing in each team’s defensive third – the majority of Sacramento’s early offensive production was down the right sideline on the boots of Jordan McCrary and Kharlton Belmar. Aside from the occasional passing into a tight space from a continually developing Mario Penagos, the Indomitable Club felt the full force of Tacoma’s back line early.

TACOMA, Washington (August 5, 2021) – The first of four meetings with the Tacoma Defiance ended in a 1-1 draw on Thursday evening at Cheney Stadium, as Jerome Kiesewetter opened his Sacramento Republic FC scoring account. 

Republic FC have now secured eight points in their last four matches. 

Thursday’s matchup with Tacoma took a defensive tone from the opening whistle, starting out with short, conservative passing in each team’s defensive third – the majority of Sacramento’s early offensive production was down the right sideline on the boots of Jordan McCrary and Kharlton Belmar. Aside from the occasional passing into a tight space from a continually developing Mario Penagos, the Indomitable Club felt the full force of Tacoma’s back line early.

Republic FC broke the deadlock and struck early again. A failed clearance combined with offensive persistence allowed Jerome Kiesewetter to open his account for the boys in Old Glory Red on a close-range header. Kiesewetter’s score came on an assist from Duke Lacroix, marking Lacroix’s second straight game with an assist and third assist this year.

With a lead in hand near the halftime whistle, Republic FC began to utilize the width of the pitch. Dan Casey led the squad in the first half with 39 completed passes, 15 of which went to Hayden Sargis that opened the left side of the field for Mark Briggs’ offense. Briggs’ men primarily favored the right sideline still, with Casey (51) and McCrary (44) picking up 95 combined first-half touches to lead Sacramento. 

Republic FC broke the deadlock and struck early again. A failed clearance combined with offensive persistence allowed Jerome Kiesewetter to open his account for the boys in Old Glory Red on a close-range header. Kiesewetter’s score came on an assist from Duke Lacroix, marking Lacroix’s second straight game with an assist and third assist this year.

With a lead in hand near the halftime whistle, Republic FC began to utilize the width of the pitch. Dan Casey led the squad in the first half with 39 completed passes, 15 of which went to Hayden Sargis that opened the left side of the field for Mark Briggs’ offense. Briggs’ men primarily favored the right sideline still, with Casey (51) and McCrary (44) picking up 95 combined first-half touches to lead Sacramento. 

In addition to his passing, Casey was key in Republic FC’s defensive effort in the opening 45 minutes. The defender recorded an interception and a team-high four clearances in the first half before ending the night with seven clearances to lead all players. 

Republic FC continued utilizing the left side of the pitch in the second half after Cam Iwasa entered for Kiesewetter in the 51st minute. Lacroix ran into wide open space down the left side in the 74th minute and was able to play a ball all the way across the box, but the finish didn’t find the back of the net.

Tacoma turned up the heat offensively in the second half, logging three shots through the first 25 minutes after recording three for the whole first half. Tactically, the Indomitable Club countered with Mitch Taintor’s entry in the 76th minute to relieve Penagos on the back line. Randy Mendoza entered for Tacoma in the 81st minute, and the substitution paid off as Mendoza leveled the match a minute later.

The Indomitable Club returns to action on Wednesday, August 11 in a rescheduled match at Oakland Roots SC before returning to Heart Health Park on August 14 against Las Vegas Lights FC. Wednesday’s matchup will be broadcast locally on KQCA My58 and Estrella TV Sacramento, as well as streaming on ESPN+. 

Sacramento Republic FC 1-1 Tacoma Defiance

USL Championship

Cheney Stadium, Tacoma, Washington

August 5, 2021

Scoring Summary: SAC – Kiesewetter (Lacroix) 18’; TAC – Mendoza (Serrano) 82’ 

Misconduct Summary: TAC – Alex Villanueva (caution) 59’; SAC – Fatai Alashe (caution) 65’; SAC – Pennanen (caution) 91’; TAC – Jose Carlos Anguiano (caution) 92’

Sacramento Republic FC: Tomas Gomez, Hayden Sargis, Dan Casey, Shannon Gomez, Duke Lacroix, Mario Penagos (Mitch Taintor 77’), Jordan McCrary, Jerome Kiesewetter (Iwasa 51’), Fatai Alashe, Pete Pennanen, Kharlton Belmar

Unused Substitutes: Jaime Villarreal, Rafael Jauregui, Julian Chavez, Rafael Diaz, Nabi Kibunguchy

Stats – Shots: 6, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 1, Fouls: 16, Corner Kicks: 2, Offsides: 1.

Tacoma Defiance: Christian Herrera, Eric Kinzer (Daniel Robles 62’), Taylor Mueller, Tom Brewitt, Alex Villanueva (Randy Mendoza 81’), Jose Carlos Anguiano, Danny Leyva, Ethan Dobbelaere (Ray Serrano 69’), Reed Baker-Whiting, Alec Diaz (Samiel Adeniran 69’), Obed Vargas (Juan Alvarez 81’)

Unused Substitutes: Joe Hafferty, Wyatt Nelson

Stats – Shots: 10, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 2, Fouls: 10, Corner Kicks: 3, Offsides: 0.

In addition to his passing, Casey was key in Republic FC’s defensive effort in the opening 45 minutes. The defender recorded an interception and a team-high four clearances in the first half before ending the night with seven clearances to lead all players. 

Republic FC continued utilizing the left side of the pitch in the second half after Cam Iwasa entered for Kiesewetter in the 51st minute. Lacroix ran into wide open space down the left side in the 74th minute and was able to play a ball all the way across the box, but the finish didn’t find the back of the net.

Tacoma turned up the heat offensively in the second half, logging three shots through the first 25 minutes after recording three for the whole first half. Tactically, the Indomitable Club countered with Mitch Taintor’s entry in the 76th minute to relieve Penagos on the back line. Randy Mendoza entered for Tacoma in the 81st minute, and the substitution paid off as Mendoza leveled the match a minute later.

The Indomitable Club returns to action on Wednesday, August 11 in a rescheduled match at Oakland Roots SC before returning to Heart Health Park on August 14 against Las Vegas Lights FC. Wednesday’s matchup will be broadcast locally on KQCA My58 and Estrella TV Sacramento, as well as streaming on ESPN+. 

Sacramento Republic FC 1-1 Tacoma Defiance

USL Championship

Cheney Stadium, Tacoma, Washington

August 5, 2021

Scoring Summary: SAC – Kiesewetter (Lacroix) 18’; TAC – Mendoza (Serrano) 82’ 

Misconduct Summary: TAC – Alex Villanueva (caution) 59’; SAC – Fatai Alashe (caution) 65’; SAC – Pennanen (caution) 91’; TAC – Jose Carlos Anguiano (caution) 92’

Sacramento Republic FC: Tomas Gomez, Hayden Sargis, Dan Casey, Shannon Gomez, Duke Lacroix, Mario Penagos (Mitch Taintor 77’), Jordan McCrary, Jerome Kiesewetter (Iwasa 51’), Fatai Alashe, Pete Pennanen, Kharlton Belmar

Unused Substitutes: Jaime Villarreal, Rafael Jauregui, Julian Chavez, Rafael Diaz, Nabi Kibunguchy

Stats – Shots: 6, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 1, Fouls: 16, Corner Kicks: 2, Offsides: 1.

Tacoma Defiance: Christian Herrera, Eric Kinzer (Daniel Robles 62’), Taylor Mueller, Tom Brewitt, Alex Villanueva (Randy Mendoza 81’), Jose Carlos Anguiano, Danny Leyva, Ethan Dobbelaere (Ray Serrano 69’), Reed Baker-Whiting, Alec Diaz (Samiel Adeniran 69’), Obed Vargas (Juan Alvarez 81’)

Unused Substitutes: Joe Hafferty, Wyatt Nelson

Stats – Shots: 10, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 2, Fouls: 10, Corner Kicks: 3, Offsides: 0.

IRVINE, California (July 24, 2021) – Sacramento Republic FC returned from a much-needed 10-day break on Saturday night to steal a point at the death from Orange County SC in a 2-2 draw at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine.

The Boys in Old Glory Red looked to find an offensive spark from the first whistle. Cameron Iwasa nearly opened the scoring in the 12th minute, taking a ball from the midfield and turning on a dime at the top of the box to open plenty of space for a point-blank shot. 

Kharlton Belmar opened his 2021 account and broke the deadlock for the Indomitable Club in the 23rd minute. After playing a long ball from Hayden Sargis, Belmar played himself into space and found the far corner off his left foot. Sargis, who logged his first assist of the season on Saturday, impressed in his sixth start of the season with two interceptions and a game-high 10 clearances. 

Orange County would continue to battle. Ronaldo Damus found the equalizer in the 32nd minute off the corner, a header from close range. Orange County went ahead in the 61st minute off the left foot of Brent Richards, assisted on the cross by Nathan Smith. 

Republic FC’s offensive press would continue until the referee’s final whistle. Jerome Kiesewetter saw his first shot for the boys in Old Glory Red in the 47th minute before Iwasa’s second shot of the night from a good angle was swallowed up with Kiesewetter waiting on the doorstep. Iwasa led the Republic FC with three shots on the night. Sacramento Republic got three shots in the final five minutes, but none bigger than a last-second goal from Nabi Kibunguchy to seal the 2-2 draw. The goal marks Kibunguchy’s first pro goal, a special moment for the homegrown academy player. Second-half substitute Mitch Taintor served the cross to tally his first assist on the season. 

The Indomitable Club is back on the pitch on Saturday, July 31 when they host New York Red Bulls II. Kickoff from Heart Health Park is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. and the game will be broadcast locally on KQCA My58 and Estrella TV Sacramento, as well as streamed on ESPN+.

IRVINE, California (July 24, 2021) – Sacramento Republic FC returned from a much-needed 10-day break on Saturday night to steal a point at the death from Orange County SC in a 2-2 draw at Championship Soccer Stadium in Irvine.

The Boys in Old Glory Red looked to find an offensive spark from the first whistle. Cameron Iwasa nearly opened the scoring in the 12th minute, taking a ball from the midfield and turning on a dime at the top of the box to open plenty of space for a point-blank shot. 

Kharlton Belmar opened his 2021 account and broke the deadlock for the Indomitable Club in the 23rd minute. After playing a long ball from Hayden Sargis, Belmar played himself into space and found the far corner off his left foot. Sargis, who logged his first assist of the season on Saturday, impressed in his sixth start of the season with two interceptions and a game-high 10 clearances. 

Orange County would continue to battle. Ronaldo Damus found the equalizer in the 32nd minute off the corner, a header from close range. Orange County went ahead in the 61st minute off the left foot of Brent Richards, assisted on the cross by Nathan Smith. 

Republic FC’s offensive press would continue until the referee’s final whistle. Jerome Kiesewetter saw his first shot for the boys in Old Glory Red in the 47th minute before Iwasa’s second shot of the night from a good angle was swallowed up with Kiesewetter waiting on the doorstep. Iwasa led the Republic FC with three shots on the night. Sacramento Republic got three shots in the final five minutes, but none bigger than a last-second goal from Nabi Kibunguchy to seal the 2-2 draw. The goal marks Kibunguchy’s first pro goal, a special moment for the homegrown academy player. Second-half substitute Mitch Taintor served the cross to tally his first assist on the season. 

The Indomitable Club is back on the pitch on Saturday, July 31 when they host New York Red Bulls II. Kickoff from Heart Health Park is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. and the game will be broadcast locally on KQCA My58 and Estrella TV Sacramento, as well as streamed on ESPN+.

Sacramento Republic FC 2-2 Orange County SC
USL Championship

Championship Soccer Stadium, Irvine, California

July 24, 2021

Attendance: 

Sacramento Republic FC 2-2 Orange County SC
USL Championship

Championship Soccer Stadium, Irvine, California

July 24, 2021

Attendance: 

Scoring Summary: SAC – Belmar (Sargis) 23’; OC – Dumas (Richards, Wehan) ’32; OC – Richards (Smith) 61’; SAC – Kibunguchy (Taintor) 94’

Misconduct Summary: SAC – McCrary (caution) 59’; OC – Iloski (caution) 85’

Sacramento Republic FC: Tomas Gomez, Jordan McCrary (Mitchell Taintor 79’), Dan Casey, Hayden Sargis, Shannon Gomez, Mario Penagos, Pete Pennanen (Fatai Alashe 79’), Luis Felipe, Kharlton Belmar (Nabi Kibunguchy 90’), Jerome Kiesewetter, Cam Iwasa

Unused substitutes: Jesus Sanchez, Julian Chavez, Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Rafael Jauregui

Stats – Shots: 9, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves 0, Fouls 12, Corner Kicks: 0, Offsides: 0.

Orange County SC: Patrick Rakovsky, Brent Richards, Rob Kiernan, Michael Orozco, Nathan Smith, Chris Wehan, Brian Iloski (Aidan Apodaca 86’), Thomas McCabe, Mikko Kuningas, Eric Calvillo, Ronaldo Dumas (Eero Markkanen 76’)

Unused substitutes: Abraham Romero, Kobi Henry, Raymond Drai, Darwin Jones, , Sean McTague

Stats – Shots: 8, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 1, Fouls: 14, Corner Kicks: 4, Offsides: 1.

Scoring Summary: SAC – Belmar (Sargis) 23’; OC – Dumas (Richards, Wehan) ’32; OC – Richards (Smith) 61’; SAC – Kibunguchy (Taintor) 94’

Misconduct Summary: SAC – McCrary (caution) 59’; OC – Iloski (caution) 85’

Sacramento Republic FC: Tomas Gomez, Jordan McCrary (Mitchell Taintor 79’), Dan Casey, Hayden Sargis, Shannon Gomez, Mario Penagos, Pete Pennanen (Fatai Alashe 79’), Luis Felipe, Kharlton Belmar (Nabi Kibunguchy 90’), Jerome Kiesewetter, Cam Iwasa

Unused substitutes: Jesus Sanchez, Julian Chavez, Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Rafael Jauregui

Stats – Shots: 9, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves 0, Fouls 12, Corner Kicks: 0, Offsides: 0.

Orange County SC: Patrick Rakovsky, Brent Richards, Rob Kiernan, Michael Orozco, Nathan Smith, Chris Wehan, Brian Iloski (Aidan Apodaca 86’), Thomas McCabe, Mikko Kuningas, Eric Calvillo, Ronaldo Dumas (Eero Markkanen 76’)

Unused substitutes: Abraham Romero, Kobi Henry, Raymond Drai, Darwin Jones, , Sean McTague

Stats – Shots: 8, Shots on Goal: 2, Saves: 1, Fouls: 14, Corner Kicks: 4, Offsides: 1.

SACRAMENTO, California (July 10, 2021) – The boys in Old Glory Red fell 2-0 to Orange County SC on Saturday Night at Heart Health Park, bringing the club’s recent unbeaten streak to a close. 

“We have got to refocus; our mentality has to be different,” Head Coach Mark Briggs said in the postgame press conference. “First and foremost, we've got to keep 11 players on the field, that's pretty obvious. We'll readjust and refocus and then we'll get back at it again for Wednesday.”

SACRAMENTO, California (July 10, 2021) – The boys in Old Glory Red fell 2-0 to Orange County SC on Saturday Night at Heart Health Park, bringing the club’s recent unbeaten streak to a close. 

“We have got to refocus; our mentality has to be different,” Head Coach Mark Briggs said in the postgame press conference. “First and foremost, we’ve got to keep 11 players on the field, that’s pretty obvious. We’ll readjust and refocus and then we’ll get back at it again for Wednesday.”

The visitors opened the scoring seven minutes into the match when Chris Wehan broke the early deadlock. 

Shortly after the 20-minute mark, Republic FC created a pair of chances in quick succession. Minutes after Mitchell Taintor nodded a header on target that the Orange County SC goalkeeper got both hands on, Jordan McCrary was played a ball into the box that the defender managed to fire on target but the OC ‘keeper thwarted the attack. 

Orange County doubled its lead in the 37th minute when Wehan set up Brian Iloski for a 2-1 score line shortly after the first half hydration break. 

The visitors opened the scoring seven minutes into the match when Chris Wehan broke the early deadlock. 

Shortly after the 20-minute mark, Republic FC created a pair of chances in quick succession. Minutes after Mitchell Taintor nodded a header on target that the Orange County SC goalkeeper got both hands on, Jordan McCrary was played a ball into the box that the defender managed to fire on target but the OC ‘keeper thwarted the attack. 

Orange County doubled its lead in the 37th minute when Wehan set up Brian Iloski for a 2-1 score line shortly after the first half hydration break. 

After the second half hydration break, Duke Lacriox was able to break free into space with possession and fire a shot on frame, but the goalkeeper brought a halt to the SRFC offensive threat. 

It’s a quick turnaround for the Indomitable Club when the squad pays a visit to Sin City this coming Wednesday night for an away match at Las Vegas Lights FC. 

After the second half hydration break, Duke Lacriox was able to break free into space with possession and fire a shot on frame, but the goalkeeper brought a halt to the SRFC offensive threat. 

It’s a quick turnaround for the Indomitable Club when the squad pays a visit to Sin City this coming Wednesday night for an away match at Las Vegas Lights FC. 

Sacramento Republic FC 0-2 Orange County SC
USL Championship
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California
July 10, 2021
Attendance: 9,316

Sacramento Republic FC 0-2 Orange County SC
USL Championship
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California
July 10, 2021
Attendance: 9,316

Scoring Summary: OC – Chris Wehan (Nathan Smith) 7’, Brian Iloski (Wehan) 37’

Misconduct Summary: OC – Nathan Smith (caution) 27’, Romero Rakovsky (caution) 87’, Raymond Drai (caution) 90’; SAC – Nabi Kibunguchy (red card) 45’, Mitchell Taintor (caution) 48, Taintor (second yellow – ejection) 79’, Luis Felipe (caution) 87’, Tucker Bone (caution) 87’. 

Sacramento Republic FC: Tómás Gomez, Jordan McCrary, Nabi Kibunguchy, Mitchell Taintor, Dan Casey, Shannon Gomez (Duke Lacriox 45’), Fatai Alashe (Mario Penagos 75’), Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu (Tucker Bone 64’), Dariusz Formella (Cameron Iwasa 59’), Pete Pennanen (Luis Felipe 45’), Kharlton Belmar. 

Unused substitutes: Chuy Sanchez, Hayden Sargis. 

Stats – Shots: 15, Shots on Goal: 7, Saves: 1, Fouls: 17, Corner Kicks: 5, Offsides: 0.

Orange County SC: Romero Rakovsky, Rob Kiernan, Michael Orozco, Nathan Smith, Kevin Alston (Brent Richards 44’), Thomas McCabe, Mikko Kuningas (Sean McTague 90’), Chris Wehan (Kobi Henry 71’), Eric Calvillo, Eero Markkanen (Aidan Apodaca 45’), Brian Iloski (Raymond Drai 88’).  

Unused substitutes: Abraham Romero. 

Stats – Shots: 8, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 7, Fouls: 12, Corner Kicks: 0, Offsides: 1.

Scoring Summary: OC – Chris Wehan (Nathan Smith) 7’, Brian Iloski (Wehan) 37’

Misconduct Summary: OC – Nathan Smith (caution) 27’, Romero Rakovsky (caution) 87’, Raymond Drai (caution) 90’; SAC – Nabi Kibunguchy (red card) 45’, Mitchell Taintor (caution) 48, Taintor (second yellow – ejection) 79’, Luis Felipe (caution) 87’, Tucker Bone (caution) 87’. 

Sacramento Republic FC: Tómás Gomez, Jordan McCrary, Nabi Kibunguchy, Mitchell Taintor, Dan Casey, Shannon Gomez (Duke Lacriox 45’), Fatai Alashe (Mario Penagos 75’), Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu (Tucker Bone 64’), Dariusz Formella (Cameron Iwasa 59’), Pete Pennanen (Luis Felipe 45’), Kharlton Belmar. 

Unused substitutes: Chuy Sanchez, Hayden Sargis. 

Stats – Shots: 15, Shots on Goal: 7, Saves: 1, Fouls: 17, Corner Kicks: 5, Offsides: 0.

Orange County SC: Romero Rakovsky, Rob Kiernan, Michael Orozco, Nathan Smith, Kevin Alston (Brent Richards 44’), Thomas McCabe, Mikko Kuningas (Sean McTague 90’), Chris Wehan (Kobi Henry 71’), Eric Calvillo, Eero Markkanen (Aidan Apodaca 45’), Brian Iloski (Raymond Drai 88’).  

Unused substitutes: Abraham Romero. 

Stats – Shots: 8, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 7, Fouls: 12, Corner Kicks: 0, Offsides: 1.

SAN DIEGO, California (July 3, 2021) – The Indomitable Club grabbed a point against San Diego Loyal SC in dramatic fashion with an aerial strike in the closing moments to secure a 1-1 result. 

Down a goal with just seconds remaining, Kharlton Belmar rifled a dangerous ball into the box that Mitchell Taintor nodded by the San Diego goalkeeper to share the spoils with the hosts. 

The boys in Old Glory Red fell behind to open the match when Miguel Ibarra picked out Corey Hertzog who delivered the game’s opening goal close to the hour mark. 

But a resilient Republic FC side – who outshot Head Coach Landon Donovan’s side 13 to 10 – continued pushing forward. Deep into extra time, Belmar delivered the cross that Taintor slammed into the back of the net. The goal was Taintor’s first since returning to Sacramento this offseason. 

The Indomitable Club returns home this Wednesday to welcome Oakland Roots SC to Heart Health Park with kickoff set for 8 p.m. PT. The matche will be broadcast locally on KQCA My58 and Estrella TV Sacramento, as well as streamed on ESPN+.

Sacramento Republic FC 1-1 San Diego Loyal SC
USL Championship
Torero Stadium, San Diego, California
July 3, 2021

Sacramento Republic FC 1-1 San Diego Loyal SC
USL Championship
Torero Stadium, San Diego, California
July 3, 2021

Scoring Summary: SD – Corey Hertzog (Miguel Ibarra) 62, SAC – Mitchell Taintor (Kharlton Belmar) 90. 

Misconduct Summary: SD – Callum Montgomery (caution) 10, Alejandro Guido (caution) 26, Elijah Martin (caution) 90; SAC – Dan Casey (caution) 60, Julian Chavez (caution) 85, Dariusz Formella (caution) 90, Mitchell Taintor (caution) 90. 

Sacramento Republic FC: Tómás Gomez, Jordan McCrary (Mitch Taintor 90), Nabi Kibunguchy, Dan Casey, Duke Lacroix (Kharlton Belmar 87), Luis Felipe, Mario Penagos (Shannon Gomez 80), Dariusz Formella, Pete Pennanen, Cam Iwasa, Tucker Bone (Julian Chavez 80). 

Unused substitutes: Chuy Sanchez, Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Hayden Sargis

Stats – Shots: 13, Shots on Goal: 5, Saves: 2, Fouls: 15, Corner Kicks: 8, Offsides: 2.

San Diego Loyal SC: Trey Muse, Elijah Martin, Jack Metcalf, Callum Montgomery, Grant Stoneman, Jack Blake, Charlie Adams, Miguel Ibarra, Collin Martin (Josua Yaro 81), Alejandro Guido (Tumi Moshobane 81), Corey Hertzog (Ben Spencer 87). 

Unused substitutes: Niki Jackson, Sal Zizzo, Austin Guerrero, Morgan Hackworth

Stats – Shots: 10, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 4, Fouls: 15, Corner Kicks: 2, Offsides: 1.

Scoring Summary: SD – Corey Hertzog (Miguel Ibarra) 62, SAC – Mitchell Taintor (Kharlton Belmar) 90. 

Misconduct Summary: SD – Callum Montgomery (caution) 10, Alejandro Guido (caution) 26, Elijah Martin (caution) 90; SAC – Dan Casey (caution) 60, Julian Chavez (caution) 85, Dariusz Formella (caution) 90, Mitchell Taintor (caution) 90. 

Sacramento Republic FC: Tómás Gomez, Jordan McCrary (Mitch Taintor 90), Nabi Kibunguchy, Dan Casey, Duke Lacroix (Kharlton Belmar 87), Luis Felipe, Mario Penagos (Shannon Gomez 80), Dariusz Formella, Pete Pennanen, Cam Iwasa, Tucker Bone (Julian Chavez 80). 

Unused substitutes: Chuy Sanchez, Andrew Wheeler-Omiunu, Hayden Sargis

Stats – Shots: 13, Shots on Goal: 5, Saves: 2, Fouls: 15, Corner Kicks: 8, Offsides: 2.

San Diego Loyal SC: Trey Muse, Elijah Martin, Jack Metcalf, Callum Montgomery, Grant Stoneman, Jack Blake, Charlie Adams, Miguel Ibarra, Collin Martin (Josua Yaro 81), Alejandro Guido (Tumi Moshobane 81), Corey Hertzog (Ben Spencer 87). 

Unused substitutes: Niki Jackson, Sal Zizzo, Austin Guerrero, Morgan Hackworth

Stats – Shots: 10, Shots on Goal: 3, Saves: 4, Fouls: 15, Corner Kicks: 2, Offsides: 1.