May 21, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Oakland Roots News Release
Eighteen-year-old Project 51O goalkeeper Timothy Syrel helped Oakland Roots blank LA Galaxy II 1-0 in a thrilling match that went down to the wire Saturday night at Laney Stadium in Oakland.
Syrel was called up to Roots on Friday as an emergency signing after an injury to Oakland netminder Paul Blanchette left Roots with only one goalkeeper and made his USL Championship debut when called into action after a red card was issued to starting goalkeeper Benny Diaz in the 69th minute. Despite facing an extra attacker and a desperate Galaxy side, Syrel kept Los Angeles off the board through to the final whistle.
Roots played an excellent first half, owning time of possession and staying aggressive on the attack leading to five corner kicks in the first 11 minutes, one of which led to a shot that rang off the crossbar. The intense pressure applied by Oakland frustrated the Galaxy leading to three first half yellow cards, the third of which earned Roots a penalty kick in the 37th minute.
Óttar Magnús Karlsson made no mistake from the spot, rattling home his league leading 7th goal for Oakland this season – a goal which stood the test of time and carried Roots to their second victory of the year in a reversal of fortunes after playing to draws in three of their last four matches.
Roots return to Laney Stadium next Saturday May 28th against Sacramento Republic FC and face a quick turnaround playing at home again the following Wednesday June 1st vs. Orange County.
Talking to Head Coach Juan Guerra
It was a big way for the 18 year old to come onto the pitch, describe his impact, and just your thoughts on him?
Juan Guerra: I’m so proud of him, just the way he behaves himself when he showed up to training the other day when we needed it, and he’s done everything right. And today, as soon as, or even before the referee blew the whistle, I turned around, and I knew he was gonna have to go in. We…