August 25, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Oakland Roots News Release
The Oakland Roots FC take on the San Diego Loyal at Torero Stadium in San Diego, California. (Credit: Derrick Tuskan/Oakland Roots)
Oakland Roots came out on the front foot early with the press but were unable to create a major chance before San Diego Loyal found their way into the game. Oakland Roots Paul Blanchette was forced into multiple big saves early including the one that led to the rebound for San Diego Loyal to take the lead through Evan Conway in the 24th minute. Oakland Roots quickly responded in the 28th minute when Charlie Dennis sent a long cross field ball to Juan Azocar who collected and finished calmly to level the score at 1-1. Then on his 50th appearance for the Club, Oakland Roots Captain Emrah Klimenta found the back of the net in the 38th minute to give Oakland the 2-1 lead they would take into the half.
The second half saw Oakland Roots Paul Blanchette make more difficult saves to preserve the one goal lead for the visitors. Oakland Roots continued to defend with saves and blocked shots from their defenders taking the counter attack opportunities when they came, as the score remained 2-1 in favor of Roots deep into the game. Finally one of those counter attacks worked as Rito found himself one on one with the goalkeeper from the halfway line and slotted it home to seal the victory for Oakland Roots in the 88th minute. Oakland would hold that 3-1 advantage to take their second road victory of the season.
Oakland Roots are back in action this Saturday as they head to Sacramento to take on Republic on August 27th at 8:00 PM.
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