October 23, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Sacramento Republic FC News Release
Sacramento, Calif. – Republic FC bested New Mexico United 2-0 on Saturday night, claiming victory in the opening round of the 2022 USL Championship playoffs and securing a spot in the Western Conference Semifinal next weekend.
After a scoreless first half, Republic FC netted two in the second half to put down their Southwest foes. Sacramento was tremendous on defense all evening, posting their second clean sheet in as many matches while the club’s attacking unit was efficient up top and took advantage of their best opportunities.
Both clubs traded chances throughout the first half, but neither was able to find the net until Maalique Foster broke through in the 47th minute. The goal was his first career postseason score – also in his playoff debut – assisted by Rodrigo Lopez.
New Mexico’s Jerome Kieseswetter found space in Sacramento’s penalty area in the 3rd minute, but put his attempt over the bar. Good defensive work for the remainder of the first half from Sacramento blocked four New Mexico shots to keep the ball out of net.
Foster nearly broke the stalemate on a pair of occasions early on, but both opportunities were denied. A 16th minute chance was sent away from New Mexico’s goalkeeper before being cleared away, before what looked to be a great finish on a cross from Keko hit the woodwork. Lifted for Luther Archimede just after the hour mark, the Jamaican finished the contest with three shots.
Sacramento found their second score just after the hour mark. A shot from Keko in space deflected off the body of Archimede and into the net, extending the club’s advantage to two.
Next weekend, Republic FC will hit the road for the Western Conference semifinal. The Indomitable club’s opponent will be determined following the last remaining conference quarterfinal match on Sunday between San Diego Loyal SC and Oakland Roots at Torero Stadium. Information on opportunities for fans to watch the match alongside fellow supporters can be found at SacRepublicFC.com/playoffs.
Sacramento Republic FC 2 – 0 New Mexico United
USL Championship – Western Conference Quarterfinal
Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California
October 22, 2022
Scoring Summary: SAC – Maalique Foster (Rodrigo Lopez) 47′, Keko Gontan (Rodrigo Lopez) 74′, NM – None
Misconduct Summary: SAC – Rodrigo Lopez (caution) 27′, NM – Austin Yearwood (caution) 17′, Amando Moreno (caution) 42′
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