Republic FCBlanked by Monterey Bay F.C.

June 9, 2024 – United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Sacramento Republic FC News Release

Republic FC is back in the win column after another strong road performance, defeating regional rival Monterey Bay F.C. 2-0 in Seaside. After being held scoreless in its last two matches, Sacramento broke out for two goals in eight minutes to pick up its third straight win over Monterey Bay.

The Indomitable Club’s first chance of the night came quickly as Nick Ross intercepted a Monterey Bay pass in the 2nd minute, sending the ball forward for Kieran Phillips. Using his standout speed, Phillips drove the ball up the field to set up a 3-on-2 advantage, but the final shot from Ross was blocked by Monterey Bay goalkeeper Antony Siaha.

Sacramento continued to build pressure in the early goings, winning the majority of duels and tackles, while also gaining possession 32 times in the middle third. Sacramento finished the first half with four shots on goal – the club’s best mark since April 6.

On the other end of the pitch, Republic FC gave Monterey Bay little opportunity to threaten on offense. The hosts’ lone shot on target came just before the half as a recycled corner kick was controlled by Rafael Baca at the top of the 18-yard box. The veteran put a right-footed volley on target, but Republic FC goalkeeper Danny Vitiello did well to keep his eye on the ball through traffic to punch it away and keep the match level.

It didn’t long for Republic FC to breakthrough on the other side of the break as Kieran Phillips netted his third goal of the regular season. The play began as Luis Felipe intercepted a Monterey Bay pass in the middle of the field and laid it off for Nick Ross who then found Damia Viader streaking through the middle. Viader connected with Phillips in the 18-yard box after the Englishman did well to sneak between two defenders before finding the back of the net.

Super sub Cristian Parano doubled Sacramento’s lead minutes later, as Nick Ross headed forward a failed clearance from the Monterey Bay defense. Parano used his speed to get in behind the defender, controlling the ball with his chest before putting a right-footed shot past the goalkeeper. The goal was Parano’s first for Republic FC since joining the club last year.

Fresh off his second straight Save of the Week win, Danny Vitiello had another highlight save in the 77th minute as Monterey Bay F.C. was awarded a penalty. As the club’s leading goal scorer Tristan Trager stepped up the spot, the…