April 27, 2023 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Sacramento Republic FC News Release
For just the third time this season, Republic FC hits the road. Looking to continue its unbeaten start in league play, the Indomitable Club lines up opposite FC Tulsa this Saturday in the Sooner state for an inter-conference clash.
At a Glance: #SACvTUL
Saturday, April 29
3:00 p.m. PT kickoff
ONEOK Field, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Watch: Antenna TV 40.2, FOX40.com, FOX40 News app, ESPN+
Republic FC – The Latest
It’s been a busy week for the club. Saturday’s match marks the squad’s third contest in eight days, following last week’s victory vs. Detroit City FC and Wednesday’s NorCal derby in the U.S. Open Cup. The club’s tournament fixture ended in a 1-0 victory as a Nick Ross curler found the net in the 49th minute for the Scottish midfielder’s first Republic FC goal.
With Rodrigo Lopez and Dami Viader looking likely to miss extended time, contributions from many across the roster have helped the club maintain their momentum. Mark Briggs trusts every member of his deep squad, which will be looking to step up again to maintain the club’s unbeaten run. Aldair Sanchez, Nick Ross, and more have been big pieces in each’s absence across the club’s last two matches, and others are likely to follow.
“It’s a huge one for Nick,” said Briggs of Ross’ performance Wednesday. “It’s his second season with us and he’s had a lot of injuries and he’s been in and out of the team and tonight I’m really happy for him, really pleased for him. Tonight he stepped in, played really well, and he gets a great goal.”
Know Your Opponent
FC Tulsa is a much-improved side from last season and enters the match above the playoff line. Despite not claiming three points since Week 3, they’ve been a tough opponent for all on their schedule. The club has scored 10 goals to this point in league play, good for fourth-best in the league, and has consistently made the most of their opportunities to the tune of a 17% conversion rate.
Leading Tulsa’s strong attack is forward Marcus Epps, who has started well with his new club after coming over in the offseason from Phoenix Rising FC. Three scores on the year tie him for the club lead with teammate Rodrigo da Costa, who found the net in Tulsa’s match in Sacramento last season. da Costa has been integral to the club’s ability to threaten week in and week out, leading his side with 17 chances created.
Head to Head
Saturday will be the 12th all time meeting since Sacramento…