March 16, 2024 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Rhode Island FC News Release
SMITHFIELD, R.I. – Rhode Island FC’s historic inaugural match at Beirne Stadium came to a dramatic close Saturday evening in a 1-1 draw against New Mexico United. The physical matchup from start to finish was highlighted by a sold out atmosphere of fans and supporters coming together to witness the Ocean State’s only professional soccer team take the pitch for the very first time.
Despite being down 1-0 deep into second half stoppage time, the sold out crowd came alive when New Mexico defender Christopher Gloster recorded an own goal off a dangerous Noah Fuson cross for the first goal in RIFC history. The late strike secured the 1-1 draw and earned Rhode Island its first-ever USL Championship point, sending fans across Beirne Stadium into euphoria as fireworks erupted.
Fans from across the Ocean State’s eight cities and 31 towns witnessed the historic moment, proudly supporting A Club for All Rhode Island until the very last second. The Ocean State soccer dream became a reality when Rhode Island FC Head Coach Khano Smith and the starting 11 marched onto the pitch for the first time. Led by the energy and passion of Defiance 1636, the Rhode Island faithful took in a full day of live performances, local food trucks, giveaways, family-friendly activities and special guests.
Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee, Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien and Bryant University President Ross Gittell were joined by Rhode Island FC Chairman Brett Johnson to conduct the ceremonial coin toss. The electrified fanbase stood united for the first ever National Anthem on their own pitch, sung by Rhode Island native and former American Idol finalist Erika Van Pelt. After a U.S. Army Black Hawk Helicopter flew over Beirne Stadium, fans took to their seats as fireworks exploded before the highly anticipated match finally kicked off.
The first goal of the afternoon came from New Mexico (1W-0L-1D) in the 67th minute of play by defender Talen Maples. After an outswinging free kick was poked away by Rhode Island FC goalkeeper Koke Vegas, Maples found an opening on the rebound and sent a right-footed shot from close range to the bottom right corner to give New Mexico the 1-0 lead.
Despite a flurry of Clay Holstad crossbar ricochets and multiple Albert Dikwa (Chico) close calls, the home side was unable to equalize in regulation. Rhode Island FC (0W-0L-1D) continued to have its offensive moments and found…