May 29, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Oakland Roots News Release
In Saturday night’s NorCal USL derby match, the Oakland Roots tied 1-1 with the Sacramento Republic. It was the Roots’ third draw in its last four games.
In the first half the Roots attacked with gusto and the game seesawed between the two sides. Forward Derek Formella hit the post 10 minutes before the first half ended, but it was the Republic who drew first blood in the 42′ from goal box scrum following a Sacramento corner kick.
In the second half the Roots continued to search for an equalizer. The Republic defended their lead successfully until the 82nd minute when Republic’s goalkeeper Danny Vitiello brought down the Roots Lindo Mfeka in the box. Óttar Magnús Kalsson – dubbed the Iceman from Iceland by local supporters – nailed the penalty kick to tie the match at one apiece.
The Roots return to Laney College for a 7pm kickoff on Wednesday, June 1st when they face off against Orange County SC.
Talking to Head Coach Juan Guerra
How did the system that you coached tonight evolve throughout the match?
Juan Guerra: We started with our regular formation. Down a goal in the second half, we wanted to shift and be more aggressive and get more numbers up the field. We changed to a 4-4-2 and I think it looked good going forward. At times we were vulnerable in defense, and it was dangerous, but we had to finish with numbers up in the offensive half.
The problem was the first half – another set piece goal we gave up. We created chances even though we weren’t very sharp. I go home today bothered because I think we deserve better because of how much effort we put into the second half – especially the last 25 minutes. The games are 90 minutes, not 45. We didn’t utilize the first half as well as we should have.
There is a lot of history between these two teams. What did you tell the guys before the game about this matchup?
Juan Guerra: We know what this game means for the fanbase, the players…
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