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After failing to score again last week against Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2, Sacramento Republic FC travel to Toyota Field to face an undefeated San Antonio FC squad. The Republic look to break their four-game scoreless streak this Saturday as they face a challenging team on the road. This will the Republic’s first time traveling to Toyota Field and only the second meeting between these two clubs. Last season ended in a 1-1 draw at Bonney Field Papa Murphy’s Park.
Despite loading up on talented strikers during the off-season, the scoring woes from last season have come roaring back for the Republic recently. For the first three matches this season, the Republic had one of the most dangerous offenses in the Western Conference, scoring eight goals. Despite their recent lack of scoring, the Republic have always been competitive in their matches and their biggest defeat was a 0-2 loss to Portland Timbers 2.
San Antonio have been on fire and remain the only unbeaten team in the Western Conference. The team from the Alamo City have steadily trampled opposing clubs, scoring 18 goals while only allowing four goals on the defensive end. A record four players found their way on ICS’s USL Western Conference Team of the Month for April. Forward Cesar Elizondo also earned player of the month after his two-goal performance against Timbers 2.
Last Time Out
The Republic’s first meeting against San Antonio was an unremarkable affair, ending in a 1-1 draw. San Antonio capitalized off of a mistake by defender Carlos Rodriguez which led to an early goal for the visitors. The Republic would end up squeaking out a draw with goal from the penalty spot from former midfielder Octavio Guzman in stoppage time.
Keys to Success
The only key that is important at this point of the season is scoring. It’s as simple as that. The Republic defense is staunch enough to keep them in the match but the offense needs to find the back of the net. Regardless of how they do it, continue crossing at an extraordinary rate or modify the attack to utilize the speed of the forwards, the Republic need answers fast.
As the defense is starting to settle down with Emrah Klimenta playing right back, the Republic should be able to handle whatever San Antonio can throw at them. The Republic will definitely need to shut down Elizondo and play the counter with the speed of Wilson Kneeshaw and Tyler Blackwood. Maybe Buckle can bring in forward Gabe Gissie to keep the pressure on San Antonio’s backline.
Prediction
The Republic seem to pick up their game when playing better opponents. Not sure why Sacramento teams fall into this category (looking at you Kings). The Republic finally get on the scoreboard and eek out a 2-1 victory on the road.
Please leave your prediction or a message in the comments below.