Game Preview: Sacramento Republic FC at Orange County SC

Fresh off their 2-1 home-opener win last Saturday over San Antonio FC, Sacramento Republic FC head out on their first road trip of this young season to take on Orange County SC who earned a 1-1 draw in their season-opener at home versus Phoenix Rising. The match is scheduled for 7pm at Champions Soccer Stadium at OC Great Park.

Sacramento holds a slight all-time record advantage (6-2-5) over Orange County, including a painful loss in penalty kicks in the first round of the 2016 playoffs.

To prime you for tomorrow, below are three keys to the match:

• Wins at Orange County have not come easily for the Republic. You have to go back to August 24, 2016 when they last beat Orange County 1-0 (which accounts for their second only victory over Orange County on the road). In that match, Cameron Iwasa tied Tommy Stewart’s single-season record with his 11th goal of the season (Iwasa would end the season with a franchise-record 12 goals). Can this new group of players come together in their first road game of the season and secure a win? We will soon find out.
• By most accounts, the brand of soccer that the Republic played last Saturday was a welcomed sight. The offense created some solid chances, the midfield and back line did a nice job stifling San Antonio’s attack, and there generally seemed to be a flow to their play. Goals from newcomers Keven Alemán and Christian Eissele were well-earned. Everyone made a contribution. It will be interesting to see if they can continue to build an identity.
• Republic will need to keep an eye on Jamaican striker Michael Seaton, who joined Orange County just prior to the start of the season. Seaton brings loads of Major League Soccer experience (formerly with D.C. United and Portland Timbers), is strong and lengthy, and caused problems for Phoenix in Orange County’s opening match (despite not scoring). Seaton played with the Jamaican National Team last October. So yeah, he’s pretty good. Additionally, the Republic will have their hands full with midfielder Luke Christian.

If you’re looking for Indomitable City Soccer coverage tomorrow, our very own Matt Weber will be live-tweeting the match and Ryan Goff will be bringing you the post-game recap. While you’re at it, give these two gentleman a follow on Twitter.