Indomitable City Soccer - SRFC vs Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2: History, Preview, Recap, ReactionsA Sacramento Republic FC community2016-04-12T07:30:03-07:00http://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/rss/stream/111608472016-04-12T07:30:03-07:002016-04-12T07:30:03-07:00Republic vs Whitecaps 2: Three Things We Learned
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<figcaption>Alex Leguizamo/Indomitable City Soccer</figcaption>
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<p>The best start in Sacramento Republic history rolls on. Here's what we learned from the third game of the season.</p> <p>Sacramento Republic FC headed to Vancouver last Sunday with the momentum of an unbeaten start. By the time the final whistle blew at Thunderbird Stadium they had earned a draw and improved on their best start ever. Now with seven points in three games, the Republic are tied for second place in the USL Western Conference.</p>
<p>Here are three things we learned from the Republic's scoreless draw in Vancouver.</p>
<h3>1. The defense is for real.</h3>
<p>Defensive strength has been a big talking point so far this season, and with good reason. The Republic defense has been the most impressive part of the team through the first three games and have limited opponents to only two shots on goal.</p>
<p>What was particularly impressive about last week's defensive performance was that it came against a strong offensive team. As I said in the <a href="http://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/9/11395880/match-preview-sacramento-republic-vs-vancouver-whitecaps-fc-2">match preview</a> for last Sunday's match, the Whitecaps 2 attack was going to be a bigger test for the Republic defense than that of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.sounderatheart.com/">Seattle Sounders</a> 2 and Arizona United.</p>
<p>Even after taking Sunday's scoreless draw into account, the Whitecaps are fourth in the Western Conference in both goals scored (four) and shots on goal recorded (14). To compare, AZU is 11th in goals and 10th in shots on goal, while S2 is dead last in goals (zero) and 14th in shots on goal (eight). Not exactly offensive powerhouses.</p>
<p>The fact that the Republic was able to earn a shutout against Whitecaps 2 and limit them to just a single shot on goal is a testament to the defensive strength that we might see from the team throughout the season.</p>
<p>More challenging opponents lie in the future, but it is safe to say that the Republic pretty much aced the test offered by Vancouver.</p>
<h3>2. The offense is still finding itself.</h3>
<p>Defense is only one part of the game, however, and despite their strength at keeping the ball out of their own net, the Republic have had trouble scoring goals of their own. Through the first three games of the season Sacramento have scored just two goals, putting them in a solid ninth place in the Western Conference goals scored rankings. The team is also ranked 12th among Western Conference teams in shots on goal with nine.</p>
<p>Basically, the Republic is largely in the same boat that it found itself in at the end of last season. The team does a great job of keeping the ball out of their own net, but they have not quite figured out things on the other end of the field.</p>
<p>There could be any number of reasons for this offensive struggle, but one of the most noticeable issues is a possible over reliance on ineffective long balls out of the back. In USL we do not have the opportunity to use Opta stats to track minute stats like passes attempted and completed, but going by memory it seems as though there were a whole lot of balls lumped forward from the back line.</p>
<p>It should be said that a direct style of play and sending long balls out of the back is not a bad thing in and of itself. It is an effective club to have in the bag and can be quite dangerous when used effectively. The problem right now is that the Republic is largely not being effective with those types of balls forward.</p>
<p>On paper it should work. Derek Foran or Chris Christian gets possession, boots the ball to <span>Mark Sherrod</span>, Sherrod either flicks it on or holds it up with his back to goal and passes, Thomas Stewart collects the pass in the box and scores. Only it largely hasn't worked that way for Sacramento so far. It could, but it hasn't.</p>
<p>It should also be said that balls out of the back is not the only club that the Republic has in the bag, it is just the one I chose to highlight today.</p>
<h3>3. Dominik Jakubek is pretty great.</h3>
<p>With the aforementioned defensive strength, Jakubek has not had to make many saves so far this season. However, he has still played well and made good contributions to the Republic's best ever start, most notably in his willingness to come off his line and break up dangerous plays.</p>
<p>This tendency to come off his line is not anything new to Jakubek's game. He was charging off his line even in the 2014 season. However, at that time he would sometimes choose to come out at bad times and put the team in danger of conceding a goal. So far this season when he has been called to play the part of sweeper keeper he has not been reckless in choosing when to leave his line.</p>
<p>Oh, and he does stuff like this too. It's not every day you see a keeper attempt a scorpion kick save, even after the whistle has blown.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Play of the match <a href="https://t.co/Eou0pbb0YW">pic.twitter.com/Eou0pbb0YW</a></p>
— Republic FC (@SacRepublicFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SacRepublicFC/status/719318095966265344">April 11, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>What are your thoughts on last Sunday's scoreless draw in Vancouver? Sound off in the comments below.</p>
https://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/12/11412766/three-things-learned-sacramento-republic-draw-vancouver-whitecaps-scorelessJosh Beeman2016-04-12T07:00:05-07:002016-04-12T07:00:05-07:00Sacramento Republic vs Whitecaps 2 By the Numbers
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<figcaption>Indomitable City Soccer/Alex Leguizamo</figcaption>
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<p>Our weekly look at what the numbers have to say about the Republic.</p> <p>Going undefeated and getting seven points in three games is always good to see, but it is especially nice at the start the season. This year's seven point start is the best first three games in Republic history, better than the four points in what would be the team's 2014 championship season and three points in last years campaign.</p>
<p>With that being said, there is always more to look into. With that in mind, this is Sacramento Republic vs Vancouver Whitecaps 2 by the numbers.</p>
<p><b>0.67</b> - Shots on goal per game allowed by Sacramento Republic so far in the 2016 season.</p>
<p><b>1</b> - USL team that had started the season with three consecutive shutouts prior to the Republic's 2016 start (Rochester 2012)</p>
<p><b>3</b> - Number of shots on goal by Thomas Stewart and Cameron Iwasa, tied for the highest on the team.</p>
<p><b>21</b> - Age of Dominik Jakubek when 15 year old Whitecaps 2 starter Alphonso Davies was born.</p>
<p><b>0.33</b> - Sacramento Republic's all-time goals allowed per game when playing Vancouver Whitecaps 2.</p>
<p><b>9</b> - The most USL shutouts that the Republic have recorded in any year. With three shutouts in the bag already, the record can be broken with seven shutouts in the team's final 27 matches.</p>
<p><b>294</b> - Consecutive minutes since Sacramento last conceded a goal on the road against Colorado Springs Switchbacks on August 14th, 2015.</p>
<p><b>248</b> - Days since the Republic's last regular season loss against Colorado Springs Switchbacks on August 8th, 2015.</p>
<p><b>7</b> - Games since Republic has scored a goal in the first half.</p>
<p>With three games in the books we are seeing trends starting to form. The Republic back line looks like it could be one of the top defenses in all of USL, even managing to limit a potent Vancouver offense to just a single shot on goal. What will the future hold? One thing is for sure: more numbers.</p>
https://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/12/11411786/by-the-numbers-sacramento-republic-vs-vancouver-whitecaps-2eeyster2016-04-11T07:00:08-07:002016-04-11T07:00:08-07:00The Monday Blurb: Vanvouver Whitecaps FC 2 Aftermath
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<figcaption>Indomitable City Soccer/Alex Leguizamo</figcaption>
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<p>Your weekly one-stop info shop covers the aftermath of the Republic's tie against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2. It's the Blurb.</p> <h3 style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br>LOCAL COVERAGE</i></b></h3>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li> <b>The SRFC official site:</b>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.sacrepublicfc.com/news/2016/04/10/srfc-v-van-recap">Match Recap.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li> <b>ICS:</b>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/10/11404206/match-recap-sacramento-republic-0-vancouver-whitecaps-fc-2-0">Match Recap.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li> <b style="line-height: 9.75px;">The Sacramento Bee:</b>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.sacbee.com/sports/mls/article71091552.html">Match Recap.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><b><i>THE OTHER SIDE</i></b></h3>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li> <span><b>Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 Official Site.</b></span>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.whitecapsfc.com/wfc2/post/2016/04/10/match-report-wfc2-vs-sac">Match Recap.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li> <span><b>USL Official Site:</b></span>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/635366?referrer_id=2333971">Match Recap.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><i>HIGHLIGHTS</i></h3>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">None as of publishing time.Will post as soon as it becomes available.</p>
<p> </p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><i>GOAL COUNTER</i></h3>
<p> </p>
<table border="1" align="center" style="border-color: #847b82; border-width: 1px; background-color: #9d626b;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><b><i>SCORER</i></b></td>
<td><b><i>GOALS SCORED</i></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tommy Stewart</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">
<p>1</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cameron Iwasa</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><i>CAUTIONS COUNTER</i></h3>
<p><i> </i></p>
<p> </p>
<table border="1" align="center" style="border-color: #847b82; border-width: 1px; background-color: #9d626b;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><b><i>PLAYER</i></b></td>
<td><b><i>YELLOW</i></b></td>
<td><b><i>RED</i></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Agustin Cazarez</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Octavio Guzman</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris Christian</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Max Alvarez</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Tommy Thompson</span></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><i>UPCOMING GAMES</i></h3>
<p> </p>
<table align="center" border="1" style="border-color: #847b82; border-width: 1px; background-color: #9d626b;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>DATE</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>OPPONENT</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>LOCATION</i></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sunday, April 17th</td>
<td>Portland Timbers 2</td>
<td>Merlo Field</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saturday, April 23rd</td>
<td>Saint Louis FC</td>
<td>Bonney Field</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saturday, April 30th</td>
<td>Orange County Blues</td>
<td>Bonney Field</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saturday, May 7th</td>
<td>LA Galaxy 2</td>
<td>Stub Hub Track & Field Stadium</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table align="center" border="1" style="border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px; background-color: #a6585f;">
</table>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><b><i>2016 WESTERN CONFERENCE STANDINGS</i></b></h3>
<p> </p>
<table align="center" border="1" style="border-color: #847b82; border-width: 1px; background-color: #9d626b;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>TEAM</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>GP</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>W</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>L</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>T</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>PTS</i></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LA Galaxy II</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>4</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>2</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>0</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>2</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>8</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Swope Park Rangers KC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Sacramento Republic FC</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Real Monarchs SLC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colorado Springs Switchbacks</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>San Antonio FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saint Louis FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona United SC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">4</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tulsa Roughnecks FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rio Grande Valley FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OKC Energy FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Orange County Blues FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Portland Timbers 2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Seattle Sounders FC 2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
https://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/11/11404922/the-monday-blurb-vanvouver-whitecaps-fc-2-aftermathJCEscobar2016-04-10T19:01:49-07:002016-04-10T19:01:49-07:00Match Recap: Republic 0, Whitecaps 2 0
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/j8nxMJVbFYlFwyq-QAu4qE-TWoI=/0x0:3647x2431/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49281797/IMG_3973.0.0.JPG" />
<figcaption>Indomitable City Soccer/Alex Leguizamo</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Quails in Old Glory Red get their third shutout of the season with a scoreless draw in Vancouver.</p> <p>Sacramento Republic remain undefeated this season after their scoreless draw against Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 in Vancouver. The draw also brought their regular season shutout streak to six matches and a grand total of 564 minutes.</p>
<p>Although the match ended scoreless, there were fairly good chances for both teams to score.</p>
<p>The first real attempt of the game came in the sixth minute when Mark Sherrod headed a James Kiffe cross towards goal, but ultimately it came to nothing and Whitecaps 2 goalkeeper Sean Melvin made an easy save.</p>
<p>There was a moment of real panic for the Republic in the 12th minute when Daniel Haber, one half of the Whitecaps 2's dangerous forward pairing, seemed to have put the home team in the lead after he fired a shot past Republic goalkeeper Dominik Jakubek. However, fortunately for Sacramento the goal was disallowed due to Haber being in an offside position.</p>
<p>Not to be outdone, the Republic - who are quickly becoming Kings of the Disallowed Goal - had a goal of their own called back due to an offside call in the 43rd minute.</p>
<p>Here's the play.</p>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here’s another look at Stewart’s goal that was called offside. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VANvSAC?src=hash">#VANvSAC</a> <a href="https://t.co/X5UeQMwCnt">pic.twitter.com/X5UeQMwCnt</a></p>
— Republic FC (@SacRepublicFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SacRepublicFC/status/719296626381037569">April 10, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<p>That looks onside to me. Stewart looks to be behind the ball when JJ Koval plays it to him.</p>
<p>The first big action of the second half came from Whitecaps 2's Haber in the 54th minute. Haber got in behind Republic left back James Kiffe, received a well weighted through ball, and was in with just Dominik Jakubek to beat. Fortunately for the away team, the veteran keeper came up huge and made the save to keep the game scoreless.</p>
<p>Sacramento got two good chances to turn things in their favor late on in the match in the 82nd and 83rd minutes. Agustin Cazarez got off a hard, driven shot from distance in the 82nd minute that went right to the gloves of Melvin. The more dangerous of the two came in the 83rd minute when Cameron Iwasa - who scored last weekend's late winner - did well to get on the end of a Max Alvarez cross and force Melvin to make a great diving save to deny him.</p>
<p>Those chances were the last real big ones of the match, but the real highlight of the game came just after the final whistle courtesy of<span> Dominik Jakubek, who did his best René Higuita impression and treated us to this scorpion kick save attempt.</span></p>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Play of the match <a href="https://t.co/Eou0pbb0YW">pic.twitter.com/Eou0pbb0YW</a></p>
— Republic FC (@SacRepublicFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SacRepublicFC/status/719318095966265344">April 11, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<p>Beautiful.</p>
<p>With today's scoreless draw, the Republic are 2-0-1 on the season and are now the only team in all of USL that has yet to concede a goal. They are currently in a four-way tie for second place in the USL Western Conference and currently sit in fifth place due to tiebreakers.</p>
<p>Next up for the Republic is an away match against Portland Timbers 2. Kickoff is at 2pm on Sunday, April 17th.</p>
<h4>Lineup and Final Stats</h4>
<p> </p>
<p><b>Republic Starting XI: </b><span>Dominik Jakubek; Emrah Klimenta, Derek Foran, Chris Christian, James Kiffe; JJ Koval, Agustin Cazarez, Danny Barrera, Chase Minter (Out 40); Thomas Stewart (Out 80), Mark Sherrod (Out 64)</span></p>
<p><b>Republic Subs: </b><span>Evan Newton, Mike da Fonte, Matt LaGrassa, Mackenzie Pridham, </span><span>Alfonso Motagalvan (In 40), </span><span>Cameron Iwasa (In 64), </span><span>Max Alvarez (In 80).</span></p>
<p><b>Final Republic Stats:5 </b><span>Shots, 3 Shots on Goal, 1 Saves, 2 Corner Kicks, 3 Offside.</span></p>
https://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/10/11404206/match-recap-sacramento-republic-0-vancouver-whitecaps-fc-2-0Josh Beeman2016-04-09T07:00:03-07:002016-04-09T07:00:03-07:00The Saturday Blurb: Whitecaps FC 2 rundown
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/A_a0dXPcscVMWuYHeiE8-ipVcoE=/152x0:849x465/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49273315/IMG_4182.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Indomitable City Soccer/Alex Leguizamo</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Due to the Sunday game, the Friday blurb has become, at least for this week, the Saturday blurb.</p> <h3 style="text-align: center;"><b><i>LOCAL COVERAGE</i></b></h3>
<ul>
<p> </p>
<li> <b>The SRFC official site:</b>
<ul>
<li> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.sacrepublicfc.com/news/2016/04/08/know-opponent-vancouver-whitecaps-fc-2/" target="_blank">Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2: Know your opponent.</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.sacrepublicfc.com/news/2016/04/08/srfc-v-van-preview" target="_blank">SRFC vs Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2: Match Preview.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<li> <b>ICS:</b>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/7/11382712/sacramento-republic-fc-vs-vancouver-whitecaps-fc-2-a-history">SRFC vs Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2: A History.</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/9/11395880/match-preview-sacramento-republic-vs-vancouver-whitecaps-fc-2" target="_blank">SRFC vs Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2: Match Preview.</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/8/11392018/3-questions-with-bartosz-wysocki-of-eighty-six-forever" target="_blank">SRFC vs Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2: 3 Questions.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><b><i>THE OTHER SIDE</i></b></h3>
<div><br></div>
<ul>
<li> <span><b>Eighty Six Forever:</b></span>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.eightysixforever.com/2016/4/8/11395896/thundercaps-three-questions-with-sacramento-republic" target="_blank">3 Questions with ICS.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li> <b>Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2 Official Site:</b>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.whitecapsfc.com/wfc2/post/2016/04/07/three-international-prospects-you-wont-want-miss-wfc2">Three international prospects with WFC2 you won't want to miss.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li> <b>USL Soccer:</b>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/634780?referrer_id=2356913" target="_blank">Match Preview.</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><i>WATCH PARTIES</i></h3>
<p><i></i><span><b>Tower Bridge Battalion</b> </span></p>
<p>3:00pm - 5:00pm<span> </span><br><b>University of Beer</b><span> </span><br>1510 16th Street<span> </span><br>Sacramento, CA, 95814</p>
<p><b>SRFC Official Party</b></p>
<p>2:00pm - 5:00pm<span> </span><br><b>de Vere's Irish Pub</b><span> </span><br>1521 L Street<span> </span><br>Sacramento, CA, 95814</p>
<h3><i></i></h3>
<p><i> </i></p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><i><i>NOTABLE</i></i></h3>
<p><i> </i></p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Congratulations are in order to James Kiffe for being named to the Week 2 USL team of the week.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Week 2 USL-team-of-the-week" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wf4em2ug5HmYWJjt0_2tHAFe2wY=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/6295401/USL-TeamOfTheWeek.0.png">
</figure>
</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>HISTORY VS VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC 2</i></b><b><i>: THE RESULTS</i></b>
</h3>
<p> </p>
<table style="border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px; background-color: #a15e65;" border="1" align="center">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>DATE</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>HOME TEAM</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>RESULT</i></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4-15-2015</td>
<td>Sacramento Republic FC</td>
<td>Win 2-0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9-6-2015</td>
<td>Vaoncouver Whitecaps FC 2</td>
<td>Win 2-1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><br></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><i>UPCOMING GAME</i></h3>
<p> </p>
<table align="center" border="1" style="border-color: #847b82; border-width: 1px; background-color: #9d626b;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>DATE</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>OPPONENT</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>LOCATION</i></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sunday, April 17th</td>
<td>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/">Portland Timbers</a> 2</td>
<td>Merlo Field</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saturday, April 23rd</td>
<td>Saint Louis FC</td>
<td>Bonney Field</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saturday, April 30th</td>
<td>Orange County Blues</td>
<td>Bonney Field</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saturday, May 7th</td>
<td>LA Galaxy II</td>
<td>Stub Hub Track and Field Stadium</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<table style="border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px; background-color: #a6585f;" border="1" align="center">
</table>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><br></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><br></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;"><b><i>2016 WESTERN CONFERENCE STANDINGS</i></b></h3>
<p> </p>
<table align="center" border="1" style="border-color: #847b82; border-width: 1px; background-color: #9d626b;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>TEAM</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>GP</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>W</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>L</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>T</i></b></td>
<td style="text-align: left;"><b><i>PTS</i></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.lagconfidential.com/">LA Galaxy</a> II</td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>4</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>2</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>0</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>2</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;"><b>8</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Swope Park Rangers KC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><b>Sacramento Republic FC</b></td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Real Monarchs SLC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>San Antonio FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Colorado Springs Switchbacks</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tulsa Roughnecks FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Arizona United SC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rio Grande Valley FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saint Louis FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Orange County Blues FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OKC Energy FC</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Portland Timbers 2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.sounderatheart.com/">Seattle Sounders</a> FC 2</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: center;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
https://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/9/11365960/the-friday-blurb-whitecaps-fc-2-rundownJCEscobar2016-04-09T06:01:27-07:002016-04-09T06:01:27-07:00Match Preview: Sacramento Republic vs Whitecaps 2
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SQ_kbFOFlZkfoDE26hhX64jVyMI=/0x0:1000x667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49272425/IMG_4382.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Indomitable City Soccer/Alex Leguizamo</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The boys in Old Glory Red head to the Great White North to face off against Whitecaps FC 2</p> <p>As difficult as it is to see the Republic head away from Bonney Field right after the home opener victory over Arizona United, it must be done. It will be three weeks until the Republic have another USL contest at home, and they have two away games to deal with before the that time comes. This Sunday's game against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.eightysixforever.com/">Vancouver Whitecaps</a> 2 is the first of a two away game stretch, with the other coming next Sunday against <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/">Portland Timbers</a> 2.</p>
<p>Here are some things to think about heading into tomorrow's match against Whitecaps FC 2.</p>
<h4>1. Strong defense will get a test</h4>
<p>The Republic's defense has been remarkably strong through the first two games of the season, posting shutouts in both matches and allowing just a single shot on goal for Dominik Jakubek to deal with. Defense has always been a strong spot for Sacramento - they conceded the fewest goals in the Western Conference during regular season play last year - and the new center back tandem of Derek Foran and Chris Christian seem to be doing well so far.</p>
<p>However, the strength of the team's defense is likely to face its sternest test this Sunday. Whitecaps 2 look to be stronger than <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.sounderatheart.com/">Seattle Sounders</a> 2, who are an offensively weak team and have not scored a single goal in three matches. They will also likely be more threatening than Arizona United, who did not intensely pressure the Republic defense in large part because they sat back and focused on not conceding, as many teams who come to Bonney Field do.</p>
<p>Whitecaps 2, on the other hand, have scored four goals in two games and have the second highest goal differential (+3) in all of USL. They will also be at home and therefore more likely to go on the attack. Forwards Kyle Grieg and Daniel Haber are the two main offensive weapons for Whitecaps 2, each with two goals and with a grand total of eight shots on goal between them. The Republic will have to deal with that pair if they are going to walk away from UBC Thunderbird Stadium with their shutout streak intact.</p>
<h4>2. Mackenzie Pridham returns</h4>
<p>This Sunday's match will not be <span>Mackenzie Pridham's first visit to UBC Thunderbird Stadium. He actually spent all of the 2015 season with Whitecaps 2 and appeared in 20 matches during that time, including two against the Republic.</span></p>
<p><span>Pridham, who delighted and endeared himself to Republic fans in preseason, has yet to log any regular season minutes with his new team. His return to Vancouver would be the perfect opportunity to get his first minutes and, with any luck, his first goal of the season.</span></p>
<p>In order to get those minutes, however, he will have to compete not only with starters like Thomas Stewart and <span>Mark Sherrod</span> (if he's around this week), but also with Sacramento native Cameron Iwasa. Iwasa, now in his second year as a professional, was chosen over Pridham as a late substitute in last week's match and ended up making a huge impact by scoring the winning goal. <span>Of course, that goal does not mean that Pridham is guaranteed to be relegated to the bench this weekend. Buckle has spoken highly of Pridham in the past and certainly views him and his tendency to make life difficult for opposition center backs in a positive light. </span></p>
<p><span>If the situation calls for him, it is likely that Pridham will have his name called this weekend. If that does end up happening, we can hope that he will make the most of the </span>opportunity<span> to show Whitecaps 2 and the Republic how dangerous a goalscorer he can be. </span></p>
<h4>3. We've had one, yes, but what about second goal?</h4>
<p>As it stands right now, the Republic have scored two goals in two games and only one has come from the run of play. <span>Now don't get me wrong, I know a one goal win counts just as much as a win in which a team scores multiple goals. And I know that one goal is better than no goals, especially considering the team's scoring woes at the end of last season.</span></p>
<p>That being said, I'm a little greedy and I would like to see more goals out of this Republic team on Sunday. The fact that it is coming in an away game against a Whitecaps 2 team that has only conceded a single goal makes things a bit more difficult, sure. But the heart wants what it wants, and my heart wants to see Sacramento Republic put up a multi-goal game sooner rather than later.</p>
<h4>Predictions</h4>
<p><b>Predicted Lineup: </b>Dominik Jakubek; James Kiffe, Chris Christian, Derek Foran, Emrah Klimenta; Chase Minter, <span>JJ Koval</span>, Agustin Cazarez, Danny Barrera; Thomas Stewart, Mark Sherrod.</p>
<p><b>Predicted Scoreline: Sacramento Republic 1-1 Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2</b></p>
<p>What do you think is interesting about Sunday's matchup? Do you have a different preferred starting XI in mind? Let us know in the comments below.</p>
https://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/9/11395880/match-preview-sacramento-republic-vs-vancouver-whitecaps-fc-2Josh Beeman2016-04-08T09:13:02-07:002016-04-08T09:13:02-07:003 Questions with Bartosz Wysocki of Eighty Six Forever.
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/KBv4YgcHzK2IlodPqLdK102JkKQ=/62x0:4082x2680/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49267739/usa-today-9094093.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Casey Sapio-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>This week in preparation for the game against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2, we take a few moments to pick the brain of Eighty Six Forever writer Bartosz Wysocki.</p> <blockquote>
<p>1) <a href="https://www.eightysixforever.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Whitecaps</a> 2 player Alphonso Davies is only 15 years old and was the youngest player in USL at the time he was signed from what I understand. Do you expect him to get a lot of playing time this season or is he more of a project for the future?</p>
</blockquote>
<p class="MsoNormal">Alphonso Davies is definitely one of the most exciting signings we have had for the Whitecaps 2 side, and we hope that he gets as much playing time as possible for them. He started his very first game last week against rivals <a href="https://www.stumptownfooty.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Portland Timbers</a> 2, and he did not look out of place at all. Though he is young, he was able to register a shot on net, and we hope in the future that his shots turn into goals. So while a fifteen year old will always be a project for the future, we think that he's a project for the seniors team future, and that he'll get many opportunities to shine for the reserves this season.</p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote>
<p>2) Whitecaps 2 has started out the season well, with 2 wins in 2 games. What has been a key part of the team's success so far?</p>
</blockquote>
<p class="MsoNormal">So far, the Whitecaps 2 squad have improved in every measurable way. On the defensive end we've only let in one goal this season. Granted, it's only two games in, but we have looked solid defensively, with the only goal we let in against Portland being mostly due to a defensive brain fart from out back line.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Up top, four goals in two games is great, with our target men Daniel Haber and Kyle Greig getting on the board a couple times. They have looked clinical up top, and are bound to bag quite a few more throughout the season.</p>
<p> </p>
<blockquote>
<p>3) Who of the current Whitecaps 2 players would you say is most likely to move up to the first team this year?</p>
</blockquote>
<p>While there are a few good players for Whitecaps 2 who have a decent shot at playing a few games for the first team, I think that defender <span>Cole Seiler</span> has the best shot to get a few games for the seniors. He was the first round draft pick in the Super Draft out of Georgetown, where he had a very successful career with the Hoyas. His position is currently held by veterans <span>Kendall Waston</span> and <span>Tim Parker</span>; however, Waston has a knack for getting yellows, so if he were to get suspended then Seiler has a legitimate chance to shine with the first team. <span> </span></p>
https://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/8/11392018/3-questions-with-bartosz-wysocki-of-eighty-six-foreverJCEscobar2016-04-07T08:00:07-07:002016-04-07T08:00:07-07:00Sacramento Republic FC vs Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2, a History
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3tC-vCQT4-kRqwqY0IPTI92zpuw=/0x0:1000x667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49256411/IMG_4297.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Indomitable City Soccer/Alex Leguizamo</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>ICS takes a look back to last season’s matches against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2</p> <p>On Sunday April 10th, Sacramento Republic FC travel to UBC Thunderbird Stadium in Vancouver to take on the Vancouver Whitecaps FC 2. Whitecaps 2 made their debut last season along with their Cascadia rivals Seattle Sounders 2 and Portland Timbers 2. The Republic were victorious in both matches against Whitecaps 2 last season.</p>
<p>Let's take a look back at the history between the Republic and Vancouver Whitecaps 2.</p>
<p><b>April 15, 2015</b></p>
<p>Fans at Bonney Field witnessed arguably the most dominating match of former midfielder and Republic legend Rodrigo Lopez's career. Lopez nearly scored early but was thwarted by Vancouver Whitecaps 2 goalkeeper Spencer Richey. However, Roro couldn't be denied and found the back of the net in the 32<sup>nd</sup> minute after a give-n-go at the top of the penalty box with David Estrada.</p>
<p>But wait folks, there was more. Lopez scored for the second time of the match on a bomb of a shot from the halfway-line past an out-of-place keeper. Besides the Miracle at Bonney, this may have been the best shot of Lopez's career. Take a look at the highlights below.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uATBL8Xa9ag" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<p><b>September 6, 2015</b></p>
<p>The second match up between these two clubs saw another brace for a Republic player, but this time it came from former forward Justin Braun. Braun received an assist from Tommy Thomson in the 29<sup>th</sup> minute to put the Republic up 1-0. The Whitecaps 2 would answer back in the second half as midfielder Marco Bustos went around a diving Dominik Jakubek to even the score.</p>
<p>Braun would take the game winner in the 71<sup>st</sup> minute off a pass from defender Emrah Klimenta to put the Republic up 2-1.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/u-JDAvnco_I" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<p>Please share with us your memories about the history between Sacramento Republic and Vancouver Whitecaps 2 in the comments below.</p>
https://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2016/4/7/11382712/sacramento-republic-fc-vs-vancouver-whitecaps-fc-2-a-historyGeorge Shiel