Match Preview: Republic FC v Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC – Western Conference Semifinals
October 26, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Sacramento Republic FC News Release
The Indomitable Club heads east to the Rockies this weekend for the next round of the postseason. Against Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, each side will be at their best – but only one will advance on to the Western Conference Final against the winner of San Antonio FC v Oakland Roots.
At a Glance: #SACvCOS
Saturday, October 29
5:00 PM kickoff
Weidner Field, Colorado Springs, Colorado
How to watch: FOX40.com, Antenna TV 40.2,FOX40 News mobile app, ESPN+
The Latest – Republic FC
The first round victory over New Mexico United Saturday showcased some of the squad’s best attributes. After a slow start, Sacramento came out of halftime strong and put down their foes with two scores to advance. Maalique Foster netted a goal in his playoff debut, and Rodrigo Lopez reached 50 career assists across all competitions. Another clean sheet saw the club’s shutout tally on the season climb to 16 across all competitions.
Coming off the win, spirits are high as the club sets for an opponent that’s been one of the conference’s best all year. It will be a tough matchup, but sticking to what they do best continues to be the club’s plan for success. The Quails are confident knowing they matched up well with the team they’re going to face earlier in the season.
Opponent Report
Colorado Springs enters the match with plenty of momentum after claiming a late victory over Rio Grande Valley FC in the first round. Behind a Jairo Enriquez winner in the 84th minute and an Aaron Wheeler brace in stoppage time, the club snagged a win in exciting fashion. Saturday will be the club’s second-ever taste of the conference semifinal round, as well, so energy will remain high as they push to continue climbing the ladder and moving on in the bracket.
The venue gives the hosts an advantage entering the match. Switchbacks FC all year has made Weidner Field a tough place to play, but especially so in the latter half of the season. Brendan Burke’s men have fallen at home just once since early July – a 2-1 loss to Detroit City FC on September 10.
Head to Head
Sacramento and Colorado Springs split their two meetings in the regular season, with Republic FC falling 3-0 on the road July 1, before winning 3-0 in a complete performance on August 17.While the two sides have met 11 times in league play since 2018, not once have they ever met in the postseason.
The all-time fixture favors Sacramento, with five wins, four losses and one draw. However, when in Colorado Springs the results have favored the hosts. Sacramento has taken just two wins to Switchbacks’ three in six contests at Weidner Field.
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